R-290 Refrigerant (Propane)

R-290: R-290 is purified propane used as a natural refrigerant in self-contained commercial refrigeration. It has a very low global-warming potential and excellent efficiency, which is why manufacturers adopted it as R-404A is phased down. R-290 is flammable, so charge sizes are strictly limited by code.

🌡️ New to low-GWP refrigerants? Read the commercial refrigerant phase-out, explained — what the EPA rules mean for reach-ins, ice machines and walk-ins.

Why it matters when buying

R-290 units run efficiently and meet current EPA SNAP and DOE rules, so they're increasingly standard on reach-ins, prep tables, and undercounters. Because propane is flammable, only a qualified tech should service the sealed system, and the unit's charge is capped (historically 150 g, now up to 300 g under updated UL 60335-2-89).

How to read it on a spec sheet

The data plate lists the refrigerant type and charge in grams. Look for 'R-290' and a charge figure; keep the unit's ventilation clearances and never modify the sealed system yourself.

Related equipment

Source: EPA SNAP program; UL/IEC 60335-2-89 charge limits; DOE commercial refrigeration standards. · Compiled by Resultex Media Group · Last verified August 2026