A new global survey by Daikin Industries, Ltd., called the “World Air Survey,” reveals that Houston, Texas, ranks highest in air conditioning usage among 12 major cities worldwide. The study shows that Houston residents run their A/C units for an average of 17.2 hours per day during the hottest month, significantly more than cities like Riyadh and New York. The survey also highlights that 41% of Houston households keep their air conditioning on 24/7.
The survey gathered data from 1,200 people across cities like New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Bangkok. It found that energy efficiency is the top priority for consumers when purchasing air conditioners, with many citing cost savings as the main reason. The survey also explored global air quality concerns, noting that residents in cities like Lagos and Houston place a high value on indoor air quality.
As global temperatures reached record highs in July 2024, the need for efficient and reliable A/C systems has become more crucial, especially in regions with extreme heat. The HVAC industry is expected to play an increasingly vital role in ensuring comfort and safety worldwide as air conditioner usage continues to grow, particularly in emerging markets.
The study also revealed varying preferences in temperature settings and months of A/C usage, with cities like Bangkok using air conditioning for nearly the entire year, while others, like New York, use it for only a few months. The report underscores the importance of energy efficiency and air quality as key considerations for consumers globally, as air conditioning becomes an essential part of daily life in many regions.
