Choosing the right refrigerant is crucial for the efficiency, safety and environmental compatibility of heat pumps. But what really makes R32 and R290 different? Find out here why these two refrigerants are dominating industry discussions.

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What is R32 refrigerant?

R32 is a synthetic refrigerant used in heat pumps and air conditioning systems. It belongs to the group of fluorinated hydrocarbons (HFCs) and has a lower GWP (Global Warming Potential) compared to older refrigerants such as R410A. This makes it more climate-friendly and more efficient to use. R32 is primarily used in modern devices as it meets strict EU requirements.

What is R290 refrigerant?

R290 is a natural refrigerant that consists of pure propane. It is used in heat pumps and other cooling systems because it is particularly environmentally friendly. Its GWP value is almost zero, meaning that it barely contributes to the greenhouse effect. However, due to its high flammability, there are strict safety regulations for use and installation.

What is the difference between R32 and R290?

The difference between R32 and R290 lies primarily in their environmental compatibility, combustibility and technical requirements. R32 is a synthetic refrigerant with moderate global warming potential, while R290 is a natural refrigerant and almost climate-neutral. Both refrigerants offer advantages and disadvantages, which depend on the respective application.

R32 is often used in modern heat pumps because it works efficiently and has a lower flammability (A2L class). R290, on the other hand, is preferred due to its extremely low GWP value, but requires stricter safety measures due to its high flammability (A3 class). The choice depends on individual requirements for environmental friendliness, safety and efficiency.

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environmental friendliness

R32 has a GWP value of around 675, which is significantly lower compared to previous refrigerants such as R410A. However, it remains a synthetic refrigerant with moderate climate pollution. R290, on the other hand, impresses with an extremely low GWP value of only around 3 and is therefore almost climate-neutral. With regard to EU regulations, such as the F-Gas Regulation, R290 is better suited in the long term because it meets strict climate protection requirements.

energy efficiency

R32 offers high energy efficiency and is often used in modern heat pumps due to its thermodynamic properties. It performs well at different temperatures and is versatile. However, R290 offers even higher efficiency, particularly at low outdoor temperatures. This makes it ideal for heat pumps that work in cold climates.

When looking at SCOP and COP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance) values, R290 often performs better, particularly in systems that are optimized for maximum efficiency.

surety

R32 is in safety class A2L and is considered highly flammable, which poses a low risk when handled. However, precautionary measures are required, especially during installation. R290 is assigned safety class A3 and has a high flammability. As a result, stricter safety measures are required during transport, storage and use. Special requirements must be met for R290 to ensure safety during use.

Costs and availability

R32 is widely used and therefore often less expensive than R290. The production and maintenance costs for systems with R32 are comparatively low, making it an attractive option for many manufacturers. R290 is more expensive to manufacture and requires special components to meet safety requirements. However, the availability of equipment using R290 is increasing as demand for natural refrigerants increases.

future prospects

R32 continues to be used in many applications due to its moderate GWP value, but is under long-term pressure from the EU's stricter requirements. R290, on the other hand, is becoming increasingly important as it better meets sustainability goals. Research is focused on improving the safety and efficiency of R290, while the development of potential substitutes for R32 is also in focus.

What does the EU regulation say about the use of R32 and R290?

The EU regulation regulates the use of R32 and R290 under the F-Gas Regulation. This is intended to reduce the use of climate-damaging refrigerants. From 2025, only refrigerants with a GWP value below 750 may be used in new systems. R32 is still allowed but is gradually being restricted due to its GWP value of 675. R290 meets the requirements of the regulation, as it has a GWP value of only around 3 and is particularly environmentally friendly as a natural refrigerant.

Which refrigerant is better suited for heat pumps?

R290 is more suitable when environmental friendliness and sustainability are paramount. R32 is beneficial if you want the installation to be safer and less expensive.

R290 has an extremely low GWP value and is ideal for applications where climate protection is a top priority. It is particularly suitable for modern systems that are specifically designed for this natural refrigerant. R32, on the other hand, scores points with high energy efficiency and simpler safety requirements, making it a good choice for cost-effective and widely used systems.

Tip: Check your heat pump requirements and applicable safety regulations. For new buildings or modernized plants, R290 offers a future-proof option. For existing systems or simple retrofits, R32 remains the more flexible choice.

Can I upgrade from R32 to R290?

It is not possible to switch directly from R32 to R290 as both refrigerants have different physical properties and safety requirements.

R290 requires specially adapted systems because it meets stricter safety regulations due to its high flammability (A3 class). Devices designed for R32 are not suitable for operation with R290 as pressure, temperature requirements, and material compatibility vary. An exchange would not only require a technical upgrade of the plant, but would also take legal and safety-related aspects into account.

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