In order to maintain proper temperature under various loads, a cooler or freezer located on a front prep line must be equipped with:

A thermal expansion valve is essential in refrigeration systems for maintaining proper temperature under various load conditions. This valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil based on the cooling demands. By adjusting the refrigerant flow in response to the temperature of the evaporator, it ensures that the system operates efficiently and effectively, providing consistent cooling even when there's a significant variation in load.

This is particularly important in commercial food preparation environments, where temperatures must be kept stable to ensure food safety and quality. The thermal expansion valve’s ability to respond to changes in evaporator pressure helps prevent issues such as compressor flooding or excessive cycling of the compressor, which can lead to inefficient operation or equipment failure.

Other components such as a capillary tube and expansion valve do provide refrigerant flow regulation but lack the dynamic adaptability of a thermal expansion valve. A pressure relief valve, while important for safety by preventing over-pressurization, does not directly relate to managing the refrigerant flow and temperature regulation required in a cooler or freezer located on a prep line.