Daikin Review UK (2026)
Quick Answer
Japanese heat-pump specialist with the widest UK air-source range — strong hybrid and HT variants.
Data verified April 2026. UK installed pricing varies with installer, site and package.
At a Glance
| Origin | Japan (founded 1924) — global leader in heat pumps and air conditioning |
| UK support | Very strong — large UK office, Daikin Sustainable Home Centre, extensive installer network |
| Capacity / sizing | 4 kW – 16 kW (Altherma 3 range) |
| SCOP | 4.2–4.7 depending on model and conditions (Altherma 3 R, A7/W35) |
| Warranty | 3 years standard; extendable to 7 years via accredited installer |
| Indicative UK price | £9,500–£14,500 installed before BUS grant |
Strengths
- Widest range of models — low-temp (LT), high-temp (HT), hybrid gas-boiler backup variants available
- Hybrid options (Altherma 3 H HT) suit older UK homes needing 70°C+ capability without a full retrofit
- Excellent app (ONECTA) and third-party integration (Home Assistant community)
- Monobloc and split options — flexible install
Weaknesses
- Standard warranty is shorter than Vaillant (3 vs 5 years)
- R32 still used on much of the range — lower GWP than older refrigerants but not as low as R290
- Premium pricing on HT and hybrid variants
Who Daikin Suits Best
Older UK homes needing higher flow temperatures, or homeowners wanting a hybrid setup that keeps a gas boiler for cold snaps.
When to Avoid
You want the longest standard warranty — Vaillant edges ahead via G.A.S. accreditation.
Popular Models
- Altherma 3 R (monobloc, R32)
- Altherma 3 M (monobloc mid-range)
- Altherma 3 H HT (high-temp, hybrid)
- Altherma 3 R MT (medium-temp monobloc R32)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Daikin Altherma cost in the UK?
Daikin Altherma 3 installations typically cost £9,500–£14,500 before the £7,500 BUS grant. Hybrid and high-temp variants (Altherma 3 H HT) sit at the higher end.
What's the difference between Altherma 3 R, M, and H HT?
Altherma 3 R is the standard monobloc (R32, low-temp, most homes). Altherma 3 M is a mid-range monobloc. Altherma 3 H HT is a high-temperature model suited to older homes with existing radiators, and is available as a hybrid with a gas boiler.
Is Daikin on the BUS grant list?
Yes. All Daikin Altherma 3 variants qualify for the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme when installed by an MCS-certified installer.
Does Daikin make a hybrid heat pump?
Yes — the Altherma 3 H HT Hybrid combines the heat pump with a gas boiler. The boiler only runs on cold days when the heat pump becomes less efficient, reducing running costs for larger or poorly-insulated homes.
Compare with Other Heat Pump Brands
| Brand | UK support | Warranty | Indicative price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vaillant | Strong | 5 years standard; up to 10 years via accredited installer (G.A.S.) | £9,000–£14,000 installed before BUS grant (-£7,500) | View → |
| Mitsubishi Ecodan | Very strong | 7 years standard on accredited installs (Mitsubishi Electric Hybrid+ programme) | £9,000–£13,500 installed before BUS grant | View → |
| NIBE | Strong | 5 years standard; up to 10 years via VIP+ accredited installer | £10,000–£15,000 installed before BUS grant (air source); significantly more for ground source with boreholes | View → |
Get a Quote Including Daikin
Most MCS-certified installers carry multiple heat pump brands — ask for a quote specifying Daikin if you want a heat pump from this brand. Use the form below to reach local installers.
Sources
John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the UK solar energy market since 2023. He fact-checks all content against official MCS and Ofgem data and maintains relationships with MCS-certified installers across the UK.