How to Fish a Water Line Through a Wall

If your new refrigerator just arrived, you likely can’t wait to test out the water dispenser. But first, you’ll need to learn how to fish a water line through a wall to connect the water lines to the fridge. 

This process makes it possible to hide the flexible water line tubing, making your fridge area look streamlined and clean. Follow this step-by-step guide for fishing a water line through a wall.

Prepping to Fish a Water Line Through a Wall

Any plumbing work requires some know-how and prep in advance to minimize the risk of leaks or water damage. From finding the right tubing for your water lines to shutting off the water main, here are some steps to take before you open up the wall to fish a water line through it.

Find the Right Piping

If you are making water line repairs or replacements, you’ll want to pick up the correct type of piping. You can stick to the material already in your home, or you can update the system with more modern, popular choices, like PEX or copper.

• Polyethylene cross-linked pipe (PEX): This rust-resistant plastic piping is flexible, making it easy to work with and ideal for water supply lines.

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Save PVC pipes for sewage and cool water draining, since this material is not durable enough for water supply lines or hot water.

• Copper: While copper is a popular choice for water supply lines because it doesn’t impact water quality, it is difficult to install without professional help and can be expensive.

• Galvanized: Galvanized pipes are prone to rust over time and are typically only found in older homes. If you’re doing plumbing work, consider upgrading galvanized water lines to PEX or copper.

• ABS: Like PVC, ABS pipes are best for drain, waste, or vent pipes. They also cannot be exposed to sunlight.

Check for Existing Water Pipes

Before starting any plumbing project, you should check the wall for existing pipes, water lines, or other water connections. Knowing the location of these objects can also help you minimize the risk of a leak or stop one in its tracks. A metal-detecting stud finder can help locate metal pipes, or you can use a wall scanner while running hot and cold water through the pipes to locate plastic pipes.

Shut Off the Water

Perhaps the most critical step of all, make sure to locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off before handling water supply lines. You’ll also want to make sure any appliances that run on water, like your dishwasher or washing machine, are turned off. Turn on faucets briefly to drain excess water in the pipes, then shut them off before you start working.

DIY Water Line Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

If you tackle this project on your own, you’ll spend about $170 for the PEX water line materials, including tubing, support clamps, and bend supports. You’ll need to spend more on materials if your toolbox isn’t already stocked with handy items like an oscillating tool or a power crimper. On the other hand, hiring a plumber costs $45 to $200 per hour, and these pros already have the tools necessary to get the job done right.

If your home has copper water supply lines, you shouldn’t DIY because this material requires using a propane torch to make connections. It can be dangerous, and you have to keep the temperature just right—not too hot or cold—for proper connections. Instead, hire a plumber near you to complete the work safely and efficiently.