A plumbed fridge isn’t just a modern upgrade — it’s a smart way to bring everyday convenience into your kitchen. With fresh, filtered water and ice always on tap, life gets easier. But before you go shopping, it’s worth knowing what’s involved in the installation.
At Deadshort Services, we’ve been plumbing Adelaide homes, apartments, and commercial kitchens for over 35 years. Here’s everything you need to know about planning, fitting, and enjoying your new plumbed fridge.

Unlike standard models, a plumbed fridge connects directly to your water line. That means:
No more refilling water jugs
No more messing around with ice trays
Cleaner, better-tasting water every day
For Adelaide families, apartment living, or entertainers, it’s a feature that adds comfort, efficiency, and property value. In our hot South Australian summers, having chilled water and ice on demand makes a big difference.
Yes, you can. However, there are two important checks first:
Is there already a water connection point installed? Many newer apartments and townhouses have one, usually hidden behind cabinetry.
Does your body corporate allow it? Some buildings require approval before adding a new tap or water line.
If your kitchen doesn’t yet have a water point, our licensed plumbers can install one neatly — running pipes through cabinetry, ceilings, or skirting so the finish looks seamless.


Many people ask: “Can I install the plumbing connection now, even if I haven’t bought the fridge yet?” The answer is yes.
Most fridges connect with a standard flexible stainless-steel hose and mini cistern tap. By installing that now, you’ll be ready for almost any brand or model later. And if adaptors are ever needed, they’re simple and affordable.
That forward planning saves time, avoids disruption, and ensures your kitchen is fridge-ready when delivery day comes.
Here’s what happens when a licensed Deadshort plumber installs your plumbed fridge in Adelaide:
Assessment – check water line access, fridge location, and South Australian compliance requirements.
Water line installation – run copper or flexible piping directly to the fridge space.
Valves and fittings – install an isolation tap and a pressure-limiting valve for safety.
Connection and testing – hook up the fridge, flush the line, and pressure test.
Final check – confirm water flow, filter operation, and a neat, leak-free finish.
By the end, you’ll have a properly connected fridge that’s safe, compliant, and ready to use.
A plumbed fridge is simple when you know the essentials. Here’s what a professional will check and install:
Dedicated water line – a clean supply run directly to the fridge space
Isolation valve (stop tap) – lets you safely turn water off for filter changes or emergencies
Flood-stop or pressure-limiting valve – protection against leaks and pressure spikes
Backflow prevention if required by SA Water regulations
Quality fittings and tubing – compression or SharkBite fittings with copper or flexible pipe for a reliable, watertight finish
These details matter. Cutting corners with cheap fittings or DIY work almost always leads to costly water damage.


It’s tempting to think you can run the pipework yourself. But in Australia, the law is clear: fridge plumbing must be carried out by a licensed plumber. DIY attempts can:
Void your fridge warranty
Breach your home insurance
Lead to hefty fines if things go wrong
With Deadshort Services, you get peace of mind knowing the work is legal, insured, and backed by our lifetime workmanship warranty.
At Deadshort Services, we keep pricing transparent. We don’t charge call-out fees. Instead, we charge $150 which includes the first 30 minutes of on-site work. From there, you only pay for the time required. Another option is to provide us installation photos, we can then provide a fixed Quote based on those photos.
This way, you know exactly what you’re paying for — quality workmanship at a fair rate.
Over 35 years of plumbing experience across homes, apartments, and commercial spaces
Adelaide-wide coverage – from Gawler to Victor Harbor and everywhere in between check out our suburb coverage guide here.
Licensed, insured, and police-cleared tradespeople you can trust
Lifetime workmanship warranty on all installations
No call-out fees – transparent rates with the first 30 minutes included
One Number. One Call. Multiple Trades.
Can I install the plumbing connection now and add the fridge later?
Yes—you can. Many homeowners choose to have a plumber pre-install a standard stainless-steel hose connection and tap before purchasing the fridge. When the fridge arrives, simple adaptors usually make it compatible without extra disruption.
Can I do the installation myself, or do I need a licensed plumber?
In Australia, only a licensed plumber can legally complete the installation. Attempting a DIY job risks leaks, insurance problems, and voided warranties. Having a qualified professional means the work is safe, compliant, and guaranteed.
How much does it cost to have a fridge plumbed in?
The cost depends on your kitchen layout, whether a water connection is nearby, and how much pipework is required. It’s generally considered a modest plumbing job, but the exact price is best confirmed with a site inspection.
Is installing a plumbed fridge difficult?
If there’s already a water point near your fridge space, installation is usually straightforward. When no connection exists, pipes may need to be routed through walls, ceilings, or cupboards, which makes the job more complex and best left to professionals.
Are there no-plumb alternatives for water and ice dispensers?
Yes. Some fridges include refillable reservoirs instead of direct plumbing. While this avoids installation, it requires manual refilling and doesn’t provide the same convenience as a plumbed model.
Can a plumbed fridge be installed anywhere?
Almost always. A skilled plumber can run discreet water lines through cabinetry, ceilings, or even under flooring to reach the fridge space. The key requirements are a cold-water supply and enough space for the necessary valves and fittings.


