Does Your Air Conditioner (AC) Need BIS ISI Certification? A Complete Guide

In order to ascertain whether air conditioning products require certification, it is pertinent to know about the significance of various parts contributing to the efficient functioning of the appliance. While an air-conditioner provides cooling effectively, its success is dependent on many other components such as the compressor, the temperature-sensing device, and the heat transfer aspect.

For manufacturing, importing, or selling the regulated equipment in India, it is necessary for manufacturers, importers, and any foreign companies to understand the BIS ISI Certification for air conditioning products. The government Air Conditioner and associated Parts, Hermetic Compressor and Temperature-sensing Controls (Quality Control) Order, 2019 has provided the criteria to be adhered to as per BIS certification for air conditioning products.

Does certification apply only to complete air conditioners, or is it essential for components like compressors and temperature-sensing devices? This blog post outlines the relevant standards, the certification procedure, the necessary documents, the costs and the timeframes, as well as the compliance issues for both Indian and foreign manufacturers.

What is the Scope of the Air Conditioner (AC) Quality Control Order?

The Quality Control Order (QCO) applies to certain air-conditioning products and to the components connected with them; the relevant Indian Standard varies according to the type of product.

According to the QCO, the latest edition of the relevant Indian Standard, with all modifications issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards, comes into force from the date of its notification; companies must verify that they have the right standard and scope before applying it in practice.

Importance of Compressors and Temperature Control for Certification

The function of the compressor is to help the refrigerant circulate in the cooling system, and the temperature control system assists in controlling the processes according to the necessary temperature conditions. The efficiency and reliability of these devices influence the stability of the entire cooling system.

Under the QCO, the following areas deserve particular attention:

• Hermetic compressors
• Temperature-sensing controls
• Heat exchangers
• Complete air conditioners

Just because a component is included in the QCO doesn’t mean that all similar products have the same certification requirements; it is necessary to check the exact product definition, the technical specifications, the intended use, and the applicable exemptions.

Basic Requirements for BIS ISI Certification for Air Conditioners

Before applying for BIS ISI Certification for Indian manufacturers, the manufacturer must ensure that the product conforms to the relevant Indian Standard and that its factory is capable of consistently maintaining conformity.

Key requirements include:

• The product should be properly identified together with the relevant IS number.
• The manufacturing facilities and processes appropriate for the product.
• Equipment suitable for in-house testing and quality-control procedures.
• People with the necessary skills should carry out the tests required.
• The product samples and test reports required by the relevant certification procedure.
• Adherence to the relevant Scheme of Inspection and Testing.
• The correct marking and ability to trace certified products.
• Ready for the BIS factory assessment and the following surveillance.

The BIS looks at both whether the product conforms and the manufacturer’s abilities in manufacturing and testing. Obtaining certification is not simply a matter of approving documents.

Documents Required for BIS ISI Certification AC

The amount of documentation needed in order to obtain BIS Certification varies according to the product, the relevant standard, and the method of application. A typical preparation checklist comprises:

• Basic data of the manufacturing unit and the product segment
• For example, a title deed showing ownership or a utility bill as proof of the manufacturing unit’s address.
• Trademark registration certificate (if brand name is used and registered)
• Manufacturing licence / statutory approvals (where relevant – such as pollution
• control and industry-specific approvals)
• Product drawings/design schematics
• Installed manufacturing capacity
• List of materials used, and specification
• Details of manufacturing machinery and equipment
• The layout plan of the factory, including production and testing areas, and storage areas
• A detailed manufacturing process flow is given
• In-house test equipment and calibration information
• Information about the quality control personnel
• Factory organisational chart

The final checklist should be checked against the existing product manual and application requirements.

How to Obtain BIS ISI Certification for AC: A Step-by-Step Process

The process above follows the Scheme I approach. The exact requirements may vary from product to product and from the chosen option for certification.

Step 1: Determination of Indian Standard for the Appropriate Product

Determine the appropriate IS number for the air conditioner, hermetic compressor, heat exchanger, or temperature sensing control, and review the QCO and its amendments.

• What type of product and which standard applies?
• Ensure that all safety and performance requirements are met.
• Determining manufacturing deficiencies.

Step 2: Testing and Documentation of Product

• Collect the necessary product and documentation for certification.
• Complete the testing according to the corresponding standard.
• Prepare the product specification, drawings, and factory information.
• Compile quality control documents and calibration certificates.

Step 3: Application Filing

Submit the application via the BIS Manakonline portal along with the necessary documentation and payment of the fee.

• Applicant and Factory Information.
• Product Specification and Model Information.
• Required statements and supporting documents.

Step 4: BIS Factory Inspection

The BIS is authorized to conduct an inspection of the manufacturing unit to ensure that compliance is maintained.

• Manufacturing process & equipment
• Quality Control Procedures
• Facilities used for testing and technical records.

Step 5: Product Testing and Report Evaluation

The product samples are tested according to the appropriate Indian Standard, like IS 1391 for Room Air Conditioner and IS 10617 for Hermetic Compressor.

Step 6: Non-Conformities Resolved

The defect found in the testing or inspection process can be resolved through the rectification process or issuing corrected documents or further testing.

Step 7: Payment of Fee

After satisfying the relevant certification requirements, pay the prescribed licence, marking, and other applicable fees.

Step 8: Grant of BIS ISI Licence

Once the relevant requirements have been satisfactorily met, BIS may grant a licence for the use of the ISI Standard Mark on approved products, provided that the licence conditions are accepted and ongoing compliance is maintained.

BIS ISI Certification Cost for Air Conditioners, Compressors and Temperature Controls

The charges incurred in obtaining BIS ISI Certification of air conditioning products depend on the applicable Indian Standard, type of testing to be performed on the product, factory inspection, and the applicable BIS fees. The following table gives an approximate idea of the costs involved; the actual costs may vary based on the product and method of certification.

BIS Estimated Timeline and Licence Validity for AC

The time taken to obtain BIS Certification India will vary according to the product category, the results of the testing, the readiness of the factory, and the completeness of the application.

• For Indian manufacturers: in simple cases, it takes about 30 to 40 working days; the actual processing time may differ.
• For foreign manufacturers, the process of obtaining certification may take as long as six months or even longer, depending on the factory inspection, the testing and the documentation.
• The initial licence validity is generally two years under the provisions of Scheme I.
• Renewal may be granted for a period of up to five years, provided that the relevant BIS requirements and licence conditions are met.

In order to be able to use the ISI Mark legally, manufacturers must keep to ongoing compliance, satisfy the renewal requirements, and adhere to the conditions set out by BIS regarding marking.

Common Challenges Manufacturers Should Prepare For AC

If enterprises wish to receive BIS Certification for AC (air conditioning) items, it is possible that they will encounter a variety of problems. These problems could consist of selecting the appropriate standard, explaining the conditions that are relevant to parts, preparing the technical documents, arranging for product testing, and ensuring that the factory testing facility corresponds to the needs.

Foreign producers may also have to deal with their overseas factory assessments, select an appropriate AIR, and deal with extra documents and logistics.

The most convenient option is to search for possible gaps before applying instead of waiting for the outcome of inspection or for the regulatory remarks.

What makes UMSPCS the Choice BIS Certification for AC?

At UMSPCS, we assist manufacturers and businesses in meeting product certification requirements by using a method that is focused on documentation and tailored to each specific product.

With 6+ years of compliance experience and support covering 600+ product compliance requirements, our assistance can include:

• Product and standard identification
• Documentation support
• Testing coordination
• Factory-readiness assessment
• Foreign manufacturer support
• Application and query assistance
• Ongoing compliance guidance

The approach aims to align the product with the regulatory route taken by the manufacturer. The BIS licensing remains dependent on the evaluation and consent of BIS.

Conclusion

Does the air conditioning equipment, its hermetic compressor, or temperature sensing control require BIS ISI Certification? It is necessary to verify the need for certification if the product falls under the Quality Control Order in order to manufacture, import, or sell it in India.

All the aspects of the correct Indian Standard, the product scope, the testing arrangements, factory readiness, and the most recent QCO amendments are important; having a clear compliance plan will help to cut down on avoidable delays and get your business ready for certification.

Looking to get BIS ISI Certification for Air Conditioner products or for related components?

For a product-specific compliance assessment and for assistance with the relevant documentation, testing coordination, and the certification process, you should contact UMSPCS.

Read more also: Will Your Chinese Furniture and Electrical Products Meet Indian BIS

FAQs

1. Is it necessary to have BIS ISI Certification for air conditioners in India?

The air conditioners and other products which are the subject of the relevant QCO must comply with the prescribed Indian Standard and with the BIS marking requirements, provided that there are applicable exemptions.

2. What Indian Standard applies to split air conditioners?

The original QCO mentions IS 1391 (Part 2):2018 for split air conditioners, and one should consult the latest notified version prior to proceeding.

3. Is there a need for BIS certification of hermetic compressors?

Hermetic compressors under the QCO shall satisfy all necessary certification criteria; emphasis is placed on product type, capacity, use, and any exemption from the scope.

4. Which standard applies to temperature sensing controls?

According to the original QCO, the standard applicable to temperature-sensing control devices is IS/IEC 60730 (Part 2/Section 9):2011; nonetheless, one must verify it with BIS.

5. Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS ISI Certification?

Foreign manufacturers who are eligible may apply via the appropriate BIS certification route, which includes the FMCS route for products falling within its scope, provided that they satisfy the relevant requirements regarding the factory, testing, and representative.

6. Will compressor imports be free from BIS requirements in 2026?

In May 2026, a limited exemption was granted for certain imports of compressors for use in manufacturers’ own production, on a quantity basis and subject to other conditions until 31 March 2027. This exemption is not universal.