Heat wave drives demand for air conditioners, fans

A ir conditioners and fans have been in high demand as Barbadians find ways to cope with excessive heat, with appliance retailers reporting increased sales and some fan models already out of stock. At Courts Sheraton, assistant branch manager George Mayers said sales of air conditioners and fans had increased. Assistant branch manager at Courts Sheraton George Mayers. (Photo Credit: Lauryn Escamilla) “We have definitely seen within the last month or so, an increase of over 20 per cent in sales in the AC units and fans,” he said. Air conditioners, in particular, were moving quickly, with the 12 000-BTU model proving especially popular as it is suitable for small rooms, said Mayers. “The request for fans is very high as well. At the moment we are out of some standing fans, but we’re expecting some shipment soon,” he added.

At Massy Stores’ Sheraton location, supervisor Nicole Callender also reported a spike in air conditioner sales: “We do get a lot of sales in both areas, but I find that here of late that we have been getting a spike in AC sales. More customers are coming in and looking at the ACs, whether it be portable or whether it be split unit. ” Supervisor at Massy Stores Sheraton Nicole Callender. (Photo Credit: Lauryn Escamilla) Air-conditioning units, including standard and inverter models range from 12 000 to 36 000 BTUs. For fans, the store carries 16-inch and 18-inch models, as well as wall and pedestal fans. Callender suggested that consumers should consider the size and construction of their rooms when choosing an air-conditioning unit: “Depending on how the houses are now today, you have the close-board ceilings, the high roofs. So, you would have to use a split AC rather than an old sealed roof where you can use the portable AC. ” In a statement issued on…