BrightGridCOP, or coefficient of performance, is commonly used to describe the efficiency of a heat pump at a particular operating condition. It compares useful heat output with electrical energy input.
What does COP mean?
If a heat pump delivers 4 units of heat while consuming 1 unit of electricity under a particular condition, its COP at that condition is 4.
Why does COP change?
- Outdoor temperature
- Required flow temperature
- System design
- Heating controls
- Emitter design
- Hot water requirements
COP versus real-world seasonal performance
A single COP figure does not describe an entire year. Seasonal performance depends on changing weather, heating demand and operating conditions.
Can solar reduce heat pump electricity costs?
Solar can offset some of the electricity consumed by a heat pump. However, the seasonal mismatch between solar generation and winter heating demand should be considered.
Look beyond one COP number
A good heat pump assessment considers the whole heating system and expected seasonal performance rather than relying on a single laboratory value.
Plan solar and heat pump together
Model your heating and electricity requirements before choosing your system.
Explore Heat PumpsFrequently asked questions
What is a good COP for a heat pump?
COP depends on operating conditions, so a single number should not be treated as a universal measure of system performance.
Does COP change in winter?
Yes. Outdoor temperature and required heating temperatures can affect heat pump efficiency.
Adrian Scott
Heat Pump Systems Engineer at BrightGrid Energy
