HVAC&R manufacturer Carrier, part of Carrier Global Corporation, has announced the launch of its first propane (R290)-based high-temperature heat pump for commercial applications, including healthcare facilities and multi-family residential buildings.
The AquaSnap 61AQ can deliver temperatures up to 75°C (167°F) in ambient conditions as low as −7°C (19.4°F), operating “efficiently” in temperatures as low as −25°C (−13°F), the manufacturer said.
The range of reversible air-source heat pumps covers heating capacities of 40–140kW (11.4–39.8TR) and cooling capacities of 32–105kW (9.1–29.9TR) with its monobloc models. Its modular version can meet larger heating demands of up to 560kW (159.2TR) with the connection of up to four units. The range’s maximum cooling capacity has not been specified.
“The AquaSnap 61AQ is more than a product – it’s a milestone for Carrier,” said Didier Genois, Vice President and General Manager of Carrier Commercial HVAC in EMEA. “By introducing R290 to high-temperature commercial heating, we are addressing critical decarbonization challenges head-on.”
The AquaSnap 61AQ is Carrier’s latest R290 heat pump offering, following the launch of the AquaSnap 30AWH-P for residential and light-commercial applications.
“By introducing R290 to high-temperature commercial heating, we are addressing critical decarbonization challenges head-on.”
Didier Genois, VP and General Manager of Carrier Commercial HVAC in EMEA
A future-proof option
Carrier has said that it has designed its new R290 heat pump with a focus on sustainability, as well as performance, to meet “the challenges of stricter regulations,” including the EU F-gas Regulation and the European Ecodesign Directive.
“This heat pump exemplifies Carrier’s vision for a sustainable future, combining superior performance with unmatched environmental responsibility,” said Genois.
The heat pump has also been designed to meet end user requirements around efficiency, with a seasonal COP of up to 4.2, and noise reduction with levels of just 78db(A).
“The AquaSnap 61AQ is another leading example of Carrier creating solutions to meet its customers’ most pressing challenges,” added Andrew Paddock, Managing Director of Carrier Commercial HVAC UK&I and Nordics. “This new solution will empower businesses to reduce their carbon footprint while meeting rigorous operational demands.”
An increasing number of manufacturers, including Viessmann, Clade, Ideal Heating and Clivet, are introducing propane heat pumps in response to the rising demand for sustainable solutions.
Enhanced safety
To address safety concerns around the flammability of propane, Carrier implemented robust measures during the development of the AquaSnap 61AQ heat pump, grouping all refrigerant components into an insulated enclosure, for example.
The manufacturer has also said it has created training programs to ensure the safe handling and operation of R290-based systems.
The AquaSnap 61AQ offers digital connectivity to Carrier’s digital platform for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.
