If you’re planning to purchase a heat pump, it’s important to pay close attention to which refrigerant the system uses. A major change is coming: the use of R-32 as a refrigerant in heat pumps will be banned in The Netherlands. Over the next few years, European regulations will increasingly restrict the use of R-32. But what does this mean for installers and end users? And why is propane (R290) already the smartest and most future-proof choice of refrigerant?
Stricter regulations for refrigerants
To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the European Union has tightened the F-gas regulation. This legislation limits the use of refrigerants with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The popular refrigerant R-32 has a GWP of 675. While this is much lower than its predecessor, R410A (GWP 2088), it is still above the future regulatory limits. From January 1, 2027, new heat pumps up to 50 kW may no longer contain R-32 refrigerant. This ban applies to all refrigerants with a GWP above 150. For larger systems (above 50 kW), the rules are expected to apply from 2029, although the exact timeline is still unclear.
What is GWP?
GWP stands for Global Warming Potential. It compares a substance’s contribution to the greenhouse effect with that of carbon dioxide. CO₂ has a GWP of 1 and is considered neutral. GWP measures the impact of a refrigerant on global warming. In the past, R410A was already banned in new heat pumps, as it had a GWP of 2088. Starting in 2027, this restriction will also apply to R-32 in smaller heat pumps.
What does this mean for existing installations?
If you currently have a heat pump using R-32, it is fully permitted and can continue to be used until it needs to be replaced. There is no ban or recall in effect. However, when replacing or expanding your system, it is advisable to consider low-GWP alternatives, such as propane (R290).
Propane (R290) is a natural alternative to R-32
Propane is a natural refrigerant with an extremely low GWP of 3, making it over 200 times more environmentally friendly than R-32. That’s why heat pumps using propane (R290) as a refrigerant are considered the future of sustainable heating.
The benefits of propane (R290) as a refrigerant are:
- Low GWP of 3, making it completely future-proof.
- High energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy costs.
- Propane is suitable for high supply temperatures (up to 70°C).
- No F-gas certificate required for installation (R290 safety training is required due to flammability).
Many manufacturers are switching to propane as the ideal refrigerant for heat pumps. New heat pumps using R290 are already widely available for both the residential and commercial markets, including high-capacity systems.
Safety and Certification
Because propane is lightly flammable, special safety regulations apply.
- Technicians must complete an R290 training to work safely with flammable refrigerants.
- Installations must be installed with adequate ventilation and correct clearance distances.
- Companies must comply with the BRL 100/200 guidelines.
Do you want to know more about the ban on R-32 refrigerant?
R32 has helped the heat pump sector transition to cleaner technology, but the future lies in natural refrigerants such as propane (R290). These not only provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative, but they also comply with future regulations and deliver excellent performance. Eco Heating Systems offers heat pumps using propane as a refrigerant, available in various capacities and models. Visit our website for more information, or contact us — we’re happy to tell you more about our propane heat pumps. You can also see a propane heat pump in action at our factory. We look forward to welcoming you.
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