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Why don't Germans have air conditioning at home?

Politiko 2026-06-28 16:30:40

Why don't Germans have air conditioning at home?  

Europe is increasingly facing extreme temperatures, as climate change is making the continent one of the most affected by heat waves in the world. According to data from the Copernicus service and the IPCC, Europe is warming at twice the global average, with direct consequences for health, energy and daily life.

Unlike in the US or some Asian countries, where air conditioning is a normal part of life, many European households – especially in Germany and Northern Europe – are not equipped to cope with extreme temperatures. In the US, around 90% of households have air conditioning, while in Europe this figure drops to around 20%, and in Germany only around 6% of homes have fixed cooling systems, writes DW.

Rising temperatures and pressure on energy systems

Heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense, putting increasing pressure on infrastructure and public health. Recent studies show that temperatures in some summers are up to 4°C higher than at the end of the last century.

This situation has also led to a significant increase in demand for cooling equipment. In Germany, the use of air conditioning systems has increased by about 75% in the last five years, and experts warn that this trend is expected to continue.

Europe between costs and lack of infrastructure

Experts point out that one of the main reasons for the lack of air conditioning is the fact that many buildings in Europe are built to retain heat in winter, not to withstand extreme summers. This makes homes less suitable for modern cooling systems, especially in cities with historic buildings.

Another factor is the rising cost of energy, making cooling a luxury for some citizens. According to European surveys, a significant portion of the population cannot afford to provide sufficient cooling during the summer.

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