When comparing a refrigerator, air conditioner or other appliance, the star label can help make energy performance easier to understand. India’s Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) runs a Standards and Labelling programme to help consumers compare similar products. Here is a practical way to read the label before you buy.
Start with the product and model details
Check that the label belongs to the exact appliance model you are considering. Compare like with like: products in different capacity or product classes may use different test conditions and label information. Note the brand, model number, product type and label period. A label for one model does not automatically describe another model from the same brand.
Understand the star rating and energy figure
BEE describes its star scale from one to five, with five stars indicating the most energy-efficient performance within the applicable product category and label framework. The label may also show annual energy consumption or other product-specific information. Use the energy figure as a comparison point alongside the star rating; do not assume that two different appliance categories can be compared directly.
Actual household electricity use depends on how often and how the appliance is used, room conditions, settings, maintenance, installation and other factors. The label is a standardised comparison aid, not a promise of a particular bill amount.
Check the label is genuine and current
BEE’s consumer information describes a QR-based system for checking registered product specifications. If the label has a QR code, scan it using BEE’s official Star Label app or check the product through the official BEE database. Confirm that the model and displayed specifications match the appliance and its packaging.
Before making a choice
- Compare the same type and capacity of appliance.
- Check the model number and label period, not only the brand name.
- Consider the annual energy-use figure, expected usage and purchase price together.
- Ask the seller to show the label on the specific unit and retain the bill and warranty details.
- For air conditioners, refrigerators and other major appliances, include installation and maintenance requirements in your comparison.
A higher star rating can indicate better energy performance under the programme’s test framework, but the best choice depends on the appliance, usage and total cost. Use the official product-specific information rather than relying on a general claim in an advertisement.
Official sources: BEE Star Labelled Appliances · BEE QR-code and consumer app information
Disclaimer: This is general consumer information, not a product recommendation or estimate of household savings. Label rules and product details can vary by appliance category and may change; check the current BEE database and product documentation.
