What are the COP and SCOP values for heat pumps?
What these figures really say about the efficiency of heat pumps
FAQ 01.12.2025The differences between heat pumps and conventional heat generators go beyond the technical. When it comes to assessing their efficiency and funding potential, figures such as the COP, SCOP, annual performance factor (APF) and seasonal energy efficiency all play a role. The values on which these are based are crucial for the proper planning and design of the heat pump system. After all, the values achieved by the systems also decide the funding they are eligible to receive – no matter who the manufacturer may be.
COP VALUE
DefinitionCoefficient of performance (COP)
The coefficient of performance (COP) denotes the ratio between the generated heating capacity and the deployed electric capacity for a heat pump. It can be used above all to compare different systems, but only if the same operating points are specified. The coefficient of performance (COP) value always includes the type and temperature level of the heat source, as well as the flow temperature for the room heating. For example, the COP value at the operating point A7/W35 describes the efficiency achieved by an air-to-water heat pump at an outside temperature of 7 °C.
SCOP VALUE
DefinitionSeasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP)
An even more meaningful value than that provided by the COP is the seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP). The SCOP is based on the calculation of four measuring points. For the purpose of assessing heat pumps in Europe, the continent is additionally divided into three climate zones: Northern, Central and Southern Europe. Germany belongs to the Central Europe region, which uses the average temperature in Strasbourg as a reference. Once the weighted results are offset against one another, the SCOP generates the energy efficiency of a heat pump across an annual cycle that is as realistic as possible.
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