Mitsubishi updates R290 installation advice
27th January 2026
UK: Mitsubishi Electric has announced a major installation update for its Ecodan R290 air-source heat pumps in an effort to make installations simpler, particularly on constrained and retrofit sites.
The changes remove what Mitsubishi Electric sees as unnecessary barriers that installers have highlighted when working with flammable refrigerant systems. By reducing unnecessary siting limitations, Mitsubishi says that Ecodan R290 installations can be planned more efficiently, reducing redesigns, delays and aborted surveys.
Following a technical and safety review, Mitsubishi Electric has lifted certain restrictions within the R290 protection zone that are no longer considered to pose a safety risk. The installation manual has been amended to reflect this increased flexibility.
Previously, the protection zone restricted the presence of grooves and entrances into waste-water systems. These features are now explicitly permitted within the protection zone, including: grooves, waste-water systems, inlets in sewers and waste-water shafts, downpipes.
Mitsubishi states that this update gives installers far greater freedom when siting outdoor units, helping to overcome common challenges on tight plots, terraced housing and retrofit projects, while maintaining safe installation practices.
The updated guidance now states that restrictions apply only to building openings or entrances to basements, such as windows, doors and ventilation openings (within 300mm from the base). Mitsubishi says that this clarification removes previous ambiguity.
To further support adoption, Mitsubishi Electric has announced a £200 reduction on the list price of the Ecodan R290 5kW unit.
R290 installer training
To support safe and confident installation, Mitsubishi Electric continues to offer dedicated Ecodan R290 training. This training focuses on the specific handling requirements of the flammable R290 refrigerant and is delivered through a blended online and hands-on approach.
