Dehumidifiers and air purifiers have grown significantly in Indian homes and offices due to air quality concerns and humid climate conditions. Both are covered under QCO 2026.
Refrigerant-based dehumidifiers use compressors similar to small refrigerators. The compressor motor, refrigerant circuit integrity, and electrical safety are evaluated similarly to refrigerators under IS 302 Part 2.
Dehumidifiers collect extracted moisture in a water tank. The auto-shutoff when the tank is full must prevent water overflow onto electrical components. The full-tank sensor and shutoff circuit are safety-critical.
Dehumidifiers often run continuously in damp conditions. Thermal evaluation must reflect extended steady-state operation, not just initial temperatures.
Air purifiers run their fan motors continuously. Motor thermal protection under stall or blocked conditions is required.
Air purifiers with UV sterilisation lamps or ionisers have additional requirements. UV lamps must be shielded to prevent direct UV exposure to users. Ionisers that generate ozone must produce ozone at levels below safety thresholds — ozone emission testing may be required.
In the event the HEPA filter becomes clogged and overheats in proximity to the heating element (in models with heating), the design must not allow filter material to ignite.
Deadline: 1 October 2026. Testing: 6-10 weeks for most models. HOT handles IS 302 testing for dehumidifiers and air purifiers.