With temperatures soaring and summer at its peak, air conditioner and cooler dealers are experiencing a surge in sales. However, there is another group that is in high demand but scarce during this time.
Air conditioner technicians are sought after for repairing and servicing old units, working around the clock but struggling to reach their customers on time. Ironically, they are the only ones who thrive during the scorching months and struggle when winter arrives.
"This is our season, where we depend on servicing and repairing air conditioners. It's the only time we can make good money," said Shabeer Khan, a Pakistani national who has been in the business with his four brothers for two decades.
Mainly staffed by South Asian nationals with expertise in servicing window units, split air conditioners, and central cooling systems, this sector has a large expatriate workforce that lacks skilled workers during the summer peak, causing delays in repairs.
"In the capital area alone, there are hundreds of air conditioner mechanics serving both locals and expatriates. We work from 5 am to midnight, trying to meet every customer's needs," added Islamudheen, a Bangladeshi citizen specialising in split air conditioners.
To meet demand, many servicemen hire additional technicians during the summer, who may be let go once the season ends. Business fluctuates during other months, making their future uncertain.
"Servicing a window unit earns me RO 5, adding gas is another RO3, while servicing a split unit can bring in RO12, or RO15 with gas. My team can handle six to seven clients a day," explained Islamudheen.
When summer ends and winter approaches, many of these workers take extended vacations back home, returning to Oman only when the heat picks up again.
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