Reclaim Energy vs Daikin: Which Heat Pump Is Better? (2026)
Quick Verdict
Reclaim Energy is more budget-friendly with a lower upfront cost starting from $3,800.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Reclaim Energy | Daikin |
|---|---|---|
| Price range (installed) | $3,800 - $5,200Lower | $5,500 - $8,500 |
| COP (efficiency) | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| Tank warranty | 10 years | 10 years |
| Compressor warranty | 5 years | 10 yearsLonger |
| Noise level | 37dBQuieter | 40dB |
| Annual running cost | ~$280/yr | ~$260/yrLower |
| Refrigerant type | CO2 (R744)Eco-friendly | R134a |
| Country of manufacture | Australia | Japan |
| Australian made | Yes | No |
| Best for | Homeowners wanting premium Australian-made quality with the quietest operation | Homeowners wanting the absolute best performance and warranty, especially in cold climates |
Price Comparison
Reclaim Energy starts from $3,800 installed (before rebates), while Daikin starts from $5,500. That is a difference of roughly $1,700 at the entry level. Reclaim Energy 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. Reclaim Energy achieves a COP of 4.5, while Daikin reaches 4.5. Both systems offer identical efficiency, so running costs will be very similar.
Warranty Comparison
Reclaim Energy offers a 10-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. Daikin offers a 10-year tank warranty and 10-year compressor warranty. Both brands offer the same tank warranty length, so warranty coverage is comparable.
Noise Comparison
Noise is an important consideration, especially for suburban installations where the unit may be close to bedrooms or neighbouring properties. Reclaim Energy operates at 37dB, while Daikin runs at 40dB. The Reclaim Energy is quieter at 37dB. 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. Reclaim Energy uses CO2 (R744) refrigerant, while Daikin uses R134a. Reclaim Energy has the advantage here. CO2 (R744) refrigerant performs exceptionally well in cold climates, maintaining high efficiency even when temperatures drop below 0 degrees Celsius. R134a-based systems like the Daikin can lose efficiency in colder conditions, though they still perform well in most Australian climates.
Pros and Cons
Reclaim Energy
Pros
- Australian designed
- Split system design allows flexible installation
- Very quiet (37dB)
- Excellent COP of 4.5
- CO2 refrigerant (environmentally friendly)
- Eligible for higher VIC rebate tier
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires separate indoor tank space
- Limited installer network in some areas
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 Reclaim Energy if...
- You want a lower upfront cost (from $3,800 vs $5,500)
- Quiet operation matters to you (37dB vs 40dB)
- You want Australian-made (eligible for higher VIC rebate tier of $1,400 vs $1,000)
- You live in a colder climate and want CO2 refrigerant for better cold-weather performance
Choose Daikin if...
- You want lower annual running costs (~$260/yr vs ~$280/yr)