Views: 24459 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-03-10 Origin: Site
Within the global HVAC industry, refrigerants have always played an indispensable role throughout history. Their evolution not only signifies technological advancement but also reflects the survival challenges driven by complex international policies and environmental red lines. With the full implementation of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and the pressure from national "dual carbon" targets, the choice of refrigerant is no longer just about thermodynamic performance; it defines product life cycles, market access, and global competitiveness. This article aim to provides B2B manufacturers and installers with an in-depth, side-by-side analysis of these two technological paths to help navigate complex global compliance challenges.
Heat pumps are core heating and cooling solutions for residential and commercial buildings. Choosing the right refrigerant significantly impacts system efficiency, environmental footprint, safety, and total cost of ownership. Among low-GWP alternatives, R290 and R32 have emerged as the two dominant pathways, each with distinct properties and application scenarios. This paper compares the two refrigerants across regulation, performance, safety, and economics to clarify their optimal use cases.
To plan products for the global market, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. Different regions have different rules, but the direction is clear: lower GWP, higher safety standards, and full lifecycle management.
The EU F-Gas Regulation is the world's most aggressive driver of emission reductions. Since 2006, Regulation (EC) No 842/2006 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) has regulated the use of F-gases in systems such as air conditioning, refrigeration, and fire extinguishing. This legislation mandates necessary safety measures and competencies, including leak testing, personnel training, and certification. The newest revision further tightens quotas and explicitly restricts the sale of high-GWP refrigerants:
・ Refrigerants with GWP > 750 are effectively banned in new heat pumps and ACs.
・ The market is rapidly moving to refrigerants with GWP < 150.
・ R290 (GWP = 3) has become the mainstream choice for monobloc heat pumps in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden.
・ Policy incentives and consumer demand for natural refrigerants drive this shift.
North American authorities have implemented a phased transition plan to low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. Starting in 2025, most new air conditioners and heat pumps imported into North America will be designed to use refrigerants with a GWP typically below 700, such as R32 or R454B.
n United States: The AIM Act mandates a phased HFC phasedown.
From January 1, 2025: New air conditioners must use A2L refrigerants.
From January 1, 2026: New heat pumps and refrigeration systems must comply with GWP limits (<300 or <150, depending on size). Unless granted a special exemption (such as the controversial R410A extension proposal currently under debate in Florida)
R32 is the primary replacement for R410A in ducted systems, as UL standards for A3 refrigerants (like R290) are still restrictive for indoor use.
China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment issued a key notice (Huan Da Qi [2026] No. 8) effective March 1, 2026.
R22 is being accelerated out.
Production of third-generation refrigerants like R32 is capped.
R290 receives policy support as a low-GWP natural refrigerant.
For exporters and multinationals, R290 is now a strategic necessity for accessing the EU and Southeast Asia.
The dominant refrigerant of the past decade, R410A (GWP = 2088), is rapidly being phased out in major markets worldwide. In 2026, the industry's focus is on two distinctly different solutions:
R32, representing a transitional low-GWP HFC (hydrofluorocarbon).
R290 (propane), the ultimate natural refrigerant with near-zero GWP.
R290 is a hydrocarbon refrigerant, also known as propane. It is used as a refrigerant in various cooling and heating applications, including heat pumps, air conditioners, and refrigeration systems. R290’s global warming potential (GWP) is three, rated low and way below the standard of 150, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to most other refrigerants like R22 and R410A. It also has a high latent heat of vaporization, which means that it can absorb a large amount of heat energy when it evaporates, making it an efficient refrigerant.
However, R290 is flammable, so specific safety measures must be taken during installation, maintenance, and disposal to prevent fire hazards. Despite its flammability, R290 is increasingly used as a refrigerant in various applications due to its low environmental impact and high efficiency.
The refrigerants bring their unique properties to the heat pumps, creating differences between them. The main differences between these heat pumps appear across the following areas.
Refrigerant | R290 | R32 |
Composition | Propane， a natural refrigerant | Difluoromethane, a synthetic HFC refrigerant |
GWP(Environmental) | = 3(Extremely Low) | = 675(Moderate) |
Safety Class | A3(High Flammability) | A2L(Mildly Flammable) |
Heat Output Efficiency(COP) | Higher at low temps | Moderate at low temps |
Max Flow temp | Up to 75°C | Approx. 60°C |
Charge Limits | International standards like IEC 60335-2-40 limit indoor charges to typically 150g - 1kg, depending on room size and ventilation | No such strict charge limits. |
Applicability | Outdoor/Monobloc Units | Split/General Units |
Cold Climate Performance | Superior(Best for 0°C） | Good（drops off in deep cold） |
Original Cost Cost | a byproduct of natural gas and petroleum refining. Its price is stable and low. | Unstable. Costs can fluctuate with raw material prices and regulatory changes. |
Both heat pumps use different refrigerants. For instance, R290, also known as propane, has a lower global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP) than R32. R290 has a GWP of 3 and an ODP of 0, while R32 has a GWP of 675 and an ODP of 0.
R32 has a higher volumetric cooling capacity than R290, which means that R32 heat pumps are more efficient in terms of cooling power per unit volume of refrigerant. R32's cooling capacity per unit volume is approximately 87% more than R290's. An R290 system would need a compressor with a higher displacement to maintain the same cooling load.
R290 is flammable and requires specific safety measures to be taken during the installation and maintenance of R290 heat pumps.
On the other hand, R32 is not flammable but can be mildly toxic if inhaled in large quantities. If you choose safety, ensure you have the right setup for your preferred heat pump.
R32 is more widely used in heat pumps than R290, so it may be more readily available and easier to find replacement parts for R32 heat pumps than R290 heat pumps.
In terms of pure refrigerant cost, R290 (propane) is generally cheaper than R32.
System cost: R290 heat pumps are generally more expensive, due to explosion‑proof electrical parts, leak protection, safety sensors, flame arrestors, and stricter assembly standards.
This price difference stems mainly from two factors.
First, R290 is a natural hydrocarbon, obtained as a byproduct of petroleum and natural gas processing. It is widely abundant and relatively simple to refine. By contrast, R32 is a synthetic hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that involves complex chemical production, resulting in higher manufacturing costs.
Second, under the Kigali Amendment, mandatory production quotas are imposed on HFCs such as R32 to support their gradual phase-down, which supports higher price levels. As a natural refrigerant with a GWP of only 3, R290 is exempt from these HFC quotas, ensuring a more stable and low-cost supply.
However, a lower refrigerant cost does not mean the overall heat pump system is less expensive. In fact, the upfront cost of an R290 heat pump is usually higher than that of an equivalent R32 model. This difference comes directly from R290’s A3 flammability classification. As a highly flammable refrigerant, R290 requires specialized system design to meet strict international safety standards, including hermetically sealed electrical components, leak detection with automatic ventilation, pressure relief devices, and additional flame safety mechanisms. These requirements significantly increase R&D, component, and manufacturing expenses.
R32, classified as A2L (mildly flammable), is much more compatible with existing production lines and design architectures inherited from R410A, so it requires fewer costly safety modifications.
In summary, although R290 refrigerant itself is cheaper, the safety‑focused system design makes the final product more expensive. R290 provides stronger long-term value with lower operating costs and zero future HFC regulatory risks, but with a higher initial investment. R32 enables lower upfront system costs and faster market deployment, but uses a more costly synthetic refrigerant and faces potential phase-down risks in the long run.
R32 operates at a higher pressure than R290. This can make its heat pumps more suitable for use in larger systems where higher pressure is required, but it can also make it more difficult to handle and maintain than R290 heat pumps.
While R290 has a lower GWP than R32, it is also a hydrocarbon refrigerant that can contribute to smog formation if leaked into the atmosphere. R32, on the other hand, is a fluorocarbon refrigerant that can contribute to global warming if released.
R290 heat pumps have a higher coefficient of performance (COP) than R32 heat pumps at lower outdoor temperatures, making them a better choice for cold climates. R32 heat pumps, on the other hand, perform better at higher outdoor temperatures.
R32 heat pumps generally consume less energy than R290 heat pumps due to their higher efficiency. This aspect can result in lower operating costs over the system’s lifetime and may compensate for the initial high price.
R32 heat pumps tend to be quieter than R290 heat pumps due to their lower operating pressures and smoother operation. This can be an important consideration in residential settings where noise levels can be a concern.
A1: R290 operates at low pressures, similar to R22. This reduces mechanical stress on compressors and piping, potentially extending equipment life. R32 operates at high pressures about 1.6 times R22. Components must be rated for higher stress.
Maintenance conditions, both systems have an expected service life of 10 to 20 years or more, but R290 is increasingly recognized for its superior long-term reliability and efficiency.
Q2：No, R290 classified as A3 highly flammable substance, requires strict explosion-proof design and operational precautions for its systems. Also, its piping design differs from R32 heat pumps. Therefore, the two systems are not interchangeable.
Q3：
For R290:
・ Install in well-ventilated, open spaces.
・ Avoid basements, pits, floor drains.
・ Never vent propane; use specialized recovery equipment.
・ Technicians must be A3 certified.
For R32:
・ Installation locations are more flexible.
・ Technicians need A2L training.
・ Use leak detectors sensitive to A2L gases. The rules are relatively lenient
・ Ensure piping is absolutely leak-tight.
Q4: R290's A3 rating is the biggest hurdle. To meet standards like IEC 60335-2-40, manufacturers must:
・ Use hermetically sealed electrical components.
・ Force system shutdown and activate fans on leakage.
・ Incorporate pressure relief and flame arrestors.
These measures increase cost and complexity. But once mastered, R290 offers strong green market advantages. Discover More: SPRSUN R290 Greenergy ProSeries Balancing Your Safety and Comfort
R290 requires higher upfront R&D and component costs. But it is immune to future HFC phase-downs and carbon taxes. This offers higher long-term ROI and positions products as premium, sustainable.
R32 is cheaper to develop and manufacture initially. A2L rating is easier. Safety relies on ventilation and leak detection. Global acceptance allows quick market deployment. But it may face future restrictions or carbon pricing, shortening its commercial lifespan.
Q5：A5: Yes, R32 is still permitted for most heat pump applications in Europe.
Under EU F-Gas rules:
Current status: R32 is fully approved for most heat pumps today, as it meets the EU’s GWP < 750 requirement.
2027–2029: Restrictions will only apply to small air‑to‑air air conditioners (under 12 kW), not to most heat pumps.
Long‑term: R32 will be gradually phased out in small AC systems by 2032–2035, while heat pumps face much looser and slower limits.
In short, R32 remains a compliant and practical choice for heat pumps in the near term. For long‑term product planning, however, transitioning to ultra‑low GWP refrigerants like R290 is highly recommended.
Q6: This depends on the user's specific needs. R290 can operate stably at -25°C while delivering 75°C hot water. In cold regions, R290 heat pumps often demonstrate stronger and more stable heating performance with milder exhaust temperatures. However, R32 heat pumps can also achieve operation in extreme cold through additional technical measures: Click to see how SPRSUN's R32 EVI Clima Series integrated heat pumps provide heating in -30°C extreme cold conditions.
The choice between R290 and R32 heat pumps depends on various factors, including the specific application, regulatory requirements, safety concerns, and personal preferences. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing between the two options:
Here are some situations where R290 heat pumps may be a good choice specifically for heating and cooling systems:
1. You need small-to-medium-sized heat pumps: R290 is suitable for small to medium-sized heating and cooling systems, such as residential homes, small businesses, and offices. Its high-energy efficiency and low operating costs make it an attractive option for these applications.
2. Cold climates: R290 has a high coefficient of performance (COP) at low ambient temperatures, making it a good choice for heating applications in cold climates. It can provide reliable and efficient heating even when temperatures drop below freezing.
3. Environmentally friendly systems: As mentioned earlier, R290 has a very low global warming potential (GWP) of 3, which makes it an excellent choice for environmentally friendly heating and cooling systems. It is also non-corrosive and non-toxic, making it a safe and reliable option.
4. Residential and commercial setups: R290 heat pumps can be used in both residential and commercial applications, such as homes, offices, and retail spaces. They can provide efficient and reliable heating and cooling while reducing environmental impact.
5. Retrofitting existing systems: R290 can be used to retrofit existing heating and cooling systems that use other refrigerants. This can provide energy savings and reduce environmental impact without the need for a complete system replacement.
R32 is a commonly used refrigerant in heat pumps due to its high energy efficiency, low environmental impact, and regulatory compliance. Here are some situations where R32 heat pumps may be a good choice:
1. Energy efficiency: R32 has a high coefficient of performance (COP), which means it can provide more heating or cooling output for the same amount of energy input as other refrigerants. This makes it an excellent choice for applications where energy efficiency is a priority, such as in residential and commercial buildings.
2. Regulatory compliance: R32 complies with the latest refrigerant regulations, such as the EU's F-Gas regulation, which aims to phase out the use of high-GWP refrigerants. R32 has a low global warming potential (GWP) of 675, much lower than older refrigerants like R410A.
3. Safety: R32 is classified as an A2L refrigerant, which means it has a low flammability rating and is considered safe for heating and cooling systems. It is also non-toxic and non-ozone depleting, making it a safe and environmentally friendly option.
4. Availability: R32 is widely available and can be used in various heat pump systems, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
5. Cost: R32 can be a cost-effective option for heat pumps due to its high energy efficiency and low operating costs. It also requires less refrigerant than other refrigerants like R410A, which can reduce installation and maintenance costs.
The International Cooperation: "Life Cycle Refrigerant Management (LCRM)" two-year work plan signed by ASHRAE and UNEP in 2026 emphasizes full-chain oversight from production to recycling. This means that regardless of whether R32 or R290 is chosen, equipment tightness, leakage rates, and service traceability will become key points of regulatory and technical scrutiny. This trend reinforces the need for robust system design and after-sales support.
The low-GWP refrigerant market is growing fast. CAGR exceeds 5.8%, projected to reach $42 billion by 2032. For B2B players, a dual-track strategy is recommended.
Focus on R32.
・ Maintains low GWP while reusing existing R410A design philosophy.
・ Lower training costs, rapid market deployment.
・ Pragmatic choice for the next 5-8 years.
Invest in R290.
・ Essential for markets with green subsidies and strict GWP limits.
・ Future-proof against 2028-2030 HFC restrictions.
・ Positions your brand as sustainable.
In 2026, R32 ensures compliance and growth in the short term. R290 bets on ultimate sustainability for the future. Understanding their differences in regulations, safety, and system costs is key to guiding clients toward the right choice for each region.
Choosing the proper refrigerant for a heat pump is a critical decision that can impact the system's efficiency, safety, cost, and environmental impact. R290 and R32 are two common refrigerants used in heat pumps, each with unique characteristics and applications.
While R290 is a suitable choice for environmentally friendly applications, small and medium-sized applications, and cold climates, R32 is commonly used for energy efficiency, regulatory compliance, safety, and availability. It is essential to consult with a qualified HVAC professional to determine which refrigerant is the best choice for your specific application.
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