Distance between fridge burner and water line?

[mimiandrews]

We just finished re-installing our Dometic fridge. Previously, we installed Pex water lines to replace some very stretched and split copper lines. The water line behind the fridge is quite close to the burner section of the fridge, and I'm pretty sure that Pex doesn't like heat.

Does anyone know the minimum distance between a Pex water line and the burner compartment?

Does anyone have a good design for a protective shield for the water line?

Should we go back to a copper water line for the short distance across the fridge compartment?

Appreciate the help.

[HowieE]

Not sure what distance you have there but I would say if you can put your hand on the pex and hold it there after the frig has been on for a while you are OK. The back of your had will let you know if there is a problem. Remember the pex can handle Hot Water much hotter than your hand.

Now if you want more protection install a piece of sheet metal mid way between the burner and the pipe. Don't fasten the metal to any part of the of the frig that is hot or to the pipe. Let it float between them. This should offer a good shield. You are dealing with radiant heat and the metal will brake the link between the frig and the pipe.