What is the evaporator coil to air temperature relationship when the compressor is not running?

When the compressor is not running, the evaporator coil's temperature generally aligns with the ambient air temperature entering the coil. In many systems, the evaporator coil is designed to operate around the freezing point of water, which is 32 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly when dealing with refrigerants that absorb heat from the air to provide cooling.

At this temperature, the evaporator coil ensures that moisture in the air can condense, helping to dehumidify the space. When the compressor is off, there is no refrigerant flow or heat absorption occurring, which typically results in the coil reaching thermal equilibrium with the surrounding air. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that the temperature of the evaporator coil at this moment would remain at 32 degrees F, as it is a crucial point for condensation and effective cooling performance in a refrigeration system.

This understanding is fundamental for professionals managing refrigeration systems, as it informs proper maintenance and troubleshooting practices when the compressor is not operational.