For construction professionals, understanding the cost to install an ice maker water line is crucial for accurate project budgeting. In 2025, the cost ranges from $165 to $450, influenced by factors such as line length, material quality, and local labor rates. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown to help you manage costs effectively.
The typical national average sits between $165 and $450, but actual totals vary based on three core factors:
1. Materials
PEX tubing and a saddle valve can run as little as $35, while premium copper lines with shut-off boxes push material totals toward $120.
2. Labor
Licensed plumber labor averages $85–$125 per hour. Most installations take 1–2 hours, but complex sites may require more time.
3. Site Conditions
Running a line through finished cabinetry versus an open basement ceiling makes a big difference. Drywall patching, painting, and trim reinstallation add $50–$200 when required.
In high-wage metro areas, a straightforward install may approach $400, while rural settings hover near $200. Accurate estimates require up-to-date, location-specific data.
An ice maker hookup offers daily convenience and strengthens resale value. Kitchens with functional ice makers sell 3–5% faster in competitive markets.
A 1901 brownstone owner in Brooklyn needed a new French-door fridge with an ice maker but feared opening the original plaster walls. Precise estimating eliminated uncertainty, showcasing the value of detailed planning.
The contractor launched the app and narrated the site walk-through:
Within 60 seconds, the AI produced a scope including PEX line, two shut-off valves, fire-caulk sleeves, wall patching, and paint touch-up.
Materials: $92.17
Labor: 2.4 hours at $118/hr
Finish work: $165 flat
Travel & disposal: $37
Projected total: $574.97
The homeowner approved the digital quote on a tablet before leaving for work. Installation finished the next day, and final invoicing matched the estimate within $4—well under the homeowner’s contingency budget.
