How are heat pumps rated for efficiency and performance?
Pool/Spa heat pumps are rated by B.T.U. output and coefficient of performance (C.O.P.). B.T.U. (British Thermal Units) is the measured amount of heat output that the unit will produce. C.O.P. (coefficient of performance) is the measure of efficiency. Just like other heating options, heat pumps can have low BTU outputs or high BTU outputs. Naturally a higher BTU output is better. The C.O.P.’s can range from 3.0-7.0. What this means is that for every unit of electricity that you put in to run the compressor, you get 3-7 units of heat out of the heat pump. The higher the number the more efficient the heat pump.
