Heat pumps have become one of the most preferred solutions for heating and cooling homes across Europe. They are energy-efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly. When choosing a heat pump, one of the most important questions is: Which refrigerant is better – R32 or R290?

In this article, we take a detailed look at their characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, environmental impact, maintenance costs, and future regulations. This will help you make an informed, long-term decision for your home.

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What Are R32 and R290?

R32 (Difluoromethane)

R32 is a fluorinated HFC refrigerant. For years, it has been a preferred solution for air conditioners and air-to-water heat pumps. It is the successor to R410A and offers lower global warming potential (GWP), improved efficiency, and a better energy balance.

Key characteristics:

• Flammability class A2L (mildly flammable)
• GWP around 675
• Suitable for low and medium operating temperatures
• Widely available and well-known among technicians

R290 (Propane)

R290 is a natural refrigerant – pure propane – known for its extremely low environmental impact. Thanks to strict safety standards and technological advancements, R290 has become one of the most preferred refrigerants in Europe and is expected to become the dominant standard in the coming years.

Key characteristics:

• Flammability class A3 (highly flammable)
• GWP around 3 – essentially negligible
• Very high energy efficiency
• Excellent performance in low outdoor temperatures

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Environmental Impact: R32 vs. R290

When thinking about long-term sustainability, ecology is a major factor.

R32 – better than R410A but still fluorinated

With a GWP of 675, R32 is far more eco-friendly than older HFCs, but it is still subject to European regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

R290 – almost zero environmental footprint

With a GWP of just 3, propane is one of the most ecological refrigerants available. It does not significantly contribute to global warming and fully complies with future EU requirements.

Environmental winner: R290

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Energy Efficiency and Cold-Climate Performance

R290 heat pumps show significantly better performance in colder climates. This is especially important for regions where winter temperatures often fall below freezing.

R32: Good but limited efficiency

• COP and SCOP values are solid but not exceptional.
• Efficiency decreases at low outdoor temperatures.
• Difficult to achieve high water outlet temperatures.

R290: Outstanding efficiency in all conditions

• Excellent COP and SCOP values.
• Works efficiently even at outdoor temperatures of -20°C.
• Heats water up to 70–80°C without electric backup heaters.

This makes R290 ideal for older homes with high-temperature radiator systems.

Efficiency winner: R290

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Maximum Water Temperature

One of the biggest differences between the two refrigerants is the achievable water temperature:

• R32: 55–60°C
• R290: 75–80°C

For homes with underfloor heating or new low-temperature systems, R32 is sufficient.
For radiator-based systems, R290 is the much better option.

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Safety and Flammability

This is one of the most frequently discussed topics.

R32 – low flammability (A2L)

It is considered relatively safe. The gas disperses quickly in case of a leak.

R290 – high flammability (A3)

While it sounds risky, the real-world situation is different:

• the amount of propane in a heat pump is very small
• refrigerant circuits are fully sealed
• manufacturers use protected chambers and spark-free components
• EN378 safety standards ensure system reliability

Statistically, the risk is extremely low when the system is produced and installed properly.

Safety advantage: R32 (in theory), but R290 is safe when engineered correctly

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Price, Maintenance, and Availability

R32

• Lower purchase cost
• Widely available across the market
• Spare parts and service technicians are abundant

R290

• Typically higher upfront cost
• Availability increasing each year
• Requires technicians trained in handling natural refrigerants

However, price differences are gradually shrinking.

Cost winner: R32

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Future Regulations: Will R32 Be Restricted?

The EU has already adopted new F-Gas regulations, under which most fluorinated refrigerants – including R32 – will be heavily restricted or phased out by 2030.

This shows a clear trend: R290 is the long-term future of the heat pump industry.

Conclusion: Which Refrigerant Should You Choose?

Choose R290 if you want:

✔ Maximum energy efficiency
✔ Excellent winter performance
✔ High water temperatures for radiator systems
✔ The most eco-friendly solution
✔ A system that will remain compliant for many years

Choose R32 if you want:

✔ Lower purchase price
✔ A simpler, well-known system
✔ Lower flammability
✔ A solution for low-temperature heating (e.g., underfloor systems)