1. What is the Coefficient of Performance (COP)?

The Coefficient of Performance (COP) is a measure of a heat pump's efficiency, representing the ratio of heat output to electrical energy input. Higher COP values indicate more efficient heat pump systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the COP equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heat output (kW)
• \( W \) — Electrical input (kW)

Explanation: The equation simply divides the useful heat output by the required electrical input to determine the system's efficiency.

3. Importance of COP Calculation

Details: COP is crucial for evaluating heat pump performance, comparing different systems, and estimating operating costs. It helps determine how much heat energy is produced per unit of electrical energy consumed.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter heat output and electrical input in kilowatts (kW). Both values must be positive numbers. Typical residential heat pumps have COPs between 2 and 4.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good COP value for a heat pump?
A: Generally, a COP above 3 is considered good for air-source heat pumps, while ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps often achieve COPs of 4 or higher.

Q2: How does COP relate to energy efficiency?
A: A higher COP means greater efficiency. A COP of 4 means the heat pump produces 4 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity consumed.

Q3: Can COP be greater than 1?
A: Yes, unlike conventional heating systems, heat pumps can have COPs greater than 1 because they transfer heat rather than generate it.

Q4: What factors affect COP?
A: COP varies with temperature differences, system design, and operating conditions. It typically decreases as the temperature difference increases.

Q5: How is COP different from efficiency?
A: While efficiency can't exceed 100%, COP can be much higher than 1 because it measures energy transfer rather than energy conversion.