Tecumseh Guidelines for Utilization of R600A and R290 1.0.0

The use of hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerants R600a (isobutane) and R290 (propane) for replacements for HCFC’s and HFC’s continues around the globe. R600a and R290 have ozone depletion potential (ODP) factors of zero (0.0) and a fraction of the global warming potential of those refrigerants they are intended to replace. Both have acceptable toxicity levels; however, both are flammable.

Neither of these refrigerants are “drop-in” replacements for HCFC’s or HFC’s. There are significant differences between R600a and R290, and the non-HC refrigerants that must be considered in handling, processing and application. These guidelines are offered to help understand these differences.