Home Inspection State Practice Exam

What can be a result of insufficient air flow across the evaporator coil?

1. Increased energy efficiency

2. Compressor failure

3. Ice formation on the evaporator coil

4. Improved cooling performance

The correct answer is: Ice formation on the evaporator coil

Insufficient air flow across the evaporator coil can lead to ice formation on the coil. This occurs because the evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air, and when there isn’t enough airflow, the coil can become too cold. As a result, moisture in the air can condense and freeze on the coil rather than properly evaporating, leading to a buildup of ice. This ice formation can inhibit the system’s performance and efficiency, ultimately compromising the cooling capacity of the air conditioning system. Other options describe scenarios that are not associated with insufficient airflow. Increased energy efficiency cannot occur when there is inadequate airflow; rather, it can lead to decreased efficiency due to the system working harder to maintain desired temperatures. Similarly, compressor failure typically arises from issues related to refrigerant levels or overheating systems rather than directly from airflow problems. Lastly, improved cooling performance is also not feasible under conditions of insufficient airflow, as the cooling capability is diminished rather than enhanced.