Comparing a Daikin to a Samsung heat pump means weighing up a long established heat pump specialist against a fast growing technology brand. Daikin, the Japanese company behind the popular Altherma range, is the world’s largest air conditioning manufacturer and has been selling air to water heat pumps in Europe since 2006.
Samsung, the South Korean electronics giant, has built a strong following with its EHS range, thanks to competitive prices, quiet units and smart home features. Both qualify for the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant, so the better choice depends on your home, your budget and what matters most to you.
At Guscott Heating, we install air source heat pumps for homeowners and landlords across Kent and the South East. This Daikin vs Samsung heat pump guide gives you an honest, easy to read comparison of costs, performance, reliability and warranties to help you decide.
Daikin vs Samsung Heat Pump: Key Facts
Daikin and Samsung both offer air source heat pumps, but their strengths differ. Daikin has a longer track record in heat pump technology and a broad range of models, while Samsung may appeal to homeowners looking for competitive pricing, quiet operation and smart home features. The table below compares their main heat pump ranges to help you decide which brand best suits your property and budget.
| Key fact | Daikin | Samsung |
| Founded | 1924, Osaka, Japan | 1938, Daegu, South Korea |
| Best known for | World leading air conditioning and heat pumps | Consumer electronics, appliances and air conditioning |
| Popular air source models | Altherma 3 R, Altherma 3 H HT, Altherma 4 | EHS Mono, EHS Mono HT Quiet, EHS Mono R290, ClimateHub |
| Selling air to water heat pumps in Europe since | 2006 | More recent, with the EHS range growing quickly |
| Refrigerant | R32 on most Altherma 3 models, R290 on newer models | R32 on most EHS models, R290 on newer models |
| Maximum water temperature | Around 65°C (standard), 70°C or more on high temperature models | Around 65°C to 70°C (HT Quiet), up to around 75°C (R290) |
| Efficiency rating | Up to A+++ for low temperature heating | Up to A+++ for low temperature heating |
| Typical SCOP (low temperature) | Up to around 4.5 to 5 | Up to around 4.5 to 5 |
| Cold weather operation | Down to around minus 25°C | Down to around minus 25°C |
| Noise | Quiet, varies by model and size | Quiet, with dedicated low noise HT Quiet models |
| Typical installed cost before grant | Around £8,000 to £14,000 | Around £7,500 to £13,000 |
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme eligible | Yes, £7,500 | Yes, £7,500 |
| Warranty | Varies by model and installer scheme, extended cover through approved installers | Varies by model and installer scheme, extended cover through approved installers |
| Smart controls | Onecta app, Madoka controller | SmartThings app |
| All in one indoor unit | Yes, several options | Yes, ClimateHub |
| Which? rating | [Add current Which? score] | [Add current Which? score] |
| Trustpilot rating | [Add current Trustpilot score] | [Add current Trustpilot score] |
Costs, warranty terms and ratings change over time, so always check the latest details for the exact model you are considering. Installed costs are typical ranges for an average three bedroom home.
Get expert advice on Daikin and Samsung heat pumps in Kent. Guscott Heating provides air source heat pump installation across Kent and the wider South East. We will survey your home, recommend the right brand and model and give you a clear price with the £7,500 grant already taken off. Request your free heat pump estimate today.
Daikin vs Samsung Heat Pump: Which Is Better?
The best choice between Daikin and Samsung depends on your property, budget and heating priorities. Daikin may suit homeowners who value extensive experience in heat pump technology and a wide choice of models, while Samsung is worth considering if you prioritise competitive pricing, quiet operation and smart home controls.
Both brands offer efficient heating solutions, so comparing specific models against your home’s heating requirements will help you find the right fit.
Why Choose Daikin Heat Pumps
Daikin was founded in Osaka, Japan, in 1924 by Akira Yamada, originally making radiator tubes. In 1951 it produced Japan’s first packaged air conditioner, and it has since grown into the world’s largest air conditioning manufacturer by sales. Daikin has operated in Europe since the early 1970s, with its European headquarters in Ostend, Belgium.
The Daikin Altherma air to water heat pump range launched in Europe in 2006 and is now one of the most widely installed in the UK. It covers monobloc and split systems, high temperature models for older homes, hybrid systems and all in one indoor units that combine the controls and hot water cylinder in one cabinet. Heat pumps sold in Europe are largely made in Daikin’s European factories.
Pros & Cons of Daikin
| Pros | Cons |
| Long heat pump track record, with Altherma sold in Europe since 2006 | Usually a little more expensive than Samsung |
| The widest range of system types and indoor units | Most Altherma 3 models still use R32 rather than R290 |
| Dedicated high temperature models for older homes | The large range can feel confusing at first |
| Large UK installer and support network | App is less tied into a wider smart home than SmartThings |
| Distinctive, modern black fronted Altherma 3 R design | Best warranty terms depend on using an approved installer |
Should You Choose Daikin?
Choose Daikin if:
- You want a heat pump specialist with a long, proven track record.
- You want the widest choice of split, monobloc and hybrid systems.
- You want a dedicated high temperature model for an older home.
- You like the modern look of the Altherma 3 R.
Do not choose Daikin if:
- Keeping the upfront price as low as possible is your priority.
- You want your heating to link into a Samsung SmartThings home.
- Very quiet running is essential and you want a dedicated low noise model.
Why Choose Samsung Heat Pumps
Samsung was founded in 1938 in Daegu, South Korea, by Lee Byung chul as a small trading business selling groceries such as dried fish and noodles. Samsung Electronics followed in 1969, and the group has since become one of the world’s best known technology brands, making smartphones, televisions, home appliances and air conditioning.
Samsung has used its air conditioning expertise to build its EHS (Eco Heating System) range of air to water heat pumps. The range includes the EHS Mono monobloc, the low noise EHS Mono HT Quiet for higher temperatures, newer R290 models and the ClimateHub all in one indoor unit. Samsung heat pumps connect to the SmartThings app, so you can control your heating alongside your other smart devices.
Pros & Cons of Samsung
| Pros | Cons |
| Often one of the most affordable major brands | A shorter heat pump track record in the UK than Daikin |
| Quiet running, especially the HT Quiet models | Smaller installer network than the longest established brands |
| Excellent smart home control through SmartThings | Fewer system types and indoor units than Daikin |
| Higher temperature models suit many older homes | Most standard models still use R32 rather than R290 |
| Space saving ClimateHub all in one indoor unit | Best warranty terms depend on using an approved installer |
Should You Choose Samsung?
Choose Samsung if:
- You want a quality heat pump at a competitive price.
- You already use SmartThings or want everything controlled from one app.
- Low noise matters because the unit will sit near neighbours.
- You want a neat all in one indoor unit to save space.
Do not choose Samsung if:
- You want the brand with the longest heat pump history.
- You want the widest choice of system layouts and indoor units.
- You would rather choose from the biggest pool of experienced installers.
Daikin vs Samsung Heat Pump: Key Differences
Daikin and Samsung offer efficient air source heat pumps, but they differ in pricing, industry experience, product choice, noise levels and smart features. Daikin stands out for its long track record in heat pump technology and broad model range, while Samsung may appeal to homeowners looking for value for money and connected home controls. Below, we compare each factor and assess which brand comes out on top.
Efficiency
Daikin and Samsung heat pumps are both highly efficient. Their main air source models achieve the top A+++ energy rating for low temperature heating and seasonal efficiency (SCOP) figures of up to around 4.5 to 5 in test conditions. Put simply, you could get four to five units of heat for every unit of electricity you pay for.
In real homes the gap between them is tiny. A proper heat loss survey, correctly sized radiators and well set up controls make far more difference to your bills than the brand.
Winner: Draw. Both are excellent when installed properly.
Performance in Cold Weather
Both brands keep heating well in cold weather, with standard models designed to work down to around minus 25°C. Kent and the South East are among the mildest parts of the UK, so on a frosty morning in Marden (TN12) or a windy day in Sheerness (ME12), either heat pump will have plenty in reserve.
Winner: Draw.
Maximum Water Temperature for Older Homes
Higher water temperatures help older homes with smaller radiators. Standard Daikin Altherma 3 R models reach around 65°C, and Daikin’s dedicated high temperature models reach 70°C or more. Samsung’s EHS Mono HT Quiet reaches around 65°C to 70°C, and its newer R290 models reach around 75°C.
For period homes in Faversham (ME13), Tunbridge Wells (TN1) or Broadstairs (CT10), the higher temperature models from either brand can reduce the need for radiator upgrades.
Winner: Draw. Both brands have strong options for older homes.
Noise Levels
Both brands make quiet heat pumps, but Samsung has put particular focus on low noise with its HT Quiet range, designed for homes where the outdoor unit sits close to neighbours. Daikin units are also quiet in normal use, with noise varying by model and size. In England, a heat pump must meet a limit of 42 decibels at your neighbour’s nearest window to count as permitted development, which both brands can meet when positioned well.
Winner: Samsung, narrowly, for its dedicated quiet models.
Refrigerant and Environmental Impact
Most standard models from both brands use R32, which has a global warming potential of 675, far lower than older refrigerants. Both brands now also offer models using R290, a natural refrigerant with a global warming potential of just 3, which is widely seen as the most future proof choice as European rules tighten.
Winner: Draw. Choose an R290 model from either brand if environmental impact is a priority.
Reliability and Track Record
Daikin has been selling Altherma air to water heat pumps in Europe since 2006, so it has a long record of real world performance and a large, experienced UK installer base. Samsung is newer to UK home heating, but it brings huge manufacturing experience and its EHS range has built a solid reputation. For either brand, reliability depends mostly on correct installation and yearly servicing.
Winner: Daikin, for its longer heat pump track record.
Installation and Running Costs
Samsung heat pumps are often among the most affordable from the major brands, while Daikin is usually a little more expensive. Running costs are very similar because both brands are equally efficient.
| Cost | Daikin | Samsung |
| Typical installed cost before grant | £8,000 to £14,000 | £7,500 to £13,000 |
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant | £7,500 | £7,500 |
| Typical cost after grant | £500 to £6,500 | £0 to £5,500 |
| VAT on installation | 0% (until at least March 2027) | 0% (until at least March 2027) |
| Approx. yearly running cost, standard tariff | Around £740 | Around £740 |
| Approx. yearly running cost, heat pump tariff | Around £430 | Around £430 |
| Annual service | Around £100 to £200 | Around £100 to £200 |
Installed costs are rough guides for a typical three bedroom home. Running costs are illustrative, assuming around 10,000 kWh of heat a year, a SCOP of around 3.5 and electricity at around 26p per kWh, or around 15p per kWh on a heat pump tariff. Insulation, system design and your electricity tariff will make the biggest difference to your bills.
Winner: Samsung, for a lower upfront cost in many cases.
Warranty and Aftercare
Both brands offer a standard manufacturer warranty, with longer cover available when the heat pump is fitted and registered by an approved installer. The exact length depends on the model, the installer and whether you keep up annual servicing. Daikin’s larger and longer established UK network can make aftercare easier to arrange in some areas.
Winner: Draw. Always ask your installer to confirm the warranty in writing for your exact model.
Smart Controls and Apps
Samsung heat pumps work with SmartThings, the same app used for Samsung TVs, appliances and many other smart devices, which makes it easy to manage your heating alongside the rest of your home. Daikin uses the Onecta app and the Madoka controller, which are modern and easy to use but focused on Daikin products.
Winner: Samsung, for its wider smart home integration.
Product Range and Flexibility
Daikin offers the wider range, including monobloc and split systems, dedicated high temperature models, hybrids and several all in one indoor units. Samsung’s range is more focused, built around its EHS monobloc and split systems, quiet high temperature models and the ClimateHub.
Winner: Daikin.
Customer Ratings and Reviews
Both brands are widely reviewed by UK homeowners, and ratings on Which? and Trustpilot change over time. Samsung’s brand reviews cover many products, from phones to fridges, so look for reviews of its heat pumps specifically. Your installer’s reviews matter just as much, as most heat pump problems come down to installation.
Winner: Draw. Check the latest scores for both brands before you decide.
Design and Appearance
The Daikin Altherma 3 R stands out with its striking black front grille, while Samsung’s EHS Mono units have a clean, modern white finish. Both look neat against most homes.
Winner: Draw. This one is down to personal taste.
Ready to Choose Between Daikin and Samsung for Your Home?
Comparing Daikin and Samsung air source heat pumps? Guscott Heating offers free online heat pump estimates to help you understand the installation costs, compare suitable models and find a system that meets your property’s heating requirements and budget. Our team can assess your home, explain the differences between available options and help you weigh up energy efficiency, comfort and long-term running costs.
We can also explain how the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant could reduce your installation costs, subject to eligibility.
Request your free online heat pump estimate from Guscott Heating today and discover which air source heat pump could be right for your property.
Guscott Heating provides expert air source heat pump installation across Kent and the wider South East of England, helping homeowners and landlords explore alternatives to traditional gas and oil heating.
Whether you are replacing an existing boiler or upgrading the heating system in a rental property, our team can help you explore your options and make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Daikin and Samsung Heat Pumps Last?
Daikin and Samsung heat pumps typically last around 15 to 20 years when installed correctly and serviced once a year. That is longer than most gas boilers, which usually last 10 to 15 years. Keeping the outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris helps it reach the top of that range.
What Size Daikin or Samsung Heat Pump Do I Need?
The size of Daikin or Samsung heat pump you need depends on your home’s heat loss, worked out with a room by room calculation. Both brands offer models from around 4 to 5 kW for small, well insulated homes up to 14 kW or more for larger properties. Most three bedroom homes need between 5 and 10 kW.
Do I Need to Match My Heat Pump Brand to My Existing Boiler?
You do not need to match your heat pump brand to your existing boiler. A heat pump replaces your boiler completely, so you can switch from a Worcester Bosch, Vaillant or Baxi boiler to a Daikin or Samsung heat pump without any compatibility issues.
Do Daikin and Samsung Heat Pumps Work With Underfloor Heating?
Daikin and Samsung heat pumps both work very well with underfloor heating. Underfloor heating warms a room through a large surface area, so it runs at low water temperatures, which is where heat pumps are most efficient. Many homes combine underfloor heating downstairs with radiators upstairs.
Do Daikin and Samsung Heat Pumps Work With Solar Panels?
Daikin and Samsung heat pumps both work well with solar panels. Electricity from your panels can power the heat pump during the day, particularly for heating hot water, which lowers your bills. Adding a home battery lets you store spare solar power and use it in the evening.
