HD refuses to hook up new fridge to water line

[dbcolli]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing

[retiredguy123]

The plastic push-pull valves are cheap valves, but I don't think your issue with Home Depot has anything to do with the valve. They apparently don't include connecting the water line to the refrigerator as part of their installation. It may have something to do with the installers not being licensed plumbers and possible liability for Home Depot.

[bagboy]

IMO. This has everything to do with product warranty and HD/contractor liability. Best Buy changed our push/pull valve when they delivered our refrigerator. Pretty sure they weren't licensed plumbers. We had they remaining valves changed to turn on/off type. It seems after a period of time, the cheap plastic push/pull valves can burst. Should that happen when one is away, not a good thing.

[retiredguy123]

Just to clarify, the push-pull valve at the wall behind the refrigerator has nothing to do with the refrigerator warranty. The valve will be open all the time. The refrigerator has its own solenoid valve that controls the water flow into the refrigerator. But, Home Depot may not allow unlicensed plumbers to connect the refrigerator to the house water system. If the connection leaks, Home Depot could be liable for damages because they hired an unlicensed plumber. It doesn't really matter what kind of valve they install, the connection can leak. It may be a good policy for Home Depot, but I would want the installer to make the water connection.

[tophcfa]

Once they touch it they own it and would be responsible for any leaks that could possibly occur.

[bagboy]

Just to clarify, the push-pull valve at the wall behind the refrigerator has nothing to do with the refrigerator warranty. The valve will be open all the time. The refrigerator has its own solenoid valve that controls the water flow into the refrigerator. But, Home Depot may not allow unlicensed plumbers to connect the refrigerator to the house water system. If the connection leaks, Home Depot could be liable for damages because they hired an unlicensed plumber. It doesn't really matter what kind of valve they install, the connection can leak. It may be a good policy for Home Depot, but I would want the installer to make the water connection.

Agreed!

[John_W]

Best Buy also will not connect to a push-pull valve, I let them install a new turn valve when they brought the refrigerator and under the sink for the dishwasher. I had earlier tried to install a new faucet on the laundry tub in the garage and the push pull valve was a piece of junk, so I had Kiley & Sons already replace the bathroom sinks and toilets in the whole house.

https://images.homedepot-static.com/productImages/68fdb1b2-bbb9-41e7-818a-cd99f89cf952/svn/angle-keeney-shut-off-valves-2622pcpolf-64_400.jpg

https://terrylove.com/images/homeowner/shutoff-pull-2.jpg

[EdFNJ]

Just to clarify, the push-pull valve at the wall behind the refrigerator has nothing to do with the refrigerator warranty. The valve will be open all the time. Well, except when you disconnect the old fridge.:1rotfl:

[retiredguy123]

Well, except when you disconnect the old fridge.:1rotfl:
Hopefully, that goes without saying.

[Topspinmo]

Any type of OLD valve has the potential to leak. Big box store’s contract out installers.

[dbcolli]

I was also charged for a $30.00 stainless hose that was part of the install package
that I was unable to use. I am happy with the existing valve hose and valve so far
The installers made no attempt to correct the problem, that's when I said I will take care of it.

[valuemkt]

When i decided to upgrade my appliances earlier this year, i went with home depot and paid for installation. When they came to my house they first said they would not do the dishwasher... after several tense moments they then said they wouldn't do the water line to the fridge. Everything was unboxed by then.. some had been wheeled into the kitchen. I told them to get out of my hosue and take the appliances with them . got a full refund and bought them at lowes, who connected both

[Topspinmo]

I was also charged for a $30.00 stainless hose that was part of the install package
that I was unable to use. I am happy with the existing valve hose and valve so far
The installers made no attempt to correct the problem, that's when I said I will take care of it.

If didn’t use the 30 dollar hose you can return it Nd get refund.

[jblum315]

Good for you!!!

[vintageogauge]

I had Sears refusing to hook up my gas dryer and washer. I had a internet receipt stating that the cost of the units included delivery and installation. The installed them after i showed the receipt to them.

[thevillages2013]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing

When I bought a new refrigerator from HD four years ago the deal was if you wanted them to install it you had to buy a new supply line. They would not connect the existing supply tube that comes from the shut off valve in the wall. Had nothing to do with what kind of shut off the valve had. They moved my “old” fridge which was brand new to the garage for me and installed the new one with no questions asked

[rjn5656]

I bought appliances recently. I hooked up the waterline for the fridge, not a big issue. HD did hook up the dishwasher. Only requirement was that you used a metal flex hose.

[robtheplumber]

Hello..

I am a licensed plumber..

Home depot are using delivery or handyman ect to bring your fridge..

They are correct to not be installing any "potable" water valves in your household..

At least in canada(where i reside) its illegal for anyone other then a licensed plumber to work on potable water..this is your drinking water and you could potentially be poisined with using the wrong materials by some cowboy who has not been properly trained..
Thanks

[La lamy]

Hello..

I am a licensed plumber..

Home depot are using delivery or handyman ect to bring your fridge..

They are correct to not be installing any "potable" water valves in your household..

At least in canada(where i reside) its illegal for anyone other then a licensed plumber to work on potable water..this is your drinking water and you could potentially be poisined with using the wrong materials by some cowboy who has not been properly trained..
Thanks

Good to know.

[Annie66]

We purchased a new frig from Lowes less than 2 years ago. At the time of sale, it was very clear to us that they would not hook up the water line to the refrigerator. I guess you have to know the right questions to ask.

The job is an easy one to accomplish.

[thevillagernie]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing
Lived there 12 yrs and never had a problem with them leaking,however you should hold on to the valve because it can come loose from the wall.....

[noslices1]

Hopefully, that goes without saying.

Not always. Sometimes those push pull valves won’t turn off, so you have to turn off your main water supply.

[pgettinger01]

There are problems with liability in case there is a water leak. The installation people are not licensed plumbers. I suspect sometimes after installation there was a water leak in someone's house and they sued. So now the installers do not do it. If you do it and your house floods it is your fault.

[Catalina36]

I am new to the V. The second picture I am thinking is the push and pull valve?? If that is correct. Is the valve threaded on to the pipe? Did not know that was a push pull valve. The round knob looks like a turn valve. I will look at replacing this valve myself. Thanks for the info.

[Singerlady]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing

The same thing happened to us. The installer then changed out the valve right then and there... and charged us. I had never seen those types of push/pull valves until we moved down here. On my bucket list is to have a plumber replace all of them in the house. The ones the developer put in are very cheap and look like they could break off with one pull.

[WesMan]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing
Then tell them to take back the frig.

[Singerlady]

The plastic push-pull valves are cheap valves, but I don't think your issue with Home Depot has anything to do with the valve. They apparently don't include connecting the water line to the refrigerator as part of their installation. It may have something to do with the installers not being licensed plumbers and possible liability for Home Depot.

Our installer told us it has everything to do with the fact that the push/pull valves would fail and the installer would be called back for damage because of installation when it really wasn’t the installation that was the problem, it was the valve.

[Indydealmaker]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing

Home Depot installed our fridge water last year.

[wmcgowan]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing

water damage from a leaky fridge is a bad thing - don't be cheap on this valve and line - use robust copper and a good valve that you can shutoff in need be - speaking from experience

[jbrown132]

Just to clarify, the push-pull valve at the wall behind the refrigerator has nothing to do with the refrigerator warranty. The valve will be open all the time. The refrigerator has its own solenoid valve that controls the water flow into the refrigerator. But, Home Depot may not allow unlicensed plumbers to connect the refrigerator to the house water system. If the connection leaks, Home Depot could be liable for damages because they hired an unlicensed plumber. It doesn't really matter what kind of valve they install, the connection can leak. It may be a good policy for Home Depot, but I would want the installer to make the water connection.
Strange. I bought a refrigerator up north from Home Depot and they completely installed it. Maybe it’s State by State or the manager of your store just does not want to take the responsibility. Do you know if the people who came to install it were Home Depot employees or were they third party subcontractors? That could be the case.

[justjim]

The push/pull type valves that are installed in the house in The Villages should be eliminated by code in new construction. Problem solved in the long run for the most part. What’s next? When you buy a new washer the delivery won’t include hooking up the washer hoses. Next they will leave the appliance on the front yard because they would be liable if they ruin your hardwood floors. Customer service is just about non-existent. The stores should include in their price whatever it takes to make the appliance useable or let you know upfront that you have to hire an additional person to finish the job. There are aged widows and widowers who can’t do these so called simple jobs.

[Mustagotlost]

We bought a new refrigerator from Lowe’s. The sales people told us to replace the push/pull valve.

[DLJ1657]

I was caught off guard when the installers said they are not allowed to hook up the existing water line to the fridge. The flex line is connected to a push pull valve that is recessed in the wall. I hooked it up as soon as the left and it works fine. I was talking to a friend and he had the same thing happen and had to have a plumber install a new valve/tubing.
Have there been Issues with the tubing/valve. My home was built in 2004.
I know my toilets have the same valves and connected tubing

We purchased new appliances from HD in 2017; our home was built in 2005. When ordering in the store they quizzed us about the existing valve and said it had to be upgraded before they would install the new refrigerator because (I don’t think) these push-pull valves are up to code today. At the moment I can’t recall if we had the plumber come and replace the same day, but earlier, than delivery or if we just ordered the new parts with the refrigerator and the delivery guys took care of it when they installed the refrigerator, but I know it had to be done. As we do improvements, we are working to upgrade all of the push-pull valves in the house.

[oneclickplus]

Once they touch it they own it and would be responsible for any leaks that could possibly occur.

Correct! It's a liability issue (even if the HD employee doesn't acknowledge that). HD will not take responsibility for water connections and possible leaks.

[retiredguy123]

I am new to the V. The second picture I am thinking is the push and pull valve?? If that is correct. Is the valve threaded on to the pipe? Did not know that was a push pull valve. The round knob looks like a turn valve. I will look at replacing this valve myself. Thanks for the info.
The plastic push-puil valves do not turn. You pull it out to close and push it in to open. I don't see any reason to replace one valve unless you replace all of them. You probably have about 10 push-pull valves in your house.

[Chellybean]

Hello..

I am a licensed plumber..

Home depot are using delivery or handyman ect to bring your fridge..

They are correct to not be installing any "potable" water valves in your household..

At least in canada(where i reside) its illegal for anyone other then a licensed plumber to work on potable water..this is your drinking water and you could potentially be poisined with using the wrong materials by some cowboy who has not been properly trained..
Thanks

I respect that you are a licensed plumber!
However there is a prevision in the code that allows any plug in appliance that doesn't fall under the code which su*ks. Trust me it is a addendum, the big box stores has taken the position not to take the liability.

[retiredguy123]

Strange. I bought a refrigerator up north from Home Depot and they completely installed it. Maybe it’s State by State or the manager of your store just does not want to take the responsibility. Do you know if the people who came to install it were Home Depot employees or were they third party subcontractors? That could be the case.
Home Depot doesn't have any employees who install appliances. They hire contractors who are not licensed plumbers. But, I think they should connect the water line to the refrigerator as part of the installation, otherwise they haven't installed the appliance. If they are concerned about liability, then they should hire licensed plumbers. If they are concerned about the plastic push-pull valves, then they should bring a metal valve to replace the plastic valve. A metal valve only costs a few dollars. I wouldn't buy a refrigerator from someone who is not prepared to install it.

[Chellybean]

You do not need a licensed plumber!
I believe this is a unfair ruling by DBPR and Legislation to licensed contractors

see attachment's

[retiredguy123]

I think the plastic push-pull valve issue is somewhat overblown. Most houses in The Villages have about 10 of these valves. Yes, they are cheap, flimsy valves, but I have not heard of many serious water leaks caused by the valves. You can spend hundreds of dollars replacing them, but I don't think many people are concerned enough to do that. And, any valve you install could also cause a water leak.

[dadoiron]

Hello..

I am a licensed plumber..

Home depot are using delivery or handyman ect to bring your fridge..

They are correct to not be installing any "potable" water valves in your household..

At least in canada(where i reside) its illegal for anyone other then a licensed plumber to work on potable water..this is your drinking water and you could potentially be poisined with using the wrong materials by some cowboy who has not been properly trained..
Thanks

Been doing my own plumbing for 30+ years with no issues.

Just follow the plumbing books or online tutorials and you'll be fine.

You'ld have to be really daft to poison yourself.

[Chellybean]

Been doing my own plumbing for 30+ years with no issues.

Just follow the plumbing books or online tutorials and you'll be fine.

You'ld have to be really daft to poison yourself.

BE careful in Florida my friend it is a whole different world with DBPR and insurance companies. If you have a water leak and your insurance company finds out a hook up was done by a unlicensed contractor they use that as grounds to screw with your settlement, JFYI.

[SunnyTodayFL]

In 2013 I was told that this is a Code violation issue. ‘Appliance delivery people’ (I just made up that term, but you know what I mean) are not permitted to connect equipment to “plumbing” (and if a Building Permit is required for a summer kitchen or remodeling, all such ‘plumbing’ is supposed to be done by a licensed plumber and is subject to inspection). I am not sure if it is a County Code issue or State. But, as people mentioned above, you don’t really need to hire a licensed plumber to finish installing a dishwasher/fridge if you or someone you know is handy (or you hire an independent ‘handyman’ that is willing to do it).

[Chellybean]

In 2013 I was told that this is a Code violation issue. ‘Appliance delivery people’ (I just made up that term, but you know what I mean) are not permitted to connect equipment to “plumbing” (and if a Building Permit is required for a summer kitchen or remodeling, all such ‘plumbing’ is supposed to be done by a licensed plumber and is subject to inspection). I am not sure if it is a County Code issue or State. But, as people mentioned above, you don’t really need to hire a licensed plumber to finish installing a dishwasher/fridge if you or someone you know is handy (or you hire an independent ‘handyman’ that is willing to do it).

read the state law ruling above in pdf form and you have your answer!

[tophcfa]

Been doing my own plumbing for 30+ years with no issues.

Just follow the plumbing books or online tutorials and you'll be fine.

You'ld have to be really daft to poison yourself.

With PEX tubing, a crimping devise, shark bites, and just about any imaginable fitting readily available, just about anyone do their own plumbing these days.

[Pairadocs]

Well, except when you disconnect the old fridge.:1rotfl:

An EXCELLENT, and very important point ! Bravo !
:coolsmiley:

[Pairadocs]

When i decided to upgrade my appliances earlier this year, i went with home depot and paid for installation. When they came to my house they first said they would not do the dishwasher... after several tense moments they then said they wouldn't do the water line to the fridge. Everything was unboxed by then.. some had been wheeled into the kitchen. I told them to get out of my house and take the appliances with them . got a full refund and bought them at lowes, who connected both

Lowe's is a wonderful company in my opinion. Perhaps that could change someday, but I've had so many encounters similar to yours above; Lowe's going to the ultimate to satisfy the customer, to HD being impossible and very uncaring to deal with.

[retiredguy123]

Lowe's is a wonderful company in my opinion. Perhaps that could change someday, but I've had so many encounters similar to yours above; Lowe's going to the ultimate to satisfy the customer, to HD being impossible and very uncaring to deal with.
I agree that Lowes has better service than Home Depot. But, for the past few years, they no longer have their own employees delivering and installing appliances. They now use contractors like Home Depot does.

[Stu from NYC]

When i decided to upgrade my appliances earlier this year, i went with home depot and paid for installation. When they came to my house they first said they would not do the dishwasher... after several tense moments they then said they wouldn't do the water line to the fridge. Everything was unboxed by then.. some had been wheeled into the kitchen. I told them to get out of my hosue and take the appliances with them . got a full refund and bought them at lowes, who connected both

Some years ago purchased a microwave from Home Depot, took it home to save on delivery and was paying them for installation.

The installers could not figure out how to do the installation,'

When they gave up told them to please leave and take microwave.

Purchased from a local store and hired local handyman to do install and he did it in 15 minutes.

[retiredguy123]

Some years ago purchased a microwave from Home Depot, took it home to save on delivery and was paying them for installation.

The installers could not figure out how to do the installation,'

When they gave up told them to please leave and take microwave.

Purchased from a local store and hired local handyman to do install and he did it in 15 minutes.
Best Buy is a good place to buy a built-in microwave and they can install it.

[Quixote]

I had the same issue with Home Depot and a new natural gas range. We bought it on Black Friday at a price we couldn't bring ourselves to even consider returning it. The one color we bought cost about half of what the other colors were selling for. The delivery folks said they did not have the proper tools to safely and carefully undo the existing gas line where it connected in the wall. They promptly refunded the $20 that we had paid for installation.

We hired a licensed plumber; their charge was $110. I contacted HD and told them they owe me $90, while at the same time I made reference to sharing our experience on 'community media' (meaning, among others, TOTV). He then hedged, said he would contact the store manager to find out if he would cover it, and I received a call back within fifteen minutes offering a credit for the $90 plus even the tax, the payment going back to my credit card. Of course I accepted, and this way, installation by a licensed plumber cost the original $20.

It doesn't hurt to 'lean' a little (or sometimes more than a little)....

[dsavage880]

Rule #1: Whenever a new appliance is installed (refrig/dishwasher/washing machine) new water lines should be replaced and with dryers the cord should be replaced. No quality installer should install a new appliance without new accessories unless the lines are relatively new. Those that brag about hooking it up themselves with old lines are looking for leaks down the road that can be costly
Rule #2: The push/pull values are unique in that the water line is permanently connected to the valve. Therefore, in order to use new water lines (dishwasher washer or refrigerator) the valve must be replaced. If you have a push/pull valve no qualified installer would connect the existing lines, the push/pull valve must be replaced and that's when a licensed plumber is needed. Bottom line, if you already have a new valve, HD and Lowes etc will connect the new water line. If you have a push/pull valve a plumber must install a new valve first. I only wish the installers would explain to the customer why they cannot install an appliance instead of just walking out.

[tophcfa]

Lowe's is a wonderful company in my opinion. Perhaps that could change someday, but I've had so many encounters similar to yours above; Lowe's going to the ultimate to satisfy the customer, to HD being impossible and very uncaring to deal with.

Agree, we used Lowe’s for the purchase and installation of a new patio slider going out to our birdcage. They did a top notch job at a price of 40% of the quote we got from Doc’s Restoration. I am a big fan of Lowe’s.

[dbcolli]

So has anyone actually had a problem with the push pull valve or the connected flex line water line that goes to the fridge?
I have decided to keep using it and avoid tearing into the wall to replace it.

[Chellybean]

The valve is adequate and i just think there is alot of old school people here that remember when there where metal valves and copper or chrome valves used. Times have changed and the weak link is also the PVC pipe and hoses, welcome to china Cr*p

[retiredguy123]

The valve is adequate and i just think there is alot of old school people here that remember when there where metal valves and copper or chrome valves used. Times have changed and the weak link is also the PVC pipe and hoses, welcome to china Cr*p
I agree. If it's not broken, don't fix it. You can pay a plumber several hundreds of dollars to replace all of the push-pull valves in your house, but you may get a leak the next day. I bought six First Alert battery operated water alarms on Amazon and put them behind the toilets, sinks, refrigerator, washing machine, and water heater. Total cost was about $60 and they provide peace of mind. If water get on the floor, an alarm goes off.

[John_W]

Since 2017 I have purchased a stainless steel LG refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and stove, also a LG top loading washer & dryer with glass doors and stainless trim, a 75" Samsung TV, 2 fitbits, a Lonovo 23" all in one computer. I'm pretty much in on Best Buy.

Before buying any of the appliances I opened a browser with Amazon, Lowes, Home Depot and Best Buy websites. Looked up appliances and read reviews and noted prices. I found the LG had the least amount of problems. Going even further, I found the top loading washer had less problems than the front loading washer. Then I found the model I wanted and looked at prices. At the time the washer I wanted was $880 at Lowes, HD and Amazon didn't have the model, and Best Buy was $800. I went to Best Buy, I didn't tell them the Lowes price, but I did say I wanted the 10% veteran discount like Lowes, so they said, OK $720. Then before I was finished I got same deal sort of on the dryer, also they gave me a Google Home speaker for free, which at the time was $139 and they gave me a $100 store credit card, gave me discounts on delivery and install and take-away of old appliances.

Also Lowes delivers from the store of purchase, so the inventory in that store is all they have, and many times you're told we're out of stock. Best Buy delivers from a central warehouse near Orlando, and stock most items on their website or will tell you on the site.

[Chellybean]

I agree. If it's not broken, don't fix it. You can pay a plumber several hundreds of dollars to replace all of the push-pull valves in your house, but you may get a leak the next day. I bought six First Alert battery operated water alarms on Amazon and put them behind the toilets, sinks, refrigerator, washing machine, and water heater. Total cost was about $60 and they provide peace of mind. If water get on the floor, an alarm goes off.

I have mine incorporated into my alarm system.

[bilcon]

Best Buy did an outstanding job of installing all my new appliances. They knew what they were doing and changed the off - on valves. They then went over all the appliance with us and showed us how they operated and what settings to use. Very professional. They cleaned up everything and carted all the old appliances and packing materials away. We also got all sorts of discounts and Best Buy Gift Cards.