Eurovent launches Desert Certification for HVAC systems in GCC region

Eurovent Certification has introduced a new Desert Certification programme to address the performance of HVAC equipment under extreme high-temperature conditions common in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The new certification option is designed to ensure more accurate performance evaluation for equipment operating in climates that regularly exceed 45°C.

Cooling accounts for up to 80% of building energy use in the Middle East, yet many HVAC systems in the region are certified under European T1 conditions (35°C), which do not reflect the real operating environment. Eurovent’s Desert Certification responds to this gap by testing products under T1 (35°C), T3 (46°C), and operability at 52°C. For Kuwait, even harsher testing conditions are included.

The programme is tailored for Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, and introduces a new metric — the Desert Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (DSEER) — which better reflects part-load performance under actual Gulf conditions. Certification is available within Eurovent Certified Performance programmes for air conditioners, VRF systems, chillers, rooftop units, and IT cooling units.

Testing is conducted in accredited laboratories in Europe and the UAE. The initiative has been developed in collaboration with GCC governments to harmonise certified performance data with local climatic realities.

"Everyone benefits from accurate data," the release states, citing the potential for reduced energy bills, fewer equipment failures, and improved sustainability compliance when systems are certified for high-temperature performance.

View Desert Certification programme