R-290 COMPLIANCE IN FOODSERVICE MADE CLEAR: A GUIDE TO SNAP RULE 26 AND UL 60335-2-89

As the refrigeration industry shifts toward low-GWP, environmentally friendly refrigerants, one substance is making a powerful comeback—R-290, also known as propane. While it’s energy-efficient and planet-friendly, its flammable nature introduces a new layer of complexity for fabricators. With new EPA and UL regulations taking effect, manufacturers and custom builders alike must adopt a new fabrication mindset—one that emphasizes ignition risk mitigation, precise component layout, and regulatory compliance from the ground up.

 

Whitepaper: Fabrication Safety and Compliance for Refrigerated Equipment Using R-290 (Propane) Under SNAP Rule 26 and UL 60335-2-89

 

Executive Summary

This whitepaper provides guidance for fabricators and equipment designers on safe and compliant fabrication practices for commercial refrigeration systems using R-290 (propane), a hydrocarbon refrigerant classified as A2L (flammable). The guidance is based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s SNAP Rule 26 and UL 60335-2-89, 2nd Edition. It explores the implications of using R-290 and outlines construction, electrical isolation, labeling, and coordination requirements that must be followed to ensure regulatory compliance and operational safety.

 

Introduction

With the growing global focus on reducing the environmental impact of refrigeration, hydrocarbon refrigerants like R-290 have become preferred alternatives to high-global-warming-potential (GWP) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). R-290, a natural refrigerant with a GWP of 3, is highly efficient and environmentally safe—but also flammable, necessitating strict design controls.

 

Regulatory Framework

2.1 EPA SNAP Rule 26 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program issued Rule 26 to expand the allowed use of R-290 in commercial refrigeration. Effective July 14, 2024, this rule:

1. Raises charge limits for self-contained equipment:
2. 300 grams for closed appliances (e.g., undercounter units)
   
3. 500 grams for open appliances (e.g., open merchandisers)
4. Approves R-290 for refrigerated food processing and dispensing equipment.

Source: Federal Register – SNAP Rule 26

 

2.2 UL 60335-2-89, 2nd Edition This Underwriters Laboratories standard governs safety for commercial refrigerating appliances using flammable refrigerants. It establishes guidelines for minimizing ignition risks and ensuring proper separation of electrical components from refrigerant sources.

 

Key Fabrication Implications

3.1 Electrical Component Isolation To prevent ignition in the event of a leak:

1. Electrical controls, relays, and GFI resets must be housed in sealed, isolated compartments, separate from refrigerant components.
   
2. Compartments should include venting to avoid gas buildup.
   
3. External access to GFI resets is recommended to avoid opening the cabinet during emergencies.

Reference: ACHR News, “Electrical Component Considerations for A2L System Safety”

 

3.2 Refrigerant Compartment Design

1. Compressors and tubing should be housed in ventilated compartments.
   
2. Avoid shared compartments for electrical and refrigerant components.
   
3. Use gas-tight grommets or conduits when passing wires between compartments.

 

3.3 Approved Components Only use components rated for A2L refrigerants:

1. ECM motors, sealed contactors, and switches
   
2. UL-certified lighting and safety devices

 

Material and Construction Practices

1. Avoid aluminum tools and surfaces that may create sparks during service.
   
2. Protect refrigerant lines with mechanical shielding.
   
3. Clearly label all equipment with: “Flammable Refrigerant” warning
4. UL listing mark for compliance
   

 

Coordination with Designers and Engineers

Effective fabrication requires proactive communication with designers and engineers:

1. Confirm refrigerant charge amounts during design phase.
   
2. Plan for venting, service panel access, and component layout.
   
3. Ensure safety and functionality are not compromised by aesthetics or layout constraints.

Safety Checklist

1. Electrical separation from refrigerant systems
2. Proper ventilation of compartments
3. UL-listed A2L-compatible components
4. Mechanical protection of refrigerant lines
5. Flammable refrigerant warning labels
6. Interdisciplinary coordination

Conclusion

R-290 is a safe and effective refrigerant when used properly—but it demands attention to detail from fabricators. SNAP Rule 26 and UL 60335-2-89 lay out clear standards for design and construction. Following these guidelines is not only a legal requirement—it protects the safety of end users, service professionals, and your team.

For more information, consult:

1. EPA SNAP Program: epa.gov/snap
   
2. UL Standards: shopulstandards.com
3. ACHR News: achrnews.com
   

 

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At the PES Design Group our mission is: “Designing functionally innovative, attractive and profitable c-store and food service facilities on time and on budget”.  Our promise to you is, that whatever your project may be, we will approach it as unique.  We will use our years of experience to design innovation and uniqueness into your project helping you to set yourself apart from the rest. We will also use innovation to solve challenging issues such as space, time and budget constraints.

About the Consultant

 

Jim Richards (Jr) is President of and Food Service Consultant with PES Design Group. During his 30+ years of experience in the Food Service Design Industry, Jim has encountered countless design challenges that he has successfully overcome through experience, innovation and a wealth of knowledge about efficient kitchen design and foodservice equipment.

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