The heat-pump market is moving fast. With the launch of the Daikin Altherma 4 H Standard, Daikin has set a new benchmark for all-electric heat pumps. This review takes a deep dive into the details.
✓Key takeaways (review summary)
- ●R-290 (propane): future-proof, GWP = 3.
- ●High temperature: up to 75 °C, even at -15 °C outside.
- ●28 dB: the quietest in its class.
- ●A+++ energy label: up to €4,375 Dutch ISDE subsidy in 2026.
1. What makes the Altherma 4 H unique?
The Altherma 4 series is designed with one goal: future-proofing. While many heat pumps still run on the older R-32 refrigerant, Daikin moves here to R-290 (propane).
- Environmentally friendly: R-290 has an extremely low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of just 3 (versus 675 for R-32 and 2,088 for R-410A).
- Higher water temperatures: thanks to R-290, this pump delivers water up to 75 °C, so it works perfectly with existing radiators.
- Operating range down to -28 °C: even in extreme cold the heat pump stays reliable.
Expert tip
No underfloor heating yet? Not a problem. The Altherma 4 H is specifically designed to work with your existing radiators (high-temperature range up to 75 °C).
2. Comparison: Daikin vs. the rest
How does the Altherma 4 H compare to other popular models on the market?
| Feature | Daikin Altherma 4 H | Standard hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant | R-290 (Propane, GWP 3) | R-32 or R-410A |
| Max. flow temperature | 70-75 °C | 55-60 °C |
| Sound (outside, 3 m) | 28 dB | 45-50 dB |
| Radiator-compatible | Yes (perfect) | Limited (LT required) |
| Operating range | -28 °C to +25 °C | -15 °C to +25 °C |
*Comparison based on general 2025/2026 market specs.
3. Sound: the “whisper” promise
One of the biggest objections to heat pumps is outdoor-unit noise. Daikin has tackled this with a redesigned fan blade, new insulation and a louvred grille.
In silent mode the outdoor unit produces just 28 dB at 3 m — comparable to rustling leaves or a quiet library. That keeps the unit compliant with virtually every Dutch residential noise regulation, including the stricter post-2024 norms.
4. Safety: the R-290 story
Because R-290 is mildly flammable (category A3), Daikin has built in safety measures that go beyond the standard:
- Gas-leak sensor: detects leakage and forces the fan to maximum speed. Self-test every hour for continuous protection.
- Sealed switch box: mounted above the fan, fully R-290-tight. Prevents refrigerant ingress into the electronics.
- Refrigerant vessel: survives a 10 m drop without leakage. R-290 is only charged into the cycle after installation.
- Gas separator: prevents R-290 from migrating via the water circuit into the indoor parts.
- Anti-freeze valve: protects the plate heat-exchanger from freezing and prevents leaks into the water circuit.
5. Cost, subsidy and payback
Cheaper exists — but what does it cost over five years?
A €1,995 budget R-32 unit looks attractive until you run the 5-year total cost of ownership.
| Line item (5 yr) | Daikin Altherma 4 H | €1,995 budget R-32 |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase + installation | €11,120 | €1,995 + ~€3,500 install |
| Dutch ISDE subsidy 2026 | - €4,375 | Often not on ISDE list — €0 |
| Warranty | 5 yr Stand By Me + 10 yr option | 2 yr factory |
| Refrigerant risk | R-290 GWP=3 (no F-gas) | R-32 GWP=675 (F-gas quota) |
| Net 5-yr TCO (excl. electricity) | ≈ €6,745 | ≈ €5,495 + unknown risk |
Many low-cost R-32 imports are not registered on the Dutch RVO ISDE list — always verify the exact model number is registered before signing.
A typical Daikin Altherma 4 H investment in the Netherlands sits around €10,500 (installed, before subsidy).
Subsidy (Dutch ISDE 2026)
Thanks to its A+++ energy label this model attracts a high subsidy. In 2026 it can return up to €4,375 depending on capacity.
Worked example:
- Investment: € 10,500
- Subsidy: − € 3,025 (10 kW indicative)
- Net cost: € 7,475
For an average home consuming 1,500 m³ of gas per year you save roughly € 1,200 to € 1,500 annually. Payback lands between 5 and 7 years with subsidy and average gas use.
6. Verdict: buy now or wait?
If you want an all-electric heat pump that is future-proof, quiet and works with your existing radiators, the Daikin Altherma 4 H is currently the best choice on the Dutch market — and one of the strongest propositions in Europe for high-temperature retrofit.
Choosing R-290 means you will not be left with an outdated F-gas system in 10 years, and the high subsidy makes the switch financially attractive today.
Prefer the Dutch original? Read the NL version.
Sources & references:
- Daikin Altherma 4 H product page
- Dutch RVO ISDE subsidy conditions 2026
- Daikin Altherma 4 H 2026 press kit — technical specifications.
Want to learn more?
Quotes and installations are handled in the Netherlands by our Dutch team. International readers: please contact a local Daikin partner in your country.
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