10 Interesting AC Related Facts

Air conditioners are undoubtedly one of the best technological advancements in modern times. Because of this valuable invention, summer days are much more tolerable―relaxing at the comfort of your own home or going home with a cool breeze after a long day at work. Truly, the creation of air conditioners is such an impressive innovation that makes everything a little less stressful.

Along with the amazing features of this significant device, repairs and maintenance expenses are part of owning an AC unit. Learn more about the importance of getting AC repair in Phoenix to help maintain the cooling system and maximize its efficiency. Aside from this key information, many unique details revolve around your AC. Below are some of the fascinating facts that make you appreciate your unit even more.

1. The electric first air conditioner was meant for industrial processes.

The history of air conditioning is quite an interesting read that started in 1902. While ACs are often associated with homes and offices, did you know that the first modern AC unit was created for a printing plant? Invented by Willis Haviland Carrier, he was the engineer of Buffalo Forge Company and was tasked to solve the issue of wrinkled magazine pages.

To resolve the humidity problem of the printing plant, he delved into the laws of humidity control and eventually invented a factory-scale cooler. Fast forward to many years later, the first modern air conditioning company still exists―The Carrier Air Conditioning Company of America (now called Carrier Global Corporation).

2. Movie theaters were very popular in the early 1900s.

With the growing popularity of air conditioners during the 19th century, many businesses used this invention for the comfort of their customers. Movie theater owners, for one, are some of the earliest patrons of air conditioners. Before installing ACs in theaters, cinemas were mostly vacant during the hot summer months. As temperatures rose, businesses were largely affected.

To combat the decline in sales and continuously draw customers even in summers, theater owners became some of the pioneering businesses that utilized air conditioners. And in 1925, the Rivoli Theater in New York became the first theater to install an AC. From then on, cinemas became a favorite spot among locals, especially during summer.

3. Ice was deemed the basis for the first air conditioners.

Long before the popularity of air conditioners, ice was maximized to the highest level to provide comfort. People would even use huge blocks of ice to generate cool air. Hence, the relationship between ice and AC has always been interrelated.

The earliest history of air conditioners was in the 18th century when Dr. John Gorrie built an ice-making machine through the process of compression. Air was then blown to the ice buckets, creating the first AC prototype. Subsequently, during the era of developing the first electric air conditioner, ice was utilized to measure the output ratings of the unit to acquire the same cooling power.

4. Summer vacations were somehow introduced because of the heat.

While summer break myths are often associated with kids taking rest to help in the fields and farms, some debates link these with learning efficiency. Many believe that studying and learning is very difficult if the environment is very hot.

In the past, wealthy inhabitants traditionally left their cities during the hot summer months and just returned during milder seasons. This practice subsequently expanded to many cities and even schools because of the unbearable summer days. Fortunately, this has been acknowledged by many educational institutions―not just for the benefit of the students but also for the instructors.

5. Cornell University was one of the earliest schools with a ventilation system.

The dissecting room of Cornell University was given the honor to have the first ventilation system in the country. Adding the ventilation system was an imperative move to improve scientific advancements with an Ivy League status. The ventilation device’s area significantly helped students dissect cadavers without the unwanted smell.

6. Herbert Hoover is the reason behind the installation of AC in the White House.

Before 1929, the White House operated without an air conditioner. This might have been very challenging for previous presidents to run the country, especially during summers because only the outdoor air was the main source of cool breeze.

Consequently, Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States, installed this cooling wonder into the official presidential residence and workplace. He spent approximately $30,000 to install the AC system, which was definitely a huge sum of money at that time. What makes it more untimely was the fact that it was built at the onset of the Great Depression―a period when people struggled to make ends meet.

7. Air conditioners and allergies are like twins.

Because of the setup and the main function of air conditioners, these are often installed to alleviate the problems of people with respiratory illness. Furthermore, hospitals need air conditioners not just for the comfort of the patients and workers but also for preserving most medicines.

8. Packard was the first automobile manufacturer to install AC in cars.

In 1939, the now-defunct automobile company introduced air conditioners to luxury cars. They offered the option for owners to install AC into their automobiles for added comfort. Unfortunately, this wasn’t widely accepted because of the very high cost as well as the immense size of the cooling system, which took up half of the trunk area.

9. Warmer states would practically be uninhabited without AC.

Most households in warmer states like Florida, Hawaii, and Louisiana largely depend on AC. Technically, it’s hard to live in these areas if you don’t have an AC because the temperatures can soar very high. For instance, Florida has an average annual temperature of 70.7°F while Hawaii settles around 70.4°F, according to the World Population Review.

 

Before the invention of air conditioners, only a small number of people lived in these areas. Over time, the population has significantly increased, especially with the easy access of air conditioners.

10.  Air conditioners are widely loved by Americans.

Did you know that the US consumes more AC energy than the entire continent of Africa? Apparently, having an air conditioner has been a part of many American homes since the 1970s.