Refrigerant COP Calculator
Coefficient of performance (COP) is cooling delivered divided by compressor work — the single number that decides a system's running cost. It swings dramatically with evaporating and condensing temperatures: every 1°C of condensing temperature rise typically costs 2–4% COP.
Pick a refrigerant, set your temperatures, and get the engine-computed COP for the full cycle.
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Frequently asked questions
What COP should a modern R410A system achieve?
At a typical air-conditioning operating point (evap 5°C, cond 45°C, small superheat) R410A sits around 3.5–3.8 COP. The same point on R32 is slightly higher; transcritical R744 at low ambient can reach comparable values only with a gas cooler approach.
How do I convert COP to EER or SEER?
Approximately: EER ≈ COP × 3.412 (Btu/W·h). Seasonal ratings average COP over ambient conditions — this calculator gives the steady-state point value.
Why does COP drop at high condensing temperatures?
Compressor pressure ratio rises, so specific work per kg of refrigerant climbs while the refrigerating effect stays similar — efficiency falls. This is why condenser maintenance (fouled coils, non-condensables) directly hits your electric bill.
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