History has recorded mankind’s progression for survival and methods to stay warm. Survival tactics for staying warm have since improved. No longer do we have the days of igniting a fire from scratch. Instead, technology has enabled us all to enjoy heat from the comfort of our homes. But where did it all start, and when was the furnace invented? Bexley Heating & Cooling has got you covered! Today we are diving into the history of the modern furnace.
What Year Was the Radiator Invented?
The radiator first originated in Rome. The concept was created by forming hollow spaces in the floors where warm air passed through to heat certain rooms. However, it was not until 1855 that Franz San Galli invented the modern-day radiator. Fast forward to 1885, Dave Lennox helped further this progression by creating coal cast iron radiators.
What Year Was Electric Heat Discovered?
In 1905, Albert Marsh, an American metallurgist, discovered the metal contained in chrome, which led to constructing a stronger heating element. Marsh’s discovery paved the way for electric currents to pass through the appropriate heating element and convert electricity into heat. This discovery led to Marsh’s ever so famous dubbing as the “father of the electrical heating industry.”
What Year Was the Central Heating System Created?
Alice Parker developed the first patented central heating system in 1919. This method of central heat enabled warm air to pass through and be regulated throughout the entire house. This changed the course of the home heating system for the better.
What Year Was Distributed Forced Air Established?
In 1935, the distributed forced air furnace was invented. Alice Parker’s creation built the foundation for the forced air wall furnace. This invention allowed the heat from the furnace to be distributed through the ductwork. Unfortunately, the negative side to this was that gravity never fails. So, the air would fall right back down and return to the furnace.
What Advantages Do Today’s Furnaces Have?
Modern-day furnaces have progressed so much over the years. Technology is truly a wonderful thing. Gravity-fed furnaces are no longer have issues with inefficient heating cycles. Motor-driven fans fixed this problem by enabling the warm air to pass through smaller ducts, resulting in reaching farther rooms. Heated air is now filtered through registers and vents first, which means today, we can now enjoy heated air that is adequately distributed throughout the home.
Though technology continues to move forward, the history of the modern-day furnace can still be traced back to its origins and original concepts. Central Heating systems are way more efficient and, of course, safer. Smart thermostats and phone apps make operating your furnace a whole lot more convenient, but even the best things start somewhere way back in history. At Bexley Heating & Cooling We are here for all your heating and cooling needs. We are proud to say we are open 24/7, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays. So if a need arises, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at (614) 924-7856, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
