What does the Coefficient of Performance (COP) of a heat pump represent?

The Coefficient of Performance (COP) is a crucial metric used to evaluate the efficiency of a heat pump in heating mode. It is defined as the amount of heating output provided by the system compared to the total electrical energy input required to generate that heating. Essentially, the COP indicates how effectively a heat pump converts electrical energy into heating energy.

A higher COP value signifies a more efficient heat pump, meaning it can deliver more heating for every unit of electricity consumed. This ratio is particularly important for consumers and professionals in the HVAC field, as it directly relates to energy usage and operational costs.

Understanding this measure helps homeowners and technicians assess the performance of various heat pump systems, allowing for better decisions related to energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness in heating applications.