Estimates, Running Costs and Checklists
AC buying and installation checklist for Indian homes: before, during and after
A step-by-step checklist for buying a split or window AC or a geyser in India, preparing the wiring, supervising installation and keeping the records you need for warranty.
Before you buy an AC in India, decide the tonnage from your room's heat load, compare two or three BEE labels by annual units, read the warranty card and the installation rate card, and check that your wiring, MCB and earthing can take the load. On installation day, insist on an authorised installer, vacuuming before the gas is released, a leak check at the joints, a sensible outdoor unit position and a continuous drain slope. Before paying, measure the copper pipe used, get an itemised GST invoice, and register the warranty. This page expands each step; a tickable version is the AC and geyser buying checklist tool.
Part of the AC and geyser total cost worked examples.
Stage 1: decide what to buy
| Check | How | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Room size and heat load | Length × width × height; note top floor, west sun, occupants | Avoid under- or oversizing (tonnage guide) |
| Hours of use | Estimate per day and months per year | Decides whether a higher star band pays back |
| Star band and label period | Read the label on the box or the product page image | Older tables show more stars for the same efficiency |
| Annual units | From the label | Basis of running cost |
| Format | Split, window, portable | Rental rules, wall and window layout |
| Refrigerant | Read the spec | Local service support (refrigerant basics) |
| Warranty | Read the card: whole unit, compressor, PCB, gas | Conditions such as authorised installation or registration |
| Installation terms | Standard kit length, rate card for extras | Avoid bill surprises |
Stage 2: compare offers fairly
- Compare the final price including GST. Room ACs are at 18% GST from 22 September 2025.
- The product price should not exceed the MRP on the package.
- If buying on EMI, compare the total paid with the best upfront price, including processing fees and GST on interest. Use the EMI calculator.
- If an exchange offer is applied, get the deduction written on the invoice or order.
- For online purchases, note the seller name, return policy and who arranges installation. See online purchase delays.
Stage 3: prepare the home
| Item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Electrical point | Dedicated circuit with appropriately rated MCB; socket or isolator near the indoor unit |
| Earthing | Working earth at the point; ask an electrician to test |
| Sanctioned load | Total connected load after adding the AC; apply to the DISCOM for enhancement if needed |
| Outdoor unit location | Open air, shade if possible, at least the clearances in the manual; a bracket or stand that can take the weight |
| Drain route | Where condensate water will go; not onto a neighbour's wall or a walkway |
| Society rules | Some housing societies restrict where outdoor units and pipes go on the façade; check the bye-laws |
| Access | Safe access for the installer to the outdoor position; avoid unsafe ledges |
For a geyser: a strong wall, a dedicated switch and socket of the correct rating, earthing, and preferably an RCCB protecting the bathroom circuit.
Stage 4: installation day
- Confirm the installer is the brand's or its authorised partner's; note the job or complaint number.
- Agree the outdoor unit position and pipe route before any drilling.
- Watch for the vacuum pump: lines should be evacuated before gas release. If no vacuum pump is used, ask why; air and moisture in the system reduce performance and can harm the compressor.
- Check that joints are leak-tested (soap solution or a detector).
- Check the indoor unit is level and the drain slopes downward with no loops.
- Make sure the outdoor unit is fixed firmly with anti-vibration pads where supplied.
- Run the AC for 15–20 minutes: check cold air, drain flow and noise.
- For a geyser, confirm the safety valve is fitted on the inlet and nothing blocks it.
Stage 5: before you pay and sign
| Item | Action |
|---|---|
| Pipe length | Measure; compare with the bill |
| Extras | Match each item to what was actually fitted |
| Invoice | Itemised; GST shown separately; GSTIN of provider if GST is charged |
| Job sheet | Note any concerns in writing before signing |
| Photos | Label, serial number plate, outdoor unit placement, pipe route |
| Warranty | Register online or with the installer if required; note the deadline |
| Old unit | If removed, ask for recovery of gas and a disposal or e-waste receipt where possible |
Stage 6: first month
- Clean filters after the first two or three weeks of heavy use.
- Note your meter reading for a few days with and without the AC to see its real units (AC electricity bill).
- If cooling is weak or water leaks indoors, complain to the brand within the warranty period and keep the complaint number.
FAQ
Do I need to be home during installation?
It is strongly advisable. Pipe routing, outdoor placement and the bill are all decided on the spot.
What if the installer asks for cash for "extra" items not on the rate card?
Ask for an itemised written bill and check it with the brand's helpline before paying.
Is an RCCB required?
Electrical safety requirements are set by the Central Electricity Authority's regulations and state rules. An RCCB is widely recommended for wet areas such as bathrooms. Ask a licensed electrician.
Sources
- Bureau of Energy Efficiency — star labels
- Central Electricity Authority — electrical safety regulations
- Department of Consumer Affairs — MRP and consumer protection
- National Consumer Helpline — complaints
