Room Air Conditioners, such as window ACs and portable ACs, are commonly used to maintain thermal comfort in residential, commercial and institutional areas. Such devices are crucial in order to ensure efficient performance, energy efficiency and safety of users from different weather conditions. Being such important devices for consumer safety and electrical reliability, these goods have to conform to the specifications provided by IS 1391 (Part 1):2023 for unitary air conditioners.
As per the Indian Standard, various technical aspects are taken into account in respect of room air conditioners, including cooling capacity, energy efficiency ratio, electrical safety, performance of the refrigerant system, performance of the compressor and overall mechanical and thermal durability. It is obligatory to conform to the BIS Quality Control Orders (QCO) and be certified according to IS 1391 (Part 1):2023 for production, import and marketing of air conditioners in India.
IS 1391 (Part 1):2023 is the Indian Standard that specifies safety and performance requirements for unitary air conditioners designed for single-phase operation up to defined capacity limits. It ensures that air conditioners function efficiently under Indian climatic conditions while maintaining electrical and user safety. As per BIS guidelines, these air conditioners are -
BIS certification as per IS 1391 (part 1)is required for all entities involved in the production and sale of these ACin India. It’s applicable for :
To ensure proper cooling performance and safe operation, the Bureau of Indian Standards have defined testing and inspection requirements under IS 1391 (Part 1):2023.
R (Required): Tests to be conducted in the manufacturer’s in-house facility
S (Subcontracting Allowed): Tests can be conducted in BIS-approved external laboratories
Component Compliance Check (S): Ensures parts like compressors, motors, heat exchangers, filters, and refrigerant pipes meet relevant IS standards
Supply Cord Verification (S): Confirms cables and conductors comply with specified standards
Temperature Control Check (S): Verifies proper functioning of sensing and control devices
High Voltage Test (R): Ensures insulation can withstand high voltage conditions
Leakage Current Test (R): Checks for current leakage during operation
Earth Resistance Test (R): Confirms proper grounding of the unit
Protection Against Electric Shock (S): Ensures safe access and insulation of live parts
Cooling Capacity Test (S): Verifies the unit delivers the declared cooling output
Heating Capacity Test (S): Checks heating performance (for applicable models)
Power Consumption Test (S): Measures energy usage under rated conditions
Power Factor Test (S): Evaluates electrical efficiency
Maximum Operating Condition Test (S): Checks performance under extreme conditions
Freeze-Up Test (S): Ensures system does not freeze during operation
Condensate Disposal Test (S): Verifies proper removal of water generated
Enclosure Sweat Test (S): Checks moisture formation on outer surfaces
Sound Pressure Test (S): Measures noise levels during operation
Heating Performance Test (S): Evaluates output under heating mode
General Running Test (R): Confirms basic operation of each unit
Leakage Test (R): Checks refrigerant leakage in every unit
Electrical Safety Tests (R): Includes voltage, current, and earthing checks for each unit
To obtain the license, the BIS certification process ensures that the product meets the required standard for proper and efficient operation as defined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The process includes the following steps:
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS approval for AC in india:
Foreign manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to coordinate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manage compliance requirements in India.
After obtaining the BIS license, the ISI mark for Window AC must be clearly and permanently applied on the product or its packaging. Other required details are provided in the table below. This ensures the product is compliant with applicable quality and safety standards.
Note: Marking should be done using stamping, tags, or permanent printing so the product can be easily identified during handling, storage, and transport, as per BIS requirements.
After getting BIS certification, the license is valid for a limited period. Manufacturers must follow BIS rules and maintain product quality to keep the license active.
License Validity Details
The cost of BIS certification includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
Note:
Unitary air conditioners covered under IS 1391 (Part 1):2023 are designed for indoor cooling and, in some cases, heating applications. The standard ensures that these units are built with proper components, tested for performance, and checked for electrical safety and operation. BIS certification helps confirm that the air conditioners meet these requirements and are suitable for use in residential and commercial spaces. With proper testing and documentation, manufacturers can complete the certification process without major issues. Support from an experienced BIS consultant like EVTL India can help manage compliance, handle documentation, and make the overall process faster and more organized.