TB57 R290 In Air Conditioning And Heat Pump Equipment

R290 is expected to play an increasingly important role in air conditioning and heat pump equipment as restrictions on higher GWP refrigerants tighten. This technical bulletin explains why uptake of R290 is likely to increase, particularly in response to EU phase down measures for split systems and wider market changes affecting the UK.

While R290 offers clear benefits, including very low Global Warming Potential and strong heat transfer performance, it is also classified as an A3 refrigerant with high flammability. This bulletin provides an overview of the key properties of R290 and highlights the additional health and safety considerations that apply during installation, maintenance, and retrofitting.

It includes guidance on working safely with flammable refrigerants, the importance of ventilation, leak detection, purging procedures, and the need for suitable risk assessment before carrying out work. The bulletin also outlines charge limitations under EN 378 and highlights important installation and spacing considerations for enclosed spaces, domestic applications, and retrofit scenarios.

Key Features:

• Explains why R290 use is expected to increase in air conditioning and heat pump systems
• Summarises the key properties and performance characteristics of R290
• Highlights the health and safety implications of working with an A3 flammable refrigerant
• Includes guidance on charge limitations under EN 378
• Covers key installation and retrofit considerations for safer application

Published Date: 14/04/2026
Number Of Pages: 4
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