Czech manufacturer Hotjet says using R290 (propane) in its new monoblock heat pump has allowed it to meet the European Union’s highest (most efficient product) energy label rating (A+++) under the Ecodesign Directive.

The energy labels help European consumers make informed choices based on the energy efficiency of a wide range of products including air-conditioners and fridges, as well as heat pumps..

Hotjet displayed the new air-to-water heat pump at ISH – the Bathroom Experience, Building, Energy, Air-Conditioning Technology, and Renewable Energies trade show – held i11-15 March in Frankfurt, Germany. The company launched the unit in September 2018, Tarek Abdou, export manager for Hotjet, said at the show.

“This will be the future – R290,” Abdou said, “We don’t know, but it looks like generally the heat pump market will turn to propane.” 

Nevertheless, he said he was worried that there are no clear safety regulations and certifications for flammable heat pump products.  “There is no clear directive for propane about producing [safety] protection inside,” he said.

Want to find out more, or have something to say about this story? Join the ATMO Connect network to meet and engage with like-minded stakeholders in the clean cooling and natural refrigerant arena.