Which component is commonly found in both air conditioning and refrigeration systems?

The evaporator coil is a crucial component found in both air conditioning and refrigeration systems due to its fundamental role in the heat exchange process. In these systems, the evaporator coil facilitates the absorption of heat from the air or surrounding environment. The refrigerant within the coil evaporates as it absorbs heat, leading to a cooling effect.

This principle is essential for both cooling applications, whether it's for residential air conditioning providing comfort in homes or refrigeration systems maintaining the temperatures for preserving food and other perishable items. The evaporator coil's operation is vital for the efficiency and effectiveness of these systems, making it a shared component in both contexts.

In contrast, while heat exchangers, thermostatic expansion valves, and refrigerant tanks play important roles in specific functions such as heat transfer or refrigerant management, they are not universally present in all air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Each of these components serves various purposes and may not be applicable in every system depending on its design and intended use.