Requests for Home Air Conditioning Rise 320% as Europe Experiences Record-Breaking Temperatures
Demand for home air conditioning installations has soared across the UK as prolonged periods of extreme heat prompt homeowners to seek more permanent ways to keep their properties cool, according to new data released by home improvement platform MyBuilder.com.
The company reported that requests for residential air conditioning installations on its platform have increased by 320% compared with the same period last year, reflecting growing concern among households struggling to cope with rising temperatures and humidity levels.
The surge comes as large parts of Europe continue to experience unusually hot weather, with recent heatwaves placing pressure on homes, workplaces and public infrastructure. In the UK, soaring temperatures led to disruptions including office and school closures, while many households found themselves ill-equipped to manage indoor heat.
British Homes Face Challenges During Extreme Heat
Unlike properties in warmer climates, much of the UK’s housing stock was designed to retain heat during colder months. As temperatures climb during summer heatwaves, these buildings can become increasingly uncomfortable, trapping heat indoors and making it difficult for residents to work, relax and sleep.
With forecasts indicating that another period of hot weather could affect Britain in the coming days, homeowners are increasingly investing in cooling measures to improve comfort and reduce the impact of prolonged high temperatures.
The trend is not confined to the UK. Data gathered through MyBuilder.com and its sister companies across Europe, operating under the Angi umbrella, indicates a significant increase in demand for cooling-related home improvements across several markets.
Cooling System Demand Climbs Across Europe
Figures from the group’s European platforms reveal a widespread rise in requests for air conditioning installations.
In Germany, MyHammer recorded a 7.4-fold increase in air conditioning installation requests compared with a year earlier. In the Netherlands, requests submitted through Werkspot.nl were nearly four times higher than the previous year.
The data also highlighted the scale of demand in Germany during the peak of the recent heatwave. On 28 June, one in three home improvement jobs posted on the platform were related to air conditioning installations.
Alongside air conditioning systems, homeowners across Europe have also shown increased interest in alternative cooling measures, including ceiling fans, external shutters and outdoor awnings designed to reduce solar heat gain.
Homeowners Adjust to a Changing Climate
Industry observers say the figures reflect a broader shift in homeowner priorities as hotter summers become more frequent.
Andy Simms, a home expert at MyBuilder.com, said the recent weather had exposed the limitations of many British properties when faced with prolonged periods of heat.
“The recent spate of extremely hot weather has underlined to many people that the majority of British homes and buildings are just not well-designed or equipped for high temperature events.”
“Consistent spells of high heat make our homes heat traps, and it’s extremely uncomfortable – and sometimes even dangerous – to have no relief from it. It’s not surprising that our numbers are showing a huge spike in demand for air conditioning systems and other home cooling equipment.”
Simms said demand for cooling systems has continued to accelerate as households increasingly view air conditioning as a practical long-term solution rather than a luxury.
“We’re seeing an unprecedented increase in demand for these systems as the heatwaves continue, as people realise that air conditioning may be becoming a necessity as temperatures continue to rise.”
“There are various ways to cool down your home if you’re struggling – but investing in a more permanent cooling system might be the best way to keep your home comfortable in our increasingly sticky summers.”
Growing Market for Home Cooling Solutions
The increase in installation requests points to a potentially expanding market for cooling technologies in the UK, where air conditioning has traditionally been less common in residential properties than in southern European countries or North America.
As climate patterns continue to evolve, homeowners may increasingly seek investments that improve resilience to extreme weather conditions. Industry participants say the combination of rising temperatures, changing consumer expectations and growing awareness of indoor comfort is likely to drive further demand for cooling-related home improvements.
MyBuilder.com, part of The Instapro Group and Angi Family, connects homeowners with verified tradespeople across the UK. The platform works with more than 100,000 active tradespeople and facilitates around 100,000 job postings each month.
The latest figures suggest that as heatwaves become more frequent across Europe, demand for air conditioning and other home cooling solutions could remain elevated, reshaping a sector that has historically played a relatively small role in the UK home improvement market.
George Orwell is a writer and contributor covering politics, society, culture, and current affairs. His work focuses on providing clear analysis and thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping modern Britain and the wider world, helping readers better understand complex topics.