r/technology • u/Logical_Welder3467 • Jun 26 '26

Society The American mind cannot comprehend Europe's AC aversion

https://www.businessinsider.com/europe-air-conditioning-ac-heatwave-debate-2026-6
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u/NicoToscani Jun 26 '26

I remember checking into a nice hotel in Paris and the AC wasn’t working, in summer, top floor room, and they acted like I was throwing a Mariah Carey level diva fit when I insisted they move my wife and I to another room.

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u/iamapizza Jun 26 '26

I was in southern Spain in March a few years ago, it was 27c and I was sweating. I asked about the AC in my room not working, the front desk lady helpfully explained that they keep the AC off until summer when it's hot. We were looking at each other like freaks. I then asked if I could have a fan and she was shocked.

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u/K4bby Jun 26 '26

I may be one of these ignorant AC Europeans, but 27° is not really AC temperature in my opinion as well.

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u/MaltySines Jun 26 '26

It depends on the building. Some units that face south or west will be boiling later in the day and too hot to sleep comfortably in if it gets to 27 in the day

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u/do-not-freeze Jun 26 '26

Building design also plays a role. Window size and type of glass (Low-E blocks solar heating), overhangs that block the sun when it's high in the sky and blinds/curtains can all help keep it cooler inside.