R290 (Propane) Refrigerant UK: Charge Limits, Safety and Applications

R290 is purified propane used as a refrigerant. With a GWP of just 3, it sits entirely outside the F-Gas HFC quota system, so it will never face supply or price constraints from the phase-down. It is highly energy efficient but classified A3 (higher flammability), which means strict charge limits and installation rules. This guide explains where R290 fits for UK engineers in 2026.

Why R290 matters in 2026

As the F-Gas phase-down tightens HFC quota year on year, manufacturers are turning to refrigerants that fall outside the quota entirely. R290 is the standout for small to medium charge applications – heat pumps, plug-in commercial refrigeration, and monobloc systems – because its thermodynamic performance is excellent and its environmental impact is negligible.

R290 key properties

Property	Value
Refrigerant	Purified propane (C3H8)
GWP	3
ODP	0
Safety class	A3 (higher flammability)
F-Gas quota	Outside quota (not an HFC)
Efficiency	Very high – often improves COP

Charge limits and safety

Because R290 is an A3 refrigerant, charge size is the critical safety consideration. Permissible charge depends on room size, equipment location and the relevant product standard. Key points for UK engineers:

• Self-contained appliances have historically been limited to small charges, with standards evolving to allow larger charges under defined safety conditions.
• Installations must follow BS EN 378 and the equipment manufacturer’s instructions for minimum room area and ventilation.
• Only engineers trained in flammable refrigerant handling should install or service R290 systems, using spark-free tools and proper leak detection.
• Ignition-source control during brazing and service is essential.

R290 sits at the more flammable end of the scale compared with the A2L gases we cover in our R454B guide and R32 guide, so the safety bar is higher.

Where R290 is used

• Heat pumps: monobloc air-source units increasingly use R290 for high flow temperatures and low GWP.
• Commercial plug-in refrigeration: bottle coolers, display cabinets, ice machines.
• Small chillers and process cooling where charge can be managed safely.

R290 vs HFC and A2L options

Refrigerant	GWP	Safety	Quota
R290	3	A3	Outside
R32	675	A2L	Inside
R454B	466	A2L	Inside
R410A	2,088	A1	Inside

Buying refrigerant in the UK

Refrigerant Gas Supplies Ltd supplies F-Gas compliant refrigerant to certified UK engineers across the HFC range – browse R32, R410A and the full refrigerant gas range. For F-Gas certification routes, see our certification guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is R290 refrigerant?

R290 is purified propane used as a refrigerant. It has a GWP of 3, zero ozone depletion potential, and high energy efficiency, making it a leading low-GWP option for heat pumps and plug-in refrigeration.

Is R290 covered by the F-Gas quota?

No. R290 is a hydrocarbon, not a fluorinated gas, so it sits outside the HFC phase-down quota and is not subject to the same supply constraints.

Is R290 dangerous?

R290 is classified A3 – higher flammability. It is safe when installed and serviced correctly within charge limits, using trained engineers, spark-free tools and proper ventilation under BS EN 378.

What is the GWP of R290?

R290 has a GWP of just 3, one of the lowest of any refrigerant in commercial use.