What is the Difference between 3 Star and 5 Star AC?

Explore the key differences between Difference Between 3 Star and 5 Star AC. Learn about their features, energy efficiency, and more. Discover the right appliance for your needs.
Insta EMI Card
3 min
03-Feb-2025

Air conditioners have become essential in Indian households, providing relief from extreme summer temperatures. Struggling to choose between a 3-star and 5-star AC? While both offer excellent cooling, a 5-star AC stands out with better energy efficiency and long-term savings on electricity bills. A 3-star AC, on the other hand, is more affordable upfront and still gets the job done in moderate usage conditions. The main difference between 3-star AC and 5-star ACs mainly comes down to power savings. A 5-star AC uses less electricity and helps cut down your bills.

No matter which one you choose, you don’t have to wait to bring it home. With the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card, you can buy the latest air conditioners from top brands instantly—without paying the full amount upfront. Enjoy Easy EMIs, zero down payment, minimal documentation, and zero foreclosure charges at over 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities in India.

Understand Star Rating System in ACs

The star rating system in ACs indicates their energy efficiency. Higher star-rated ACs consume less electricity. For example, a 5-star AC is more energy-efficient and cost-effective over time compared to a 3-star AC, making it ideal for long-term use.

What is a 3 star AC?

A 3 star AC is designed to provide moderate energy efficiency while keeping costs in check. These air conditioners are ideal for those who want effective cooling without a significant upfront investment. The energy efficiency of an AC is rated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), and a 3 star rating indicates decent power savings compared to lower-rated models.

  • Energy consumption: A 3 star AC consumes more electricity than a 5 star AC but is still energy-efficient compared to models with lower ratings.
  • Price: 3 star ACs are more affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Ideal usage: Best suited for homes with limited usage, such as 4-5 hours a day.
  • Cooling efficiency: Provides effective cooling but may take longer to cool a room compared to a 5 star AC.
  • Lifespan: Typically lasts long but may require more frequent servicing due to higher energy consumption.

What is a 5 star AC?

A 5 star AC offers the highest level of energy efficiency, making it an excellent long-term investment. Though the initial cost is higher, the electricity savings over time make it a smart choice for frequent users.

  • Energy consumption: A 5 star AC consumes significantly less power, reducing electricity bills.
  • Price: More expensive than a 3 star AC but offers savings on long-term energy expenses.
  • Ideal usage: Recommended for households where AC usage is high, such as 8-10 hours a day.
  • Cooling efficiency: Faster and more effective cooling, ensuring better comfort.
  • Lifespan: Designed for longer durability with minimal maintenance.

Top 10 differences between 3 star and 5 star AC

Difference 3 Star AC 5 Star AC
Energy efficiency Moderate efficiency High efficiency
Power consumption Higher power usage Lower power usage
Electricity bill Comparatively higher Significantly lower
Initial cost More affordable Expensive upfront
Cooling speed Slower cooling Faster cooling
Suitability Best for limited usage Ideal for frequent use
Environmental impact Higher carbon footprint Lower carbon footprint
Lifespan Requires more maintenance Lasts longer with less maintenance
Heat control Less effective in extreme temperatures Works well even in extreme heat
Best for Budget-conscious buyers Long-term energy savings

 

How to Calculate AC Power Consumption?

To calculate AC power consumption, multiply the AC’s wattage by the number of hours used daily. Divide by 1,000 to get kilowatt-hours (kWh), then multiply by electricity cost per unit to estimate monthly expense.

Factors Affecting AC Power Consumption

Several factors impact an AC’s power consumption, including the room size, ambient temperature, insulation quality, frequency of usage, thermostat settings, and the AC’s energy rating. Higher-rated ACs generally consume less power while offering efficient cooling.

How to buy an air conditioner using the Insta EMI Card

Purchasing an AC on EMI with the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card is simple and hassle-free. Follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Visit an e-commerce platform such as Amazon or Flipkart or any of the 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finserv partner stores.
  • Step 2: Select your AC from a wide range of models.
  • Step 3: Choose Insta EMI Card as the payment option at checkout.
  • Step 4: Select a suitable repayment tenure ranging from 1 to 60 months.
  • Step 5: Complete the transaction with a one-time password sent to your registered mobile number.
  • Step 6: Pay for your AC Easy EMIs across your chosen repayment period.

Benefits of using the Insta EMI Card for buying an air conditioner

Pre-qualified loan offer amount of up to Rs. 3 lakh: Buy big-ticket items without financial strain.

Easy EMIs with minimal interest: Convert purchases into affordable instalments.

Zero foreclosure charges: Repay early without additional fees.

Flexible repayment tenure (1-60 months): Choose a repayment tenure that fits your budget.

  • Accepted widely: Accepted on leading online platforms like Flipkart, Bajaj Mall, and Amazon, and 1.5 lakh+ partner stores in over 4,000 Indian cities.
  • Special offers: Pay nothing upfront on select products thanks to zero down payment offers.
  • Instant approval: Get your card activated quickly with minimal documentation and a seamless online application process.

Eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card

To apply for the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Age: Between 21 and 65 years.
  • Income: Must have a regular source of income.
  • Credit score: Should meet Bajaj Finserv risk policies.
  • Documents required: PAN card, Aadhaar card, address proof, and bank details for e-mandate registration.

How to apply for the Insta EMI Card

Applying for the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card is simple and quick. Choose from two methods:

Online application

  • Visit the Bajaj Finserv website.
  • Enter your mobile number and complete OTP verification.
  • Fill out the application form and check your credit limit.
  • Complete KYC verification using Aadhaar or DigiLocker.
  • Pay the one-time joining fee of Rs. 530.
  • Complete the e-mandate registration and get instant activation.

Offline application process: At a Bajaj Finserv partner store, provide the required documents for verification to a store representative. Once approved, pay the joining fee and receive your Insta EMI Card.

Choosing between a 3 star and 5 star AC depends on your budget and energy-saving preferences. If you are looking for affordability, a 3 star AC is a good option. However, if you prioritise long-term savings, a 5 star AC is the better choice.

Regardless of your decision, buying an AC should not be financially stressful. The Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card helps you make high-value purchases with easy, no-cost EMIs. Apply today and enjoy instant approval, flexible repayment, and zero foreclosure charges.

Upgrade your cooling experience today with the Insta EMI Card!

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Frequently asked questions

Which AC is better, 3 star or 5 star?
The hourly electricity cost of a 5-star AC depends on its power consumption and local electricity rates. For instance, a typical 1.5-ton 5-star AC consumes around 840 watts. If the electricity rate is Rs. 7 per kWh, running it for an hour would cost approximately Rs. 5.88, making it economical for regular use.

How much is a 5 star AC bill per hour?
A 5-star air conditioner (AC) typically consumes about 1.5 units of electricity per hour when operating at full capacity. This translates to approximately 1.5 kilowatts (KW) of power usage. However, actual consumption can vary based on factors like room temperature and usage patterns, especially during peak summer months. The cost of running a 5-star AC can be calculated by multiplying the hourly consumption by the local electricity rate. For example, if the rate is ₹7 per unit, running the AC for one hour would cost around ₹10.50. This cost may fluctuate depending on your specific usage and energy provider rates.

How much kW is required for a house with 3 ACs?
The total kilowatt (kW) requirement for a house with three air conditioners varies based on their capacity. For example, if each AC is 1.5 tons (approximately 1.2 kW each), the total would be around 3.6 kW. It's essential to consider additional appliances when calculating overall power needs for your home.

Which AC gives less electricity bill?
A 5-star AC typically results in lower electricity bills compared to a 3-star unit due to its greater energy efficiency. While the upfront cost is higher, the savings on monthly bills can be significant over time. Choosing an energy-efficient model ensures reduced consumption and overall cost-effectiveness in the long run.

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