COP (Coefficient of Performance) is the cleanest way to compare heat pump efficiency. It’s the ratio of heat output to electrical input. A heat pump with a COP of 3.0 delivers 3 BTUs of heat for every 1 BTU of electricity consumed — 300% efficient.
For reference, a gas furnace operates at a COP equivalent of ~0.8-0.98 (since it can’t exceed 100% efficiency by burning fuel). Modern heat pumps achieve COP 2.5-4.0+ depending on outdoor temperature.
How COP varies with outdoor temperature
- 47°F outdoor — COP 3-4 (rated capacity)
- 17°F outdoor — COP 2-2.5
- 5°F outdoor — COP 1.5-2.0 (still better than electric resistance)
- -13°F outdoor — COP ~1.5 on cold-climate units
For Colorado, COP at 17°F and 5°F are the numbers that matter most. Manufacturers publish these in extended performance data sheets.
Related: HSPF, Heat Pump, Cold-Climate Heat Pump.
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Right Way Mechanical is a family-owned HVAC contractor serving Wheat Ridge, Arvada, west Denver, and the Colorado foothills.