Pool heating technology has undergone spectacular developments in recent years. There is a growing demand for energy-efficient, long-term sustainable and intelligently controllable solutions. New-generation pool heat pumps using R290 refrigerant play a key role in this development.

R290 is not a new refrigerant – it has long been used worldwide in various cooling and heating systems – but in swimming pool heat pump applications, it is considered one of the solutions offering the highest efficiency and best seasonal performance. The Fairland InverX23 and InverX26 heat pumps represent this approach: they combine the benefits of R290 refrigerant with advanced inverter technology and intelligent performance control.

Environmental benefits and future-proofing

The global warming potential (GWP ~3) of the R290 refrigerant is extremely low, particularly when compared to R32 (~675). This is a difference of more than 200-fold, resulting in a significantly lower environmental impact.

The Fairland InverX23 and X26 series are not only efficient but also comply in the long term with the requirements of the EU F-Gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573 and the GWP <150 requirements coming into force from 2027, as a result of which R32 refrigerant will be phased out of most new applications, whilst R290 will become the industry standard.

If a longer season and lower operating costs are the goal, the Fairland InverX23 and Fairland InverX26 heat pumps, which operate with R290 refrigerant, are no longer merely an alternative, but represent a conscious, future-proof choice.

Outstanding efficiency and real performance benefits

One of the key advantages of the InverX23 and X26 R290 heat pump series is their market-leading energy efficiency, which can now reach a peak COP of 26.

• Higher heat output can be achieved with the same energy consumption
• Lower operating costs
• A longer and more stable swimming season can be ensured

Wide operating range for a longer season

The system is particularly efficient at low outdoor temperatures, with an operating range extending down to -20 °C, whilst ensuring stable operation up to +43 °C. This wide operating range offers a significant advantage in extending the season.

Intelligent, adaptive power control: Silent, Smart and Turbo modes

One of the key benefits of InverX technology is dynamic power control, which offers three operating modes:

Silent mode: 20–60% power range

Extremely quiet, economical operation for periods when maximum output is not required.

Smart mode 20–100% capacity range

Automatic power regulation tailored to current demand.

Turbo mode 120–200% output range

Rapid heating and peak performance when required. This wide modulation range ensures the system always operates at optimum efficiency. 

IoT-based control and more efficient operation

With the Fairland InverX23 and InverX26 new-generation swimming pool heat pumps, smart control is no longer just a convenience feature. IoT-based solutions also play a role in system monitoring, fault detection and optimisation.

In practice, this can result in faster response times, more efficient operation and simpler fault management.

Safe use with professional installation 

It is a fact that R290 (propane) is a flammable refrigerant, so there is a risk of ignition in the presence of an ignition source – such as a spark. In experiments with R290 heat pumps, it has been observed that the gas burns quickly and visibly, but does not spread via a detonation-type explosion. A practical explosion test is also available on this topic, demonstrating the combustion behaviour of R290 refrigerant under controlled conditions (You can find the video below). 
The heat pump shown in the video has a plastic casing, which may contribute to the spread of fire under high thermal loads. In contrast, the metal casing design of Fairland pool heat pumps offers a safer solution, as it can mitigate the risk of the fire spreading further. 
The units are supplied as factory-sealed systems, but due to the specific characteristics of R290, it is important to install them in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications, ensure adequate ventilation and avoid ignition sources.

During the installation and operation of pool heat pumps using R290 refrigerant, it is essential to comply with the relevant safety regulations and the manufacturer’s instructions; therefore, installation and commissioning must be carried out exclusively by a qualified professional who is thoroughly familiar with the relevant regulations, which is a fundamental prerequisite for safe and reliable operation. 

Provided it is installed and commissioned correctly, the system can be used safely and reliably. Therefore, the key is not ‘general caution’ but installation in accordance with the specific standard.