Heat Pump Efficiency Calculator

Coefficient of Performance (COP) Formula:

\[ COP = \frac{Q_{btu}}{3412 \times P_e} \]

Coefficient of Performance (COP):

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1. What is a Heat Pump Efficiency Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the Coefficient of Performance (COP) for heat pumps, which measures their efficiency.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and homeowners evaluate and compare the efficiency of heat pump systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ COP = \frac{Q_{btu}}{3412 \times P_e} \]

Where:

\( COP \) — Coefficient of Performance (dimensionless)
\( Q_{btu} \) — Heat output in British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h)
\( P_e \) — Electrical power input in kilowatts (kW)
3412 — Conversion factor from kW to BTU/h

Explanation: COP represents how many units of heat are transferred per unit of electrical energy consumed.

3. Importance of COP Calculation

Details: Higher COP values indicate more efficient heat pumps. This helps in energy cost estimation and environmental impact assessment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heat pump's heat output in BTU/h and its electrical power consumption in kW. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good COP value?
A: Typical values range from 2.0 to 5.0. Higher is better, with values above 3.5 considered excellent.

Q2: How does COP relate to SEER and HSPF ratings?
A: SEER and HSPF are seasonal efficiency metrics, while COP is an instantaneous measurement at specific conditions.

Q3: Why 3412 in the formula?
A: This converts kW to BTU/h (1 kW = 3412.142 BTU/h).

Q4: Can COP be less than 1?
A: Yes, but this indicates very poor performance. Most heat pumps have COP > 1 in heating mode.

Q5: How does temperature affect COP?
A: COP typically decreases as outdoor temperature drops in heating mode, or rises in cooling mode.