A consumer watchdog in Hong Kong found that top-rated air conditioner models can vary by up to 33% in cooling efficiency. The findings highlight the need for improved energy grading standards for consumers.

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...