[bongobrian]

Does anyone have some instructions (or a link to some) that show how to hook up an R/O unit directly into a cold water line?? I moved into a new condo and it doesn't have any threaded faucets for my R/O so I need to plumb it into the actual water line. I already bought a saddle valve from my lfs, I just don't know how to use it! thanks kids.

[Rin]

What type of pipes do you have?

If they're copper, just drill a hole the same size as the tube on the saddle valve (usually 1/4"). Make sure you're connecting to the cold water line after the supply valve that feeds the sink. Then it's just a matter of clamping the saddle valve into place.

If you have polybutyl (plastic) pipes, a saddle vavle isn't going to hold. Go to the hardware store and get a "T" for the size of pipe you're working with. Then it's a matter of cutting the polybutyl pipe and connecting up the "T". Then you just have to screw your line into place using a compression fitting.

Installing the supply line to your R/O isn't the hard part. The hard part is installing the drain line.

These instructions are pretty general but they should get you down the right path. I can't get any more specific without know more about your particular installation.

[bongobrian]

Thanks Rin, The tubes are polybutyl plastic. What you're describing sounds pretty easy. Is there anything else I should look out for? So all I need is a T and a compression fitting? How do you decifer the cold water line from the hot water? I havn't looked very close at them. Also, can you give me any guidance on installing the drain line? thanks man.

[Rin]

I was in home depot today looking for some plumbing supplies and I found a gate valve (used under-sink to turn the water off and on) with 3/8" compression fitting (for the water supply to the faucet) and 1/4" compression fitting on the same valve. I guess it's meant for people who want to set up a water supply for their fridge. It's perfect for an R/O unit, too. Only costs five bucks. The bar code number is 039166602490.

As for the drain, that's a little tougher. I have a 1.5" polypropylene drain lines. Most newer houses use this. Older houses may be different. I cut my tailpipe (the pipe from the sink grate to the curved pipe) and inserted a straight pipe with a drain adapter in the side. The drain adapter is also 1.5" so you will need to find an expander(reducer?) that goes from 1/4" to 1.5". My R/O unit came with one, so I'm not sure where to find one.

That may not be too clear...here are a couple of pics...

First is the Supply line (please disregard obvious safety hazard):

[Rin]

The next is the Drain setup.

BTW, the hot is usually on the left as you face the sink. One sure way to tell is to run both hot and cold water on the faucet. The cold one will...well...feel cold. And the other one...yup...will feel hot.

Ok...pic...

[bongobrian]

Your contractor makes me feel a little better about myself Rin!