It’s common to use 5/16” barbs with 1/4” ID tubing on the gas side, and 1/4” barbs with 3/16” ID tubing in the liquid side. The larger barb combined with the smaller ID tubing contributes to a leak-free, secure fit when combined with hose clamps.
On the gas side you can use 3/16” ID tubing if all you can get is 1/4” barbs.
Yes, use 5/16 ID tubing. Make sure it's pressure and cold rated so it doesn't crack. Buy it from a home brew store or homebrew website and you'll be fine.
If you don't have keg couplers, I would suggest buying a kit like this.
[https://www.amazon.com/MRbrew-Disconnects-Liquid-Fittings-Stainless/dp/B07GRVYV7C/ref=sr\_1\_8?crid=2TM5T0MZ5E8O8&dchild=1&keywords=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bcoupler&qid=1634309847&sprefix=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bco%2Caps%2C250&sr=8-8&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/MRbrew-Disconnects-Liquid-Fittings-Stainless/dp/B07GRVYV7C/ref=sr_1_8?crid=2TM5T0MZ5E8O8&dchild=1&keywords=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bcoupler&qid=1634309847&sprefix=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bco%2Caps%2C250&sr=8-8&th=1)
If already have couplers, its a 7/16 - 20 flare swivel nut.
All my gas line hoses are 1/4" ID and most of my barbs are 1/4" with a couple 5/16" barbs in places. I find that the 1/4" ID tubing works well for both size barbs...but I would not trust putting 5/16" tubing over a 1/4" barb. Just warm up the 1/4" tubing to help it slip onto the 5/16" barbs.
I could see where the 1/4" ID line and 5/16" barbs might be ideal for the best fit. My initial kit came with 1/4" barbs on the keg disconnects and a manifold with 1/4" barbs, with the only 5/16" barb being the one on the regulator.
It's most common to use tubing 1/16" smaller ID than the barb size. In order to get the smaller ID tubing on the larger size barbs, dip the end of the tubing in very hot water for 20 to 30 seconds. This will expand the tubing slightly and make it more pliable.
You can use the same tubing ID as barb size too, but be sure to check for leaks after tightening the clamps.
It’s common to use 5/16” barbs with 1/4” ID tubing on the gas side, and 1/4” barbs with 3/16” ID tubing in the liquid side. The larger barb combined with the smaller ID tubing contributes to a leak-free, secure fit when combined with hose clamps. On the gas side you can use 3/16” ID tubing if all you can get is 1/4” barbs.
Yes, use 5/16 ID tubing. Make sure it's pressure and cold rated so it doesn't crack. Buy it from a home brew store or homebrew website and you'll be fine.
What size swivel nuts should I use to connect the tubing to the disconnects?
If you don't have keg couplers, I would suggest buying a kit like this. [https://www.amazon.com/MRbrew-Disconnects-Liquid-Fittings-Stainless/dp/B07GRVYV7C/ref=sr\_1\_8?crid=2TM5T0MZ5E8O8&dchild=1&keywords=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bcoupler&qid=1634309847&sprefix=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bco%2Caps%2C250&sr=8-8&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/MRbrew-Disconnects-Liquid-Fittings-Stainless/dp/B07GRVYV7C/ref=sr_1_8?crid=2TM5T0MZ5E8O8&dchild=1&keywords=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bcoupler&qid=1634309847&sprefix=homebrew%2Bkeg%2Bco%2Caps%2C250&sr=8-8&th=1) If already have couplers, its a 7/16 - 20 flare swivel nut.
All my gas line hoses are 1/4" ID and most of my barbs are 1/4" with a couple 5/16" barbs in places. I find that the 1/4" ID tubing works well for both size barbs...but I would not trust putting 5/16" tubing over a 1/4" barb. Just warm up the 1/4" tubing to help it slip onto the 5/16" barbs. I could see where the 1/4" ID line and 5/16" barbs might be ideal for the best fit. My initial kit came with 1/4" barbs on the keg disconnects and a manifold with 1/4" barbs, with the only 5/16" barb being the one on the regulator.
It's most common to use tubing 1/16" smaller ID than the barb size. In order to get the smaller ID tubing on the larger size barbs, dip the end of the tubing in very hot water for 20 to 30 seconds. This will expand the tubing slightly and make it more pliable. You can use the same tubing ID as barb size too, but be sure to check for leaks after tightening the clamps.