High-temperature heat pump with R290 refrigerant – what we know about

What do we know about the future of the heat pump industry? With the growing global focus on climate change and environmental sustainability, a regulation has been adopted stipulating that, for the 2027–2032 period, new heat pumps—widely used for residential heating and cooling—must utilize refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than 150. The only refrigerant currently available and suitable for this application is R290 (propane)—a gas we have known and used for years in heating, lighting, household appliances, and other areas. Even the currently widely used refrigerant R32 is not exempt from scrutiny, given that its GWP is 675, whereas another common refrigerant, R410, has a GWP of 2088. It is easy to see why R290 represents the future of heat pump manufacturing. R-290—a naturally occurring refrigerant—belongs to the hydrocarbon (HC) group and is characterized by zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and an ultra-low global warming potential (GWP). R-290 is emerging as a preferred refrigerant for commercial and domestic refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pumps, and even certain industrial systems. Despite its high flammability, advances in safety design and regulations are enabling wider adoption. With proper risk management, R-290 can serve as a key solution for sustainable cooling. R-290 contains neither chlorine nor bromine—the primary culprits behind ozone layer depletion. How does an R290 heat pump work? - The systems utilize inverter compressors that adjust their output based on the current load, ensuring optimal performance under various conditions. - They can achieve water temperatures of up to 80°C, allowing for integration into both new and existing heating systems. - They can provide a heating capacity of up to 70 kW within a single circuit. - They operate reliably at ambient air temperatures as low as -20°C. - Currently, this refrigerant is suitable only for monoblock-type heat pumps. Are heat pumps suitable for existing buildings? Yes, certainly. Heat pumps can heat water to temperatures of up to 80°C and successfully replace pellet, diesel, gas, or solid-fuel boilers; the existing system can be retained, requiring only modifications to the connection point between the heat pump and the existing installation. Which manufacturers offer R290 heat pumps? Leading global brands are already actively transitioning to R290: • Daikin — the Altherma series now offers R290 models for residential applications • LG — in the Therma V models • Mitsubishi Electric — the Ecodan series with R290 targets the European market • Bosch / Buderus — R290 heat pumps for heating and domestic hot water • Vaillant — the aroTHERM plus series with R290 is among the top products in Europe • Samsung — the EHS series with R290 for lower heating costs • Midea Mars — high-temperature pumps with capacities up to 70 kW • Sunsystems — a Bulgarian manufacturer of reliable and highly efficient heat pumps • Viessmann — R290 refrigerant used in the Vitokal models • Hyundai — NEW Monobloc model with outputs up to 16 kW For whom is an R290 heat pump suitable? An R290 heat pump is an excellent choice for: • New construction or major renovations of existing buildings • Situations where you want a heating system that will operate for decades without regulatory issues • Seeking maximum energy efficiency, low electricity consumption, and lower bills • Demonstrating a responsible attitude towards climate change and our children's future If you require further information or are considering installing a heat pump for your home, office, workspace, or production facility, the team at Hlad Ltd is at your disposal. Tell us about your project and your heating and cooling needs, and we will provide a free consultation, expert advice, and professional service. • Taking advantage of subsidies—R290 systems meet the requirements for EU funding.