Daikin Heat Pump Review UK: Altherma Range, COP, Price, Pros and Cons
Daikin is one of the most recognised names in the heat pump market worldwide. The Japanese manufacturer has been producing heating and cooling equipment for nearly a century and operates one of the largest heat pump manufacturing facilities in Europe. In the UK, Daikin's Altherma range is among the most commonly installed, delivering a combination of high efficiency, quiet operation, and proven reliability that few competitors can match across every category.
This review covers the current Daikin Altherma range available in the UK, including real-world performance data, noise levels, pricing, warranty terms, and an honest assessment of the pros and cons. If you are comparing Daikin against other brands, see our complete brand comparison guide.
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The Daikin Altherma Range
Daikin's domestic air-to-water heat pump line-up in the UK centres on the Altherma 3 range. There are several variants to suit different property types and requirements.
Daikin Altherma 3 R (Low Temperature)
The Altherma 3 R is Daikin's flagship low-temperature monobloc heat pump delivering maximum flow temperatures of 55°C, suitable for well-insulated homes with adequately sized radiators or underfloor heating.
This is the model most commonly installed in UK homes. The monobloc design means all refrigerant is contained within the outdoor unit — only water pipes connect to the indoor system. This simplifies installation and reduces cost.
Daikin Altherma 3 H HT (High Temperature)
The high-temperature variant delivers flow temperatures up to 70°C, making it suitable for older properties with smaller radiators where low-temperature operation is not practical. If you are wondering whether you need new radiators for a heat pump, the HT model may let you keep your existing ones.
Real-World COP Performance
Manufacturer-stated SCOP figures are measured under controlled laboratory conditions. Real-world performance in UK homes is typically slightly lower, depending on installation quality, system design, and usage patterns.
Data from the UK's Electrification of Heat Demonstration Project and independent monitoring suggests well-installed Daikin Altherma 3 systems typically achieve:
These figures are consistent with other leading brands. The key takeaway is that flow temperature has a far bigger impact on real-world COP than the brand of heat pump. A Daikin running at 35°C will significantly outperform any brand running at 55°C. Learn more about how COP affects your running costs.
Noise Levels
Daikin's Altherma 3 range is among the quieter heat pumps on the market. The smallest models achieve noise levels as low as 37dB at one metre — quieter than a typical library. Even the larger models stay under 46dB at full output.
Most heat pumps spend the majority of operating time at partial load, which further reduces noise. Daikin's inverter-driven compressor modulates smoothly, avoiding the start-stop cycling that causes noise complaints with on/off systems. For most UK installations, it comfortably meets the MCS noise standard of 42dB at the nearest neighbour's window.
Installation and Indoor Components
The Daikin system pairs the outdoor unit with indoor components including:
- Daikin Altherma integrated cylinder: Combined hot water cylinder and hydraulic module in 180-litre and 230-litre sizes
- Daikin Madoka controller or EKRUCBL thermostat: Wall-mounted controllers with intuitive interfaces
- Daikin ONECTA app: Cloud-based monitoring and control via smartphone for remote temperature adjustment, scheduling, and basic energy monitoring
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Daikin offers a 5-year manufacturer warranty as standard on all Altherma heat pumps, extendable to up to 10 years through their D1 partner programme. The warranty covers all major components including the compressor, heat exchangers, and control boards. Daikin has a dedicated UK technical support team with most spare parts available within 24 to 48 hours.
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Pricing
Daikin Altherma unit prices (before installation) typically range from:
| Model Size | Unit Price | Total Installed | After BUS Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–6kW | £3,500–£4,500 | £8,000–£10,000 | £500–£2,500 |
| 8–10kW | £4,500–£5,500 | £10,000–£12,000 | £2,500–£4,500 |
| 12–16kW | £5,500–£6,500 | £12,000–£14,000 | £4,500–£6,500 |
After the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant of up to £7,500, many homeowners pay between £2,000 and £7,000 out of pocket. If you are combining with solar panels, the combined savings on electricity can be substantial.
Daikin vs Competitors
Daikin vs Mitsubishi Ecodan
Both are well-established Japanese brands. Daikin typically achieves slightly higher SCOP and lower noise. Mitsubishi Ecodan has a larger installed base and arguably better energy monitoring through MELCloud. Both are excellent choices.
Daikin vs Vaillant Arotherm
Vaillant's Arotherm Plus uses R290 refrigerant and reaches 75°C flow temperature. Daikin is typically quieter with a broader model range. Vaillant has the advantage of its enormous UK boiler installer network.
Daikin vs Samsung EHS
Samsung is typically more affordable with lower noise levels. Daikin has a stronger track record and more extensive installer network. Samsung represents excellent value; Daikin offers proven reliability.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Excellent SCOP figures — among the highest on the market
- Very quiet operation, particularly smaller models (37dB)
- Strong UK installer network with D1 partner programme
- Proven reliability backed by decades of heat pump manufacturing
- Monobloc design simplifies installation
- Up to 10-year extended warranty available
- Wide range of models from 4kW to 16kW covering most domestic needs
Cons
- Still uses R32 refrigerant — not yet transitioned to R290
- Pricing is mid-to-upper range
- Low-temperature models limited to 55°C max flow — may need radiator upgrades
- ONECTA app lacks the detailed energy monitoring some users want
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Daikin a good heat pump brand?
Yes. Daikin is one of the most respected heat pump manufacturers globally with decades of experience and a strong UK track record. The Altherma 3 range achieves excellent efficiency and low noise levels.
How much does a Daikin heat pump cost to install in the UK?
Total installed costs typically range from £8,000 to £14,000 before the BUS grant. After the grant of up to £7,500, homeowners typically pay £2,000 to £7,000 out of pocket.
What is the COP of a Daikin Altherma 3?
The manufacturer-rated SCOP is up to 4.64 at 35°C flow temperature. Real-world seasonal COP in UK homes is typically 3.2 to 3.8 at low flow temperatures and 2.6 to 3.2 at higher flow temperatures.
How noisy is a Daikin heat pump?
The Altherma 3 produces 37 to 46dB at one metre depending on model and output. At partial load, noise is lower still. 37dB is quieter than a typical library.
What warranty does Daikin offer?
5 years standard, extendable to up to 10 years through a Daikin D1 partner installer.
Does Daikin use R290 refrigerant?
The UK domestic range currently uses R32 refrigerant. Daikin has R290 models in development. R32 has a lower GWP than R410A but is not as environmentally friendly as R290. Check with your installer for the latest availability.
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Daikin in the UK Renewable Heating Landscape
Daikin's Altherma range sits at the heart of the UK's transition from gas boilers to air source heat pumps. With the Boiler Upgrade Scheme making installations more affordable and electricity costs reducible through home solar panel systems, Daikin offers a proven, efficient pathway to lower-carbon home heating. Use our calculator to see what a Daikin system would cost for your specific property.