A report from GfK Zhongyikang stated that fresh-air air-conditioner unit sales rose 83% and sales revenue increased 57.9% during the first three quarters covered by the report. Full-year retail sales reached RMB 6.25 billion in 2022, up 37.1%, giving the category a 6% share of China's air-conditioner market. The figures show that more consumers are prioritizing fresh-air capability when choosing an air conditioner and increasingly expect a one-step comfort upgrade.To maintain cooling performance, an air-conditioned room normally needs to remain enclosed. The indoor air then recirculates continuously, so carbon-dioxide concentration can rise over time while humidity and oxygen levels fall. Comfort declines and, in severe cases, occupants may experience symptoms commonly associated with prolonged air-conditioner use. Limiting operating time can save energy and support health, but high summer temperatures often make it impractical to switch the unit off.
Improving air quality in a closed, air-conditioned room therefore became an important direction for manufacturers. Haier introduced the first fresh-air air conditioner in 2018. Within the following six months, Hisense, Midea, Gree, Xiaomi and other brands launched their own products, turning fresh-air capability into a major industry trend.