AC Prices to Soar 7-8% Before Summer: Buy Now to Beat the Hike!

• Room air conditioner prices are set to increase by 7-8% due to new energy-efficiency norms and rising raw material costs.
• New star rating norms effective January 2026 require manufacturers to redesign and upgrade components, increasing production costs.
• Raw materials like copper, aluminum, and steel remain above pre-pandemic levels, contributing to the price hike.
• A second phase of price increases is possible in April and May, coinciding with peak summer demand.
• Consumers can purchase existing models now to avoid higher costs, as retailers are stocking up to clear old inventory.

Why It Matters: AC prices are rising 7-8% before summer due to new norms and raw material costs; buy now to save.