From About This Project
Install a refrigerator water filter to remove the bad taste from drinking water and ice cubes. An inline refrigerator water filter ($25 with connection fittings) reduces chlorine, rust, sediment and odors for water- and ice-dispensing refrigerators. Filters are available from home centers and appliance stores. We used GE Appliances model GXITQ, (800-626-2000; www.geappliances.com).The filter splices into the standard 1/4-in. copper or plastic refrigerator water supply line. Locate the filter as close as possible to the water shutoff valve. Leave at least 6 in. of clearance between the wall and refrigerator when installing the filter behind a refrigerator. Once you install the system, quick-connect fittings make it easy to change the filter.
Turn off the shutoff valve and disconnect the 1/4- in. supply line from the valve (hold a bucket under the valve to catch residual water). Some types of valves leak. You may have to turn off the main water supply valve to your home. Cut back the tubing and attach the quick-connect fittings. Snap the filter into the fittings.
Secure the tubing on the fridge side with a 1/4-in. copper strap and flush the filter to dispense any fine loose carbon particles. If a leak occurs, tighten the nuts or fittings. Strap the filter to any nearby support to take stress off the tubing. Write the installation date on the filter and replace it every six months with a new one ($20).