As of April 2026, the industry standard system for air source heat pumps (i.e., air-source heat pumps) is relatively complete, covering multiple aspects such as energy efficiency, safety, installation, testing methods, and specific application scenarios.
GB 19577-2024, "Minimum Allowable Values of Energy Efficiency and Energy Efficiency Grades for Heat Pumps and Chillers," is a mandatory national standard. Released on April 29, 2024, it officially came into effect on February 1, 2025, integrating and replacing several previously scattered energy efficiency standards.
It unifies the energy efficiency evaluation system for heat pumps and chillers, setting minimum energy efficiency limits; energy efficiency grades are divided into 1-3 levels, with level 1 being the highest; products that do not meet the standard are prohibited from sale; and it promotes overall energy efficiency improvement in the industry, contributing to the achievement of "dual carbon" goals (carbon emission reduction and carbon sequestration).
GB/T 45650-2025, "Carbon Dioxide Air Source Heat Pump Units," is a recommended national standard, effective November 1, 2025, focusing on the application of environmentally friendly refrigerants.
It clarifies the technical requirements for heat pump units using CO₂ (R744) as the refrigerant; supports ultra-low temperature operation, making it suitable for clean heating scenarios such as "coal-to-electricity" conversion in northern regions; and guides the industry towards green and low-carbon refrigerants.