Split air conditioners are widely used in residential and
commercial spaces for their efficient cooling and quiet operation. Comprising
an indoor evaporator unit and an outdoor condenser unit, split ACs offer
flexibility in installation and better noise control compared to window units.
BIS certification under IS 1391 (Part 2): 2023 ensures that these systems meet strict national standards for cooling capacity, energy efficiency, electrical safety, and noise levels. The certification assures consumers of reliable, safe, and energy-efficient products, with the ISI mark serving as a guarantee of quality and compliance with the specified standards.
introduction
Room air conditioners are cooling systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor
temperatures in homes, offices, and small commercial spaces. These units help control
heat and humidity, making indoor environments more suitable during hot weather. They
are available in different types and capacities based on room size and usage.
To make sure these air conditioners work properly and meet safety requirements, the
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set guidelines under IS 1391 (Part 2):2023.
Manufacturers need to obtain BIS certification before selling these products in the
Indian market, confirming that the air conditioners meet defined standards for
performance and electrical safety.
Overview of IS 1391 (Part 2): 2023 Standard
This Indian Standard covers the requirements for room air conditioners, focusing mainly
on performance aspects like energy efficiency. It is issued by the Bureau of Indian
Standards (BIS) to ensure that air conditioners deliver proper cooling while using power
in an efficient way.
The standard ensures that the product is:
- Designed to provide the declared cooling output under test conditions
- Evaluated for energy efficiency to control power consumption
- Suitable for use in residential and small commercial spaces
- Built with proper components and system design
- Tested for performance parameters like cooling capacity, power input, and
efficiency rating
Who Needs BIS certification for Room AC?
BIS certification as per IS 1391 (part 2) is required for all entities involved in the
production and sale of these AC in India.
It’s applicable for the following:
- Manufacturers – Must obtain BIS certification for room AC made in India.
- Importers – Must ensure imported products are BIS certified before sale.
- Suppliers/Distributors – Must sell only BIS-compliant product in the market.
BIS Testing & Quality Standards for Split AC
To ensure safe performance, energy efficiency, and reliable cooling operation, the
Bureau of Indian Standards has defined strict testing and inspection requirements under
IS 1391 (Part 2): 2023.
What are R and S?
-
R (Required): Tests must be carried out in the manufacturer’s in-house testing facility
-
S (Subcontracting Allowed): Tests can be conducted in BIS-recognized or
NABL-accredited external laboratories
Construction & Component Quality Checks
- Material Compliance Verification (R) – Ensures all components like
compressors, motors, heat exchangers, and filters meet specified IS standards
- Supply Cord & Electrical Components Check (S) – Confirms safety and
compliance of cables and conductors (ISI marked or certified)
- Refrigerant Circuit Inspection (R) – Ensures proper installation and leak-proof
system design
- Air Filter & HEPA Filter Verification (R/S) – Confirms filtration efficiency and
compliance with applicable standards
- Temperature Control System Check (R) – Ensures proper functioning of
thermostats and sensors
- Earthing Provision Test (R) – Confirms proper grounding for electrical safety
Electrical Safety & Routine Performance Tests
- General Running Test (R) – Ensures smooth operation of AC under normal
conditions
- Leakage / Pressure Test (R) – Detects refrigerant leakage and system integrity
- High Voltage Test (R) – Verifies insulation strength and electrical safety
- Leakage Current Test (R) – Ensures current leakage is within safe limits
- Earth Resistance Test (R) – Confirms effective grounding and protection against
shocks
Performance & Efficiency Testing
- Cooling Capacity Test (S) – Measures actual cooling performance under
standard conditions
- Heating Performance Test (S) – Verifies heating efficiency (for heat pump
models)
- Power Consumption Test (S) – Ensures energy usage is within specified limits
- Power Factor Test (S) – Checks electrical efficiency of the system
- Maximum Operating Condition Test (S) – Evaluates performance under
extreme conditions
- Freeze-Up Test (S) – Ensures coil does not freeze during operation
- Enclosure Sweat Test (S) – Checks condensation formation on unit surfaces
- Sound Pressure Test (S) – Measures noise levels during operation
Safety & Special Condition Tests
- Electric Strength & Protection Test (S) – Prevents access to live electrical
parts
- Leakage Current at Operating Temperature (S) – Ensures safety during actual
usage
- Refrigerant Safety Test (R) – Confirms safe handling of refrigerants (including
A3 type where applicable)
How to Get BIS License for Room AC
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:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak Online Portal by submitting company details, factory information, and product specifications. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India.
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories to evaluate electrical safety, cooling performance, durability, and overall performance as per requirements.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with laboratory test reports, technical documents, manufacturing process details, and factory information. Foreign manufacturers must also provide AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the manufacturing unit to verify production processes, quality control systems, safety measures, and compliance with the standard.
- Grant of BIS License: If all requirements are successfully met, BIS issues the certification license under Scheme-I, allowing the manufacturer to produce and sell certified products.
- Use of ISI Mark: After certification approval, the manufacturer is permitted to use the ISI mark along with a CM/L number on the product, confirming compliance with the standard.
documents required for bis certification
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS certification:
| Basic Details | - GST Certificate
- Email ID & Contact Number
- Factory & Office Address
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable)
|
| Legal Documents | - Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
|
| Manufacturing Details | - List of machinery
- Process flow chart
- Layout Plan of Factory
|
| Raw Material Details | - List of Raw Materials
- Supplier Details
- Raw Material Invoices
- Raw Material Test Certificates
|
| Testing & Quality Control | - List of Testing Equipment
- Calibration Certificates
- QC / Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification
|
| Production Details | - Annual Installed Capacity
- Last Year Production Value
|
| Product & Packaging Details | - Quantity per Package
- Nature of Packing
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
| Management Details | - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
|
| Brand & Certification Documents | - Trademark / Brand Certificate
- Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory
|
| Additional Documents | - Weekly Off Details
- Hygiene Document (if applicable)
- Relaxation Letter (if applicable)
- Any Other Relevant Document
|
Marking Requirements and ISI Labelling
After obtaining the BIS license, the ISI mark for split air conditioners 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.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and follows to the standard |
| Standard Number | IS 1391 (Part 2) |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
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.
BIS License Validity for AC
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
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillance | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
BIS Approval Cost for room air conditioners
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.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
|---|
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- Marking fee depends on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-approved laboratories.
- Consultancy fees depend on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
BIS certification for Split Air Conditioners under IS 1391 (Part 2): 2023 ensures that the product meets the highest standards of safety, energy efficiency, and performance. Obtaining the ISI mark is a guarantee that the air conditioner has been tested for reliable operation, safety, and cooling efficiency.For manufacturers, BIS certification is not only a legal requirement but also an important step toward gaining consumer trust and improving marketability. EVTL India offers expert consultancy services to guide manufacturers through the BIS certification process, ensuring a seamless application and compliance with the standards.
