The efficiency of a refrigerator is typically expressed in terms of its coefficient of performance (COP). The COP is a ratio that represents the amount of heat energy the refrigerator removes from the cooled space (Qc) per unit of work input (W) required to achieve this cooling. The formula for the efficiency (COP) of a refrigerator is:
COP (Coefficient of Performance) = Qc / W
Where: Qc = Heat energy removed from the cooled space (in Joules or any other energy unit) W = Work input to the refrigerator (in Joules or any other energy unit)
The COP of a refrigerator is a dimensionless value, as it represents a ratio of energy input and output. A higher COP indicates a more efficient refrigerator because it can remove more heat from the cooled space with less work input. The COP is an essential parameter for comparing and evaluating the efficiency of different refrigeration systems.