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Magnetic cooling is an old concept but being tried for day today applications in order to overcome the disadvantages of conventionally used vapor compression refrigeration systems regarding reduced power input and freedom from Ozone Depletion and Global Warming. Long back, it has been successfully applied in the cryogenic temperature ranges. Magnetic refrigeration is based on the magneto-caloric effect, a characteristic present in all magnetic materials and their alloys. Magnet caloric effect means that the temperature of a suitable material changes when magnetized or de-magnetized. Magnetization of a magneto-caloric material is equivalent to the compression of a gas (heating), while demagnetization is equivalent to expansion of a gas (cooling). The first most requirements are that these variations must be achievable speedily, repeatedly, reversibly with minimum energy losses.In this paper, the applicability of this method for room temperature refrigeration and air conditioning has been studied. Firstly, the magnetic refrigeration and vapor compression systems have been compared. Secondly, the magnetocaloric materials and their requirements has been listed.Thirdly, the effect of various parameters as strength of the magnetic field, regenerator configuration, temperature span and refrigerant fluid on the performance of magnetic refrigerationhas been discussed.Lastly and not the least, the advantages and disadvantages has been mentioned. Magnetic refrigeration seems to posses' great potential for future generations.

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