Fridge plumbing

[Bassman]

Greetings!
I want to plumb a new fridge. It seems the cool way is to run some proper 1/2" copper into an inset box behind the unit with a ball valve to connect to the 1/4" plastic from the fridge. Is this the best way? I'm pretty sure I can connect to some copper in the wall from the laundry on the other side. Thanks for any advice.
Neil

 

[Jimbo]

A recessed box is definitely the best way, because it will give you the ability to push the fridge back further than if your supply pipe stubs out from the wall. I never use the plastic tubinb behind a fridge. It is too easily damaged, and could drip behind there for long time, damaging the floor and wall. 1/4 copper was the material of choice for a long time, but was "touchy" because you had to have long loops, and there was the possibility of crimping. Today, I prefer the braided stainless flex lines.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[SteveW]

FYI, Watts makes a braided stainless steel icemaker supply line with a built-in valve which shuts off the flow in case the line were to burst, be cut, ect. They call it their "FloodSafe" line.

 

[Bassman]

Thanks for the tips. It sounds like the braided stainless is a must-have.
Neil