Media360impact
Record-breaking heatwaves sweeping across Europe are driving a sharp increase in demand for air conditioners, with Chinese manufacturers emerging as major beneficiaries of the growing market.
For many Europeans, air conditioning has traditionally been viewed as unnecessary due to relatively mild summers. However, increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves linked to climate change are changing consumer habits across the continent.
Thirty-six-year-old German engineer, Steven Scholtysek, says this year’s summer has been the hottest he has ever experienced. After moving into an attic apartment in Hamelin, Germany, he found the heat almost unbearable.
“It is not possible to live a normal life in those flats below the roof during the summer,” Scholtysek said.
Seeking relief, he purchased a portable split air conditioner manufactured by Chinese appliance company Midea. Unlike many traditional air-conditioning systems, the unit can be installed without drilling into walls, making it suitable for many European homes that are protected by strict building and heritage preservation regulations.
Scholtysek’s experience reflects a broader trend across Europe, where more households are investing in cooling systems as temperatures continue to rise.
Residents in countries such as Germany, France, Spain and the United Kingdom are increasingly purchasing air conditioners to cope with prolonged periods of extreme heat.
Vienna resident Denis Yurchak also recently bought a Chinese-made air conditioner after researching cooling options.
During the peak of the recent heatwave, he said the unit ran almost continuously to keep his home comfortable.
Chinese Brands Record Strong Sales Growth
Chinese manufacturers have reported significant increases in sales across Europe.
Midea said demand for its air conditioners has grown substantially in several European countries, while its European management believes the region offers strong long-term growth opportunities.
Another Chinese manufacturer, TCL Technology, reportedly recorded a dramatic increase in air-conditioner sales in France, while Gree, one of the world’s largest producers of cooling systems, also confirmed rising demand from European consumers.
According to Gree, many buyers are purchasing air conditioners for the first time as prolonged heatwaves continue to reshape consumer attitudes.
Balancing Comfort and Climate Concerns
Despite the growing demand, environmental experts continue to caution against widespread dependence on air conditioning.
According to international energy reports, air conditioners account for about seven per cent of global electricity consumption and contribute significantly to carbon emissions generated from fossil fuel-powered electricity.
Critics also argue that air conditioners release hot air outdoors, potentially worsening temperatures in densely populated urban areas.
Nevertheless, governments are beginning to recognise the need for cooling infrastructure.
Following record-breaking temperatures that forced hundreds of schools to close in France, authorities announced an €80 million investment to install cooling systems, including fans and air conditioners, in schools and community facilities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Europe has also advised that while air conditioners are not a long-term solution to climate change, they remain essential for protecting vulnerable populations during periods of extreme heat.
Changing Perceptions of Chinese Technology
The increased demand is also helping reshape perceptions of Chinese-made products in Europe.
For many consumers, purchasing a Chinese air conditioner has challenged long-held assumptions about quality.
Scholtysek said he was impressed by the design and performance of his unit, noting that its quality matched products from European manufacturers.
He believes Chinese technology brands are increasingly earning consumer confidence, pointing to companies producing drones, electric vehicles and home appliances.
French resident Adrien Olar echoed similar sentiments, describing his first Chinese-made air conditioner as a life-changing purchase after previously relying on splashing water on his face to stay cool.
“It’s like walking into a refrigerator when I enter my room,” he said. “The difference is incredible.”
As Europe experiences hotter summers, industry analysts believe demand for efficient and affordable cooling solutions is likely to continue rising, with Chinese manufacturers well-positioned to benefit from the t
