Top-rated air cons in Hong Kong vary by 33% in cooling efficiency, watchdog finds

The models tested included seven reverse-cycle air conditioners, while the rest were cooling-only units

The cooling efficiency of 13 air conditioner models bearing Hong Kong’s top energy label can vary by up to 33 per cent, the consumer watchdog has found.

The Consumer Council on Thursday released test results for 13 models of 1.5-horsepower inverter split-type air conditioners, finding “substantial differences” in energy-saving performance among units with a Grade 1 label and calling for improved grading standards.

“Apart from the Grade 1 energy label, [consumers] can also check the annual energy consumption shown on the labels to compare energy-saving performance,” said Alaina Shum Jiu-fai, chief executive of the watchdog.

Among the 13 models, seven were reverse-cycle air conditioners priced from HK$8,380 to HK$19,610 (US$1,070 to US$2,504), while the rest were cooling-only units priced between HK$4,890 and HK$7,880.

The tests, commissioned by the council and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, found that the Cooling Seasonal Performance Factor (CSPF), which measures cooling energy efficiency, ranged from 5.057 to 7.510, with higher values indicating better efficiency.

“Despite all models being rated Grade 1, the differences in cooling energy efficiency were significant,” the council said.