Overview
- Retailers across Germany report ventilators and mobile air conditioners are largely sold out and say little or no new stock is expected for the rest of the summer.
- Industry groups and store chains say the heat-driven demand exploded this month, overwhelming normal ordering plans and supply chains.
- Chinese reports say Midea has sharply increased PortaSplit production and shipped containers to Europe, but those production and delivery claims have not been independently confirmed.
- Scalpers and some merchants are inflating prices for scarce models like the Midea PortaSplit while certified installers face multi-month wait times for split and fixed installations.
- Experts warn that widespread use of air conditioners raises local outdoor temperatures and power demand, so policymakers and households are being urged to prioritize passive design, heat-pump cooling and PV-coupling as longer-term, lower‑energy options.