Air conditioner sales are projected to surge in the December quarter (Q3 FY26) as consumers rush to buy before new Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) star labelling norms take effect on January 1. This pre-buying trend, coupled with potential price hikes of 7-10% due to new efficiency standards and rupee depreciation, is expected to boost sales for manufacturers. Retailers aim to clear existing inventory with older, lower GST-rated labels.