The invention of central air conditioning is a major milestone in the history of technology. We can now accomplish various tasks that we don’t always stop to consider because of the A/C system. Air conditioning has not always been around, though. Did you know that air conditioners were originally made for warehouses and businesses to protect their inventory? Air conditioners weren’t immediately available to residential homes. In fact, since the initial design was created, A/C units have developed a lot. So, how did it all begin? Who invented the air conditioning unit? Well, the good news is that’s what we’re here to talk about today! Join Grove City Heating & Air in learning about these interesting historical milestones in the development of today’s A/C.
How Did the A/C System Make Progress In the 1800s?
Dr. John Gorrie, a physician who lived in the mid-nineteenth century, experimented with the concept of artificial cooling. He sought to help his patients suffering from tropical infections such as yellow fever. As a result of this, he developed a tiny machine that ran on steam and used a compressor to make ice. Although his invention was successful, it was not patented until 1851 because of funding difficulties. So his design was not made available to the public. His creation nevertheless laid the groundwork for future air conditioning and refrigeration development.
How Did the A/C System Make Progress In the 1900s?
Following that, the concept of artificial cooling was put on hold for a lengthy period until Willis Carrier, who was an engineer, took on a job that required the development of cooling equipment. The Sackett-Wilhelms Lithographing and Publishing Company in Brooklyn, New York, needed Willis to develop a better strategy to regulate humidity levels in their printing rooms. They were having problems with the paper and ink warping under high humidity. So Willis set to work, and the first modern electrical air conditioning system was created in 1902 as a result! His initial design was a success. He collaborated with the Buffalo Forge Company until he later broke off and established his own company called the Carrier Engineering Corporation. Today his brand is famously recognized in the HVAC industry as Carrier. The invention of air conditioning has been credited to Willis Carrier, who was appropriately dubbed the “father of air conditioning.”
Originally, air conditioning was only utilized in factories and other large businesses to preserve their goods. Large structures such as the White House and other administrative-like buildings also had them installed in the 1930s. However, it is worth noting that when Nicklodeans’ 5-cent theater began offering inexpensive entertainment to the middle and upper classes, they quickly realized that maintaining their clients’ comfort was essential. Theaters were equipped with air conditioners as a result. However, when consumers discovered that cool air could be a commodity in their homes, the market for residential A/C systems exploded. Because of this, most new houses had A/C systems installed by the end of the 1960s.
How Did the A/C System Make Progress In the 2000s?
It’s 2022; according to recent surveys, air conditioning systems are installed in almost 100 million houses across the United States. That means just about 87 percent of all homes in the United States have their own A/C systems. It’s astounding to think that central air was not always considered a fundamental requirement, since it is so commonly used today. It began as an industrial need that eventually became a luxury for individuals who could afford to install one in their homes. Now it’s a basic need for everyone. Modern A/C units enable us to keep constant cool air, maintain precise humidity levels, use less energy, and improve air quality. Furthermore, it should be remembered that there are several variations available depending on each homeowner’s demands and budget.
The A/C system will continue to develop as technology improves. As a result, the search for energy-efficient units and sustainable equipment will continue. It will be interesting to see how much better air conditioning systems operate in the following decade or two. Without a doubt, progress and discoveries will occur, but one thing is certain, Grove City Heating & Air is only a phone call away. We are here to provide you with exceptional customer service for any of your HVAC needs. You can contact us at (614) 490-7540, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
