In the world of sustainability and energy transition, it's almost impossible to ignore: the heat pump is the future of heating . And anyone who delves into heat pumps will automatically encounter the terms R290 and R32 . But what do they really mean? And why is this choice of refrigerant so decisive for your system, your comfort, and your energy bill?
Welcome to the ultimate explanation, where we not only analyze every technical aspect in detail , but also give you the insights you need to make the best choice .
What are refrigerants?
Refrigerants are the active fluids in a heat pump that transfer heat from the outside to the inside (or vice versa). They evaporate at low temperatures, absorb heat, and condense again to release that heat. Simply put, they are the engines of thermodynamics in your system .
Refrigerants R290 (propane) and R32 (difluoromethane) are currently the most commonly used in residential and commercial heat pumps. They seem very similar on paper – but the differences are fundamental .
The difference in origin and composition
| Feature | R290 (Propane) | R32 (Difluoromethane) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Natural gas | Synthetic, chemically produced |
| Structure | Short hydrocarbon chain | Fluorinated compound |
| Recyclable | Yes, completely | Limited |
| Known from | Barbecues, refrigeration systems | Air conditioners, compressor cooling |
While R290 is a natural refrigerant , R32 comes from fluorine chemistry and has an artificial origin.
Chapter 3: Global Warming Potential (GWP)
The main reason the EU is phasing out old refrigerants like R410A is their high impact on the climate . The lower the GWP, the better.
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R290 : GWP of 3 (!)
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R32 : GWP of 675
This means that if 1 kg of refrigerant were to escape, it would be 225 times more harmful to the climate with R32 than with R290.
Learn more about the benefits of R290 heat pumps .
Energy efficiency & COP values
In practice this difference means:
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R290 heat pumps (such as our SPRSUN Ultra Silence R290 series ) have a higher COP at lower temperatures.
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R290 works better at outside temperatures below 0°C, ideal for the Netherlands and Belgium.
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R32 is more bulky and often requires more refrigerant charge for the same effect.
Result: R290 achieves up to 20% more efficiency in cold winter situations than R32.
Safety & regulations
This is where it gets technical, and where many installers have questions.
| Aspect | R290 | R32 |
|---|---|---|
| Fire class | A3 (highly flammable) | A2L (mildly flammable) |
| Explosion limit | Low (LEL of 2.1%) | Higher (LEL 12.7%) |
| Permitted filling | <150g per closed space | Up to 1.2 kg |
| Supplies | ATEX zones, fire safety | Standard electrical zones |
That is why SPRSUN R290 heat pumps are completely housed in a metal housing with a separate compressor zone and multiple leak detection systems.
Ease of installation
This is where R290 takes a major leap forward. Thanks to new compressor technology and separate refrigerant loops:
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No longer require an F-gas certificate for the final installer
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Pre-filled system (such as the SPRSUN R290 Monoblock ) = direct plug-and-play
With R32, the installer must still have F-gas certification and be able to top up, check and pressure test refrigerant.
Noise level – Ultra Silence in practice
The SPRSUN Ultra Silence R290 series is equipped with:
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Triple compressor suspension
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Soft-start frequency control
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Noise-reducing enclosure
Result: an operating noise of only 38 dB at a distance of 5 metres – whisper-quiet compared to many R32 models (average 45–52 dB).
Environmental legislation and future-proofing
The European Green Deal imposes increasingly stringent requirements on synthetic refrigerants from 2025 and 2030. This makes R290 a "future-proof" choice .
Also compare the Kaisai KHC R290 heat pump or the Rotenso Heatmi Split – all ready for the future.
R290 is therefore a “future-proof” choice – your installation is resistant to future legislation.
Suitability for hybrid systems
R290 systems are ideally suited for combination with:
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Existing central heating boilers
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Boiler systems
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Underfloor heating or LT radiators
This offers flexibility and subsidy benefits through ISDE and BENG, especially in renovation projects .
Cost comparison and lifespan
Although an R290 pump is initially slightly more expensive (approx. 10–15%), it pays for itself more quickly:
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Lower energy consumption = lower monthly costs
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No F-gas certification = lower installation costs
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Longer service life due to lower pressure levels
Why New-Heating is fully committed to R290
At New-Heating we consciously choose R290 for these reasons:
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Environment and vision for the future : We really want to contribute to sustainability.
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Technology : The R290 models we carry (SPRSUN, Rotenso, Haier) are top quality.
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Ease of use : Our customers often install themselves or through partners without F-gas papers.
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Silence : Noise is becoming an increasingly common problem in residential areas. R290 solves this.
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Legislation-proof : Our systems are already ready for 2030.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is R290 more dangerous than R32?
Yes, it is flammable, but when properly installed in sealed outdoor units, the risk is negligible. Safety measures are built in as standard.
How much subsidy do I get on an R290 pump?
Up to €3,750 for a hybrid setup, depending on power and model.
Can I combine R290 with my existing radiators?
Yes, provided you have LT-compatible radiators or are having them replaced. We always recommend calculating your heating costs beforehand.
Is R290 more difficult to maintain?
No. On the contrary. Because there are fewer moving parts and no external fill loop, maintenance is often simpler.
Finally – Why R290 is the standard of the future
R32 was an interim solution in the energy transition. It replaced the polluting R410A, but is now being gradually phased out .
R290 is:
✅ Natural
✅ Sustainable
✅ Quiet
✅ Cheap to use
✅ Legally ready for the future
And at New-Heating we continue this refrigerant revolution in every heat pump we offer.
Regulations and future developments
European F-Gas Regulation
The European Union has tightened the F-gas regulation to reduce emissions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This will gradually phase out refrigerants with a high global warming potential (GWP), such as R32. The use of R32 in new heat pumps will be prohibited from 2027.
Impact on the market
This regulation encourages the transition to natural refrigerants like R290, which has a GWP of only 3. Manufacturers and installers must prepare for this shift by adapting their products and services to the new standards.
Market trends and availability
R290 heat pumps
R290 heat pumps are rapidly gaining popularity due to their environmental friendliness and high efficiency. While the initial cost may be slightly higher, they offer long-term savings through lower energy costs and a reduced environmental impact.
R32 heat pumps
R32 heat pumps are currently still widely available and offer a good balance between performance and cost. However, with upcoming regulations, these systems will gradually disappear from the market.
Installation and maintenance
Installation requirements
R290 heat pumps require specific safety precautions during installation due to the flammability of propane. Installers must ensure adequate ventilation and avoid ignition sources.
Maintenance aspects
Regular maintenance is essential for both R290 and R32 heat pumps to ensure optimal performance and safety. For R290 systems, it's important to perform leak detection and pressure checks, while R32 systems require attention to preventing refrigerant leaks.
Performance comparison
| Feature | R290 | R32 |
|---|---|---|
| GWP | 3 | 675 |
| Flammability | High | Moderate |
| Energy efficiency | Very high | High |
| Future-proofing | Excellent | Limited |
| Installation complexity | High | Average |
This comparison highlights the environmental and energy efficiency benefits of R290, while R32 is currently even easier to install.
Areas of application
R290 heat pumps
Ideal for:
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Homes with high insulation values
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Areas with strict environmental regulations
-
Users who strive for maximum energy efficiency
R32 heat pumps
Suitable for:
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Existing homes with limited adaptation options
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Areas where R290 installation complexity poses a barrier
-
Users looking for a cost-effective, short-term solution
Future prospects
With the increasing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, the demand for R290 heat pumps is expected to continue to grow. Innovations in technology and installation practices will further improve the accessibility and safety of R290 systems.
Conclusion
The choice between R290 and R32 depends on several factors, including environmental requirements, energy efficiency, installation complexity, and future-proofing. R290 heat pumps offer significant advantages in terms of sustainability and performance, while R32 systems can still be a practical choice in certain situations.
Regulations and future developments
European F-Gas Regulation
The European Union has tightened the F-gas regulation to reduce emissions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This will gradually phase out refrigerants with a high global warming potential (GWP), such as R32. The use of R32 in new heat pumps will be prohibited from 2027.
Impact on the market
This regulation encourages the transition to natural refrigerants like R290, which has a GWP of only 3. Manufacturers and installers must prepare for this shift by adapting their products and services to the new standards.
Market trends and availability
R290 heat pumps
R290 heat pumps are rapidly gaining popularity due to their environmental friendliness and high efficiency. While the initial cost may be slightly higher, they offer long-term savings through lower energy costs and a reduced environmental impact.
R32 heat pumps
R32 heat pumps are currently still widely available and offer a good balance between performance and cost. However, with upcoming regulations, these systems will gradually disappear from the market.
Installation and maintenance
Installation requirements
R290 heat pumps require specific safety precautions during installation due to the flammability of propane. Installers must ensure adequate ventilation and avoid ignition sources.
Maintenance aspects
Regular maintenance is essential for both R290 and R32 heat pumps to ensure optimal performance and safety. For R290 systems, it's important to perform leak detection and pressure checks, while R32 systems require attention to preventing refrigerant leaks.
Performance comparison
| Feature | R290 | R32 |
|---|---|---|
| GWP | 3 | 675 |
| Flammability | High | Moderate |
| Energy efficiency | Very high | High |
| Future-proofing | Excellent | Limited |
| Installation complexity | High | Average |
This comparison highlights the environmental and energy efficiency benefits of R290, while R32 is currently even easier to install.
Areas of application
R290 heat pumps
Ideal for:
-
Homes with high insulation values
-
Areas with strict environmental regulations
-
Users who strive for maximum energy efficiency
R32 heat pumps
Suitable for:
-
Existing homes with limited adaptation options
-
Areas where R290 installation complexity poses a barrier
-
Users looking for a cost-effective, short-term solution
Future prospects
With the increasing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, the demand for R290 heat pumps is expected to continue to grow. Innovations in technology and installation practices will further improve the accessibility and safety of R290 systems.
Conclusion
The choice between R290 and R32 depends on several factors, including environmental requirements, energy efficiency, installation complexity, and future-proofing. R290 heat pumps offer significant advantages in terms of sustainability and performance, while R32 systems can still be a practical choice in certain situations.
