The Grant Aerona 290 heat pump range uses R290 refrigerant as an alternative to the more commonly used R32 refrigerant. With its very low Global Warming Potential (GWP), R290 refrigerant offers a range of benefits that make it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly choice for homeowners exploring low carbon heating solutions.
A step forward in heat pump innovation
Like most modern technologies, air source heat pumps are continuously evolving driven by research and innovation. The adoption of R290 refrigerant in heat pumps is a key development, making heat pumps even more environmentally friendly and efficient. In this article, we will take a closer look at:
- What R290 refrigerant is
- Why it is gaining popularity in domestic heat pump systems
- The key benefits of R290 heat pumps
- How they compare to other models, such as those using R32 refrigerant.
If you are researching heat pumps and considering upgrading your current heating system, understanding the role of refrigerants such as R290 can help you make a more eco-conscious decision for your home.
Already decided? Find your local G1 Installer to discuss your options.
What is R290?
R290, which is also known as propane, is a natural refrigerant that is becoming increasingly popular in air source heat pumps. Already widely used in air conditioning and refrigerant systems, R290 is now being used in modern heating systems as a more sustainable alternative to traditional refrigerants.
In a heat pump, R290 functions just like other refrigerants with the refrigerant entering a cycle of liquid and vapour/gaseous states to transfer latent heat energy from the air outside into your home. This energy is used to provide heating and hot water through your central heating system.
Due to its low environmental impact and high efficiency, R290 is helping to make air source heat pumps an even greener choice for home heating.
Discover more about R290 refrigerant.
Three reasons to choose a R290 heat pump
- Environmentally friendly heating
- High efficiency performance
- Quiet operation - low noise levels.
Air source heat pumps are already a low carbon alternative to traditional heating systems. By adopting more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R290, a heat pump becomes even more sustainable. Just as the industry transitioned from R410a to R32 refrigerant a few years ago, the move towards R290 marks the next evolution in this green heating technology.
Let us now explore the advantages of R290 refrigerant and how R290 heat pumps compare to alternatives like R32 models.
Environmentally friendly heating
One of the standout benefits of R290 refrigerant is its exceptionally low Global Warming Potential (GWP). With a GWP of just 3, compared to 675 for R32 refrigerant, R290 has less of an impact on the environment. In addition, it has zero ozone depletion potential, making it a greener choice than other conventional refrigerants.
R290 also boasts excellent thermodynamic properties making it highly effective at absorbing and transferring heat energy. This can consequently results in greater efficiency and performance within the heating system.
Furthermore, the Grant Aerona 290 heat pump requires less refrigerant by volume than a typical R32 heat pump, which also contributes to the overall sustainability of the unit. By using less refrigerant - which is also a more environmentally friendly refrigerant - the Aerona 290 heat pump helps support the UK's journey towards net zero carbon emissions.
In summary, choosing a heat pump with R290 is not only an upgrade in performance but it is a step forward for the planet.
High efficiency heat pumps
R290 refrigerant plays a key role in helping air source heat pumps achieve high efficiency levels. The efficiency of a heat pump is typically measured using two key metrics: the Coefficient of Performance (COP) and Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP).
- COP refers to the ratio of useful heat energy a heat pump produces compared to the electrical energy it consumes.
- SCOP takes into account particular heating seasons (average or cold for example) and refers to the heat pump’s performance in specific seasonal conditions.
The Grant Aerona 290 heat pump achieves an ErP rating of A+++ at 35°C flow temperature, highlighting just how efficient this technology can be. View the technical specifications for the Grant Aerona 290 range.
As with any heat pump, the performance and efficiency of a R290 heat pump will reduce when the outdoor temperatures significantly drop because the heat pump will be working harder to maintain indoor comfort levels. However, the Aerona 290 is designed to operate in temperatures as low as -25°C, making it well suited to the British winters.
When choosing the right heat pump for your home, it is worth comparing the COP and SCOP values of different models. The higher these values are, the greater the efficiency and, in the long term, a highly efficient heat pump could save you money on running costs in comparison to a heat pump with lower efficiencies.
Quiet operation - low noise levels
When installing an air source heat pump, where you position the unit is important not only for performance but also for peace and quiet. Heat pumps do produce some sound when operating, primarily from their fans, and while the noise levels are low, it is important to consider the proximity to living spaces and any neighbouring properties. Choosing a model with low noise output could make a big difference to everyday comfort.
The Grant Aerona 290 has been designed to deliver ultra-quiet performance, making it a great choice for homes in suburban and rural settings alike. Some of their key noise-reducing features include:
- An acoustically optimised fan
- Vibration reducing blocks situated within the heat pump’s casing
- A triple layer acoustic cotton sound insulation metal shell
- Double layer vibration-absorbing rubber feet, designed to fit into an anti-vibration flexi-foot kit.
Together, these components significantly reduce the operational noise, resulting in the ultra-low sound levels of these R290 heat pumps.
If noise is a key consideration, look out for Quiet Mark accreditation, a certification awarded to products with independently verified low sound levels.
R290 heat pump installation
R290 air source heat pumps are suitable for a wide variety of homes across the UK, from modern new builds to period properties, conversions and retrofit installations. However, as with any heat pump system, a R290 heat pump works most efficiently in well insulated homes. If you are unsure whether your property is suitable, it is a good idea to review our guidance on insulation and heat pumps.
Whether you are considering a R290 model or a heat pump that uses R32 refrigerant, the planning stage is essential. You will need to work closely with your heat pump installer to assess your home's specific needs, which will include discussing:
- Your temperature preferences
- Your hot water requirements
- The heat loss of your property
- The most suitable and compliant location for the heat pump unit.
Installing a R290 heat pump involves additional safety clearances and installation guidelines which must be followed so it is crucial that you use a qualified professional who will ensure the system is installed correctly and in line with current regulations.
Ready to get started? Take a look at our guide to planning a heat pump installation or use our installer search to find a heat pump installer near you.
Smart heating made easy - compatible with Smart Controllers
The Grant Aerona 290 is not only sustainable with its use of the more environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant, but it also embraces smart technology to make managing your home heating easier than ever. Each unit is designed to work with the Aerona Smart Controller, a modern solution that gives you complete control of your heat pump both at home and on the go. Using a dedicated mobile app, you can control your heat pump remotely, adjusting temperatures and setting schedules all from your smartphone.
Meanwhile, for installers, this heat pump controller offers remote monitoring functionality via a secure web-browser, allowing for diagnostics, servicing and maintenance support off-site and giving you greater peace of mind.
Interested to find out more? Learn more about the Aerona Smart Controller.
Available heat pump grants
To help homeowners make the switch to renewable heating, Government funding is available. Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), homeowners in England and Wales can receive a grant of up to £7,500 when replacing an existing fossil fuel boiler with a low carbon air source heat pump.
Both of Grant’s heat pump ranges - the Aerona³ R32 and Aerona 290 - are MCS certified which makes them eligible for BUS funding. If you are planning to upgrade your heating system, this grant can significantly reduce the upfront costs and help you take the step towards a more energy efficient, sustainable home.
Learn more about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and other Government funding available.
R290 vs R32 heat pumps - what's the difference?
Heat pumps using R32 refrigerant, such as the Grant Aerona³ R32 range, are widely available across the UK. One of their biggest advantages is their compact design, making them ideal for homes where outdoor space is limited. R32 heat pumps are also highly efficient, especially when compared to older models that used refrigerants such as R410a. For example, the Aerona³ R32 units have high SCOP values even in lower external temperatures, maintaining strong performance even in colder weather conditions.
On the other hand, R290 heat pumps, like the Grant Aerona 290 range, are part of the next generation of sustainable heating. These units are generally larger and require larger clearances due to the additional safety requirements for installation and siting R290 heat pumps. As a result, they do take up more space.
However, the environmental credentials of R290 make R290 heat pumps more sustainable. With an incredibly low GWP of 3 (compared to 675 for R32), R290 is significantly more eco-friendly. And with its excellent thermodynamic properties, R290 can also offer improved efficiency in some systems. Consequently, a R290 heat pump is a compelling choice for those seeking maximum sustainability.
While R290 heat pumps are a newer technology in the domestic heating market, their availability is growing. Whether you choose R32 or R290, heat pumps using either of these refrigerants deliver highly efficient, low carbon heating - the best choice for you will come down to your property's requirements and installation conditions.
Find out more about the Aerona³ R32 heat pump range.
Explore the Aerona 290 heat pump range.
What are the disadvantages of R290 heat pumps?
R290 heat pumps offer exceptional efficiency and lower environmental impact but there are a couple of important considerations to factor in - the flammability of R290 and the heat pump's larger size.
Flammability
- R290 is more flammable than other refrigerants
- Specific safety measures must be adhered to during installation
- Installation should be done by trained professionals who are confident in correctly working with R290 refrigerant
- The Aerona 290 has been designed with advanced safety features.
Larger unit size
- Due to built-in safety design features, R290 heat pump units are usually larger than R32 alternatives
- They require more outdoor space and greater clearances around the unit
- May be less suitable for properties with limited garden or outside space.
Grant UK, R290 heat pump supply
The launch of the Aerona 290 air source heat pump in 2024 marked an exciting milestone for Grant UK. As the Company’s fifth generation heat pump, the Aerona 290 showcases the latest innovation in low carbon heating technology, using the more environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant.
Recognised as a trusted brand in the heating industry, Grant UK continues to lead the way in providing customers with efficient, reliable and forward-thinking heating solutions with the Aerona 290 further strengthening Grant's reputation as the preferred choice for heating engineers and homeowners alike.
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This blog was originally published on 30th July 2024 and updated on 15th May 2025.