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michaeld69 · Jul 22, 2013, 04:29 PM

I hooked up my water line using a steel mesh compression line - all is fine except the connection from the line and the hook up at the back of the fridge. I tried putting in a ferule but nothing at all works - I think there needs to be something between the compression line and the hookup on the fridge because water is coming out but extremely slow and when I pressed a piece of wood into the compression line water squirted out - which makes me think there is a piece missing - but what is the piece? The parts I have from the valve hook up are too big and won't allow me to secure the nut onto the receptor on the fridge... I hope this is thorough enough to give you a picture of what the problem is - if you need more details tell me - I'll do my best to explain it better, if necessary.

Thank you!!

hkstroud · Jul 23, 2013, 09:32 AM

steel mesh compression line

What is that?

Sounds like you are trying to use a flexible, braided faucet supply line. These do not have compression fits.

Show picture of line you are trying to use.

massplumber2008 · Jul 23, 2013, 09:33 AM

Post a picture of these fittings and I'm sure we can help!

Mark

michaeld69 · Jul 23, 2013, 03:17 PM

Okay, I figured out what the actual problem is after a visit to the hardware store that sold me the line... and the saddle valve... It's the saddle valve - I took off the line and opened up the valve and hardly anything comes out - so, what is the next step? Do I take the saddle valve off and drill a hole to open up the PEX? That is what I am considering but would like confirmation before attempting so I have someone else to blame if I mess up!! Hahaha... joking... kind of...

Thanks again for the replies - I really appreciate it!
Michael

hkstroud · Jul 23, 2013, 03:43 PM

With a saddle valve, you install the valve on the pipe with the piercing valve open. After securely fasten the saddle valve to the pipe you close the piercing valve to pierce the wall of the pipe. You have to screw the valve down far enough to pierce the pipe. Screw it all the way down. You then open the piercing valve to let the water flow.

michaeld69 · Jul 23, 2013, 03:56 PM

Originally Posted by hkstroud

With a saddle valve, you install the valve on the pipe with the piercing valve open. After securely fasten the saddle valve to the pipe you close the piercing valve to pierce the wall of the pipe. You have to screw the valve down far enough to pierce the pipe. Screw it all the way down. You then open the piercing valve to let the water flow.

Right, I did that - but now I'm reading that I should not have used the saddle valve on PEX because it can close up after the piercing valve is drawn back out.. . So, what is my best bet? Should I drill a hole in the PEX and still use the saddle valve? Or, should I start over with a different type of valve?
J

massplumber2008 · Jul 23, 2013, 04:32 PM

Hi Michael

Although saddle valves are sold in most home improvement stores, they are illegal in most states. Why are they "illegal"? They are illegal because they have a tendency to dry out and flood people's homes... ;)

Start over and purchase some SHARKBITE (SB) or GATORBITE (GB) fittings that are a simple PUSH ON PIPE type fitting. Here, purchase a SB or GB tee fitting and a SB or GB PEX x 1/4" compression shutoff. Cut a section of the PEX tubing to fit the tee and simply push the tee onto the pipe. Use the piece of pipe that you removed from the main pipe and insert that into the tee fitting and push the new shut off on...

It should be that simple and you are guaranteed to have full flow AND are guaranteed NOT to have the fitting dry out and flood the home. These fittings (see images) should be available at most home improvement stores, but will definitely be available at a local plumbing supply store.

Questions? Let me know, OK?

Mark

PS: You MUST use the plastic insert found in these fittings for PEX tubing... can be removed for copper and CPVC, but not for PEX!

michaeld69 · Jul 28, 2013, 09:48 AM

Well, I did it!! Thank you so much - I should have come here before going to the hardware store... I can't believe the "experts" at the hardware store sold me a saddle valve knowing I have PEX... Everything I've read says not to use a saddle valve and especially don't use one on PEX. I went back to the same hardware store yesterday and they have shark bite right next to the saddle valves...
Anyway- it's done and now I know about shark/gator bite and will recommend those to everyone I know that's doing some DIY plumbing...

Thanks again guys!