In shortR600a (isobutane) is the natural refrigerant used in almost all domestic refrigerators and freezers today. Charges are very small, usually a few tens of grams.
R600a properties
| Code | R600a |
|---|---|
| Chemical name / composition | Isobutane (C₄H₁₀) |
| 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) | −11.7 °C |
| Temperature glide | None (pure fluid) |
| Charge equal to 5 t CO₂e | — |
| Status | In common use |
Where is R600a used?
- Domestic refrigerators and freezers
- Small commercial coolers
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.
R600a 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 R600a
Compare all refrigerants in our refrigerant guide.
Other refrigerants
R12R502R22R123R134aR404AR407CR407FR410AR417AR422DR507AR32R448AR449AR452AR454BR454CR513AR1234yfR1234zeR1233zdR514AR290R1270R744R717
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Frequently asked questions
What is the GWP of R600a?
The 100-year global warming potential (AR4) of R600a is about 3.
Is R600a flammable?
A3: lower toxicity, highly flammable.
What can replace R600a?
Depending on the application: R290, R134a. Conversions require manufacturer approval and oil and component checks.