The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued the Air Cooler and Air Filters (Quality Control) Order, 2025, which supersedes the 2023 order. This new regulation mandates strict quality control measures for Evaporative Air Coolers (Desert Coolers) under Indian Standard IS 3315:2019 to ensure consumer safety and product reliability.

Key Highlights of the Order

1. Implementation Timeline

The order will come into effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette. However, different compliance deadlines have been set for industries based on their size:

●  Medium and Large Enterprises: Compliance required from April 1, 2025

●  Small Enterprises: Compliance required from July 1, 2025

●  Micro Enterprises: Compliance required from October 1, 2025

2. Conformity to Standards

All Evaporative Air Coolers (Desert Coolers) must comply with IS 3315:2019 and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS license. The certification will be regulated as per Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

3. Exemptions

Certain categories of products and enterprises are exempt from the mandatory certification requirements:

●   Export-Oriented Goods: Products manufactured solely for export are exempt.

●  Small-Scale Enterprises with Limited Investment: Enterprises registered under the Udyam Portal, with an investment in plant and machinery not exceeding INR 25 lakh and an annual turnover of less than INR 2 crore, are exempt.

●  R&D Imports: Up to 200 imported units per year for research and development purposes, provided they are not sold commercially and are disposed of as scrap.

●   Pre-Implementation Stock: Products manufactured or imported before the order's commencement and certified or awaiting certification by BIS can be sold or displayed until October 31, 2025, subject to a declaration to the Bureau.

4. Certification and Enforcement Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been designated as the sole certifying and enforcing authority to ensure compliance with the new order.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Manufacturers failing to adhere to the quality control measures prescribed under this order will be penalized under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. 

Conclusion

The Air Cooler and Air Filters (Quality Control) Order, 2025 is a step towards enhancing product quality and consumer safety. While it introduces stringent compliance requirements, it also provides phased implementation and exemptions to support small and micro enterprises.

For manufacturers looking to obtain BIS certification for Evaporative Air Coolers, expert guidance from a BIS certification consultant can simplify the process and ensure seamless compliance.

For assistance in obtaining BIS certification, contact EVTL India, a leading regulatory compliance consultant in Delhi, specializing in BIS registration and other technical certifications.