- BIS Certification under IS 368:2014 ensures Electric Immersion Water Heaters meet Indian safety and quality norms.
- The ISI mark guarantees product reliability and protection from electrical hazards.
- Manufacturers must undergo testing, documentation, and BIS inspection to get approval.
- The certification stays valid for two years and can be renewed after compliance checks.
- It boosts market trust, prevents legal issues, and enables tender eligibility.
Introduction
Electric immersion water heaters are widely used in homes, hotels, and offices for quick and efficient water heating. These devices are simple in design but involve significant electrical and thermal risks if not properly tested and certified. To ensure safety and reliability, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates ISI Certification for electric immersion water heaters under IS 368:2014.
Obtaining BIS Certification is not just a formality — it confirms that the product meets Indian safety and performance benchmarks. Manufacturers who secure this certification gain credibility in the market, while consumers enjoy assurance of quality and safety.
What is IS 368:2014?
IS 368:2014 is the Indian Standard Specification that defines the requirements, construction, testing methods, and safety parameters for Electric Immersion Water Heaters.
This standard ensures that each product:
- Uses safe and reliable electrical components.
- Has proper insulation and earthing.
- Meets prescribed performance efficiency and energy standards.
- Prevents risks such as short circuits, electric shocks, or overheating.
The standard covers both domestic and commercial immersion heaters used for heating water in tanks or containers.
Under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) by BIS, manufacturers cannot sell or distribute immersion water heaters in India without an ISI-marked certificate.
Why BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters Matters
BIS Certification plays a crucial role in safeguarding consumers and ensuring manufacturers adhere to India’s safety norms. Here’s why it matters:
- Consumer Safety: Prevents electric shock, overheating, or fire hazards caused by poor-quality heaters.
- Legal Compliance: The BIS Certification under IS 368:2014 is a regulatory requirement for Indian markets.
- Market Credibility: ISI-marked heaters gain consumer trust and are preferred by dealers, distributors, and institutions.
- Tender Eligibility: Government and large institutional tenders require BIS-certified products only.
- Export Advantage: BIS Certification enhances product reputation in export markets aligned with Indian safety norms.
Understanding the ISI Mark for Electric Immersion Water Heaters
The ISI Mark is the most recognized symbol of safety and quality assurance in India. When displayed on electric immersion water heaters, it guarantees that the product:
- Has been tested according to IS 368:2014 standards.
- Is manufactured in a facility approved by BIS after inspection.
- Is subject to continuous monitoring and periodic quality checks.
Each certified product also carries a unique CM/L number (Certification Mark License number) that allows easy verification of authenticity on the official BIS website.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters
For manufacturers, BIS Certification offers multiple technical, commercial, and marketing benefits:
- Enhanced Brand Image: Demonstrates commitment to quality and consumer safety.
- Reduced Risk of Product Recall: Ensures compliance with national standards.
- Improved Consumer Confidence: ISI-marked heaters attract more buyers.
- Tender and Export Approval: Allows participation in government tenders and export opportunities.
- Ease of Market Entry: Helps manufacturers and importers legally sell in India.
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification
The following entities are eligible to apply for BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters:
- Indian Manufacturers producing immersion heaters domestically.
- Foreign Manufacturers exporting to India under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
Applicants must have:
- A fully functional manufacturing unit with quality control and testing facilities.
- Ability to produce samples as per IS 368:2014 for laboratory testing.
- Consistent production capability to maintain product quality as per BIS standards.
Step-by-Step Process for BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters
Obtaining BIS Certification involves systematic steps to ensure compliance and product reliability.
Step 1: Product Identification
Determine the specific model and technical specifications of the immersion water heater to be certified under IS 368:2014.
Step 2: Testing Sample Submission
Send product samples to a BIS-recognized laboratory for testing. The tests include:
- Insulation resistance
- Leakage current test
- Temperature rise test
- Mechanical strength
- Endurance test
Step 3: Application Filing
Submit the BIS Certification application online through the Manak Online Portal, along with the required documents and test reports.
Step 4: Factory Inspection
BIS officials inspect the manufacturing facility to verify production capability, testing setup, and adherence to IS 368:2014.
Step 5: Evaluation and Grant of License
After successful inspection and report review, BIS grants the ISI License for Electric Immersion Water Heaters.
Step 6: Use of ISI Mark
Once licensed, manufacturers can affix the ISI mark with their unique CM/L number on every unit of immersion water heater they produce.

Documents Required for BIS Certification
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Factory registration documents (Company Incorporation / MSME certificate)
- Manufacturing process details
- Test reports from BIS-approved labs
- Quality control manual and process flowchart
- Details of manufacturing equipment and testing instruments
- Raw material specifications
- Copy of trademark registration
- List of production staff and engineers
Validity and Renewal of BIS License
A BIS license for Electric Immersion Water Heaters is typically valid for two years from the date of issue.
Manufacturers can renew it by submitting:
- Latest factory inspection report
- Continued compliance records
- Updated test reports from a recognized lab
If all conditions remain satisfactory, the license can be renewed for up to five years at a time.
Common Challenges Manufacturers Face
Many manufacturers face hurdles during BIS Certification, especially when unfamiliar with compliance requirements. Common issues include:
- Testing delays due to laboratory backlog.
- Documentation errors or incomplete submissions.
- Incorrect sample preparation leading to test failure.
- Factory non-compliance discovered during inspections.
- Delays in communication between applicants and BIS officials.
Understanding these challenges early helps manufacturers streamline their certification journey efficiently.
Cost of BIS Certification
The total cost for obtaining BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters depends on:
- Product type and range
- Laboratory testing requirements
- Application and inspection fees
- Travel and audit expenses (for foreign manufacturers)
Manufacturers should plan their certification budget in advance to ensure a smooth process without financial delays.
Why Choose Diligence Certification
Choosing a professional certification consultancy ensures your BIS process is completed without stress.
Diligence Certification provides end-to-end assistance for:
- Product testing coordination with BIS-recognized labs.
- Complete documentation preparation and review.
- Online application filing through the Manak portal.
- Scheduling and managing BIS factory inspections.
- Guidance on license renewal and compliance audits.
By partnering with experts, manufacturers can save time, minimize rejections, and focus on production while compliance is handled smoothly.
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters (IS 368:2014) is more than just a legal necessity — it’s a commitment to consumer safety, quality assurance, and brand credibility. Manufacturers who achieve BIS compliance not only meet Indian regulatory standards but also gain a powerful competitive advantage in domestic and export markets.
Whether you are an Indian or foreign manufacturer, following BIS guidelines ensures your product earns the ISI mark of trust and delivers safe performance to consumers nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIS Certification for Electric Immersion Water Heaters?
The BIS Certification ensures the heater adheres to safety and quality guidelines according to IS 368:2014.
Is BIS Certification required for immersion water heaters in India?
Manufacturers are not able to sell or distribute immersion heaters without the ISI mark as per BIS regulations.
What does the ISI mark signify regarding immersion water heaters?
The ISI mark indicates the product has passed tests, and factory inspections, that are approved by the BIS.
What is the standard for Electric Immersion Water Heaters?
The mandatory standard is: IS 368:2014.
Who may apply for BIS Certification?
BIS Certification may be applied for by both Indian manufacturers, or Foreign Manufacturers under FMCS.
What are the tests required for certification?
Insulation resistance tests, leakage current tests, endurance tests, temperature rise tests, and mechanical strength tests are common testing.
How long is the BIS license valid?
The license is valid for 2 years, and renewal is subject to compliance.
How is the legitimacy of an ISI marked product verified?
Verification can be completed by Consumers accessing the CM/L number on the BIS official website.
What documentation is required when applicants apply for BIS Certification?
Factory details, test reports, list of equipment, quality control manual, raw material specifications, and proof of company existence.
What are the benefits of getting a BIS certification?
BIS certification provides market approval, confers trustworthiness with consumers, compliance with legality, and eligibility for government tenders.
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