Buying An Air Con This Year? Here’s How The New Star Ratings Work

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Energy Commission has recently introduced a new energy star-rating schedule for air conditioners from 1 January 2026 until 31 December 2029.

The update applies under the Guideline of Energy-Using Product, which has been in force since 1 January 2025, and is part of the government’s broader push to improve energy efficiency and encourage more sustainable electrical appliances.

Under the revised schedule, the minimum performance levels required to earn each star rating will be raised. In short, air conditioners will need to be more energy-efficient to achieve the same number of stars compared to the current system.

Why The Star Ratings Are Changing

According to Energy Commission, the update reflects improvements in air-conditioner technology and higher efficiency standards across the industry. The existing labels no longer accurately differentiate between newer, more efficient models and older designs.

By tightening the criteria, the new system is meant to help consumers better compare products and avoid paying for appliances that look efficient on paper but lag behind current technology.

You Will Still See Old Labels During The Transition

Not every air conditioner sold in 2026 will immediately carry the new star rating. Only products that apply for an Energy Efficiency Certificate on or after 1 January 2026 are required to use the updated label. Models that received certification before that date are still allowed to use the existing label until their certificate expires.

This means that between 2026 and 2029, both old and new energy labels will coexist in the market.

How To Check Which Rating System A Unit Uses

Energy Commission has issued simple guidance for buyers during the transition period.

If the year printed on the energy efficiency label is 2026, the star rating follows the new standard. Buyers should also look closely at the energy consumption figures and the year displayed on the label, rather than relying on star count alone.

Each label now includes a QR code. Scanning it will bring up detailed information about the appliance’s Energy Efficiency Certificate, including its approval status and efficiency data.

Air conditioners are among the highest energy-consuming appliances in Malaysian homes. Even small improvements in efficiency can translate into lower electricity bills over time.

The updated star-rating system is meant to give consumers clearer signals about long-term running costs, especially as electricity prices and household energy use continue to be closely watched.

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