Sears Refrigerator Installations

Consumer Alert: Sears offers icemaker water line installation that violates plumbing codes in various states across the U.S. The retail giant (Sears sells almost 40% of new refrigerators sold in America) offers to install the water lines necessary to feed the icemaker for about $90, but in more than ten states - so far - this installation is in direct violation of the state's plumbing codes.

State laws require that plumbing be conducted by plumbers and plumbing codes in ten states prohibit the use of saddle valves. In Illinois, Sears hires people who are not licensed plumbers and they install water lines with saddle valves.

Saddle Valve

A saddle valve, also known as a saddle tap or needle valve, consists of a clamp that punctures a hole in an existing water intake pipe. It is a shortcut used instead of installing a more permanent and secure connection. They can cause the following problems:

1. Because saddle valves are not permanently attached, they are prone to leaking and can potentially cause extensive property damage if the leak is undetected.



2. Saddle vales can produce contamination in water lines. Any materials that come in contact with potable (point of use) water, can potentially allow for growth of fungi, algae or harmful bacteria which can be put into contact with the consumer.



3. If saddle valves are not made with proper materials, chemicals could potentially seep into the water.

Most states have adopted the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and the International Plumbing Code (IPC). The IPC prohibits the use of saddle valves.

Lawsuits

A lawsuit has been filed against Sears in Illinois and the law firm will soon receive a list of all consumers who had refrigerator installations from Sears. The lawsuit is asking that each consumer be able to recover their entire installation fee and that Sears discontinue its illegal services by an illegal installer.

Sears Refrigerator Articles

To Sears and your Fridge, I'm Done with You
Okay, I know that we live in a throw-away society. There's so much money floating around, and there is so little time to spare that we don't fix anything any more. We just replace it. It's easier. Less muss, less fuss.

Sears Refrigerators: Consumer Complaints Piling Up
Advocacy sites such as consumeraffairs.com have logged hundreds of complaints about Sears refrigerators and other appliances. These include allegations of faulty installations, servicing and repair difficulties, and problems in dealing with customer service.

Sears Refrigerator Installers Using Prohibited Valves
Sears Faces Lawsuit Over Improper Refrigerator Installation

Sears Refrigerator Installation Legal Help

If you or someone you know had an icemaker installed by Sears, please click the link below to send your complaint to a lawyer to evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
Last updated on Feb-27-14