Which tubing size is appropriate for ice maker connections that are 50 feet long?

For ice maker connections over a length of 50 feet, the appropriate tubing size is determined by a combination of factors including flow rate, pressure, and the potential for drop in pressure due to friction in the tubing. A ½" OD tubing size effectively balances these requirements for longer runs by minimizing friction loss while ensuring sufficient water flow to the ice maker.

Using larger tubing, like ⅜" OD or smaller tubing such as ¼" OD, may not support the needed water flow effectively over the longer distance, leading to potential issues with ice production. Smaller sizes can create limitations in water delivery, which could result in slower ice production or insufficient water reaching the ice maker. Tubing that is too large, such as 1" OD, would be unnecessary for this application and might introduce complications that are not advantageous for standard ice maker connections.

Therefore, the selection of ½" OD tubing is optimal for ensuring reliable and adequate water flow for ice makers situated at a distance of 50 feet, aligning with industry standards and best practices.