In refrigeration plants the heat extracted from the refrigerated medium, plus the energy in form of mechanical work from the compressor, is discharged to the atmosphere through the condenser. In the present paper a study is made on the alternatives for recovering this amount of energy to produce hot water, or warm air.A basic thermodynamic analysis is carried out, showing the most appropriate conditions for heat recovery. A simulation model is also employed for the performance prediction of cases where temperature requirements are present. Data from an experimental unit are also presented and compared with predicted results. Tests were performed over a range of condenser and evaporator temperatures.