R290 vs R32: Why Europe's Heat Pump Industry Is Making the Switch And How Tongyi Heat Pump Is Leading the R290 Charge

Why R32 Is Being Phased Out – And What Comes Next

The EU's revised F-Gas Regulation (EU 2024/573) sets clear deadlines for the phase-out of fluorinated gases:

• 2027: Heat pumps under 12kW must use refrigerants with a GWP below 150

• 2029: The same rule applies to systems over 50kW

• 2035: R32 and all other HFC refrigerants will be completely banned

With a GWP of 675, R32 falls far short of these thresholds. R290, by contrast, has a GWP of just 3—well within the limit, with plenty of margin. The industry consensus is clear: R32 is a bridge, and R290 is the destination.

Performance Comparison: R290 Leads on Every Front

The differences between the two refrigerants are stark. R32's GWP of 675 makes it increasingly untenable from a regulatory standpoint, while R290's GWP of 3 places it in a completely different category environmentally.

The one challenge for R290 is its A3 flammability rating, which is higher than R32's A2L classification. However, this is no longer a dealbreaker. Modern engineering solutions—including explosion-proof designs, leak detection systems, factory-sealed circuits, and certified installer training—have made R290 safe for both residential and commercial applications. The updated EN IEC 60335-2-40:2024 standard now permits higher R290 charge volumes when proper safeguards are in place.

Tongyi Heat Pump: A Full R290 Portfolio, Ready Now

Tongyi has spent years preparing for this regulatory shift and now offers a complete R290 product line that competes directly with established European brands.

The R290 PV Storage Heat Pump achieves a COP of 5.0, delivers 75°C water temperatures, and operates reliably at -35°C—performance that earned it the 2025 China Heating Expo Innovation Award. The R290 RH Series, developed in partnership with Huawei FusionSolar, also delivers a system-level COP of 5.0 and has been field-validated in Helsinki, Finland. For commercial applications, the R290 Cascade System supports up to 8 units in parallel, delivering a total capacity of 160kW.

What Sets Tongyi Apart

Three factors distinguish Tongyi in this market. First, its Nordic-proven performance: a full-year field test in Helsinki confirmed a system-level COP of 5.0 under real winter conditions. Second, its place in the premium energy ecosystem: Tongyi is one of only three brands integrated with Huawei FusionSolar—alongside Bosch and Vaillant—and the only Chinese brand at this level. Third, its commitment to European co-development: the PV Storage Heat Pump 3.0 was developed in partnership with European allies. With products spanning residential systems up to 160kW commercial installations, Tongyi offers one of the most complete R290 portfolios available.

The Business Case for R290

For buyers and system planners, choosing R290 makes strong business sense. Regulatory certainty means R290 systems will remain compliant through 2035 and beyond. The environmental advantage—GWP 3 versus 675—is a clear differentiator in markets where sustainability matters. Performance-wise, R290 units typically deliver higher water temperatures (75°C) and lower operating temperatures (-35°C) than most R32 alternatives, making them particularly suitable for radiator retrofit projects. Most importantly, R290 is a one-time investment with decades of compliance ahead, whereas R32 systems face growing regulatory risk and likely replacement within three to five years.

The Competitive Landscape

In the European R290 space, Tongyi competes with LG Electronics (whose Therma V R290 Monobloc delivers 75°C water at -28°C), Bosch and Vaillant (fellow Huawei FusionSolar partners), and major Chinese exporters including Gree, Midea, and Haier. Tongyi's edge lies in its Huawei ecosystem integration, proven Nordic performance, and a product range that spans from residential to 160kW commercial applications.

What This Means for Buyers

If you're looking for long-term regulatory certainty, top-tier efficiency (A+++), high-temperature output for radiator retrofits, and smarter energy integration, R290 is the clear choice. R32 may still appeal to buyers focused purely on upfront cost, but that comes with accepting regulatory risk and the likelihood of replacement by 2029–2035.

Key Dates to Watch

• 2027: Sub-150 GWP requirement takes effect for heat pumps under 12kW

• 2029: Sub-150 GWP requirement extends to systems over 50kW

• 2035: R32 and all HFC refrigerants are banned entirely

Sources: EU F-Gas Regulation (EU 2024/573); EN IEC 60335-2-40:2024; Tongyi Heat Pump product documentation (2024–2026); Tongyi R290 PV Storage Heat Pump – 2025 China Heating Expo Innovation Award; Tongyi R290 RH Series – Helsinki field validation with Huawei FusionSolar (COP 5.0); Tongyi R290 Cascade System – 160kW commercial capacity; LG Therma V R290 Monobloc specifications.

The Bottom Line

R290 is Europe's heat pump future. R32 is a stopgap. Tongyi has already made the transition—with proven products, real-world validation, and a place in Europe's premium energy ecosystem. For buyers who prioritize compliance, performance, and peace of mind, Tongyi's R290 portfolio is ready now.