What is the function of the heating resistances of the crankcase used in refrigeration?

In cold weather the refrigerant tends to migrate to the cold
when it is stopped. This causes a flooded start and a
lubrication. To avoid this, the oil should be kept at a temperature
above room temperature. Usually immersed electrical resistors are used
in the sump of the compressors in order to evaporate any liquid that migrates to the
compressor during downtime.