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.

Possible issues with Reverse Osmosis systems connected to icemaker/dispenser:

  • 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 R/O system, monitor lights will flash when icemaker is cycling or when dispensing water from refrigerator.
  • Low flow at refrigerator water dispenser:
    • Refrigerator water dispenser will exhibit somewhat lower flow than from R/O faucet, because of the flow through extra tubing and tank in refrigerator. Check for correct R/O water flow. Flow from R/O faucet should be at least 1 quart per 30 seconds. To test, tank must be completely full, test at r/o faucet not refrigerator, use a 1 quart jar and watch with sweep hand and time the flow.
    • If flow from R/O is correct and consumer still thinks flow is too slow, they will need to have service out on their refrigerator.
  • High usage:
    • Water pressure will decrease as tank nears empty. Allow unit 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 R/O system to work properly is 40 psi. Check with local water company or have pressure measured by 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 R/O faucet not refrigerator, use a quart jar and ;time how long it takes to fill. If abnormal, have R/O checked.
  • Low house water pressure:
    • Most likely well applications. Minimum pressure for 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 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 R/O faucet could drain storage tanks to point that insufficient water is supplied to icemaker. This could occur, depending on timing of cycling of icemaker and high usage from R/O faucet. Allow R/O tank to refill completely, 4 hours, and check again.