In shortR290 (propane) is a natural refrigerant with very low GWP and high efficiency, spreading fast in new monobloc heat pumps, commercial cabinets and some air conditioners. It is highly flammable (A3), so charge sizes are limited.
R290 properties
| Code | R290 |
|---|---|
| Chemical name / composition | Propane (C₃H₈) |
| Family | Hydrocarbon (natural) |
| GWP (AR4, 100 years) | 3 |
| ODP | 0 |
| Safety class (ISO 817 / ASHRAE 34) | A3: lower toxicity, highly flammable |
| Boiling point (1 atm) | −42.1 °C |
| Temperature glide | None (pure fluid) |
| Charge equal to 5 t CO₂e | — |
| Status | Next generation |
Where is R290 used?
- Air-to-water monobloc heat pumps
- Plug-in commercial coolers and freezers
- Portable and some split air conditioners
- Small chillers
Service and safety notes
- Highly flammable (A3). Charge sizes are limited by standards; service only by technicians trained for hydrocarbons, with spark-free tools and good ventilation.
- Never charge a system with a refrigerant other than the one on its nameplate; retrofits need manufacturer approval and oil and component checks.
- Charging, recovery and leak checks must be done and recorded by F-gas certified technicians.
R290 and regulations
As a natural refrigerant it is outside F-gas quotas and restrictions. Safety rules for flammability, toxicity and pressure (EN 378 and related standards) still apply to system design, room size and charge.
Alternatives to R290
- R600a: Hydrocarbon (natural), GWP 3, A3
- R1270: Hydrocarbon (natural), GWP 2, A3
- R32: HFC, GWP 675, A2L
Compare all refrigerants in our refrigerant guide.
Other refrigerants
R12R502R22R123R134aR404AR407CR407FR410AR417AR422DR507AR32R448AR449AR452AR454BR454CR513AR1234yfR1234zeR1233zdR514AR600aR1270R744R717
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Frequently asked questions
What is the GWP of R290?
The 100-year global warming potential (AR4) of R290 is about 3.
Is R290 flammable?
A3: lower toxicity, highly flammable.
What can replace R290?
Depending on the application: R600a, R1270, R32. Conversions require manufacturer approval and oil and component checks.