What you need to know
- COP links delivered heat to electrical input at a specific operating point.
- Outdoor temperature and flow temperature can change performance.
- Use seasonal data or measured consumption when you need a better annual estimate.
Use your own measurements
BricoDato tools help turn the guide into quantities, kWh, cost or a project plan.
Start with heat demand
If the home needs 3 kW of heat and the heat pump operates at COP 3, electrical input is about 1 kW at that moment.
COP is not constant
Efficiency changes with outdoor temperature, indoor setpoint, defrost cycles and the temperature the system must deliver.
COP and SCOP are different
COP describes a particular test condition. SCOP is intended to represent seasonal performance and is more useful for broad annual comparisons.
Measure when possible
Smart-meter or dedicated energy data over several days can reveal cycling, weather effects and whether assumptions match reality.
Final check
Before buying material or doing the work, review the assumptions and technical limits that matter for your specific product, room or installation.
- Use realistic heat demand.
- Do not assume one COP all year.
- Compare similar weather and setpoints.
- Separate space heating from hot-water use when possible.
Keep a small job sheet
Record the measurements, product reference, technical values you used, date and final result. For maintenance or diagnostics, also note the conditions at the time. A short written record makes future comparisons much more reliable.
Turn the guide into a decision
Use your measurements and the manufacturer’s technical data. If the decision affects fixed electrical work, structure, hidden leaks, refrigerant systems or another safety-critical installation, consult a qualified professional.