Why Germans Are Embracing Air Conditioning: A Game Changer for Renters and Homeowners Alike!

A walk through German towns today often reveals a mix of postwar architecture and modern challenges, like air conditioning units poking out from balconies. Traditionally, homes in Germany, and much of Europe, rarely had air conditioning. But as heatwaves become more common, many people are turning to portable units to escape the rising temperatures.

“Air conditioning isn’t a complete fix,” said Marc Evans, a 39-year-old IT worker in Frankfurt who bought a portable AC last summer for around €899 ($1,055). “But given the lack of shade and how cities are designed, it’s the only solution we have right now.”

Adapting to these high temperatures isn’t straightforward or cheap. About half of the housing in the European Union was constructed before 1980, according to Eurostat. Retrofitting these older buildings for air conditioning systems is often impractical. In Germany, where more than half the population rents, there’s often little incentive to invest in permanent cooling solutions that require landlord permission.

Even those who own their homes face hurdles. In shared buildings, homeowners must clear any new installations with their building association, which frequently rejects requests due to noise or other concerns.

With recent summer temperatures breaking records, local suppliers of portable air conditioners are struggling to keep up with demand. A survey indicated that 18% of people now own an AC unit, a rise from 13% just last year, though the German Environment Agency estimates this figure might be overstated. Generally, most users in Germany rely on single-unit models, such as monoblocks, which have limitations.

In contrast, the U.S. is far more accustomed to air conditioning; nearly 90% of households have some form of cooling, with two-thirds relying on central systems.

Renters often face the challenge of needing effective cooling solutions without the high costs. “Tenants usually end up choosing less efficient options, which can hurt their electricity bills,” explained Daniel de Graaf from the German Environment Agency.

Yet, some renters are looking to newer portable heat pumps, like the popular “PortaSplit” from Midea Group. These models have seen a surge in demand, especially in the landlord-heavy rental market. The design requires a narrow hose to be fitted through a window, avoiding the need to drill holes, although they come at a higher price, often between €800 and €1,600.

Daria Ezazi, a spokesperson for Toom Baumarkt GmbH, reported increased interest in portable ACs, highlighting that consumers are starting to prioritize energy efficiency along with cooling power.

While these devices provide temporary relief, the German law forces landlords to ensure that apartments can maintain warmth in winter, with no equal requirement for summer cooling. “It’s unrealistic to expect heat protection in this rental market,” said Jutta Hartmann from the German Tenants’ Association.

Relying on immediate fixes like portable units could lead to higher energy consumption and emissions. The Environment Agency recommends alternate cooling methods, such as good insulation, using fans, and avoiding excess heat generation from unused appliances.

“The goal is not just air conditioning; it’s about creating a comfortable indoor environment,” de Graaf concluded. There are certainly better ways to achieve this than simply relying on air conditioning.

In a world facing extreme weather fluctuations, innovative solutions and a shift in mindset towards sustainable practices will be essential for adapting to our changing climate.



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Germany, heat waves, air conditioners, climate change