Choosing · Read 8 min
Which air conditioning to choose in 2026? R32, R290 & F-Gas
By the Aircadia team
In 2026, the best choice for most homes is a reversible air conditioner running on R32, the refrigerant that equips the majority of units sold in France and still qualifies for grants. To future-proof, R290 (propane), with near-zero climate impact, is the most sustainable option. One absolute rule: never buy anything on R410A, an end-of-life refrigerant whose recharges are becoming rare and expensive.
Why the refrigerant is THE question of 2026
Choosing an air conditioner in 2026 is no longer just about power or brand. The European F-Gas regulation sharply cuts quotas of high global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerants, and that directly determines which units will remain installable, repairable and subsidised in the coming years.
In other words: a poor refrigerant choice today risks a unit that’s hard to recharge tomorrow, or even an early replacement. Hence the importance of seeing clearly before signing a quote.
R410A, R32, R290: the clear comparison
| Refrigerant | GWP (climate impact) | Status in 2026 | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|
| R410A | ~2,088 | End of life, recharge increasingly costly | No one — replace on major failure |
| R32 | 675 (~68% less than R410A) | Current standard, grant-eligible | Most residential installations |
| R290 (propane) | ~3 (near zero) | Rising fast, best performance | Those wanting the most sustainable option |
R32 is today’s default choice: available, efficient, well mastered by installers, and grant-eligible. R290 is thermodynamically superior and almost climate-neutral, but it’s a flammable gas (A3 class) that requires specific installation rules — hence a still-limited offer.
The F-Gas calendar 2025-2029
The regulation doesn’t cut everything overnight: it tightens gradually.
- Since 1 January 2025: single-splits under 12 kW using a refrigerant with a GWP above 750 (such as R410A) can no longer be placed on the market.
- From 1 January 2029: a new air-to-air split of 12 kW or less charged with R32 can no longer be placed on the market.
In practice: in 2026, an AC on R32 remains an excellent buy — you’ll use it throughout its lifespan, and servicing will stay available. Consider R290 if you want to aim for the most sustainable option right now.
Wait for R290 or buy R32 now?
For the vast majority of households, no need to wait. R32 is reliable, widely available, grant-eligible and perfectly suited to the Riviera climate. Postponing your project mostly means another summer without comfort.
R290 makes sense if your absolute priority is carbon footprint, or for specific technical configurations. A qualified installer will tell you what is actually available and relevant for your home.
The Aircadia tip: never choose a unit on the displayed price alone. A serious quote states the refrigerant (R32 or R290), the power, the brand and the warranty. If no refrigerant is mentioned, ask — it’s a red flag.
2026 grants and low-impact refrigerants
The 2026 financial grants clearly favour low-climate-impact units. A reversible air conditioner (air-to-air heat pump) on R32 or R290 may qualify for the CEE bonus, reduced VAT and, within a large-scale renovation, MaPrimeRénov’ — subject to conditions and to a certified (RGE) installer.
For the exact amounts and conditions, see our dedicated guide: grants change every year and depend on your situation.
FAQ
Is my R410A air conditioner banned in 2026?
No. Your unit keeps working and can still be serviced. What changes is that new R410A is becoming scarce: on a major leak, recharging costs more and more, which can make replacement more economical.
R32 or R290: which to choose in 2026?
R32 for a safe, available and grant-eligible choice — the right bet for most homes. R290 if you prioritise climate impact above all and the right unit exists for your configuration.
Will an R32 unit soon be obsolete?
No. Even though new R32 will be restricted from 2029 for small splits, a unit installed in 2026 is used and serviced normally throughout its lifespan.
How do I know which refrigerant an installer offers?
It must appear on the quote and on the outdoor unit’s rating plate. If in doubt, ask explicitly before signing.
In short
In 2026, the smart move is simple: a reversible AC on R32 for a safe, subsidised choice, R290 to aim for the most sustainable, and absolutely no R410A. The rest — power, placement, discretion — is settled with an on-site survey.
At Aircadia, we advise the refrigerant and equipment truly suited to your home in Nice and the 06, with a clear quote within 48 h. Get your free quote.