Reverse Osmosis - Connecting to Icemaker

To connect a Reverse Osmosis system to a refrigerator icemaker/dispenser, an extra water storage tank is required to assure proper operation. GE Appliances no longer offers the RVKIT that contained an extra storage tank and two 3/8" Tee fittings/adapters. Do not use copper tubing for the connection between the Reverse Osmosis system and the refrigerator.

 

Identifying Possible Issues That May Occur with Reverse Osmosis Systems Connected to a Refrigerator

  • Ice cubes not clear:
    • Ice cubes will be clearer with R/O processed water than normal tap water. However, they will not be completely clear. The primary contributor is trapped air bubbles in water.
  • Faucet monitor light flashes when getting water from refrigerator dispenser:
    • If refrigerator ice and water service is connected to an R/O system, monitor lights will flash when the icemaker is cycling or when dispensing water from the refrigerator.
  • Low flow at refrigerator water dispenser:
    • The refrigerator water dispenser will exhibit somewhat lower flow than from the R/O faucet because of the flow through extra tubing and the tank in the refrigerator. Check for correct R/O water flow. Flow from the R/O faucet should be at least 1 quart per 30 seconds. To test, the tank must be completely full, test at the R/O faucet, not the refrigerator, use a 1 quart jar and watch with sweep hand and time the flow.
    • If flow from the R/O is correct and you still think the flow is too slow, you will need to have service out on the refrigerator.
  • High usage:
    • Water pressure will decrease as tank nears empty. Allow the system 4 hours to fill and try again.
  • Filters contaminated early:
    • New home, construction debris left in pipes can cause filters to clog. Or if there is a high level of sediment in the water this will clog the filters. Pre-and post R/O filters need to be changed.
  • Low water pressure:
    • Most likely with well applications. Minimum pressure for the R/O system to work properly is 40 psi. Check with local water company or have pressure measured by a plumber. Well applications have a pump, check setting or gauge. House pressure below 40 psi at the R/O must be corrected with a booster pump.
  • Small cubes or ice cubes stuck together:
    • Ice cubes may be slightly smaller with R/O processed water than normal supply water. This is due to the lower system pressure. Check for correct R/O water flow, should be 1 quart per 30 seconds. To test the tank must be completely full, test at the R/O faucet not the refrigerator, use a quart jar and time how long it takes to fill. If abnormal, have the R/O checked.
  • Low house water pressure:
    • Most likely well applications. Minimum pressure for the R/O system to work 40 psi . Check with local water company or have pressure measured by a plumber. Well applications will have a pump, check setting or gauge. House pressure below 40 psi at the R/O must be corrected with booster pump.
  • High usage at R/O faucet:
    • Random instances of smaller cubes or cubes sticking together could occur. High usage of water from the R/O faucet could drain storage tanks to the point that insufficient water is supplied to the icemaker. This could occur, depending on timing of cycling of the icemaker and high usage from the R/O faucet. Allow the R/O tank to refill completely, 4 hours, and check again.

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