SCOP (seasonal coefficient of performance)

The SCOP is a standardised seasonal coefficient of performance for a standard climate. It is suitable for comparing devices, but does not tell you what your system will actually achieve.

+0 %+20 %+40 %+60 % 35°40°45°50°55° 12
Flow temperature and electricity consumption
  1. Additional electricity consumption compared to a 35 °C flow temperature, calculated at 2 to 2.5 % per degree.
  2. At a 55 °C flow temperature, the heat pump needs around 40 to 50 % more electricity for the same heat.
Horizontal axis: flow temperature in °C, vertical axis: additional consumption in %. Rule of thumb from klimaaktiv, linear approximation.

SCOP stands for 'Seasonal Coefficient of Performance'. Unlike the COP, which only describes a single operating point, the SCOP aggregates several operating points over a typical heating season. It is specified for all heat pumps and is included in the EU energy label.

What the SCOP can and cannot do

klimaaktiv emphasises: The SCOP does not refer to the actual efficiency you can expect from your system. It is a comparative value under standardised operating conditions in a standardised climate. Your house, your heating surfaces, the selected flow temperature and your hot water habits are not taken into account.

What you can use it for

  • Comparing devices: Under the same conditions (same climate zone, same flow temperature, around 35 °C or 55 °C), a higher SCOP is better.
  • Recognising quality: To obtain the quality label of the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA), minimum SCOP values must be achieved, among other things.

What really matters

The decisive factor for your electricity bill is the seasonal performance factor (JAZ). It is calculated for your house and can be measured during operation. When asking for a quote, do not just ask for the SCOP, but for the calculated JAZ for your system. Find out more under Check quote.

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