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Germany’s Early Heat Wave Spurs Surge in Mobile Air Conditioner Sales

Mounting electricity costs from misleading efficiency labels complicate consumers’ frantic search for relief.

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Overview

  • Searches for mobile air conditioners in Germany jumped 230% in early July, with fan interest rising about 150% during consecutive tropical nights.
  • Portable units incur electricity expenses that match their purchase price within three years, averaging €109–€172 of annual operating costs depending on room size.
  • EU energy labels for mobile air conditioners, assigned under laboratory conditions, often understate real-world power consumption and efficiency differences.
  • Split systems deliver faster and more efficient cooling but carry upfront costs of €700–€2,000 plus €300–€500 for professional installation and require landlord approval.
  • Only air conditioners operating as heat pumps qualify for federal BEG subsidies, excluding most standard portable and split models from funding.