This summer, forecasts suggest an unprecedented heatwave, causing the market for easy-to-install window air conditioners to heat up gradually. Corporations in the home appliance industry are releasing new products with enhanced features, indicating that market competition is expected to become fiercer than before.
According to industry sources on the 17th, the heating and cooling corporations Kiturami recently launched the 2025 model window air conditioner 'KAA-25G'. It features an integrated design that can be easily installed in windows without an outdoor unit. Home appliance company PASECO, which pioneered the domestic window air conditioner market since 2019, also introduced 'Premium 3'. This is the first window air conditioner in the industry to include a ventilation system.
The window air conditioner is designed with indoor and outdoor units integrated, allowing for excellent space utilization and less installation burden, making it more accessible compared to wall-mounted or standing air conditioners. Typically, it is suitable for spaces around 4 to 6 pyeong and is optimized for single-person households living in studio apartments, officetels, and small apartments.
Once overshadowed by the popularity of wall-mounted and standing air conditioners, the window air conditioner has started to regain attention due to the increasing number of single-person households and the diversification of living spaces. The market size surged from around 40,000 units in 2019 to 500,000 units in 2022, and last year surpassed 700,000 units.
In line with market expansion, Cuckoo also launched a window air conditioner in 2021, while Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics strengthened their product lines by advancing their premium brands such as 'Bespoke' and 'Object Collection'. As products with not only simple cooling functions but also sophisticated designs and high-end features are steadily emerging, the range of consumer choices has also broadened.
In terms of energy efficiency, window air conditioners are also receiving attention. Most products meet the energy consumption efficiency grade 1 standards and use about 10% to 20% less electricity compared to wall-mounted or standing types under the same conditions. Some models are equipped with 'eco mode', remote temperature sensing, low noise operation, dehumidification, and ventilation functions.
The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasted that the average temperature this summer will be 0.5 to 1.5 degrees higher than usual. In particular, there is a possibility that the number of heatwave days could exceed the record set in 2018 (31.5 days). Accordingly, the home appliance industry anticipates increased demand for window air conditioners as the peak heat begins.
A representative from the home appliance industry said, 'With many products that enhance features and designs, the range of consumer choices has broadened.'
He noted, 'Because they can be installed alone and the purchase expense is low, demand is relatively high among single-person households,' adding, 'Even if they are not large corporations, there are corporations with repair and maintenance capabilities selling products, which has reduced concerns about service.'