When looking for a Daikin heat pump, you’ll immediately come across the name Altherma. At first glance, it’s easy to get confused by the different models: Altherma 3, Altherma 3H HT, Altherma M – what’s the difference between them, and which system is best suited to a particular building?
Of course, there is no single best option Daikin Altherma model – always the ideal choice It depends on the type of building in which the equipment is to be installed. Whether the property is a new build or due for renovation, what type of heating system is currently in place, what energy efficiency targets we wish to achieve, and what comfort requirements the system must meet.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the key members of the Daikin Altherma range, highlight the strengths of each model, and help you work out which solution is the best choice for which type of application.
What is Daikin Altherma?
Daikin Altherma is the collective name for Daikin’s range of air-to-water heat pumps. These systems utilise the thermal energy of the outside air and are suitable for:
- for heating buildings
- for cooling in summer (provided there is a suitable heat dissipation system)
- and for the production of domestic hot water
Daikin has several decades’ experience in developing heat pump technology, which is why the Altherma range has been designed to offer the optimal solution for a variety of building types and usage requirements.
Thanks to modern inverter control technology, the systems continuously adjust their operation to the current heat demand, which contributes to high energy efficiency and lower running costs.
What are the main models in the Daikin Altherma range?
There are several different models within the Daikin Altherma product range, but the following three types are the most commonly encountered in domestic use.
| Model | Recommended in particular | Its greatest advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Daikin Altherma 3 | For newly built, modern, low-energy homes | High energy efficiency with low-temperature heat emitters |
| Daikin Altherma 3H HT | For refurbishments and existing radiator systems | Capable of ensuring a high flow temperature |
| Daikin Altherma M | For properties where a monoblock design is advantageous | Compact design and simpler on-site installation |
Although these are similar systems, the differences significantly influence which one will be the ideal choice for a particular property.
Daikin Altherma 3 – when efficiency is paramount
The Altherma 3 is primarily for modern, well-insulated detached houses has been installed. In these buildings, a typically low flow water temperature is sufficient to ensure adequate comfort, which is why the system is able to operate with excellent efficiency.
The following could be a particularly good choice:
- for newly built detached houses
- for underfloor heating
- for ceiling cooling
- for fan-coil systems
- for low-energy buildings
As well as offering modern control systems and quiet operation, it has the advantage of low long-term running costs.
However, in the case of older buildings fitted exclusively with high-temperature radiators, this is not always the best option.
Daikin Altherma 3H HT – if you want to keep your radiators
If, during a refurbishment, We do not wish to replace the existing radiator system entirely, however, if we were to install a heat pump, the Daikin Altherma 3H HT would be the solution (the „HT” stands for ‘High Temperature’.)
The system significantly capable of producing a higher flow temperature, unlike conventional low-temperature heat pumps. As a result, in many cases existing radiators can continue to be used, or only minimal modifications are required.
This could be particularly beneficial:
- when carrying out energy efficiency upgrades on detached houses
- when replacing an old gas boiler
- in buildings where it is not feasible to install underfloor heating
Of course, every building is different, so it is always worth assessing the suitability of existing radiators on the basis of a thermal calculation.
Daikin Altherma M – simple monoblock design
The Altherma M is a monoblock system. With this solution, the cooling circuit is located in the outdoor unit, so only water pipes need to be installed inside the building, which can make installation simpler.
The benefits of the Altherma M:
- compact design
- easier installation
- smaller space requirements
- rapid implementation
The design of the building, the route of the pipework, frost protection and a number of other technical factors all influence whether a split or monoblock system is the best option. If you would like to find out more about the differences between the two designs, it is worth reading Split vs. monobloc heat pump: which to choose? our article entitled ….
Which Daikin Altherma model do we recommend for which type of home?
In general, the following recommendation can be made.
| Property or system type | Recommended Daikin Altherma model | Why might it be a good choice? |
|---|---|---|
| Newly built detached house | Altherma 3 | It is well suited to modern, low-temperature heating systems. |
| Property with underfloor heating | Altherma 3 | It can operate efficiently at low flow-through water temperatures. |
| A detached house with radiators, in need of renovation | Altherma 3H HT | Heat sinks requiring higher water temperatures can also be considered. |
| Replacing a gas boiler whilst retaining the existing radiators | Altherma 3H HT | It may reduce the need to retrofit the entire heat dissipation system. |
| Installation requiring a monoblock design | Altherma M | The cooling circuit is located in the outdoor unit, which allows for a simpler installation in certain locations. |
It is important to emphasise, however, that this is only general guidance. In every case, a detailed survey and measurement of the building are required in order to select the appropriate model.
Heat pump installation: complete system
Choosing a heat pump is not simply a matter of picking the most appealing unit from a catalogue. When designing a system that works effectively, the following factors, amongst others, must be taken into account:
- the building’s heat loss
- the type of heat dissipation system
- the demand for domestic hot water
- the characteristics of the tram network
- the optimal positioning of the outdoor unit
- as well as the potential for future expansion
Daikin Home Comfort Expert as a partner in the SMARTAIR’s experts They help to design a complete system that is best suited to the property in question. The aim is always to ensure that the investment operates economically and reliably in the long term, whilst providing the greatest possible comfort.
If you’re not yet sure which heat pump technology is best suited to your home, it’s worth reading A comprehensive guide to heat pump types — air-to-water, air-to-air, geothermal, hybrid our summary article entitled ….
Summary
The various models in the Daikin Altherma range are designed for different applications. The Altherma 3 is primarily designed for modern, energy-efficient buildings ideal, the The Altherma 3H HT is an excellent choice for radiator-based refurbishments and for replacing gas boilers, whilst the Altherma M with its simple monoblock design offers flexible installation options.
The most important consideration is which system is best suited to the technical specifications of the building in question and to your requirements. Based on a professional survey and sizing, you can choose a system that will provide energy-efficient, reliable and comfortable heating, cooling and hot water for your home in the long term.