Which Is Better 3 Star Or 5 Star AC For Home?

You might be wondering what the star rating means in an AC, and we have the answer. It’s simply the amount of energy-saving capability. But which rating is better? Let’s understand that with best AC models with 3-star and 5-star ratings from top AC brands.

AC
3 and 5 Star ACs

The efficiency star rating of an AC lets you enjoy the cooling comfort without a guilty conscience. It is calculated by BEE in India and helps in determining which are the best ACs for home. The maximum rating any model can reach is 5 star, which means that it uses less energy than the lower rated models like 3 star ACs. It also helps in clearing the myth about ACs being the reason for our Ozone layer depletion that has been around for a while. Newer models for ACs come with more environmentally friendly gas like R32 Refrigerant which were not there in the older models. 

There are many other things that the BEE rating label states that you can use to determine which AC is better for your home, even if they are both rated the same. Among the most popular models of ACs for homes, there are 3 and 5 star rated ACs so let’s explore some examples from top AC brands so you can compare their ratings and ISEER. Get into how you can read the BEE label for the best split ACs and what different rating means for the power usage and environment. 

Which ACs Offer The Most Efficiency?

To compare the power usage of 3 and 5 star ACs, you need to explore the BEE labels of some popular variants. For your convenience, we have handpicked the models from both categories and mentioned their relevant information together with their rating and label information. 

Top Seven Products

  • Voltas 1.5 ton 3 Star, Inverter Split AC

    Combining affordability with power saving, the Voltas 1.5 Ton AC offers 4 adjustable modes to suit the varying number of people in the room. This split AC optimizes power consumption and reduces noise levels for a more peaceful indoor environment through the inverter compressor. An anti-dust filter is included in the design, which purifies the indoor air by removing dust and other particles, making it suitable for homes with allergy concerns and children. The 100% copper condenser coil ensures better heat exchange, durability, and low maintenance. With the Self Diagnosis feature, any issue that might arise can be solved by simply connecting with the brand support, reducing the need to call third-party technicians. 

    Specifications: 

    • Brand: ‎Voltas
    • Model: ‎183V Vectra CAW
    • Capacity: 1.5 Tons
    • Annual Energy Usage: 975.26 kWh
    • Noise Level: 38 dB

    Pros:

    • LED Display For Tracking The Temperature 
    • Self-Diagnosis For Easy Problem-Solving
    • Sleep Mode For Low Noise

    Cons:

    • No Smart Features

    ISEER: 3.81

    Star Rating: 3 Star

    01
  • LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star DUAL Inverter Split AC

    Offering 6 AI convertible Modes, this LG 1.5 Ton AC is able to sense the room temperature and adjust the settings accordingly to maximise the cooling while saving energy at the same time. Powered by a Dual inverter compressor, it accelerates the heat transfer to deliver faster cooling and has a high cooling capacity of 116%, known as VIRAAT mode. Featuring 100% copper with Ocean Black Protection, the unit resists corrosion and extends longevity, especially in coastal or humid regions. The 4-way swing ensures even airflow distribution across the room, which helps in keeping the room chilled for longer, even after the AC is turned off. Designed to handle high ambient temperatures of 55 degrees Celsius, it is able to work in places such as Delhi where the summers are more harsh. 

    Specifications:

    • Brand: ‎LG
    • Model: ‎US-Q19YNZE
    • Capacity: ‎1.5 Tons
    • Annual Energy Usage: ‎744.75 Kilowatt Hours Per Year
    • Noise Level: ‎31 dB

    Pros:

    • Dual Inverter For Fast Cooling 
    • AI Mode For Cooling Based On Detected Heat
    • Diet+ Mode for Extra Power Saving

    Cons:

    • Installation Was Sub-Par For Some Users

    ISEER: 5:20 

    Energy Rating: 5 Star

    02
  • Hitachi 1.5 Ton Class 3 Star Inverter Split AC

    Hitachi has been known to create innovative ACs till the present date and their 1.5 ton model with Ice Clean technology is no exception and lives up to their top AC brands reputation. It ensures that AC stays clean from dust particles which can jam up inside and damage the efficiency of the product. As it comes with a 3 star rating from BEE, it signals that this AC would be careful in using power and try to save as much as it can, which can save you from the surges in bills during summers. The Xpandable+ technology of this AC makes sure that it offers cooling even if the temperature gets very hot or humid like 45°C. It comes with many user-friendly features such as My Mode which helps in creating a personalized cooling experience. With the Silent Air feature, you can make sure that there is no disturbance to your sleep as the AC would function at low noise level. This AC has a long air throw which means that the cold air would reach the far end of the room, making it suitable for everyone in the family. 

    Specifications:

    • Brand: Hitachi
    • Model: RAS.G318PCBIBF
    • Capacity: 1.5 Tons
    • Noise Level: ‎34 dB
    • Cooling Power: 5 Kilowatts
    • Product Dimensions: 23D x 95W x 29.4H Centimeters

    Pros:

    • Copper Condenser Coil For Low Maintenance 
    • Environmental Friendly 
    • Optimal Filtration

    Cons:

    • Some Users Feel That The Build Is Average

    ISEER: 3.82

    Energy Rating: 3 Star

    03
  • Blue Star 1.5 Ton 5 Star Wi-Fi Smart Inverter Split AC

    Coming with an Inverter Compressor, this Blue Star Split AC can be used at a varied speed and a 4-way swing which creates all around cooling. One smart feature integrated into this is the voice enabling through Google Assistant and Alexa with the ability to connect to WiFi. The 15 ton size allows it to cool down a medium sized room with effectiveness, making it suitable for most households. It has a dust filter which helps in reducing the amount of miniscule particles from the air, making the air you breathe more clean and fresh. Allowing you to schedule the timings of the AC through the Blue Star App, you don’t have to manually turn it off in the middle of the night or have to be in the room to operate it. Making use of the R32 refrigerant gas, it ensures that the environmental impact is minimal. 

    Specifications:

    • Brand: Blue Star
    • Model: ‎IC518ZNURS
    • Capacity: 1.5 Tons
    • Form Factor: Split System
    • Product Dimensions: 22.3D x 95W x 31.7H Centimeters
    • Noise Level‎: 45 dB

    Pros:

    • Voice Command Allowed 
    • Smart Scheduling 
    • Uses AI To Adjust The Temperature

    Cons:

    • N/A

    ISEER: 5.05

    Energy Rating: 5 Star

    04
  • Cruise 2 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC

    Perfect for the humidity in the rainy season, the Cruise 2 ton Split AC has a monsoon comfort mode, which removes the clamminess from the air and makes it feel cool without the tacky feeling. Using the variable tonnage technology, it is able to adjust the room cooling temperature based on requirements. Having 4 in 1 convertible option allows you to adjust the cooling capacity based on the people in the room, allowing more flexibility during house parties and guest visits. During nights, the comfort sleep mode is made to automatically adjust the cooling and fan speed to make sure that your REM mode is not disturbed. Boasting a rust-o-blue technology that lessens the chances of rust and corrosion on the copper condenser, elongating the AC’s life. Filtering the air using the PM2.5 Air Filters, there is a significant removal of dust and allergens from your surroundings. Ideal for eco-conscious people, this utilizes a R32 refrigerant gas, which has no ozone depletion potential. 

    Specifications:

    • Brand: Cruise
    • Capacity: 2 Tons
    • Cooling Power: 6.1 Kilowatts
    • Condenser Coil: Copper 
    • Refrigerant gas: R32 Gas 
    • Noise Level: ‎49 dB
    • Product Dimensions: 23D x 100W x 29.5H Centimeters

    Pros:

    • 4-in-1 Convertible Cooling For Extra Personalized Energy Saving 
    • Perfect For Larger Rooms
    • Helps In Removing Extra Moisture In A Space 
    • Rust Protection Coating On Indoor Units For Long Lasting

    Cons:

    • There Are Mixed Opinions On The Noise Level

    ISEER: 3.99

    Energy Rating: 3 Star 

    05
  • Daikin 1.5 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC

    Making sure that cooling is maintained, the Daikin 1.5 Ton AC comes with an advanced compressor that is able to adjust its speed based on the room temperature while also creating less noise. Through the Hepta Sense Technology, the air is filtered to become purer by removing dust, allergens, and other particles that are deemed harmful. The 1.5 ton AC helps in cooling down small-sized rooms such as living an,d bedrooms or home offices. It has 572 CFM airflow, which makes for quicker cooling and a consistent flow of air in the room. The users also don’t have to worry about cleaning it ever so often, thanks to the dew clean technology, which takes care of the dust and moisture buildup inside the device. Created for the Indian heat, it can give out optimal cooling even when the outside temperature is as high as 52°C.

    Specifications:

    • Brand: Daikin
    • Capacity: 1.5 Tons
    • Cooling Power: 17100 British Thermal Units
    • Product Dimensions: 22.9D x 88.5W x 29.8H Centimeters
    • Air Throw: 16 meters
    • Noise Level: 30 dB

    Pros:

    • Power Chill For Instant Cooling
    • Less Noise level
    • R32 Refrigerant Gas 

    Cons:

    • Some Users Are Not Satisfied With The Service 

    ISEER: 4.00 

    BEE Rating: 3 Star

    06
  • Godrej 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC

    Achieving a maximum of 5 stars for its power efficiency, the Godrej 1.5 ton Inverter Split AC is able to reduce your overall electricity bills. With 5in1 convertible modes, it allows you to use it as per the demand, making it one of the best split ACs. Working at 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%, and even 110% capacity, you can save on the excess usage when there is no requirement. Through the anti-freeze thermostat, it automatically cuts off the cooling in case ice starts to build on the compressor, which can negatively impact the performance. The 100% copper condenser lessens the chances of getting rust and corrosion, along with keeping it running for a long time. It can clean the inside of the AC with a self-cleaning technology that removes the moisture so that any bacteria cannot infest the area, impacting the quality of the air. 

    Specifications:

    • Brand: Godrej
    • Capacity: 1.5 Tons
    • Cooling Power : 5.28 Kilowatts
    • Annual energy consumption: 728.37
    • Type: Split 
    • Noise Level: 38 dB
    • Product Dimensions: 23D x 100W x 29.5H Centimeters

    Pros:

    • Self Clean For More Convenience
    • I-Sense Technology That Adjusts The Cooling Around You
    • Convertible Modes To Reduce Extra Power Wastage

    Cons:

    • Some Instances Of Installation Delays

    ISEER: 5.10

    Energy Rating: 5 Stars

    07

Is a 5 Star AC Better Than A 3 Star?

Yes, 5 star ratings are definitely more energy efficient than the 3 star rating. This is supported by the BEE label where “MORE STARS MORE SAVINGS” is written in the centre. With that being said, the initial cost is generally higher for the 5 stars but they tend to save you money on electricity bills in the long run. 

How To Read The BEE Label For ACs?

In India, ACs require a BEE label which contains the following information:

ISEER: Specially for ACs, the ISEER Rating is seen as more relevant as it takes into account the energy consumption during a season like summer where they are used more. The higher the ISEER, the less power it consumes to cool a room. 

Validity Date: It also states the time period that this certification can be used under the BEE specifications.

Appliance Type: What kind of items it is is also mentioned on the label, whether it is split type or any other one. 

Brand And Model Year: The name behind the model is also mentioned for authenticity with the model name and year of manufacture.

Cooling Capacity at 100% and 50%: It also allows you to see the power usage if the AC is used at its full capacity or half. 

Energy Consumption Per Year: Dictating how much power it consumes annually is an important factor to consider while calculating how efficient it is. 

Compressor Type: In ACs, there are non-inverter and inverter types which enables them to be used at a varied speed and a fixed speed. Information about that is also included. 

Heat Pump: If the AC can be used as a heater for a room, then a “ Yes” would be mentioned and if it only cools a space, there would be a NO.

Disclaimer: At HerZindagi, we prioritize providing the up-to-date information on the latest trending commodities and goods. This Article is written and vetted by our in-house category authors in sync with the Google guidelines on product reviews and shoppable content. HerZindagi is in an associate partnership, so we may earn a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Faq's

  • Which ACs create the least noise?
    +
    The Daikin 1.5 ton Split AC creates the least amount of noise among the mentioned models with only 30dB noise level.
  • What is ISEER and how is it calculated?
    +
    ISEER is a rating that determines how power efficient is an appliance during a season. It is calculated with Cooling seasonal total load (CSTL) / Cooling seasonal energy consumption (CSEC).
  • Are 5 star ACs expensive?
    +
    While that is true if you compare it to their lower rated counterparts, you can find more affordable models that might fit within your range.
  • Does an AC need to be efficient?
    +
    It’s always better to go with appliances that are more environmentally friendly, especially something like an AC which consumes more power than many others. It improves your surroundings and lifestyle alongside nature.
  • What are the top AC brands In India?
    +
    Hitachi, Daikin, Panasonic, Cruise and Blue Star are among the best companies for ACs.