A severe heatwave sweeping across the country has triggered a sharp rise in demand for cooling appliances such as fans, air conditioners (ACs) and air coolers, pushing up prices and adding pressure on electricity supply.
With soaring daytime temperatures making outdoor activity difficult and indoor conditions increasingly uncomfortable, public life has been disrupted.
The widespread use of cooling devices has also driven up electricity demand, contributing to frequent power outages in many areas.
In response, many households are turning to alternatives such as rechargeable fans, emergency lights and IPS systems to cope with load-shedding.
However, rising import costs and strong demand have led to noticeable price increases, adding to consumer frustration.
Markets across the capital have seen increased footfall in recent weeks, particularly at stores selling cooling appliances.
Traders say demand for fans and ACs has been rising steadily since March, while supply has struggled to keep pace.
Rechargeable fans, which provide temporary relief during power cuts, are among the most sought-after items.
Popular brands such as Walton, Vision, Singer and others are widely available, alongside smaller portable models.
According to traders, fan prices have risen by Tk200 to Tk700 compared to last year, depending on size and type.
Prices of rechargeable lights have also increased by Tk30 to Tk70.
Non-branded portable “typhoon” fans are now selling for Tk900 to Tk1,100, up from Tk500 to Tk600 a year ago.
Mid-range 12-inch branded fans are priced between Tk3,500 and Tk4,000, while larger 14-inch models can cost up to Tk5,000.
Portable stand fans are currently selling for Tk800 to Tk1,600, while branded models range from Tk2,200 to Tk8,000.
Ceiling fans are priced between Tk1,700 and Tk4,000 for local brands, and up to Tk10,000 for imported ones.
Consumers say frequent power outages are forcing them to make additional purchases.
“Electricity goes out several times a day, especially at night. I had to buy a rechargeable fan and light despite higher prices,” said Asif, a resident of Mohammadpur.
Retailers report a sharp increase in sales.
Abdul Aziz, a vendor at Sundarban Square Market, said he sold more than 50 rechargeable fans in recent weeks.
Another trader at Stadium Market said rising wholesale prices have compelled retailers to pass on the cost to customers.
Demand for ACs has also risen significantly, particularly for 1-ton and 1.5-ton units, with the latter being the most popular among households.
Retailers say prices for 1.5-ton ACs now range from Tk65,000 to Tk140,000, while 1-ton units are priced between Tk45,000 and Tk90,000, depending on brand and features.
Installation costs are around Tk10,000, with limited promotional discounts.
Traders estimate that AC prices have increased by about 15% in recent months due to higher demand.
Air coolers are also seeing increased sales, especially among middle-income buyers seeking more affordable alternatives.
“Sales have nearly doubled compared to previous periods,” said a sales executive at a leading electronics showroom.
Many buyers say the extreme heat has turned cooling appliances from a discretionary purchase into a necessity.
“Even with fans running, there is no relief. For my family’s health, I had to buy an AC despite the higher cost,” said Touhidul Islam, a customer in Old Dhaka.
With temperatures expected to remain high, both consumers and retailers anticipate continued pressure on supply, prices and the power system in the coming weeks.