Selecting Right AC with Right Material Can Save You Money This Summer

 

Mumbai( : Summer is here again, and with it comes the rising demand for air conditioners to cool our homes. While many of us prioritize price or brand when purchasing or replacing an AC, it is equally important to check the star label, manufacturing year, and ISEER (Indian Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) value. These factors play a crucial role in saving money on your electricity bills and reducing overall energy consumption.

The star label on your air conditioner provides key information about its energy efficiency, helping you choose a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. This year, starting January 1, 2026, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) introduced revised norms for star ratings of several appliances, including air conditioners. These updated standards are part of BEE’s periodic updates to improve energy efficiency and reduce electricity consumption across India.

Key Changes in Star Ratings for ACs (2026–2028)

Under the revised norms, the label period for air conditioners (and other appliances) is now valid from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027 The ISEER value a measure of an air conditioner’s energy efficiency—has been significantly updated. As per this, a 5-star split AC manufactured in 2026 must have an ISEER value of 5.6, while a 5-star window AC manufactured in 2026 must have an ISEER value of 3.7.

These new standards make ACs manufactured in 2026 10% more energy-efficient than those manufactured in 2025 or earlier.

Impact of the Revised Norms on Older ACs

Due to the updated ISEER thresholds, a 5-star split AC manufactured in 2025 (with an ISEER value of 5.0) will now be downgraded to a 4-star rating in 2026. Similarly, a 5-star window AC manufactured in 2025 (with an ISEER value of 3.5) will also be downgraded to 4 stars.

This effectively means that by purchasing an AC manufactured in 2026, you are investing in a product that is equivalent to today’s 5-star rating. While the upfront cost of these newer ACs may be higher, the significant savings on electricity bills and reduced energy consumption over time make them a worthwhile investment.

This underscores the need for consumers to avoid directly comparing older and revised star ratings, as products available in the market may still reflect previous standards; instead, they should check the BEE label for the applicable period (example: January 1, 2026–December 31, 2027) to ensure they are assessing the rating as per the latest norms.

While consumers can choose from a range of star ratings, investing in a 5-star AC despite a relatively higher upfront cost can deliver significant long-term savings through lower electricity consumption.

Why Star Labels Matters

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) introduced star ratings in 2007 to help consumers make informed choices about energy-efficient appliances. Over the years, these energy labelling programs have helped India save billions of units of electricity and reduce peak power demand.

Star labels provide transparency on how efficiently a product uses electricity, enabling consumers to choose appliances that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Advancements in AC Technology

The improvements in energy efficiency are largely driven by advancements in appliance design and materials. Manufacturers are incorporating better compressors, motors, and heat exchangers to enhance cooling performance.

Among these materials, copper plays a vital role in increasing efficiency. Smaller diameter inner-grooved copper tubes heat exchangers in air conditioners enable better heat exchange, allowing systems to cool spaces more efficiently while consuming less electricity. Copper is also highly durable, offering better corrosion resistance in India’s tropical climate when compared to aluminium.

The copper heat exchangers work better in Indian climate conditions (which is tropical) as it offers better corrosion resistance and therefore, they are considered better than aluminium alloy microchannel heat exchangers. Moreover, the copper heat exchangers are considered better due to their longer life and can be repaired on site and good for using within hours. The same is not possible for aluminium alloy microchannel heat exchangers, which cannot be repaired and has to be replaced in case of leakages.

 

As per industry estimates, the star rating of ACs deteriorates if they use aluminium alloy microchannel heat exchangers faster due to difficulty in cleaning them and removing all dust/impurities accumulated over the period of time. Therefore, a 5 Star AC having aluminium microchannel heat exchangers becomes a 3 Star AC in span of 3-4 years due to this. On the other hand, ACs having copper heat exchangers are easier to clean and maintain its Star rating for much longer duration.

The Star Label is Important

The star label on an AC is more than just a sticker—it’s a guide to smarter, more energy-efficient choices. By paying attention to the star ratings, ISEER values, and materials like copper used in the appliance, you can enjoy lower electricity bills, reduced maintenance costs, and a longer product lifespan.

These updates are part of India’s broader efforts to improve energy efficiency and manage the growing demand for cooling. For households, energy-efficient appliances not only mean savings but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

So, the next time you shop for an air conditioner, make the star label your priority. It’s a simple yet impactful step toward a better wallet and a healthier planet.