Probably because the UK - similar to most of Europe - does not use the US vertically sliding sash window type, does it? The typical "walmart window AC" does just not really exist in (most of) Europe, because the windows for it don't exist, afaik.

Edit: Turns out, sash windows are more commonly found in the UK (compared to other European countries), but still not as common as in the US. So, UK = not as hot (so far), thus still probably not worth it (yet) as a market.

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asdff 4 minutes ago | parent | next [-]

I have a skinny tall window unit. It is called a casement unit. Pretty small market though at least in the US, only a few makes and models in comparison to the plethora of traditionally sized window units.

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nemomarx 4 hours ago | parent | prev [-]

Why are the windows different, actually? They don't seem to be smaller overall, just skinnier and taller?

But you should still be able to get two tubes fitted into any kind of window with the right seals. If you were really up for renovations you could get closeable exhaust holes punched through your brick or something maybe.

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lrae 4 hours ago | parent | next [-]

Sash windows are just not as common. Seems like they are in the UK somewhat, though numbers I found vary, but overall in Europe they're pretty uncommon.

And yes, there are options for tubes/ducts for the more common window types. Like tilt-and-turn windows, horizontally sliding or all the other kinds of inward or outward opening windows - but most of them are the ducted portable units the original comment was speaking of, which aren't great. There are also some better portable split units, but those are pricier and the install is not as easy. (They're great though.)

	▲	mc32 4 hours ago \| parent [-]
		one issue with tilt and turn is getting window screens for them. It's possible but mostly they get installed on the inside if you have the proper wall spacing that allows window to function without interfering with the screen. mini splits are great but it's much more money than a simple window unit or portable unit.

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ajmurmann an hour ago | parent | prev [-]

Living in the US I honestly miss the German windows that swing open. You can open the entire window whereas sliding windows can only ever open halfway.

I also sometimes miss being able to stick my head out the window but that's a tradeoff about screens and in the end of the day I prefer not to have to worry about bugs.

	▲	asdff 3 minutes ago \| parent [-]
		I have a swing out window in the US. Fun cranking the lever.