R290 refrigerant is propane, a natural hydrocarbon that many manufacturers now use in commercial fridges, freezers and display cabinets. This guide explains what it is, how it compares with older refrigerants such as R134a and R404A, and what to check when you buy.
What is R290 refrigerant?
R290 is a hydrocarbon refrigerant. It has a very low global warming potential compared with many synthetic refrigerants, which is one reason makers have adopted it. It is also widely available and has well-understood properties as a hydrocarbon refrigerant.
R290 compared with R134a and R404A
Older equipment commonly uses synthetic refrigerants such as R134a and R404A. These are hydrofluorocarbons, which have higher global warming potential than natural refrigerants, and Australia has been phasing down the import of hydrofluorocarbons over time. That is one reason more equipment is now designed for natural refrigerants. If you own older equipment, ask a qualified technician about servicing options and refrigerant supply.
Safety and servicing
Propane is flammable. Equipment designed for R290 uses small, limited refrigerant charges and components made for the purpose. Do not try to service the sealed system yourself. Repairs and gas handling should be done by a qualified refrigeration technician, who will follow the required safety rules.
Commercial refrigeration energy: does R290 save power?
Refrigerant is only one part of efficiency. Compressor, insulation, door seals, evaporator and fan design all matter. Compare the energy information and the specifications of each product rather than assuming one refrigerant saves power. In Australia, energy efficiency requirements for some commercial refrigerated cabinets are set under the GEMS scheme, and manufacturers publish the details for their models.
Natural refrigerant and the environment
A natural refrigerant such as propane has a low global warming potential, which reduces the impact of any leak. That is a benefit for businesses that want lower-impact equipment, although the right choice also depends on safety, cost and the equipment you need.
How to check the refrigerant on a product
Look in the specification on the product page. Many listings state the refrigerant, for example R290 or R134a. The data plate on the unit also shows it. If a listing does not show it, ask us before you order. Our bar fridges and bar freezers pages list models by size and door type, and you can compare them with the compare tool.
Why makers are moving to natural refrigerants
Global rules aim to reduce the use of refrigerants with a high global warming potential. Manufacturers have responded by designing equipment for natural refrigerants such as propane. For a buyer this means more models are available with R290, and older models using R134a or R404A are gradually being replaced. Both types of equipment still work, but the choice may affect the cost and availability of servicing in future.
Questions to ask when buying
- Which refrigerant does this model use?
- Who can service it in my area?
- What is the climate class?
- What energy information does the maker publish?
- What does the warranty cover?
Ask us if the listing does not answer these, and read our guide to bar fridge ventilation before you place a unit in joinery.
R290 refrigerant and the environment
A low global warming potential is the main environmental benefit of R290 refrigerant. If a leak occurs, the impact on the climate is much smaller than with many synthetic refrigerants. The trade-off is flammability, which is why R290 refrigerant is used only in small, tightly controlled charges and why servicing needs a qualified technician.
What this means for a bar or cafe
If you are buying a new bar fridge or freezer, you are likely to see more models using R290 refrigerant, especially in compact under bar and display units. That is a good reason to check the refrigerant on each product page. If you already own equipment with an older refrigerant, keep it serviced and ask your technician about options when it reaches the end of its life.
Looking after R290 equipment
Keep the vents clear, clean the condenser regularly and do not store flammable items near the unit. Never pierce or modify the sealed system. If you smell gas or notice a leak, switch the unit off at the wall, ventilate the area and call a qualified technician. Following these steps keeps the unit safe and helps it last.
Recycling and disposal
When old equipment reaches the end of its life, refrigerant must be recovered by a licensed technician rather than vented. Ask your supplier or technician about removal and disposal when you replace a unit, and keep the paperwork for your records.
Choosing equipment
When you compare units, look at the refrigerant, climate class, energy information, warranty and service options together. For help choosing between commercial and domestic equipment, see our commercial bar fridge guide, and for a quote on several units use the quote form.
Frequently asked questions
What is R290?
R290 is propane, a hydrocarbon refrigerant used in many modern commercial fridges and freezers, including bar fridges and display cabinets.
Is R290 flammable?
Yes, propane is flammable. Equipment using it is designed with that in mind, and charge limits and handling rules apply. Servicing should always be done by a qualified refrigeration technician.
Does R290 save energy?
Efficiency depends on the whole design of the unit, not just the refrigerant. Compare the energy information and specifications on each product before you buy.
How do I find the refrigerant in a product?
Check the specification on the product page, or read the data plate on the unit, which states the refrigerant used.