Japan heatstroke risks and air conditioner efficiency

Health and energy experts are warning against extreme cost-cutting measures that compromise safety, particularly for the elderly. Data from the Fire and Disaster Management Agency shows that between May and September 2025, over 100,000 people in Japan were transported by ambulance due to heatstroke, with 57.1% being aged 65 or older. A significant portion of these incidents occurred within residential homes.

The Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare advise against avoiding air conditioning to save on electricity, as seniors may not perceive heat as effectively, increasing the risk of indoor heatstroke. Experts suggest that instead of cutting essential cooling, households should review overall expenditures or use methods like blackout curtains and air circulation to manage costs.

Additionally, proper maintenance of air conditioning units is critical for both health and economy. Research from Panasonic indicates that failing to clean filters for a year can increase heating power consumption by approximately 25%, potentially leading to annual electricity bill increases of over 10,000 yen. Regular filter cleaning and drying the unit after summer use are recommended to prevent mold and maintain efficiency.