BIS QCO for Split Air Conditioners IS 1391 (Part 2): 2018 IS 1391 (Part-2): 2018

Key Highlights of the Amendment

1. Mandatory BIS Certification: All Split air conditioners must conform to IS 1391 (Part 2): 2018. These products must bear the Standard Mark under a license from BIS. 
2. Temporary Exemption for Large Compressors
   • Hermetic compressors with a capacity of more than 7000W (2 TR) are exempt from this order for one year from the amendment's commencement.
   • This exemption applies to manufacturers of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment and related parts. 
3. Exemption for Research & Development (R&D) Imports
   • Manufacturers can import up to 200 units per year for research and development purposes.
   • These products cannot be sold commercially and must be disposed of as scrap.
   • Manufacturers must maintain records of these imports and provide them to the government if required. 

1. Allowance for Previously Manufactured or Imported Goods
   • Products manufactured or imported before the amendment date can still be sold until March 31, 2024.
   • This applies to manufacturers certified by BIS or those who have applied for certification.
   • Such manufacturers must declare their stock to the Bureau.
   • Up to 6,000 hermetic compressors and heat exchangers per year can be manufactured or imported for maintenance and sales.
   • This exemption is valid for three years from the amendment date.
   • Manufacturers must declare and maintain records of these products and submit them to the Central Government.
   • Compressors and heat exchangers imported by domestic manufacturers specifically for export-oriented production are exempt from this order.
   • The export order must clearly mention that these components are meant for international sales. 
   • Stricter quality standards: All air conditioners must meet IS 1391 (Part 2): 2018 and obtain BIS certification.
   • More time to comply: Large compressors (>7000W) get one year of exemption.
   • R&D flexibility: Testing and product development can continue without immediate certification hurdles.
   • Clear deadlines: Previously manufactured/imported products can be sold only until March 31, 2024.
   • Maintenance support: Up to 6,000 compressors and heat exchangers per year can be used for repairs and after-sales support.
   • Encouragement for exports: Components used for export-oriented production remain exempt.

Also Read

BIS Certification for Room Air Conditioners-Specification Part 2: Split Air Conditioners-IS 1391 (Part 2): 2018