Air conditioning

Aircon demand surges triples as heatwaves hit, MyBuilder.com data reveals

Olivia Morris
Authored by Olivia Morris
Posted: Friday, August 21st, 2026

Brand new data shows that demand for installation of air conditioning has soared across Europe, as many parts of the continent experience a prolonged heatwave

According to MyBuilder.com, the reliable way to hire tradespeople, requests on their platform for air conditioning installation in the UK grew by 150 per cent year on year. And this surge was also seen across Europe, where in the same time period requests in the Netherlands surged 114 per cent, and Germany 152 per cent.

The increase comes as the UK has faced major disruption in homes and workplaces across the country, leading to questions about whether air conditioning is becoming a necessity. Many schools faced closure during the July heatwave, while a recent report suggested that the heatwave could have cost the UK economy £4 billion by the end of July

The relentless heat is also making it difficult for people to rest and sleep in their homes, meaning a dip in productivity and wellbeing. And with another heatwave hitting Britain this week, it seems the need for aircon in our homes and buildings continues.

High temperatures across Europe also spiked high enquiries for other cooling measures, such as ceiling fans, shutter installation, and outdoor awnings.

Andy Simms, a home expert from MyBuilder.com said: “Unfortunately, many of our homes are just not equipped to deal with extremely hot weather. Historically, homes in the UK have been built more with the idea of keeping heat in than letting it out.

“But the last few years have seen record levels of heat and for prolonged periods of time, making it hard to stay comfortable in our own homes. The buildings act like heat traps, and it’s extremely uncomfortable - and sometimes even dangerous - to have no relief from it.

“We’re seeing a rise in demand for these systems as the heatwaves continue, and more Brits than ever realise that air conditioning may be becoming a necessity as temperatures continue to rise. In fact, during the first week of the June heatwave, we saw demand for aircon in the UK increase 850 per cent! And Germany and the Netherlands were close behind at 514 and 500 per cent in the same time period, 

“There are various ways to cool down your home if you’re struggling - but investing in an air conditioning system might be the best way to keep your home cool and comfortable in our increasingly sticky summers.”

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