[JRTJH]

You might want to look at the old hose. There should be a cap (plug) that inserts into the end of the hose. In that plug there are 3 very small holes. The plug has two functions. First, it prevents insects from crawling up the hose and into your refrigerator. Second, it helps insulate the hose so there is less "cold loss" through the small opening. Even though it's only a 1/2" hose, heat and humidity can travel up the hose. The plug helps slow down the heat transfer.

Once you have ants crawling up the inside of the hose and into the refrigerator, you'll appreciate just how important that little plug can be LOL