The great heat does not boost air conditioner sales. On the contrary: the first half of 2026 ends with a negative sign for one of the iconic products of the summer season. This data emerges from the statistical survey by Assoclima (the association of air conditioning system manufacturers affiliated with Anima Confindustria), relating to the period from January to June.
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Single and multi-split air conditioners, then, record a contraction both in volume and value compared to the same period in 2025. It should be emphasized that this is one of the most important segments of this market: in the first half of the year, about 1.65 million units were sold, generating a turnover slightly above 1.2 billion euros. These are very large numbers, but lower than last year.
In particular, single-split systems show a decrease of 9.8% in volume and 7.8% in value, while multi-split systems limit the decline to 5.5% in volume and 6.9% in value. Contrary to the trend are, among others, multi-split systems with domestic hot water production, which increase by 25.5% in volume and 14.4% in value. Overall, about 150,000 fewer units were sold compared to last year.
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The factors explaining these numbers are various: “The air conditioner,” says a note from the association, “confirms itself as an impulsive purchase, strongly influenced by weather conditions.” Many consumers, that is, do not yet think about the different functions a heat pump can have, but focus on cooling. The 2026 season was affected by a climate season with different timing compared to 2025. “After a year start characterized by weak demand,” the note continues, “the intense heat arrived only in the second half of June, when the first half-year survey was already closing.” The recovery of orders and the consequent restocking of distribution “were concentrated between the end of June and July, suggesting a possible recovery in third-quarter data.”
But other factors must also be considered. The sector’s performance was also influenced by the comparison with 2025, characterized by particularly dynamic market conditions, “the level of residual stocks along the supply chain,” greater caution in purchases by distribution, and “the ongoing economic uncertainty of families, worsened by energy costs.”
