Basic Definitions
- SEER: Measures cooling efficiency over an entire season.
- HSPF: Measures heating efficiency over an entire season.
- COP: Measures instantaneous efficiency in heating or cooling.
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What are the key differences between the three?
- SEER:
- Focus: Cooling only.
- Units: Seasonal ratio of cooling (BTU) to energy used (watt-hours).
- Applies to: Air conditioners and heat pumps in cooling mode.
- HSPF:
- Focus: Heating only.
- Units: Seasonal ratio of heating (BTU) to energy used (watt-hours).
- Applies to: Heat pumps in heating mode.
- COP:
- Focus: Efficiency at a specific moment.
- Units: Instantaneous ratio of heat output to energy input (both in watts).
- Applies to: Any HVAC system in heating or cooling mode.
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Example: COP of 3 = 3kW of heating output vs 1kw of energy input.
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Practical Implications
1. When to Use SEER:
- Compare air conditioners or heat pumps based on how efficiently they cool over a season.
- Higher SEER = More cost-effective for cooling.
2. When to Use HSPF:
- Evaluate heat pumps for seasonal heating performance.
- Higher HSPF = Better efficiency in heating.
3. When to Use COP:
- Assess instantaneous performance (e.g., in specific weather conditions).
- Higher COP = Better real-time efficiency, regardless of mode.
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Advanced Comparison Table
|
Metric |
Purpose |
Seasonal/Instantaneous |
Units |
Application |
|
SEER |
Cooling efficiency |
Seasonal |
BTU/Watt-hour |
Air conditioners, heat pumps |
|
HSPF |
Heating efficiency |
Seasonal |
BTU/Watt-hour |
Heat pumps |
|
COP |
Real-time efficiency |
Instantaneous |
Unitless ratio |
Heating & cooling systems |