<\/span><\/h2>\nThe thermodynamic cycle of a heat pump is a closed sequence in which a refrigerant absorbs heat at low pressure, receives compressor work, releases heat at high pressure, and returns to its starting condition. The sequence repeats continuously during operation.<\/strong><\/p>\nA refrigerant is the working fluid that transports energy around the sealed circuit. \u201cClosed\u201d means the fluid recirculates rather than passing continuously into or out of the system. Refrigerant loss indicates leakage, not normal consumption.<\/p>\n
The cycle moves energy against its spontaneous direction. Heat naturally flows from a warmer region to a colder region; compressor work enables the heat pump to collect energy at a low temperature and release it at the higher temperature required by heating water.<\/p>\n
The term \u201crefrigeration cycle\u201d describes the same underlying thermodynamic process. A refrigerator values the heat removed from its cold compartment, while a heat pump in heating mode values the heat released to the building.<\/p>\n