R290, R744 & R717: The Best Retrofit Options Today

Commercial property managers and industrial facility managers are under growing pressure to upgrade HVAC and refrigeration systems to meet tighter environmental regulations, improve energy performance, and reduce operational costs. The choice of refrigerant for a retrofit is not just about staying compliant—it’s a strategic decision that impacts your utility bills, system reliability, and equipment lifespan for years to come.

Three refrigerants are leading the way in this new era of system retrofits: R290, R744, and R717. All three are considered natural refrigerants, meaning they occur naturally in the environment rather than being man-made chemical blends. Their environmental benefits and proven performance make them top contenders for modern facilities.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Retrofit

The HVAC and refrigeration industry is shifting rapidly away from high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, with many phasedown schedules already in motion. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates, state-level restrictions, and global agreements like the Kigali Amendment are accelerating this transition.

Delaying a retrofit could lead to:

• Rising costs for outdated refrigerants due to limited availability.
• Higher energy bills as older systems lose efficiency.
• Increased risk of noncompliance with new environmental rules.

By acting now, property managers can position their facilities for long-term compliance and take advantage of efficiency gains that immediately lower operating expenses.

The Three Retrofit Leaders: R290, R744, and R717

While all three refrigerants offer environmental benefits, each has specific strengths that make it more suitable for certain types of facilities or operational requirements.

R290: The Hydrocarbon Choice

R290 is high-purity propane and has become a preferred refrigerant for many commercial and light industrial applications. It combines low environmental impact with strong system efficiency, making it a standout option.

Key Advantages of R290:

• Low GWP and Environmental Impact: With a GWP of just 3, R290 is one of the most climate-friendly refrigerants available.
• High Efficiency: Offers excellent thermodynamic performance, which translates to reduced electricity consumption.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meets current and upcoming refrigerant restrictions in the U.S. and internationally.
• Durability: Systems designed for R290 often experience less mechanical stress, extending equipment life.

For many commercial and industrial facility managers, R290 provides a balance of efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness that other refrigerants struggle to match.

R744: The Carbon Dioxide Option

R744, also known as carbon dioxide, has a GWP of 1 and has been making a strong comeback in modern refrigeration. It is particularly well-suited for large-scale applications like supermarkets, cold storage facilities, and some industrial cooling systems.

Key Advantages of R744:

• Near-Zero Climate Impact: Essentially neutral from a global warming perspective.
• Excellent Heat Transfer: Can deliver strong performance in the right application.
• Proven History: Decades of use in certain refrigeration systems.

However, R744 operates at much higher pressures than R290 or R717. This requires specialized system components and can increase upfront installation costs. That said, for operations that benefit from its thermodynamic properties, R744 can be a cost-effective choice over the long term.

R717: The Ammonia Solution

R717, or ammonia, has been a cornerstone of industrial refrigeration for decades. Its efficiency is unmatched in large-scale applications like food processing, manufacturing, and industrial cold storage.

Key Advantages of R717:

• Outstanding Energy Efficiency: Delivers some of the best performance metrics of any refrigerant.
• No Ozone Depletion or GWP Impact: Environmentally superior to most synthetic refrigerants.
• Long Service History: Trusted in industrial environments for generations.

The primary challenges with R717 are its toxicity and mild flammability, which require enhanced safety protocols and trained personnel for handling. For facilities already equipped with industrial-grade safety measures, it remains one of the most cost-effective refrigerants over time.

Key Decision Factors: Energy Efficiency, Compliance, and Savings

When it comes to selecting the right refrigerant, three decision factors consistently drive the choice for commercial and industrial property managers:

1. Energy Efficiency
   • R717 typically offers the highest efficiency, followed closely by R290. R744’s efficiency can vary depending on the climate and application.
   • Energy efficiency directly translates to reduced operational costs, a key priority for large facilities with high cooling demands.
2. Regulatory Compliance
   • All three refrigerants meet or exceed current EPA requirements for low GWP.
   • R290 and R744 also align with anticipated future regulatory changes, making them safe long-term bets for compliance.
3. Long-Term Operational Savings
   • The efficiency of R290 often results in faster payback periods for retrofits.
   • R717’s durability and low refrigerant cost make it appealing for large-scale industrial applications.
   • R744’s value comes from reduced environmental fees and compliance costs over time.

Safety and System Design for R290

Although R290 is classified as mildly flammable, modern system designs and strict adherence to safety standards have made it one of the safest natural refrigerants in use today. Retrofitting to R290 requires professional installation, leak detection systems, and proper ventilation. These safety measures not only comply with regulations but also protect your investment.

ROI Potential for R290 Retrofits

Upgrading to R290 can pay for itself faster than many managers expect. Reduced energy consumption, improved equipment performance, and avoidance of high-GWP refrigerant costs all contribute to a solid return on investment.

Pairing R290 retrofits with a comprehensive preventative maintenance plan can further protect your investment and extend equipment lifespan.

Choosing the Right Retrofit Partner

Not all contractors have the expertise to work with natural refrigerants, and retrofits involving R290, R744, or R717 require specialized skills. Selecting a partner who understands the technical, safety, and regulatory aspects of each refrigerant is critical. A knowledgeable retrofit team will assess your facility’s needs, match them with the right refrigerant, and ensure a smooth transition with minimal downtime.

Final Thoughts

Retrofitting to R290, R744, or R717 is more than an equipment upgrade—it’s a strategic move that affects compliance, operational efficiency, and long-term costs. While all three options have merit, R290 stands out for its balance of efficiency, regulatory readiness, and ease of integration. For many commercial and industrial facilities, it’s the most adaptable solution for today and the future.

Contact AirLogix Today!

AirLogix helps commercial property managers and industrial facility managers implement refrigerant retrofits that deliver measurable efficiency gains, meet regulatory requirements, and reduce long-term costs. If you’re considering an upgrade to R290, R744, or R717, contact AirLogix today to explore your best options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my existing system be retrofitted to use R290 without a full replacement?
In some cases, yes, but it depends on the design and compatibility of your current system. Many older systems require component upgrades or replacements to handle R290 safely and efficiently. A site inspection is essential to determine feasibility.

2. How does R290 compare to HFC refrigerants in terms of performance?
R290 often matches or outperforms common HFC refrigerants in efficiency, especially in medium-temperature applications. Its thermodynamic properties allow systems to run at lower pressures, which can reduce wear and extend equipment life.

3. Will switching to R290 require changes to my facility’s maintenance protocols?
Yes, but the changes are typically straightforward. Maintenance teams must be trained on handling flammable refrigerants, leak detection procedures, and safe charging practices. Partnering with an experienced contractor ensures these adjustments are seamless.