New Delhi, Sept. 27 -- Are you planning to buy an AC this Diwali or during winter? Your purchase could become costlier as leading brands raise prices amid rising production costs.

Daikin and Blue Star have already increased prices while other brands are preparing fresh hikes. However, stocks purchased earlier by dealers could help some festive shoppers pay older prices.

Daikin has increased prices by 8-10% from 16 September. Chairman and Managing Director Kanwaljeet Jawa confirmed the increase. He said rising copper prices, a stronger dollar and costlier materials were pressuring companies.

"Copper prices have gone up by almost 25-35%. The dollar is strengthening, and commodity prices continue to rise. Companies are under tremendous pr...