The working fluids, potassium formate-water and lithium bromide-water were compared for use in absorption cycles by computer simulation and experimental analysis. The absorption refrigeration cycles simulated include single-effect, double-effect, and vapour recompression. A small-scale test rig was used to compare the absorption and desorption rates of the two working fluids. Due to the high pressure of potassium formate-water a low absorber temperature (e.g., 25 degrees C) is required for the absorption chiller to operate at low temperatures (e.g., 5 degrees C). Potassium formate-water solution could also be used in several applications, including desiccant cooling, drying, gas dehydration and water desalination, that are not restricted by operating conditions required in absorption chillers.