Stories

Fri, 26 Jun 2026

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 Record temperatures drives up home air conditioning sales

Companies see inquiries surge during heatwaves as UK households look to cool down their homes.

* A fifth of homes in the UK currently have air conditioning installed.
* Due to recent heatwaves, businesses that install air conditioning are reporting a significant increase in demand, with some companies seeing a 300% rise in inquiries.
* Many people are installing air conditioning units in their homes as a way to stay cool during hot weather, with some units costing up to £6,500 for an entire home system.
* The National Housing Federation (NHF) has predicted that 90% of UK homes will overheat by 2050 due to climate change.
* Overheating can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, cardiovascular issues, sleep disturbance, and mental health problems.
* Churches, community centers, museums, and libraries have been providing free "cool spaces" for people to take a break from the heat.
* Some households are installing air conditioning as an investment in comfort, with one business owner saying that it's no longer seen as a luxury but a necessity.