Five Fun Facts about Heating and A/C

At first thought, talking about heating and cooling might seem like a bore. But like most topics, the deeper you dive into its history, the better the chances you might learn something interesting that you didn’t know before! In this day and age, comfort technology is readily available to a large majority of people across the world, so it’s something that is often overlooked when it comes to things to discuss with your friends. But since US Air is a place for all things heating and cooling, we figured this is the perfect audience to share these five fun facts about heating and A/C!

When in Rome!

Think comfort technology is a more recent development? Think again! Ancient romans were the first to use heating in the homes of the rich with something called a hypocaust. This innovation sent warmed air from a furnace through the walls and flooring of Ancient Rome’s most prestigious and important homes.

Ancient ruins of a Roman hypocaust

Not your Granparents’ Heating and Cooling!

Before the invention of air conditioning, large blocks of ice were used to keep people comfortable and preserve food. Let’s just say we’re happy Willis Carrier came around to invent air conditioning so we didn’t have to experience this old-fashioned form of home comfort!

Old ice box, which is comparable to today’s refrigerators

A/C on the Go!

The Packard Motor Car Company was the first to offer A/C in a vehicle in 1933. We’re guessing there was a lot of uncomfortable car rides before this time, and not just for lack of leg room!

1933 Packard Eight Convertible Coupe

School’s Out for Summer!

Before the modernization and spread of modern air conditioning, schools were given a summer break due to the fact that the classrooms were just too unbearable in the summer months. Luckily, this is a tradition that stuck even after A/C came around! Bonus fact: during this time, many businesses also closed down for two months during the hot season.

1920’s classroom in Michigan

Lights… Camera… A/C!

Ever wondered why people escape to the movie theater during heat waves — besides to catch the latest blockbuster? It might be due to the fact that cinemas were some of the first businesses to introduce air conditioning into their establishments. Perhaps running to the movies to beat the heat became an American tradition!

The world is a much different place today thanks to the invention of modern heating and cooling. The history of comfort systems is a long and interesting one that is still being written today through environmentally-friendly technology and advances in system design. Impress your fellow heating and cooling fanatics by sharing these fun facts with them!

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US Air Conditioning Distributors

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We are the world’s largest privately-owned HVAC distributor with 47 locations throughout the western region of the U.S. http://www.us-ac.com/

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