A refrigerator with ice and water dispenser can bring a level of convenience and functionality that’s hard to beat. From quick access to chilled, filtered water to always having ice ready for guests or hot summer days, these features are well-loved. But with added features come added costs, so it’s important to understand what you’re getting—and what you should look for—before making your purchase.
In this guide, we explore internal vs external dispenser pros and cons, compare fridge styles that offer these features, and break down the technologies that make them worthwhile. Whether you're planning your dream kitchen or simply upgrading a dated appliance, we’ll help you find a fridge with water and ice dispenser that works for you.
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Explore new ways to enjoy refrigerators with water and ice dispensers with the latest models from Albert Lee.
Shop Refrigerators with Water DispensersUnderstanding the Basics: External vs. Internal Water Dispensers
Refrigerators with water and ice dispensers come in two primary configurations: internal water dispensers (located inside the fridge compartment) and external water dispensers (mounted on the front door). Each offers a different aesthetic, user experience, and set of benefits.
Internal Water Dispensers
An internal water dispenser (sometimes called an integrated water dispenser) is mounted within the fridge compartment, just inside the door or along the interior wall. By opening the fridge door to access the waterspout, this water dispenser style preserves the clean look of a fridge’s exterior. Here are a few internal water dispenser refrigerator pros and cons:
Pros
Clean Presentation
Internal water dispensers allow for an uninterrupted exterior, which are great for minimalist kitchen designs.
Easier to Maintain
Internal water dispensers mean fewer fingerprints and external wear.
Nearly Silent
Typically, internal water dispensers are quieter than external dispensers.
Cons
Not as Efficient
Using an internal water dispenser requires opening the fridge, which can let cold air escape.
Not As User-Friendly
Having to constantly open the fridge might not be convenient for frequent use.
Size Issues
Smaller water spouts may be slower or may not accommodate larger containers.
External Water Dispensers
Unlike refrigerators with internal water dispenser, an external water dispenser is built into the front of the refrigerator door, offering quick and easy access without needing to open the fridge. Here’s what you need to know:
Pros
Family-Friendly
In-door water dispensers are convenient for families and frequent use.
Premium Options
Premium refrigerators with water dispensers often include extra features like crushed ice and an autofill mode.
Universally Functional
External water dispensers are better for for busy households or users with limited mobility.
Cons
Visual Impact
In-door water dispensers add visual bulk to a refrigerator’s exterior.
Prone to Repair
Having to constantly open the fridge might not be convenient for frequent use.
More Cleanup
Water runoff can lead to watermarks and require special attention to avoid mineral buildup.
Learn more: Side by Side vs French Door Refrigerators - Which Is Best?
Which Fridge Styles Come with Water & Ice Dispensers?
When it comes to choosing a refrigerator with water and ice dispenser, French door models are the most popular. They often feature an ice maker in the left door and water dispensers either on the exterior or tucked inside. Side-by-side refrigerators also commonly include external dispensers, conveniently located on the freezer door for easy access. While less common, some bottom freezer refrigerators—particularly higher-end models—offer internal water dispensers. Even top freezer refrigerators, typically the most budget-friendly option, are beginning to include internal water dispensers, though they usually lack an ice maker.
What’s the Cost Difference of Water & Ice Dispensers?
Expect to pay at least $200 more for a refrigerator with water and ice dispenser compared to a similar model without one. Operating costs are high, too, totaling about $25 per year for extra electricity and $50 to $100 for replacement filters. Note that a refrigerator with internal water dispenser typically costs less than one with an external dispenser.
Are you a DIY-lover thinking about installing your own water and ice dispenser? Consider most refrigerators with water and ice dispensers require a ¼-inch water line connection, but most homeowners can install a refrigerator hose line alone with basic tools and skills. A kit costs around $20 to $40, and you can save $100 to $200 in labor costs by doing it yourself. However, for peace of mind, especially in older homes or if you're unsure, it’s worth hiring a plumber.
Learn more: The Best Cabinet Depth Refrigerator Models for 2025
Refrigerator Water and Ice Dispenser Features We Love
If you’re only thinking about ice cubes and cold water, it’s time to expand your imagination. A modern refrigerator with water and ice dispenser can offer fun and convenient features like hot water and autofill (CLICK THE ➕TO LEARN MORE)
➕Refrigerator with Hot Water Dispenser
One of the most unique upgrades available today is a hot water dispenser. Found in select GE Cafe refrigerators with the Keurig K-Cup brewing system, this feature allows you to instantly dispense hot water for tea, oatmeal, baby formula, or quick soups. It eliminates the need for a separate electric kettle and is a game changer for busy mornings or multitasking cooks. While hot water dispensers are still relatively rare and limited to a few premium models, they’re incredibly useful for families or users who frequently need boiling water at their fingertips.
➕Refrigerator Water Filtration
An essential feature is water filtration, which is included in most refrigerators with dispensers. Standard filters are capable of removing common contaminants such as chlorine, lead, mercury, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, resulting in better-tasting and safer drinking water. More advanced refrigerators go a step further with UV water filtration systems. These use ultraviolet light to sanitize the water spout or the water itself, offering superior protection by neutralizing bacteria and viruses. On average, filters need to be replaced every six months, costing around $50 to $100 annually. That’s significantly more affordable than buying bottled water over the course of a year, and far more sustainable.
➕Refrigerator Autofill
For added ease of use, many modern refrigerators now come equipped with an autofill function. This technology detects the size of your container and automatically stops the water flow once it’s full. It’s an excellent hands-free feature for families, especially if you have young children or older adults who might find it difficult to monitor water as it fills. It also comes in handy when your hands are full or you’re multitasking in the kitchen. Some models even include a pitcher that refills automatically inside the fridge, which is great for keeping water cold and ready without lifting a finger.
➕Specialty Ice Modes
If you enjoy a specific kind of ice or just want to impress your guests, look for a refrigerator with specialty ice modes. Many high-end models now offer crushed ice and “max ice” or “express ice” functions that temporarily boost ice production, ideal for parties and gatherings. One standout innovation is LG’s exclusive Craft Ice feature, which produces slow-melting, round ice balls that are perfect for cocktails, whiskey, or upscale iced drinks. These specialty options add a personalized touch to your fridge and enhance the overall user experience, especially if you entertain often or have specific beverage needs.
These advanced features bring far more to the table than standard water and ice. Whether you value convenience, performance, or health-conscious upgrades, today’s refrigerators offer options that make everyday life more efficient and enjoyable.
Explore a Refrigerator with Water and Ice Dispenser for You
Keep reading to learn more about our eight favorite refrigerators with water and ice dispensers.
Cafe 36 in. 22.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Cafe Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
Coffee lovers will love this Cafe Keurig K-Cup refrigerator. This French door refrigerator with ice and water dispenser features a built-in Keurig brewing system, so you can brew your favorite morning drink right from the door—no need for a separate appliance. The adjustable hot water dispenser delivers precise temperatures and measurements, perfect for tea or even prepping meals like spaghetti. With smart connectivity, you can preheat water remotely using voice control or your smart device. The Precise Fill setting ensures you get the exact amount of water you need, whether you're filling a mug or a measuring cup. Plus, its counter-depth design blends beautifully into your kitchen, while TwinChill evaporators help keep fresh and frozen foods at their best.
⭐Featured Cafe CYE22UP2MS1 Review:
“I love this fridge. So nice not to have a big Keurig coffee maker on the counter. The app for GE appliances is awesome too, it allows me to schedule the Keurig to start heating up so it will be ready to go when I get up in the morning. I’m a baker so I can set custom water temperature for the perfect yeast to bloom. It also has a precise measure for water. If you need cups, quarts, etc. it measures it perfectly for you.”
LG 36 in. 27.1 Cu. Ft. PrintProof Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Craft Ice
Shop This LG Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
This LG side-by-side refrigerator brings premium design and smart convenience to your kitchen. The InstaView door lets you see inside by simply knocking twice, helping you save energy and keep cool air in. For ice lovers, it’s a dream come true, offering Craft Ice for slow-melting spheres perfect for cocktails, plus cubed and crushed ice from the door dispenser. And then there’s the UVnano feature that adds peace of mind by using UV light to automatically clean the water dispenser nozzle every 24 hours. With a spacious 27 cu. ft. capacity and intuitive organization, everything stays visible and within reach.
⭐Featured LG LRSOS2706S Review:
“Love this refrigerator! My last one ran all the time. So quiet and cavernous. I literally was able to combine 2 refrigerators into one! Love the craft ice. I use it for everything and love how it keeps drink cold without diluting them. I use the knock knock feature to quickly look inside to make my shopping list.”
GE Profile 36 in. 27.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop This GE Profile Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
Looking for a refrigerator with AutoFill water dispenser? This GE Profile in door water dispenser refrigerator combines sleek design with smart, user-friendly features. The integrated spout uses sensor technology to light up as you approach and delivers filtered water hands-free, thanks to AutoFill. Together with an advanced filtration system removes up to 98% of select pharmaceuticals, clean, great-tasting water and ice from the in-the-door ice maker are always at the read. Inside, showcase LED lighting, a door-in-door design, and flexible storage options like the removable bin caddy and adjustable temperature drawer make organization effortless—all part of a great series of features that earned this fridge over 6,400 perfect ratings.
⭐Featured GE Profile PVD28BYNFS Review:
“A couple of things we really love about this refrigerator: the water dispenser which has a sensor and knows when to stop (it really works); the back lighting in the refrigerator enables you to see everything on all of the shelves at the same time; the ability to only open a part of the refrigerator to get to things that you use frequently without having to open the entire large door.”
KitchenAid 36 in. 25.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop This KitchenAid Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
This KitchenAid refrigerator with ice and water dispenser in door is a smart blend of innovation, organization, and premium design. The exterior dispenser comes with intuitive controls and includes Measured Water Fill, which lets you dispense precise amounts in ounces, cups, or liters. This is perfect for meal prep or your daily coffee routine. Inside, the In-Door-Ice System keeps the ice maker tucked away in the door, freeing up valuable shelf space while still delivering small, premium ice cubes. The five-door configuration is a KitchenAid original, offering dedicated compartments, including two soft-close drawers, for customized food storage. With the Preserva Food Care System, dual cooling keeps fresh and frozen foods in ideal conditions while filtering odors and extending produce life.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KRMF706ESS Review:
“I really appreciate the industrial, clean design—it gives a sleek, modern feel that fits perfectly in my space. I love having dedicated drawers for specific items; it's super convenient not having to open the entire fridge every time. The lighting is excellent and really enhances the interior's overall aesthetic.”
Bosch 800 Series 36 in. 20.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Bosch Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
This Bosch French door refrigerator with internal water dispenser is a sleek, high-performance option designed for the modern kitchen. The dual-dispensing water system is tucked neatly inside, offering fresh, filtered water at the push of a button—without disrupting the refrigerator’s clean exterior lines. The B36CL80SNS counter depth refrigerator with internal water dispenser features dual compressors and evaporators that independently control the fridge and freezer, keeping odors separate and food fresher for longer. With the Home Connect app, you can monitor and adjust temperature settings from anywhere, giving you peace of mind even when you’re away.
GE 36 in. 25.1 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Side-By-Side Refrigerator
Shop This GE Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
This GE side by side refrigerator with water and ice dispenser is built for convenience, clarity, and clean design. Its exterior dispenser gives you easy access to filtered water and your choice of cubed or crushed ice, with advanced filtration that reduces contaminants for better-tasting drinks. Inside, edge-to-edge glass shelves, showcase LED lighting, and clear door bins help you see and store everything with ease. You'll also find thoughtful storage touches like a bonus freezer shelf above the icemaker and slide-out freezer baskets for bulkier items.
⭐Featured GE GSS25IYNFS Review:
“Great capacity and organization with very adjustable shelves and extra deli drawer. Freezer shelves are well laid out too. Feels twice as big as my last refrigerator.”
Electrolux 36 in. 21.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Electrolux Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
This Electrolux refrigerator with external water dispenser is designed with both everyday function and elegant entertaining in mind. The external dispenser delivers crisp, filtered water through the PureAdvantage system, which reduces up to 99% of contaminants for better-tasting hydration. Inside, the TempAdapt Drawer gives you the flexibility to chill anything from meats to sorbet, thanks to its wide temperature range. TasteLock Crispers with auto-humidity control help extend the life of your produce, while the LuxCool Plus system maintains stable temperatures throughout. This fridge’s ExtraAccess Door lets you grab common items without opening both doors, saving energy and time..
⭐Featured Electrolux ERMC2295AS Review:
“We have had the Electrolux refrigerator for a month now. It’s a huge improvement from our last counter depth refrigerator…The freezer has a second icemaker which is very helpful. We like the water/ice dispenser on the door and use it multiple times daily. I would strongly recommend this product!”
Maytag 36 in. 24.7 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Maytag Refrigerator with Water Dispenser
This Maytag fridge with built in water dispenser is a hardworking appliance designed to keep up with your busiest kitchen days. The dispenser provides refreshing water and crushed or cubed ice at the touch of a button—perfect for everything from post-workout hydration to hosting weekend get-togethers! Inside, the PowerCold feature quickly brings groceries down to the ideal temperature, while BrightSeries LED lighting makes it easy to spot exactly what you need. Humidity-controlled FreshLock crispers extend the life of your produce, helping reduce food waste and trips to the store.
⭐Featured Maytag MFI2570FEZ Review:
“Love the French door style. The space in the refrigerator is so much more useable than with my previous side-by-side model. Items are easy to see and reach, meaning less food waste.”
Learn more: What Does LG Refrigerators’ ICE Plus Mean?
Every sip of your favorite beverage should be as good as the first, which is why a fridge with a water and ice dispenser is a convenient addition to any lifestyle. Now that you’ve weighed the pros and cons alongside our experts, the next step is to explore the best models on the market—and Albert Lee is the place for Puget Sound shoppers to start. Visit us today to review our top picks and browse our full selection of refrigerators with water dispensers!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to put in a water line to a refrigerator ice maker?
The average cost to install a refrigerator water line is $100, depending on a home's plumbing setup. All the supplies will cost between $11 and $60, and installation takes under an hour for those comfortable with basic plumbing tasks.
Is it worth buying a refrigerator with an ice maker?
Yes, especially for larger households or frequent hosts. Ice makers add daily convenience and are particularly useful during warm months or entertaining. Just keep in mind the slightly higher initial cost and occasional maintenance.
Can a refrigerator have an ice maker without water line?
Some models use built-in water reservoirs that you manually refill, but they're less common. For most full-size refrigerators, a water line is required for automatic ice production and water dispensing.
What is the difference between a single ice maker and dual ice maker?
A single ice maker typically resides in the freezer or refrigerator door. A dual ice maker has an additional unit—usually one in the freezer and one in the fridge—to double your ice output. This is ideal for larger households or entertaining.
What are the disadvantages of a water dispenser?
Dispenser features can add to fridge costs overall maintenance. They also increase the risk of leaks or mechanical failure, and water filters require regular replacement. Additionally, external dispensers can disrupt the clean lines of your kitchen aesthetic.
Why Trust Albert Lee?
Since 1939, Albert Lee Appliance, a three-generation, family-owned business, continues to grow and serve the greater Pacific Northwest with quality products you can count on and service you can trust. We are proud to have served this community for so long and wouldn’t be here without our loyal customers. There is a reason why we are Washington’s largest independent appliance dealer, and it’s not a secret. Simply put: We have the experience. We have been the original appliance experts for over eight decades (and counting).
Shop Refrigerators with Dispensers at Albert Lee
At Albert Lee Appliance, we provide quality name-brand appliances for great prices. Shop refrigerators online or visit us today at one of our six locations in the Pacific Northwest. In the meantime, browse our website to shop Albert Lee appliance sales and check out Albert Lee appliance reviews online to ensure every purchase is an informed one. More available than ever, our experts at Albert Lee Appliance are always happy to help you explore a refrigerator with water and ice dispenser, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
Learn More: The Best French Door Refrigerator Models of the Year