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- Room Air Conditioners (RAC) in India must comply with BEE energy efficiency labeling regulations under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
- Multiple amendments from 2017 to 2025 define updated labeling rules, testing methods, and efficiency standards.
- IS 1391 (Part 1 & Part 2) remains the core Indian Standard for RAC performance and safety compliance.
- Appliance Labeling and Compliance Regulations, 2026 will become effective from 1st January 2026, introducing updated requirements.
- Manufacturers must follow the BIS + BEE certification process to legally sell RAC products in the Indian market.
Introduction
Room Air Conditioners (RAC), including Cassette AC, Floor Standing Tower AC, Ceiling Mounted AC, and Corner Air Conditioners, are commonly found in residential, commercial, and industrial areas across India. Since there is increased usage of electricity, the Government of India has stringent laws for regulating these devices.
It is the combined responsibility of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to certify, label, and enforce compliance requirements for Room Air Conditioners.
There have been several modifications and notifications from time to time regarding the compliance process. The manufacturers, importers, and brands must adhere to these changes before selling the devices in India.
What is RAC Certification in India?
The meaning of RAC certification is that the certification is mandatory and involves ensuring the energy efficiency and safety of room air conditioners based on the Indian laws prior to their sale or marketing.
The certification primarily comprises of:
- BIS certification
- BEE star rating
- IS 1391 certification
Government notification certification under Energy Conservation Regulations
If not certified, the products are not authorized for sale.
Key Regulatory Notifications & Amendments
The following table summarizes major notifications, amendments, and standards related to Room Air Conditioners in India:
| Equipment | Regulation / Amendment | Notification / Reference | Date | IS / IEC Standards |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14(a) Amendment V | S.O. 3984(E) | 28th August 2025 | IS 1391 (Part I & II) with amendments |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14(a) Amendment IV | S.O. 2794(E) | 16th July 2024 | IS 1391 (Part I & II) |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14(a) Amendment III | S.O. 4634(E) | 10th November 2021 | IS 1391 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14(a) Amendment II | S.O. 4485(E) | 10th December 2020 | IS 1391 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14(a) Amendment I | S.O. 3897(E) | 29th October 2019 | IS 1391 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14 (d) | BEE/S&L/AC/37/2017-18 | 29th November 2017 | IS 1391 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14 (b) | S.O. 2527(E) | 8th August 2017 | IS 1391 |
| Room Air Conditioners | 14 (a) | S.O. 2528(E) | 8th August 2017 | IS 1391 |
| Room Air Conditioners | Appliance Labeling & Compliance Regulations, 2026 | No. 5506/BEE/S&L/AL/2025-26 | 26th December 2025 | Updated IS/IEC aligned norms |
These updates show the continuous evolution of energy efficiency standards in India.
Why is RAC Certification Required?
RAC certification is mandatory because air conditioners consume high electricity and directly impact national energy demand.
The government enforces certification to:
- Reduce electricity consumption
- Improve energy efficiency in appliances
- Control carbon emissions
- Ensure product safety and reliability
- Standardize product quality in the Indian market
Without certification, manufacturers cannot legally distribute RAC products.
Key Points
- Mandatory under Energy Conservation Act, 2001
- Required for both domestic and imported products
- Ensures compliance with BIS & BEE guidelines
- Prevents sale of non-efficient appliances
- Helps consumers choose energy-saving products
Importance and Benefits of RAC Certification
| Aspect | Importance | Benefit |
| Energy Efficiency | Reduces electricity usage | Lower electricity bills |
| Regulatory Compliance | Meets government rules | Legal market entry |
| Product Quality | Standard testing required | Improved product reliability |
| Market Trust | BEE star labeling | Higher consumer confidence |
| Environmental Impact | Lower carbon emissions | Sustainable development |
| Competitive Advantage | Certified branding | Better market positioning |
| Export Opportunities | Global compliance alignment | Easier international trade |
Certification Process for RAC in India
The certification process involves multiple technical and regulatory steps:
Step 1: Product Testing
The RAC unit is tested in BIS-approved laboratories for performance, safety, and energy efficiency.
Step 2: Documentation
Manufacturers must submit technical files including design specifications, model details, and test reports.
Step 3: BIS Registration
BIS issues certification based on compliance with IS 1391 standards.
Step 4: BEE Registration
Energy efficiency rating (star label) is assigned based on power consumption performance.
Step 5: Label Approval
Approved energy labels are printed on products for market use.
Step 6: Market Surveillance
Regulatory bodies monitor compliance after product launch.
Challenges of Getting Certification Without a Consultant
Gaining RAC accreditation without the help of experts is not easy because of the technicality involved and the regulatory processes that must be followed.
Challenges Involved
Understanding of BIS and BEE regulations
- Regulatory changes
- Documenting process
- Laboratory testing problems
- Faulty label design
- Coordinating with various government agencies
- Non-compliance risks
- Failure to comply may cause rejection of the products.
Why Choose Diligence Certification?
Diligence Certification provides end-to-end support for RAC compliance, helping manufacturers and importers manage the entire approval process smoothly.
Key Advantages
- Complete guidance on BIS and BEE certification
- Assistance in documentation and application filing
- Coordination with testing laboratories
- Faster approval process handling
- Updated knowledge of latest amendments
- Error-free compliance management
- Support for all RAC types including cassette, tower, ceiling, and corner AC
With professional support, companies reduce delays and ensure smooth market entry.
Conclusion
Room Air Conditioner certification in India is a structured and mandatory process governed by BIS and BEE regulations. With multiple amendments from 2017 to 2025 and upcoming Appliance Labeling Regulations 2026, compliance requirements continue to evolve.
Manufacturers must strictly follow IS 1391 standards and all related notifications to ensure legal market access. Proper certification not only ensures compliance but also improves product efficiency, brand trust, and market competitiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is BEE certification mandatory for RAC in India?
Yes, BEE certification is mandatory for all Room Air Conditioners sold in India.
What is IS 1391 in RAC standards?
IS 1391 defines performance, safety, and testing requirements for air conditioners in India.
What is the latest RAC regulation update?
The latest update is Appliance Labeling and Compliance Regulations, 2026 effective from 1st January 2026.
Who issues RAC certification in India?
BIS issues safety certification and BEE issues energy efficiency star ratings.
Can RAC be sold without certification?
No, selling uncertified RAC products is illegal in India.
What types of RAC require certification?
Cassette, tower, ceiling, corner, split, and window AC systems require certification.
How long does RAC certification take?
It usually takes 30–90 days depending on documentation and testing.
What happens if RAC fails testing?
The product must be redesigned and retested before approval.
Is BIS certification different from BEE certification?
Yes, BIS focuses on safety while BEE focuses on energy efficiency.
Why is RAC certification important for manufacturers?
It ensures legal compliance, market access, and consumer trust.
