Carrier R290 heat pump secures hotel booking
23rd September 2025
UK: The Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre has become the first hospitality venue in the UK to install Carrier Commercial HVAC’s new R290 AquaSnap 61AQ heat pumps.
The AquaSnap 61AQ, launched earlier this year, is Carrier’s first high-temperature air-source reversible heat pump for commercial applications using a hydrocarbon refrigerant.
The Radisson had originally planned to install another heat pump model from Carrier’s 61 range, but, with the launch of the 61AQ, the hotel revised its specification to help strengthen its net zero position and further align with the 2040 net zero methodology for hotels.
Four 120kW modular units, providing a combined 480kW of heating capacity, were crane-lifted and installed on the hotel’s rooftop.
The design was created by Cheshire-based consultants PSK Design and installed by Manchester-based Nationwide Air Conditioning.
“This project represents one of the first real-world applications of a newly launched R290 air source heat pump, delivered through close collaboration between Radisson, Carrier, PSK and Nationwide Air Conditioning,” said Nationwide Air Conditioning’s head of projects Daniel Valente,
“We supported and developed the integration of the design by upgrading the primary circuit, locating space for the new plant and ensuring a smooth transition away from gas.
“Despite a reduction in flow temperatures, existing emitters were mostly retained, minimising disruption while maximising carbon savings. It’s a strong example of how well-coordinated, lower carbon retrofit solutions can be achieved in challenging, live environments.”
The 61AQ features inverter-driven compressors and variable-speed fans, helping it exceed Ecodesign efficiency standards by up to 30%. Sound levels are 10dB(A) below regulatory thresholds.
The heat pump is connected to Carrier’s Abound HVAC Performance platform, providing remote visibility, diagnostics and predictive maintenance. This digital layer enables the hotel’s facilities team to track system performance in real time and plan service interventions proactively.
