Best Air Conditioner Brands In India

Despite the dwindling economic situation in the country, the onset of summers generally, marks high demand for coolers and air conditioners. It has always been a cherished perception that it is the upper middle and high income class people who can afford air conditioners and others have to find solace in the coolness of those cumbersome coolers. But lately, there has been a splurge in the purchasing of air conditioners even by people pertaining to middle class as they offer efficient cooling with luxury and gives you least problems in terms of maintenance.

With the inception of newer and better technologies, people are becoming more aware of the brands available in the market and the unique features they are offering to minimise costs and upgrade the worth of the product. Based on the country’s climatic conditions and consumer behaviour, there are some of the best air conditioner brands India who are launching five star rated highly energy efficient ACs, which not only flaunt exceptional styling aesthetics but have added features that increases the performance value of the product.

Some of the most innovative features that the most modern ACs possess are air purification, humidity control and non toxic mosquito repelling feature that promises you sound sleep as it kills mosquitoes without releasing any toxic substance in the air. A country where dengue and malaria spreads like epidemics during the monsoons, such advanced air conditioners are a must. On the contrary, the high use of water based coolers have become a pertinent cause for rise in mosquitoes in the rainy season.

Since there is humongous versatility in terms of cost, features, performance and energy efficiency in some of the best air conditioner brands, here is a list of factors that will help you in selecting an air conditioner suitable for your diverse needs:

1. Energy Efficiency

To combat the heat felt during rising temperatures of summers but keeping in mind of the surging per unit electricity rates, it would be the best decision to opt for highly energy efficient models of air conditioner. Nowadays, every air conditioner comes with a star rated EER (Energy Efficiency Ratings) that is certified by BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency). So go for air conditioners that boast high number of stars as more stars mean greater energy savings.

2. Capacity

It is important to purchase an air conditioner in accordance with the floor space of the room for which it is desired. As per a rough measure, it can be said that if the area of the room ranges between 120 to 140 sq.ft., the capacity of AC required will be 1 ton, while for 150 to 180 sq.ft, the AC should be of 1.5 ton capacity. Similarly, if the area is about 180 to 240 sq.ft, the room will require 2 ton cooling capacity of air conditioner.

3. Air Quality

If you want to install AC at home, then it becomes important to check the indoor air quality of the room. You must always go for an AC that has a good filter to maintain the air quality so that you get clean air along with efficient cooling performance. If the air quality gets improved, then the energy efficiency of the AC improves as the choking of evaporating coil due to dust gets prevented.

4. Installation Requirements

Since the window AC is a compact unit that has to be installed in the windows, it is usually a hassle free process. However, the split AC has two units – one is the compressor unit fixed outside the house and other unit is installed within the room. The installation should always be performed by service technicians from the authorised service centre of the brand because incorrect installation will definitely imply a compromise on the performance of the AC.

5. Product Price

Everything comes for a price and a pretty piece of luxury like an air conditioner is definitely not everyone’s cup of tea. When you get attracted to an AC unit that is loaded with most advanced features and has higher star ratings, then you will have to shell out more money. It is known that for every increase in star rating, the price moves up by Rs. 2500, approximately. In addition, if you build a liking for the Inverter AC, then get ready to pay a price higher by 20 percent than the split AC.

6. Split Or Window AC

This is yet another factor to consider in case you are looking to buy something pocket friendly. Window ACs are cheaper and is easy to install and maintain while split ACs are quieter, looks premium with better area coverage of cool air. Window ACs would however, be a better option in case you have a small room.

7. Maintenance & Cleaning

To ensure that your AC performs its best and its components remain in optimum condition, it must be regularly maintained. Regular servicing in every four or six months may require you to pay some reasonable amounts but it will assure increased product durability.

8. Cooling Speed

Taking into consideration the rise and fall in mercury levels during different times of the day, the AC should obviously have the thermostat function with at least two cooling speeds and two fan speeds. The latest ACs come with energy efficient settings that helps in saving energy while keeping the cooling optimum.

9. After Sales Service

While there will be endless options when you will go for shopping an AC, always look for a brand that is known for its quality after sales service and gives you good warranty too. Ensure that the brand has a well dispersed network of service centres in your region and has a high reputation not only for its products but also in maintaining lifelong relationship with the customer.

10. Multi-purpose

Gone are the days when ACs were meant to be used only in summers. Lately, the multi-seasonal ACs have become popular, which can be used even in winters for heating. It has been researched that the multi-seasonal ACs save up to 35 percent more energy than heaters. Moreover, these ACs work best even in monsoon seasons as they have special Humidity Control functions to give you high cooling comfort and improved air quality in all seasons.

Additionally, do not forget to check the noise levels of the model, which must range between 19 to 60 decibels. Also it would be great if your AC has sleep mode function that automatically controls the temperature during the night. You must also look for an AC that auto restarts from the last temperature setting after a power break.

Moreover, following are some tips to consider before buying an air conditioner that may be of great help in case you don’t want to repent about your purchase later:

1. Brand

While choosing the best air conditioner brand, it is important to select the one who provides you highest EER, low maintenance costs, high quality performance and trouble free after sales service.

2. Size Of The Room

It is basically the size of the room that will determine the size and capacity of the air conditioner. In case you buy a bigger one, then the AC will not be able to provide proper dehumidification, while the smaller one will cost you higher due to greater energy consumption. You must analyse and decide what capacity of AC will be apt for your room size.

3. Weather Conditions

You will have to face extreme weather conditions in India and hence, choosing an AC that will deliver excellent performance in such fickle weather conditions is necessary.

4. Exposure To Heat & Sunlight

In case your are about to install your air conditioner in a place that shares the wall with your kitchen or is closer to it or will be exposed to sunlight, then you will need an AC with higher cooling capacity or its effect won’t be felt.

5. Usage

It is recommended to buy an AC having at least 3 star rating, if your usage varies between 8 to 10 hours a day for 3 to 4 months. However, in case the usage is extended to 5 to 7 months, you should deliberately go for an AC having 5 star rating. For the usage continuing up to 10 to 12 months, you must buy an AC having cooling only feature or Hot & Cold Inverter AC.

Now that you know what all factors you must keep in mind before investing in such an expensive asset, it becomes important to know about the best air conditioner brands in India to take the final step in your research:

1. General India

A joint venture of ETA-A SCON STAR, Dubai and Fujitsu General (FGL), Japan, established in the year 2000, General India is its Indian subsidiary that has been positioned as a company selling premium air conditioners. The company has established its goodwill as being the first ever start up to sell highest volumes of ACs in its first full year of operations. It has been marking surging sales and expansion of its operations ever since it started with its two basic models – window and split AC models. Over the time, General India has concreted its stand in the Indian AC market by offering full range of products like Window ACs, Split-Cooling ACs, Split-Hot & Cold ACs, Inverter-Cooling ACs, Inverter-Hot & Cold ACs, Cassette-Cooling ACs, Inverter Cassette-Hot & Cold ACs, Ductable ACs and VRF Systems.

The products of General India promise superior cooling performance and long lasting durability, which is a result of its continuous innovation and extensive research and development activities. It has a wide outreach of nine branch office in terms of sales and service and also has a resident personnel in every major market in India. Moreover, to cater to the after sales service needs of its customers, the company has exclusive General Arcades and Franchisees.

As far as the best in class features are concerned, General India has equipped its air conditioners with Coanda airflow technology, inner groove copper tube, i-PAM and V-PAM controls, anti-corrosion treatment for ODU and heat exchanger fins, economy mode, auto-restart, sleep mode timer, program timer, auto-moisture prevent, up/down swing flaps, quiet operation, etc. With such wide range of high-end ACs loaded with cutting edge technological features, you definitely must consider this brand in your next purchase.

2. Mitsubishi Electric

After its introduction in the Indian market, Mitsubishi Electric has emerged as one of the most competitive companies selling air conditioners. The company endeavours to deliver high performance and innovative products to raise as a pioneer in offering customers, value for their money.  The core concept of Mitsubishi Electric Quality is to provide the best experience in their products, services, relationships and people. As a corporate citizen, the company believes in the statement ‘Changes for the Better’ by manufacturing products that helps in saving energy and environment.

Mitsubishi Electric has established its stance as a world leader in air conditioning systems using its exemplary technology that performs with efficacy in wide ranging climatic conditions. The company claims that each of its product is unique and delivers years of quiet operation, energy-efficient performance while being sensitive towards the environment. Apart from designing powerful plus elegant air conditioners, the company has equipped them with world class features like Catachin Plus air purifying filter, easy cleaning, wide and long throw of air, Dot Liquid Crystal Display, auto-restart, mere 19 decibels of noise, eco-friendly operations, anti allergy enzyme filter, etc.

3. Hitachi

The Indian stream of the Japanese company Hitachi is yet another fierce player in household and industrial equipment industry. The company has staunch belief in its corporate statement that says ‘Inspire the Next’, which means to breathe life in the coming age. The Japanese word Hitachi means ‘Sunrise’ and after its debut in India, it has been rising and shining owing to its enlarging customer base, specifically for its range of air conditioners.

Offering its customers a huge range of air conditioners, Hitachi has been endeavouring to become the best air conditioner brand and has proved its dedication in designing ACs that are meant to meet demands of people living diverse lifestyles. With its breakthrough in technological advancements, Hitachi is manufacturing ACs that are reliable, efficient and of undeniably high quality that suits cooling requirements of any area and surrounding, regardless its size. The company claims to provide the most energy efficient air conditioners in India and has an exemplary network of service centres across the nation to maintain enduring relationship with its customers. Mastering in window and split air conditioners, Hitachi offers its customers highly appealing appliance that incorporates extremely intelligent features such as inverter technology, Ace cut out, follow me, auto clean technology, silent operation, etc.

4. Daikin

Another Japanese company that has conquered the air conditioner market in India of late, is Daikin Airconditioning India Pvt. Ltd, which has been rolling out premium ACs for commercial and residential purposes. With its widening outreach in India, the robust demand for ACs is expected to further shoot up the company’s market share in both residential and industrial projects. With 11 branch offices (sales & service), 15 sales offices, 300+ Daikin Solution Plaza (DSP), 3100+ channel partners, 310 plus authorised service providers, 4 mother warehouses and 22 supporting warehouses, Daikin is definitely nailing its position deeper in the Indian market.

The company has designed different series of air conditioners that offer advanced climate control, night set mode, quiet operation, anti-corrosion treatment of outdoor heat exchanger, intelligent eye technology, Coanda airflow, stabilizer free operation, econo mode, 3D airflow, Silver particle anti-bacterial filter, etc.

5. Panasonic

With brand slogan, ‘A Better Life, A Better World’, Panasonic India, the fully owned subsidiary of the Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer, is dedicated to provide new value for better living to homes, communities, businesses, etc. The company has wide range of products in Indian market such smartphones, cameras, LCD & plasma TVs, washing machines, refrigerators, microwave ovens, air conditioners, vacuum cleaners, etc. Panasonic believes in conducting aggressive market research to convert opinions into ideas and ideas into innovative products.

With humongous brand value and popularity in India, Panasonic has been ruling the minds of the customers through its world class air conditioners in window and split models that offer unique features such as nanoe-g air purification system, powerful mode, temperature display, composite micro channel condenser, Blue Fin condenser with anti-rust coating, high star rating, etc.  

6. Blue Star

Blue Star is India’s leading air conditioning brand that has been popular among customers in the country not only for its diverse range of products but also for tagging their products with affordable prices. With dense network of 35 offices, 5 modern manufacturing facilities, 2200 dealers and 500 retailers, the company has ensured to mark its footprint in every corner of India and provide its customers with seamless service.

Apart from catering to the cooling needs of corporates, Blue Star has earned the reputation even due to its large residential customer base. For your home cooling needs, the company has equipped its ACs with awesome features like wide angle airflow, anti-freeze thermostat, powder coated outer body, sleep mode, auto restart with memory function, advanced air filtration, etc., which is available in its varied split, inverter and window AC models.

7. Samsung

After commencing its Indian operations in the year 1995, Samsung Electronics has been achieving roaring success year after year. From manufacturing smartphones to air conditioners, Samsung India has been endowed with numerous awards to recognise its enormous contribution in introducing newer technologies in this arena. Since the fast paced global economy demands innovation for the very survival of any business, Samsung has been determined to know the ever changing needs of the customers and developing improvised versions of its products to ensure long term success.

When it comes to manufacturing air conditioners, Samsung has emerged as a company that has been winning satisfied and loyal customers. For circulating cool air faster, farther and wider, Samsung has incorporated its ACs with cool features like special triangular design, Virus Doctor, easy filter, stabilizer free operation, singer user mode for conserving energy, engine protector, anti-corrosion fin protector, crystal gloss finish body, etc. Samsung definitely packs modern technology with aristocratic designing in a price tag that will compel you to say that the air conditioners are nothing but value for the money paid.

8. LG

The delightfully smart brand with ‘Life’s Good’ slogan is undoubtedly raising the bars of lifestyle led by people across the world owing to its company philosophy that believes in humanity. LG believes in keeping close and bonding relationships with its customers and has faith that its products represent unbeatable quality and sophistication.

With its diverse Indian portfolio, LG has been a market leader in most of its consumer electronic product segments, but when it comes to air conditioners, LG has abstract features to offer. The path breaking technologies of LG air conditioners offer features like non-toxic mosquito away technology, 4 way swing, Himalaya cool, micro dust protection filter, monsoon comfort, auto clean, multi-flow condenser, sweet dreamz mode, auto restart, etc.

9. Voltas

For more than six decades, it is Voltas, A TATA Enterprise that has been offering next generation cooling technologies by being the first to introduce indigenous room air conditioner and split AC. It claims to be the first company to adopt energy efficient star rated products and roping in All Weather ACs in India, thereby setting a benchmark in the segment. The largest AC selling brand in India has the zest to bring in futuristic product designing for every evolving customer and maintain lifelong relationship through its widely spread after sales network. Apart from being customer centric, Voltas aims at fulfilling its corporate social responsibility by ensuring that it works to assure a greener tomorrow.

Talking about the Voltas air conditioners that guarantees top notch performance with suave designing, some of its notable and best in class features are large LED display, turbo mode, auto swing, auto restart, fresh air ventilation, sleep mode, memory function, glow light button, LCD remote, anti-dust filters, ionizer, cross flow, etc.

Since these best air conditioner brands in India have been developing products to suit the needs of every prospective customer, you may not have spend days in finalising your purchase as you are now aware of what kind of AC you need. So the next time you hit the market for buying an air conditioner for your home, you will not be trapped in an ambiguous situation.