As Heatwaves Intensify, Germans — Even Renters — Are Turning to Air Conditioning

Walking through German neighborhoods today, you’re likely to spot a new feature hanging from windows and sitting on balconies: portable air conditioning units. In a country where AC has long been rare, climate change is reshaping household priorities.

Historically, Germany and much of northern Europe didn’t require air conditioning. But with record-breaking summer temperatures becoming the norm, residents are seeking relief — and for many, that means investing in portable cooling solutions.

“Air conditioning isn’t ideal, but given the way our cities are built — with little natural shade — it’s the most practical option,” says Marc Evans, a Frankfurt-based IT worker who purchased a portable AC unit last year for €899 ($1,055).

Climate Adaptation is Costly — Especially for Renters

Adapting to extreme weather isn’t easy, especially in a country where more than half the population rents. According to Eurostat, nearly 50% of homes in the EU were built before 1980, making retrofitting for modern HVAC systems both costly and complicated.

In Germany, tenants often face landlord restrictions that prevent permanent installations like split AC units. Even homeowners in shared housing need approval from property associations, which often reject AC requests due to concerns about noise, aesthetics, or environmental impact.

Surge in Demand for Portable AC Units

This summer, following one of the hottest Junes on record, portable AC units are in high demand across Germany. Suppliers are reporting dwindling inventories as more people opt for monoblock systems — standalone units with exhaust hoses — as a stopgap solution.

A recent survey found 18% of Germans now own an AC unit, up from 13% in 2023. While still far behind the U.S., where 90% of households use air conditioning, it reflects a significant cultural shift in Europe’s approach to indoor cooling.

Challenges for Renters and Rising Energy Costs

Portable AC units, while accessible, often consume large amounts of energy.

“Renters typically use less efficient models, which can drive up electricity bills,” says Daniel de Graaf of the German Environment Agency.

More energy-efficient options like the Midea PortaSplit — a portable heat pump system — are gaining popularity, especially among renters. The PortaSplit’s two-unit design allows it to cool or heat rooms without permanent installation, using a thin hose that fits through a window.

Although efficient, such units come with a higher price tag, ranging from €800 to €1,600, and are often sold out during peak summer months.

Retailers Respond to New Consumer Needs

German retailers are adjusting to rising demand. Toom Baumarkt, a popular hardware chain, reports a spike in interest for air conditioners optimized for rental homes.

“Customers are now asking not only about cooling power but also energy efficiency and suitability for apartments,” says Daria Ezazi, a spokesperson for Toom.

Comfort vs. Climate Impact

Despite the growing reliance on air conditioning, Germany currently has no laws mandating landlords to ensure summer comfort. Heating requirements exist for winter, but protections for hot weather are virtually non-existent.

“It’s rare for overheating to be legally considered a rental defect,” notes Jutta Hartmann from the German Tenants’ Association. “With housing so competitive, demanding AC-ready apartments is just unrealistic.”

Environmental experts warn that increased reliance on inefficient cooling systems may drive up electricity use and carbon emissions. The German Environment Agency recommends passive cooling strategies where possible — including better insulation, nighttime ventilation, and shade installations.

Striking a Balance Between Comfort and Sustainability

As temperatures continue to climb across Europe, the pressure to adapt is undeniable. Yet, experts stress the importance of climate-conscious solutions.

“People don’t necessarily want air conditioning — they want a comfortable indoor environment,” says de Graaf. “There are smarter, greener ways to achieve that goal.”

Germany’s slow but steady shift toward air conditioning reflects both a practical response to climate change and a challenge for policymakers, landlords, and tenants alike. The growing popularity of portable cooling systems is just the beginning of a broader transformation in how European homes are designed, cooled, and lived in.