Advancements in heat pump technology are making systems greener and more energy efficient than ever, says Stuart McWhinnie, Assistant Product Manager at Grant UK.
Innovations in heat pump technology and refrigerants are improving the environmental benefits of systems. For installers ready to adapt, embracing these developments is a chance to capitalise on a growing market while positioning themselves as experts in eco-friendly, sustainable heating solutions.
One of the most notable recent advancements in the heat pump market is the introduction of R290 refrigerant in air source heat pumps. This new refrigerant is transforming the way we think about environmentally friendly heating and promises to make heat pumps even more sustainable.
As with any innovation, however, R290 raises important questions for installers. ‘R290’, also known commercially as propane, is a by-product of the natural gas process that also acts as an excellent heat transfer medium when used in the vapour compression cycle of a heat pump. R290 has been successfully used for several years in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Its adoption in the UK heat pump market is gaining momentum due to its extremely low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of just 3.
Installers might wonder how it differs from other refrigerants in terms of installation and safety. One key difference is that R290 requires additional safety precautions during installation and servicing. However, R290 operates in a similar manner to other refrigerants within heat pumps. Like R32 and R410a refrigerants, it cycles between liquid and gaseous phases to transfer latent heat from the outside air into useful heat energy for the property’s heating circuit. But thanks to its superior thermodynamic properties, R290 can capture and release heat more effectively, making the systems that use it more energy efficient. This increased efficiency can translate into potential energy benefits for homeowners and a more sustainable heating option overall, compared to units using more commonly available refrigerants.
As R290 rises in popularity, another concern is whether it will be readily available for installers in the UK. Currently, R290 is widely used in air conditioning and refrigeration, so it already has an established supply chain. Its use in heat pumps is growing and availability is expected to increase as demand rises. Suppliers are expanding their stock to meet this growing demand, so installers should not face significant issues in sourcing R290 for installations.
Fifth generation
Grant UK launched its latest product line, the Aerona 290 heat pump range, in October 2024. This range marks the fifth generation of our air source heat pumps and takes full advantage of the energy efficiency and low environmental impact of R290 refrigerant without sacrificing performance. These units have earned A+++ energy efficiency ratings (at 35°C flow temperature) and have been tested to perform in extreme temperatures ranging from -25°C to 35°C, making them suitable for homes in a variety of climates.
The Aerona 290 units have ultra-low noise levels, achieving Quiet Mark accreditation thanks to sound-reducing technologies, including acoustic insulation and anti-vibration feet, making them a practical choice for both urban and rural homes, where noise reduction is a priority. Research has highlighted concerns about the appearance of heat pumps, and Grant UK has responded. The Aerona 290 has a sleek black design for a modern aesthetic. Designed to suit a range of property types, from new builds to retrofit projects, they provide a versatile solution for various installations.
Training
To ensure installers are fully prepared to work with R290 refrigerant and the new Aerona 290 units, Grant UK is offering comprehensive training at its Training Academy. The course is designed to equip installers with the skills and knowledge needed to safely and effectively install, commission and service R290-based heat pumps.
The Aerona 290 Air Source Heat Pump installer course covers everything from system installation and electrical wiring to configuring the Aerona Smart heat pump controller and fault finding. Special attention is given to safe handling practices, protective zones and precautions when dealing with R290 refrigerant.
System design
For installers new to heat pump systems or looking to refine their expertise, Grant is also offering a one-day system design course. This course focuses on the basics of heat pump system design, including heat loss calculations, heat pump selection, emitter sizing and sound level calculations. This course is especially valuable for those looking to ensure that each system is correctly sized for optimal performance and customer satisfaction.
Alongside the new Aerona 290 heat pumps, Grant UK is launching a range of ancillary products that will give installers greater flexibility when designing systems. These include new QR Smart Pre-Plumbed cylinders and additional smart heat pump controller kits, which are compatible with both the Aerona 290 and Aerona³ heat pump ranges. These products have been designed to offer installers more flexibility and ease when working with various system configurations, ensuring that the heat pump system is optimised for each installation.
