How can a refrigeration system's efficiency be measured?

A refrigeration system's efficiency is most accurately measured by calculating the coefficient of performance (COP). The coefficient of performance provides a quantitative measure of a system's effectiveness by comparing the amount of heat removed from the refrigerated space (the cooling effect) to the electrical energy input to the compressor (work input). This ratio indicates how efficiently the system operates: the higher the COP, the more efficient the refrigeration system is at removing heat per unit of electrical energy consumed.

While checking the ambient temperature can provide some context about the operating conditions of a refrigeration system, it does not reflect the system's inherent efficiency. Calculating the ratio of coolant weight to compressor size is not a standard measure of efficiency in refrigeration and can be misleading; efficiency depends more on the energy usage relative to cooling capacity. Using a power meter to check wattage can provide useful information regarding energy consumption, but it alone does not directly compare cooling output to power input, which is essential for determining efficiency. Therefore, the coefficient of performance (COP) remains the best metric for assessing the efficiency of refrigeration systems.