Step 3 · Cut the Water Line

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

Identify a straight, accessible section of the 1/4-inch plastic water line behind the refrigerator. You need enough space to fit the filter, which is typically 10-12 inches long. Using your tubing cutter, make one clean, square cut through the line. A square cut is critical for ensuring the compression fitting seals properly. Discard the small section of tubing you've removed. You should now have two open ends of the water line.