About Koppel
Overview
Koppel, Inc. is a Philippine manufacturer of air-conditioning and HVAC equipment, widely recognized for its Koppel brand serving residential, commercial, and industrial markets. While the company traces its corporate heritage to 1904, it commenced air-conditioning manufacturing operations in 1957. Today, Koppel maintains its headquarters and primary manufacturing facility in Calamba, Laguna, supported by a nationwide network of dealers, installers, and service centers.1
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Brand | Koppel |
| Company | Koppel, Inc. |
| Country of origin | Philippines |
| Founded / historical roots | 1904 |
| Air-conditioning manufacturing since | 1957 |
| Industry | HVAC, air conditioning, refrigeration |
| Headquarters / main manufacturing site | Carmelray Industrial Park, Canlubang, Calamba, Laguna |
| Main products | Residential, light-commercial, commercial and industrial air-conditioning systems |
| Business type | Privately held |
| Current website | koppel.ph |
| Known for | Local manufacturing, commercial HVAC, residential air conditioners, nationwide after-sales support |
Koppel describes itself as one of the largest air-conditioner manufacturers in the Philippines, offering products that span residential, light-commercial, and packaged applications. Its manufacturing complex occupies a 20,000-square-meter industrial site within Carmelray Industrial Park 1.2
History
1904–1950s: Origins and Industrial Expansion
The history of Koppel in the Philippines dates back to 1904, when the business operated as Koppel Industrial Car & Equipment Co. Manila. Initially, the company was not involved in air conditioning; rather, it distributed railway equipment such as locomotive cargo cars, sugar-cane cars, tankers, and bulk carriers for operators including the Philippine National Railways, Philippine Railway Company, and Panay Railways.3
During the early industrialization of the Philippines, Koppel expanded into supplying American industrial machinery. Its portfolio eventually grew beyond railways to encompass construction, agricultural, mining, electrical, and refrigeration equipment.4
In 1923, Koppel formed an alliance with the American conglomerate United States Industries, which significantly broadened its manufacturing and distribution capabilities. This partnership included products and technologies from major firms such as:
- Cessna aircraft
- Otis elevators
- Ingersoll Rand compressors
- Westinghouse electrical equipment
- Caterpillar construction equipment
- Mack Trucks
- Agricultural and mining machinery
- Industrial refrigeration
- American Standard commercial air-conditioning equipment5
This era established the technical and industrial foundation that would later support Koppel’s entry into the HVAC sector.
Entry into Air Conditioning (1957)
A pivotal shift occurred in 1957 when Koppel began manufacturing split-type and packaged air-conditioning equipment. This transition transformed the firm from a general industrial supplier into a key player in the Philippine air-conditioning industry.6 During this period, Koppel became a preferred brand among industry consultants and secured a strong market position.7
Beyond residential units, the company developed specialized expertise in industrial refrigeration and commercial HVAC, including the design and installation of ice plants and cold-storage facilities. Historical records indicate that Koppel designed and installed over 300 ice plants and cold-storage facilities, representing more than 4,000 tons of refrigeration capacity.8
1970s: Commercial and Infrastructure Projects
In 1971, the alliance with United States Industries was dissolved into four autonomous companies. Koppel retained the contracting and manufacturing businesses for industrial refrigeration and commercial air conditioning.9
The company subsequently contributed to major national infrastructure projects. Notable installations associated with Koppel’s commercial air-conditioning business include:
- Former Manila International Airport Terminal 1 (now Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1)
- Philippine International Convention Center (PICC)
- Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)10
These projects underscore Koppel’s identity as an engineering and HVAC firm serving large-scale institutional and industrial facilities, distinguishing it from brands focused solely on household appliances.
Corporate Transitions: ABB and Fedders
In 1993, the European industrial conglomerate Asea Brown Boveri (ABB) acquired Koppel Incorporated, renaming it ABB Koppel, Inc.11 Under ABB, the company continued to expand its local market presence.
In 2000, U.S.-based Fedders Corporation acquired ABB Koppel, rebranding it as Fedders Koppel, Inc.12 This acquisition integrated additional European and American technologies and strengthened Koppel’s position in both residential and commercial segments. Consequently, older equipment in the Philippines may still bear the Fedders Koppel name.
2008: Modern Koppel, Inc.
In 2008, Fedders Koppel was acquired by KPL Aircon Inc., which subsequently adopted the name Koppel, Inc.13 It is important to distinguish between the brand’s heritage and its current corporate entity:
While the Koppel business traces its roots to 1904, the present Koppel, Inc. corporate entity dates from the 2008 transition.
Some databases list the founding year as 2008, whereas corporate communications reference the 1904 heritage.14 Following this transition, Koppel increasingly focused on modern inverter-driven, energy-saving air-conditioning technology across all market segments.15
Manufacturing Operations
Koppel’s primary manufacturing plant is located at Industry Drive, Carmelray Industrial Park 1, Canlubang, Calamba, Laguna. The official website states that the main office and factory occupy approximately 20,000 square meters.16
In 2014, the company announced the development of a larger facility in Carmelray Industrial Park II. Situated on a three-hectare property, this expansion was intended to produce environmentally friendly and energy-efficient air-conditioning products.17 The facility has been promoted as part of Koppel’s broader commitment to sustainable manufacturing technologies.18
Products
Koppel’s current portfolio covers residential, commercial, and industrial air-conditioning solutions.19
Residential Air Conditioners
Residential offerings include:
- Window-type air conditioners
- Inverter window units
- Wall-mounted split systems
- Inverter split systems
- Multi-split inverter systems
- R32-refrigerant models
- Various high-efficiency inverter series20
Key product lines currently marketed include the Super Inverter DC Pro, Super Inverter DC Pro Plus, Lunaire Series, Super i-Match Multi-Split Inverter, and R32 EVO Series.21
Commercial Air Conditioning
Commercial equipment is designed for offices, retail establishments, restaurants, hotels, institutional buildings, and other large conditioned spaces. Koppel’s historical strength in commercial HVAC remains a defining characteristic compared to brands limited to residential room air conditioners.
Industrial and Engineered Solutions
Building on its legacy in industrial refrigeration, Koppel provides customized cooling and HVAC solutions for enterprise and industrial applications.22
Technology and Energy Efficiency
A central focus of Koppel’s product development is inverter technology. Unlike conventional fixed-speed compressors that cycle on and off, inverter systems modulate compressor speed based on cooling demand.
Koppel states that its inverter technology can deliver up to 50% energy savings compared with non-inverter units, though actual performance depends on installation, usage, and environmental conditions.23 Specific newer residential series advertise savings of up to 60%, indicating that efficiency claims vary by product line.24
The company also emphasizes the use of refrigerants with zero ozone-depletion potential (ODP) and environmentally oriented technologies.25
Environmental Initiatives
Environmental sustainability is integral to Koppel’s corporate strategy. Through its “Go Green” campaign, the company promotes energy-efficient products and eco-conscious manufacturing. The 2014 factory expansion was explicitly designed around these principles.26 In 2015, Koppel further highlighted its manufacturing growth as part of a long-term effort to reduce environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency.27
Quality and Certification
Koppel has stated that it was certified under ISO 9001:2008, with its quality-management system covering design, development, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service. The company’s quality philosophy emphasizes reliability, efficiency, international standards, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.28
Note: ISO 9001:2008 is a superseded version of the standard. Verification of current certification status should be made against the latest documentation.
Distribution and After-Sales Service
Koppel maintains a substantial local service infrastructure in the Philippines. The company reports having close to 300 accredited distributors, installers, and service centers nationwide. Branch offices are located in Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Iloilo, complementing its principal operations in Luzon.
Customer support services include:
- Authorized installation
- Accredited service centers
- Warranty registration
- Repair services
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Parts inquiries
- Customer service assistance
An official directory lists accredited service centers across Metro Manila and provincial areas. This network is critical for ensuring proper installation, preventive maintenance, and parts availability, all of which significantly affect air-conditioner longevity.
Warranty
Warranty terms vary by product type. For certain inverter window and wall-mounted split-type units, coverage includes:
- 1 year on other parts, labor, and consumables
- 3 years on the PCB
- 10 years on the compressor
These inverter warranty terms are effective from May 15, 2024, subject to specific conditions. Non-inverter models and light-commercial products have distinct coverage periods. Consumers are advised to verify warranty details against specific model numbers and purchase documentation.
Brand Positioning
Koppel occupies a distinct niche in the Philippine market, combining local manufacturing and engineering heritage with modern HVAC technology. Its positioning is neither purely low-cost nor exclusively premium international; instead, it is defined by:
Local Philippine heritage + manufacturing + HVAC engineering + energy efficiency + nationwide service.
The company envisions becoming a leading provider of high-quality, best-value, and environmentally safe air-conditioning products.
Significance in Philippine HVAC History
Koppel is notable for the breadth and longevity of its operational history. Unlike many appliance brands, its evolution followed a unique trajectory:
Railway equipment → industrial equipment → refrigeration → commercial HVAC → air-conditioning manufacturing → residential air conditioners → inverter and energy-efficient HVAC.
From its industrial origins in the early 20th century to its definitive entry into AC manufacturing in 1957, through the ABB and Fedders eras, and finally to the modern Koppel, Inc. established in 2008, the company has maintained a significant presence in commercial and industrial sectors alongside its residential business.
Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1904 | Business heritage begins as Koppel Industrial Car & Equipment Co. Manila. |
| 1923 | Alliance with United States Industries expands industrial activities. |
| 1957 | Manufacturing of split and packaged air-conditioning equipment begins. |
| 1971 | Reorganization focuses company on industrial refrigeration and commercial HVAC. |
| 1993 | Acquired by Asea Brown Boveri (ABB); becomes ABB Koppel, Inc. |
| 2000 | Acquired by Fedders Corporation; becomes Fedders Koppel, Inc. |
| 2008 | Acquired by KPL Aircon Inc.; becomes modern Koppel, Inc. |
| 2013 | Announces ISO 9001:2008 certification. |
| 2014 | Groundbreaking for new manufacturing facility in Carmelray, Laguna. |
| 2015 | Celebrates 111-year heritage; promotes green manufacturing. |
| Today | Operates as a Philippine HVAC manufacturer for residential, commercial, and industrial markets. |
Timeline based on published company history and corporate announcements.
Key Characteristics
Philippine HVAC Brand
Koppel possesses deep roots in the local industrial and air-conditioning sector.
Local Manufacturer
Unlike import-only brands, Koppel conducts actual manufacturing and engineering operations in Laguna.
Commercial-HVAC Heritage
Its portfolio includes major institutional installations and industrial refrigeration projects.
Residential Market Presence
The brand offers a wide range of consumer products, including window-type, split-type, and multi-split inverter systems.
Inverter Efficiency Focus
Modern product development prioritizes variable-speed inverter technology and energy conservation.
Nationwide Service Network
A comprehensive network of accredited distributors, installers, and service centers supports customers across the archipelago.
Summary
Koppel, Inc. is a Philippine HVAC manufacturer whose business heritage dates to 1904 and whose air-conditioning manufacturing operations began in 1957. Originally involved in railway and industrial equipment, Koppel gradually developed expertise in refrigeration and commercial air conditioning before becoming a major Philippine air-conditioning brand. Its corporate history includes ownership by ABB and Fedders, followed by the 2008 acquisition that created the modern Koppel, Inc. The company now manufactures and distributes residential, commercial, and industrial air-conditioning equipment, including inverter and energy-efficient systems, from its operations in Laguna. Its long Philippine history, local manufacturing capabilities, commercial-HVAC experience, and nationwide service network are central to its brand identity.
References
- Who We Are | koppel
- Company History | koppel
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel, Inc. | LinkedIn
- Groundbreaking Ceremony for Koppel’s New Manufacturing Facility | koppel
- Manage News | koppel
- koppel
- Residential Airconditioners | Product Categories | koppel
- Frequently Asked Questions | koppel
- ISO 9001:2008 Certified | koppel
- CUSTOMER SUPPORT | koppel
- Koppel Authorized Installers & Service Center Network | koppel
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Inc. | LinkedIn
- Koppel Aircon Philippines — Review, Models & Prices 2025 | Aircon.ph
- News and Events | koppel
- My air conditioner needs to be repaired, who do I contact? | koppel
- Products | Air Prosystems Inc.





