The idea for refrigeration was conceived by William Cullen.

1748

Thomas Moore names his box to preserve food a "refrigerator." 1803

Dr. Gorrie received U.S. Patent 8080 for creating the first commercial machine used for air conditoning and refrigeration. 1851

Dr. Willis Carrier discovers that temperature and humidity are related and how to regulate them. 1902

Willis Carrier's "Apparatus for Treating Air" is patented. First A/C hospital and first office building designed with A/C. 1906

1777 Gas absorption principles were discovered that distributed temperature.

1844 Jacob Perkins invented the machine that led to compressor systems. John Gorrie designed the first refrigeration machine.

1856 Azel Lyman created a "Method of Cooling and Ventilating Rooms" by blowing air over racks of ice on a ceiling.

1902 Willis Carrier creates the first air conditioner that controls humidity.

The U.S. Capitol becomes air conditioned. 1929

The window unit air conditioner is commercial. 1938

54% of new automobiles have air conditioning. 1969

1908 Carrier Air Conditioning Company of America is founded.

1931 Year-round central air-conditioning for homes becomes commercial.

1947 Window unit air conditions become inexpensive.

1970 Most new homes have central air conditioning.