Question

When the heat load on the evaporator increases, what happens to the automatic expansion valve?

1) It opens wider to allow more refrigerant flow
2) It closes partially to restrict refrigerant flow
3) It remains uNaFfected
4) It shuts completely to stop refrigerant flow

Answer 1

The automatic expansion valve opens wider in response to an increased heat load on the evaporator to allow more refrigerant flow, which is crucial for efficient heat transfer.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the heat load on the evaporator increases, the automatic expansion valve responds by opening wider to allow more refrigerant flow. This reaction is necessary to accommodate the increased heat load by permitting a greater volume of refrigerant to absorb more heat. The expanded refrigerant then goes back through the system to the outdoor evaporator coils, becoming cooled in the process. In a simple heat pump system, this is an essential part of maintaining correct operation and ensuring efficient heat transfer.