Calculate the Coefficient of Performance (COP) for heating or the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) for cooling of a heat pump.
Unlike furnaces that create heat, heat pumps move heat, making them much more efficient. Their efficiency is measured by several key ratios:
What is a "good" COP or EER rating?
A good COP for heating is typically above 3.5. A good EER for cooling is generally above 12. Modern, high-efficiency units can have much higher ratings. These values are crucial for comparing different models and understanding your long-term energy costs.
Why are there so many different ratings (COP, EER, SEER, HSPF)?
Because a heat pump's efficiency changes dramatically with the outdoor temperature. COP and EER measure performance at a single, fixed temperature, making them good for direct comparison under specific conditions. SEER and HSPF are "seasonal" averages that give a better estimate of performance over an entire year in a mixed climate.