Aircon Stock Is Tightening This Summer: Why You Shouldn't Wait

If you plan to buy an aircon only once the first proper heatwave hits, this summer that plan could cost you. Delays at the Port of Durban are slowing new imports, while record heat overseas has already emptied warehouses in Europe. When demand runs ahead of supply, you get fewer models to choose from, longer waits and booked-up installers. Here is what is happening and what it means for you.

Demand and supply: the simple picture

When something pushes demand up and holds supply back at the same time, a gap opens: more people want units than there are units available. Two forces are pulling in opposite directions for aircons right now:

• Demand rises as summer heat builds and more households and businesses treat cooling as essential, not a luxury.
• Supply is slowed because imported stock has to move through a congested port.

Not every brand or size will be affected equally, but when supply is tight, the popular sizes tend to go first.

Port delays are slowing new stock

Aircons are largely imported, and a big share of the country's containers arrives through Durban. The Durban Gateway Terminal alone handles about 46% of South Africa's container traffic, so when it slows down, the whole supply chain feels it.

Officials blame a new terminal operating system and delays in replacing loading equipment. In early October, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy met the terminal's operator over the delays, and ships were waiting about 8.3 days on average, against a 24-hour target. Business groups report that some ships are bypassing Durban altogether, with knock-on disruption at the Port of Cape Town.

The operator says the situation has stabilised and continues to improve. Creecy has said new handling equipment is expected in December, but that the backlog could take until February to clear.

What this means for you: stock due in the busy months can arrive later than planned, and late arrivals leave less room to restock popular sizes once demand picks up. Check the product page for current availability.

Europe showed us what happens next

Europe lived this scenario in 2026. Western Europe had its hottest June on record, and cooling demand surged. Midea said its portable split unit sold out in Germany, France, the Netherlands and the UK, and reported that second-hand prices rose above those of new units in some channels. Swiss retailer Galaxus sold more aircons in June than in any month before, and its warehouses were left largely empty, with fresh stock from Asia not expected before the season ended.

The lesson is clear: once the heat arrives, everyone shops at the same time and supply struggles to keep up. South Africa's market is different from Europe's, but the pattern is a useful warning.

A hot summer adds to the pressure

The World Meteorological Organization expects El Niño to strengthen into a very strong event that persists until at least February 2027. Its effects differ from region to region, and no forecast guarantees heat on any particular day, but a hotter summer is a real possibility. Our guide to El Niño and summer heat in South Africa explains what is certain and what is not.

When a hot spell does hit, many households start looking for an aircon in the same week. Installer calendars fill, popular sizes sell out and lead times stretch. We also shared practical advice on News24: AC Direct's top 5 tips on how to prepare your home for El Niño.

Why buying now makes sense

• Better choice. Right now you can still pick the brand, size and model that suits your room, not just whatever is left.
• Faster installation. Installer calendars fill up quickly once the heat arrives. Booking early gets you cool before the peak, not after it.
• No last-minute panic. Avoid waiting weeks for restock while you are sweating through a heatwave.
• Peace of mind. Your unit is secured and installed before demand peaks.

Not sure what size you need?

Getting the right capacity matters for comfort and running costs. Our BTU sizing guide walks you through it room by room, and our team can recommend energy-efficient inverter models and arrange professional installation. Get a free quote or browse our range online.

Don't get caught lacking

Demand is rising and supply is slowing. The simplest way to avoid the queue is to choose your unit and book your installation before the peak. Shop aircons now at AC Direct and stay cool before the heat hits.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an aircon shortage in South Africa?

Delays at the Port of Durban are slowing imported stock, and demand normally climbs in summer, so popular models and sizes can sell out. Availability differs by brand and size, so check the product page for current stock before you decide.

Why are there delays at the Port of Durban?

Officials point to a new terminal operating system and delays in replacing loading equipment at the Durban Gateway Terminal. Ships have been waiting well above the 24-hour target, and the Transport Minister has said the backlog could take until February to clear.

When is the best time to buy an aircon in South Africa?

Before the summer peak. Buying early gives you more choice of brand, size and model, and makes it easier to book an installation date before installer calendars fill up.

How do I know what size aircon I need?

Start with the room's floor area, then adjust for sun exposure, insulation and ceiling height. Our BTU sizing guide has a room-by-room table, and our team can confirm the right capacity for your space.

Is it too late to buy an aircon before summer?

No, but the earlier the better. Ordering now gives you the widest choice and the best chance of installation before the heat peaks. Stock changes daily, so check the product page for what is available today.

Sources

• Another blow for South Africa's ports, BusinessTech, 6 October 2026.
• Durban port backlog highlights cost of logistics disruption, EWN, 5 October 2026.
• Durban Pier 2 backlog could take until February to clear, IOL, 30 October 2026.
• Western Europe has hottest June on record, World Meteorological Organization, 9 July 2026.
• Europe's heat wave lifts sales for Chinese air-conditioner makers, Caixin Global, 1 July 2026.
• European heatwave drives surge in air conditioner sales, Asian manufacturers profit, Thairath Online, 26 June 2026.
• Next heatwave to hit amid a shortage of fans and air conditioners, Galaxus, 2 July 2026.
• El Niño set to become very strong, raising risks of extreme weather into 2027, World Meteorological Organization, 3 September 2026.