A detailed look at why R290 refrigerant is the optimal choice for heat pumps in radiator heating systems, focusing on efficiency, environmental impact, and long-term savings.
Refrigerants are chemical compounds with very low boiling points, used to transfer heat from a lower to a higher temperature (or vice versa). Strict regulations govern their use to minimize environmental harm, so newer refrigerants are designed to be both more efficient and less damaging to the environment. Their impact is measured by GWP (Global Warming Potential) and ODP (Ozone Depleting Potential).
Current popular refrigerants and their values: R410a (ODP:0, GWP:2090), R32 (ODP:0, GWP:675), R290 (ODP:0, GWP:3). R290 is by far the least harmful to the environment, and older refrigerants are being phased out. R290 is not only the most eco-friendly, but also the most efficient.
While R32-based heat pumps can produce water up to 55°C, R290-based heat pumps can reach up to 75°C, making them suitable for radiator heating as well as underfloor or wall heating. R290 heat pumps are also more efficient at producing lower temperature water (50-60°C), which is often needed for radiators. R32 and R410a heat pumps max out at 55°C, and at that temperature, R32 achieves a COP (Coefficient of Performance) of 3-3.4, while R290 achieves a COP of 4. Running R32 or R410a units at maximum temperature constantly is not ideal for their longevity.
R290 heat pumps maintain higher efficiency even at lower water temperatures, with a COP close to 5 at 35°C, compared to 4.2-4.5 for R32 or R410a. This means R290 is also more economical for underfloor heating. Although R290 heat pumps are slightly more expensive due to stricter safety requirements, the extra cost is quickly offset by their higher efficiency and lower operating costs, as well as their much lower environmental impact.
If you have radiator heating and are considering upgrading to a heat pump, R290 is the most modern and future-proof choice.
Source: feghoszivattyu.hu - https://feghoszivattyu.hu/radiatorfutesre-miert-az-r290-es-hoszivattyu-a-legjobb-valasztas/