The global HVAC industry is entering a transition era. With the phase-out of high-GWP refrigerants like R410A under F-gas regulations, new-generation alternatives are reshaping how heat pumps are designed, installed, and regulated. Among these, R32 refrigerant and R290 refrigerant have emerged as two of the most promising candidates.
Both offer improved efficiency and lower environmental impact—but they differ significantly in performance, flammability, long-term compliance, and market readiness.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences-between-R290-and-R32 heat pumps through four key lenses:
What is R32 refrigerant
What is R290 refrigerant
How do R32 and R290 heat pumps compare across performance, safety, cost, and efficiency
How to choose between them based on your project’s climate, policy, and long-term strategy
Understanding the differences-between-R290-and-R32 is critical for OEMs, HVAC contractors, and sustainability-focused property owners.
R32 and R290 heat pumps both offer high seasonal efficiency. R32 systems reach SCOP values of 4.47–4.58 (A+++) at 35°C and 3.22–3.32 (A++) at 55°C. R290 heat pumps often exceed 4.8 in SCOP, making them ideal for energy-conscious projects in colder climates.
R32 systems can achieve up to 60–65°C. R290 refrigerant systems go further—up to 75–80°C—making them more suitable for retrofits in buildings with older radiators or higher domestic hot water demands.
The differences-between-R290-and-R32 are most evident in environmental terms. R32 has a GWP of 675, while R290's GWP is just 3—fully aligned with long-term decarbonization policies.
If you're searching for the closest synthetic substitute to R290, R32 is currently the most viable option in terms of thermodynamic behavior and system design—but it still lags behind in global policy favorability.
R32 refrigerant is A2L (mildly flammable), while R290 refrigerant is A3 (highly flammable). This distinction impacts design protocols, required ventilation, and safety control systems.
R32 operates at 12–26 bar; R290 refrigerant works at 6–12 bar. Lower operating pressure can reduce mechanical wear and simplify the design of certain system components.
Thanks to better thermodynamic properties and higher latent heat values, R290 heat pumps tend to consume less electricity seasonally, especially when operating in low-temperature outdoor conditions.
R32 refrigerant heat pumps perform reliably in temperate zones and moderate heating loads. In contrast, R290 refrigerant systems offer enhanced efficiency in cold or variable climates where heating demand is high.
The differences-between-R290-and-R32 also affect compliance. R32 will remain valid in many countries through the 2020s but may face more phase-out pressure post-2030, especially in the EU. R290 refrigerant is already considered future-proof by most international policies.
R32 refrigerant systems are more flexible for confined indoor or urban spaces due to lower flammability. In contrast, R290 refrigerant systems are best suited for new construction or outdoor applications with sufficient ventilation.
It’s also essential to understand that R290 and R32 are not interchangeable. Due to differences in pressure, molecular structure, and safety requirements, switching from one to the other would require a complete system redesign—reinforcing the need to choose the right refrigerant from the outset.
Developers and manufacturers looking for short-term ROI and market access may prefer R32 refrigerant due to ease of availability and established infrastructure. However, businesses aligned with long-term sustainability goals, public funding projects, or green building certifications (LEED, BREEAM) will likely benefit more from investing in R290 refrigerant systems.
For cost-sensitive, quick-turnaround projects in moderate climates, R32 refrigerant remains a smart transitional option. For forward-looking developments that require policy alignment, superior efficiency, and sustainability credentials, R290 refrigerant is clearly the more strategic choice.
| Feature | R32 Heat Pump | R290 Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant Type | Synthetic HFC (difluoromethane) | Natural hydrocarbon (propane) |
| GWP | 675 | 3 |
| Flammability Class | A2L – mildly flammable | A3 – highly flammable |
| Typical Outlet Temp. | Up to 65°C | Up to 80°C |
| SCOP (low temp) | 4.47–4.58 (A+++) | Often >4.8 (A+++) |
| Climate Suitability | Moderate climates | Cold to moderate climates |
| Installation Complexity | Low to moderate | High (strict safety design) |
| Regulatory Outlook | Transitional (may be phased down) | Future-proof (EU compliant) |
| Best for Projects | Retrofitting, small urban installs | New builds, green buildings, EU-funded homes |
The differences-between-R290-and-R32 are more than chemical—they represent a shift in environmental priorities and HVAC innovation. Choosing between R32 refrigerant and R290 refrigerant is not just about performance but about regulatory survival and brand sustainability.
Understanding the real-world differences-between-R290-and-R32 will position your product, building, or business for what’s next.
Looking to future-proof your heating and cooling projects? At SolarEast, we offer a full portfolio of R32 and R290 heat pumps designed to meet the latest energy efficiency and regulatory standards.
Whether you're retrofitting a residential building or launching a green construction project, our expert team can help you choose the right solution.
Explore our R32 and R290 Heat Pumps
Contact us today to get a quote or technical consultation.
