What Is the History of the Modern Air Conditioner?

Jul 19, 2022 | A/C, Air Conditioner, Blog, Dayton, Five Star, History, HVAC, OH, Ohio

Air conditioning is a fantastic invention. Because of it, we may sit down with the family for a movie night in a cooled room during the sweltering months of summer and hold gatherings for summer vacations while knowing we can retreat to the solstice of a chilly house if the outside heat becomes too much, or even take naps during the day while resting on the weekends. Of course, without an operational A/C system, none of this would be possible. However, A/C systems were not always around, nor were they an option for everyone. They weren’t immediately accepted into residential homes. In fact, since their inception, air conditioning systems have come a long way. So exactly how did it all begin? That’s what we at Five Star Heating & Cooling in Dayton are here for! Continue reading to learn about the development of today’s air conditioners. 

What Was the Advancement Of the A/C In the 1800s? 

During the mid-eighteenth century, Dr. John Gorries developed the idea of artificial cooling. He wanted to provide people with tropical illnesses such as yellow fever with some sort of cooling relief. To do so, he began experimenting with artificial cooling. This led to him developing a small machine that used a compressor to make ice and was powered by steam. His invention was patented in 1851. Unfortunately, his invention was not made available to the residential market. However, it was utilized in hospitals to alleviate patients’ discomfort. His invention did, nevertheless, set the groundwork for future air conditioning and refrigeration technology. 

What Was the Advancement Of the A/C in the 1900s? 

The idea of artificial cooling was largely unexplored until an engineer named Willis Carrier accepted a position that required the development of cooling equipment. A printing company in New York hired Carrier to develop a solution for maintaining humidity levels within their printing area. They were having problems with the paper and ink deforming under high humidity. The first modern electrical air conditioning system was developed in 1902 when Willis Carrier was successful in his first design. He later collaborated with the Buffalo Forge Company for a while before breaking away and establishing his own business, Carrier Engineering Corporation, with six other experienced engineers. Today, Willis Carrier’s brand is recognized across the industry as Carrier. 

Air conditioners were initially only utilized in factories to protect products and huge buildings like theaters and executive buildings. However, when this cooling technology reached the theaters, consumers began recognizing that cool air within their homes might be beneficial. As a result, the market for air conditioning emerged for residential houses in the mid-nineteenth century. By the 1960s, most new residences had A/C systems installed. 

What Was the Advancement Of the A/C in the 2000s? 

In 2022, central air is installed in almost 100 million houses in the United States. This means that around 87 percent of American homes have it. Central air was once thought of as a luxury; however, it is now regarded as a basic need. Modern air conditioning systems allow us to enjoy consistent air, lower moisture levels, less energy use, and improved air quality. In addition, a variety of models are available on the market and are accessible to homeowners based on their demands and budget. 

The A/C market is continuously growing, and the development of air conditioning will continue. As technology improves, so will the modern A/C system. The search for more energy-efficient, long-lasting equipment is endless. It will be fascinating to see how much air conditioners advance in the next decade or two. There is no doubt that progress is inevitable, but one thing is certain – Five Star Heating & Cooling Dayton will always be just a phone call away! We’re here to provide you with any HVAC services you may need. You can reach us at (937) 708-8278, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here