What is the role of the refrigerant in an air-to-air heat pump?

The refrigerant in an air-to-air heat pump plays a crucial role in transferring heat. Its primary function is to absorb heat from the air in one location and release it in another. During this process, the refrigerant undergoes phase changes; it evaporates at low pressure to absorb heat and condenses at high pressure to release heat. This heat exchange mechanism is vital to the operation of heat pumps, which can efficiently provide heating by moving heat from outside to inside during colder months and vice versa in warmer months.

By effectively absorbing and releasing heat, the refrigerant enables the heat pump to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, making it an essential component in the system's overall functionality.