05.07.2026 08:20
The 'Dragon Heatwaves,' which are increasing their impact in Europe, have caused a huge surge in demand in the air conditioning and ventilation sector. While air conditioner stocks have run out in many countries, especially France and Germany, European companies have turned to Turkey for supply. As activity in the domestic market also increased, air conditioner installation requests rose by 140 percent and gas refill requests by 243 percent in June.
The extreme heatwave affecting Europe, dubbed the "Dragon Heat," has caused a major crisis in the air conditioning sector. According to a statement by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, more than 1,300 people have lost their lives due to the extreme heat since June 21.
As temperatures rise, demand for air conditioners in Europe has reached record levels, with existing stocks quickly depleted, prompting France and Germany to seek new supplies.
"SEND US WHATEVER STOCK YOU HAVE"
According to information reported by Turkey's Newspaper from sector sources, limited production of air conditioning systems in Europe has turned Turkey into a critical supply center amid sudden demand surges.
Sector representatives stated that European firms with depleted stocks have contacted Turkish manufacturers, calling "Send us whatever stock you have." It was noted that current orders are in double digits, but demand could reach 100,000 units if the heatwave continues.
In addition to air conditioners, orders for fans and ventilation devices are also seeing a remarkable increase.
RECORD DEMAND IN ENGLAND AND SPAIN
As temperatures intensify, new air conditioner installations are accelerating across Europe. In England, where only 7 percent of homes have air conditioning, installation requests rose by 283 percent in May and 340 percent in June.
In Spain, where air conditioner usage is around 40 percent, citizens have generated intense demand to upgrade existing systems and install air conditioners in new areas. Installation requests in June increased by 373 percent compared to the same period last year, marking the highest rise on the continent.
DEMAND ALSO RISING RAPIDLY IN TURKEY
While orders from Europe boost exports, growth in Turkey's air conditioning sector continues. In the Turkish market, where approximately 3 million split air conditioners were sold last year, double-digit growth persisted in the first five months of 2026.
In June, new air conditioner installation requests rose by 140 percent, while requests for air conditioner gas refills surged by 243 percent.
The highest demand increase in the domestic market was seen in Gaziantep at 328 percent. Gaziantep was followed by Tekirdağ at 295 percent, Ankara at 265 percent, Aydın at 251 percent, Mersin at 250 percent, and Antalya at 229 percent.