Bangladesh’s air conditioner market has shifted from a luxury item to an everyday household requirement, with Rangs Electronics Ltd building its position through a diversified portfolio and strong after-sales service.
Rangs Electronics Ltd Managing Director Ekram Hussain told TIMES of Bangladesh in an interview that the company, established in 1984 in Dhaka, has grown into one of the country’s well-known electronics product and service providers by offering quality products and reliable after-sales support. He said the company has a long track record of pioneering work in consumer electronics and technology.
The AC market has expanded sharply over the past decade, driven by rising temperatures, increasing disposable incomes, and the expansion of local manufacturing. It has also shifted from being dominated by premium foreign imports to one increasingly led by cost-effective local manufacturing and Chinese brands, according to him.
Technology is reshaping demand, with inverter ACs now accounting for around 70 per cent of the market, while non-inverter models make up around 30 per cent. The shift reflects energy savings, high electricity costs, and wider availability of locally produced inverter units. Inverter models dominate urban and semi-urban areas, while non-inverter units continue to serve price-sensitive customers, small businesses, and rural markets, he said.
Rangs offers a broad portfolio to serve different customer segments, including international brands such as LG, Panasonic, Kelvinator, Daewoo, Hisense, and Hyundai, alongside its own Rangs-branded ACs. The mix allows it to serve premium, mid-range, and value segments across urban and semi-urban markets, according to him.
After-sales service remains a key focus. Rangs provides support through hotlines, online platforms, and messaging channels, with response times within 24 hours or less. The company maintains trained technicians across key locations to ensure quick service scheduling, particularly during peak summer demand, he said. Installation is typically completed within 24 to 48 hours, supported by warranty policies and preventive maintenance services such as annual maintenance contracts and seasonal reminders.
Current technology trends include energy-efficient inverter systems, smart and IoT-enabled controls, offline voice activation in Bangla and English, and AI-based diagnostics that monitor performance and provide maintenance alerts. Durability features such as anti-rust coatings for humid conditions and enhanced filtration systems, including HEPA filters, are also becoming more common, according to him.
Looking ahead, future technologies are expected to include cooling and heating dual-function units, eco-friendly refrigerants, hybrid systems combining renewable energy with conventional cooling, advanced air purification, and AI-based energy management systems.
Seasonality remains a key factor, with around 70 to 80 per cent of annual AC sales taking place between March and July, when temperatures rise sharply. Despite rapid growth, AC penetration remains low at around 3 to 5 per cent, up from less than 1 per cent a decade ago, indicating strong potential for further expansion, according to him.
Urban areas account for around 60 to 70 per cent of total sales, while rural and semi-urban markets are growing quickly, supported by rising incomes, wider electricity access, and financing options.
Looking ahead to 2026, the market could grow by 10 to 20 per cent if summer temperatures remain high, returning close to 2024 levels after a weaker 2025. By 2035, AC penetration could reach 15 to 25 per cent per year, reflecting continued growth in demand, he said.
He also addressed a common misconception, noting that standard split ACs do not bring in fresh air but recirculate indoor air, and that fresh air exchange requires additional systems beyond conventional residential units.
Hussain stressed proper usage and maintenance to ensure both comfort and health. He advised keeping the AC temperature between 24°C and 26°C and avoiding very low settings, which can cause cold, headaches, and muscle stiffness, as well as sudden temperature shock when going outdoors.
He said filters should be cleaned every two to four weeks, while users should activate sleep mode at night and avoid direct airflow on the body, particularly for children and the elderly, who should use slightly higher temperature settings of 25°C to 27°C.
Regular maintenance is essential, including cleaning filters and coils, keeping drainage lines clear, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring annual professional servicing. Proper upkeep can reduce electricity costs by 10 to 20 per cent and extend the lifespan of AC units, according to him.
“A well-maintained AC cools better, saves electricity, and lasts longer,” he said.
