Industry Competency Exam ICE Residential

Industry Competency Exam (ICE) Residential HVAC Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a thermostat in an HVAC system?
• To filter air
• To circulate air
• To control temperature
• To increase airflow

Rationale: The thermostat senses the temperature and turns the

heating or cooling system on or off to maintain the desired temperature.

• Which refrigerant is commonly used in residential HVAC systems

today?

A. R-12

B. R-410A

C. R-22

• Ammonia 1 / 4

Rationale: R-410A is a widely used, ozone-friendly refrigerant in

modern residential systems.

• What is the function of a compressor in a split-system air conditioner?
• Evaporates refrigerant
• Filters the air
• Increases the pressure of the refrigerant
• Circulates water

Rationale: The compressor raises the refrigerant pressure, allowing it

to release heat in the condenser coil.

• What component absorbs heat from the indoor air?
• Condenser coil
• Expansion valve
• Evaporator coil
• Compressor

Rationale: The evaporator coil absorbs heat from indoor air, causing

the refrigerant to evaporate.

• What type of electrical motor is commonly used in HVAC blowers?
• Stepper motor
• Servo motor
• Induction motor
• Synchronous motor

Rationale: Induction motors are reliable and efficient, making them

suitable for blower applications. 2 / 4

• Which of the following is a sign of a dirty air filter?
• Low refrigerant levels
• Reduced airflow
• High voltage
• Noise from compressor

Rationale: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing system

efficiency and comfort.

• What is the purpose of the condensate drain in an air conditioning

system?

• To increase refrigerant flow
• To cool the condenser coil
• To remove water formed during condensation
• To circulate air

Rationale: Moisture from the evaporator coil condenses and is

drained through the condensate line to prevent water damage.

• In a split-system AC, where is the condenser located?
• Inside the ductwork
• Outside the building
• Inside the attic
• In the basement

Rationale: The condenser coil is located outside to release heat

absorbed from indoor air. 3 / 4

• What is the typical voltage for a residential HVAC system?

A. 24V

B. 120V

C. 240V

D. 480V

Rationale: Most residential HVAC systems use 240V for the main

equipment, while controls operate at 24V.

• Which component reduces the refrigerant pressure before

entering the evaporator?

• Condenser coil
• Expansion device (valve or capillary tube)
• Compressor
• Fan motor

Rationale: The expansion device lowers refrigerant pressure,

allowing it to absorb heat efficiently in the evaporator.

• What is the main purpose of a heat exchanger in a furnace?
• Filter air
• Circulate refrigerant
• Transfer heat from combustion gases to air
• Compress air

Rationale: The heat exchanger allows combustion heat to warm air

without mixing combustion gases with indoor air.

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