Chromagen vs Daikin: Which Heat Pump Is Better? (2026)
Quick Verdict
Daikin is the more efficient choice with a higher COP rating, meaning lower running costs over time, while Chromagen is more budget-friendly with a lower upfront cost starting from $2,800.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Chromagen | Daikin |
|---|---|---|
| Price range (installed) | $2,800 - $4,200Lower | $5,500 - $8,500 |
| COP (efficiency) | 3.5 | 4.5Higher |
| Tank warranty | 5 years | 10 yearsLonger |
| Compressor warranty | 5 years | 10 yearsLonger |
| Noise level | 48dB | 40dBQuieter |
| Annual running cost | ~$320/yr | ~$260/yrLower |
| Refrigerant type | R134a | R134a |
| Country of manufacture | Israel | Japan |
| Australian made | No | No |
| Best for | Budget-conscious buyers wanting a reliable mid-range heat pump | Homeowners wanting the absolute best performance and warranty, especially in cold climates |
Price Comparison
Chromagen starts from $2,800 installed (before rebates), while Daikin starts from $5,500. That is a difference of roughly $2,700 at the entry level. Chromagen is the more budget-friendly option upfront, though Daikin may deliver savings through lower running costs over time. Both prices are for fully installed systems before government rebates and STCs, which can reduce the out-of-pocket cost by $1,000 to $3,000 depending on your state.
Efficiency Comparison
COP (Coefficient of Performance) is the key efficiency metric for heat pumps. A higher COP means more heat output per unit of electricity consumed. Chromagen achieves a COP of 3.5, while Daikin reaches 4.5. The Daikin is 29% more efficient, which translates to roughly $60 less per year in running costs. Over a 10-year lifespan, that efficiency advantage adds up to approximately $600 in savings.
Warranty Comparison
Chromagen offers a 5-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. Daikin offers a 10-year tank warranty and 10-year compressor warranty. The Daikin has the stronger warranty coverage with 10 years on the tank, giving you 5 extra years of protection compared to the Chromagen. A longer tank warranty can provide significant peace of mind, as the tank is the most expensive component to replace.
Noise Comparison
Noise is an important consideration, especially for suburban installations where the unit may be close to bedrooms or neighbouring properties. Chromagen operates at 48dB, while Daikin runs at 40dB. The Daikin is quieter at 40dB. At under 40dB, this is comparable to a quiet library and unlikely to cause any disturbance.
Climate Suitability
The type of refrigerant a heat pump uses significantly affects its performance in cold weather. Chromagen uses R134a refrigerant, while Daikin uses R134a. Both units use the same refrigerant type, so cold-weather performance should be comparable. R134a performs well in moderate climates but may lose some efficiency in very cold conditions.
Pros and Cons
Chromagen
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Good range of sizes
- Widely available through plumbing suppliers
- Established brand (60+ years)
- Decent efficiency for the price
Cons
- Not the quietest (48-50dB)
- Standard R134a refrigerant
- Shorter warranty than premium brands
- Not Australian-made
Daikin
Pros
- Best-in-market 10yr parts AND labour warranty
- CO2 refrigerant (heats to 90C, no boost needed)
- Quietest outdoor unit in market (40dB)
- Works down to -26C
- Highest STC allocation due to CO2 efficiency
Cons
- Most expensive option in market
- Split system requires more complex installation
- Newer to AU hot water market
- Not Australian-made
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Chromagen if...
- You want a lower upfront cost (from $2,800 vs $5,500)
Choose Daikin if...
- You want the best efficiency and lowest running costs (COP 4.5 vs 3.5)
- You want a longer tank warranty (10 years vs 5 years)
- Quiet operation matters to you (40dB vs 48dB)
- You want lower annual running costs (~$260/yr vs ~$320/yr)