As humans, we mainly depend on warmth to stay alive, especially in the winter. This basic survival skill has been used since the beginning of the human race. Our ancestors have several accounts describing their ingenious techniques to stay warm and toasty. Since then, we have modified and expanded technology, and at this point, there is no stopping us now. We’re only going to develop more tips and tricks and ways to reach our overall optimal comfort. Nonetheless, your heating and cooling professionals at Upper Arlington Heating & Air want you to understand how we got to what homeowners rely on today, “The Modern Furnace.” So, let’s travel back in time.
What Do the Romans Have To Do With It?
To answer this question, we have to go back to ancient Rome. Back in 15AD, the Romans depended on the hypocaust. First off, you may be wondering what a hypocaust is? Well, we’re here to answer that question as well. A hypocaust vast open space located under floorings in archaic buildings that pushed heat upwards in order to heat the floors and baths above. Pretty interesting, right? Although this wasn’t the first “radiator,” it still paved the way for Franz Galli and Dave Lennox.
How Did the Radiator Come About?
Franz Galli was the first man in history to develop the first-ever design for what we call today “The Radiator.” Fast forward 30 years, Lennox adopted his original idea and created a home heating system that contained cast-iron radiators that burned coal. More often than not, this groundbreaking system was located in basements or cellars since science has taught us that heat rises. So, if you were a homeowner in the mid-1800s, this was how to keep you, your home, and your family warm.
Who Set the Stage for Electric Heat?
Just a few short years later, in 1882, to be exact, the dawn of electric heat was born. However, it wasn’t until 1905 when Albert Marsh, an American metallurgist, discovered that some metals contained chrome. From there, he was able to create a home heating system that turned electricity into heat. This innovative discovery got Marsh the title of “The Father of Electric Heating.” Although a couple hundred years have passed since then, you can still see his original design at work in today’s modern furnace.
When Did the Central Heating System Come About?
Did you know that in 1919 a woman named Alice Parker patented the first-ever residential central heating system? How cool is that? Especially since we are posting this blog during Women’s History Month. Nevertheless, she thought there was a better, more efficient way to heat homes by using natural gas by placing a heating unit in the center of the house. She was right! Because of this monumental discovery, not only is she now known as “The Mother of Centralized Heat.” On top of that, she set the stage for the heating and cooling systems we use today.
When Was Forced Air Established?
As stated above, Parker’s patent paved the way for the forced-air system to come about in 1935. It worked by delivering heat from the furnace throughout a dwelling by traveling through the home’s ventilation system. This enabled several rooms throughout a home to be heated using a single source. However, while the invention gravity-fed system was exciting, it also had drawbacks. Because of gravity, the heated air would circulate throughout the home. Still, it couldn’t distribute the heated air evenly, and as a result, the heated air would eventually end up back in the furnace to be heated again, then spread again. At the end of the day, this was a terrible waste of time, energy, and money.
What Makes the Modern Day Furnace So Special?
It was as simple as Motor fans. These fans became the logical solution to fix the flawed system in which gravity-fed furnaces heated homes. The motor fans were able to push and distribute the heated air evenly throughout the entire house, ultimately reaching every room. This resulted in a warmer home, less energy waste, and monthly utility savings.
All in all, the way we heat our homes has drastically changed since 15AD. Nevertheless, we wouldn’t have gotten to the age of what we call “The Modern Furnace” without the stepping stones that were laid out before us. Monitoring and controlling your home temperate is a breeze with today’s technology. You can change the temperature of your home with the simple click of a button or via your smartphone from virtually anywhere in the world. Not only that, you can also set schedules that are tailored to your optimal comfort, and who doesn’t want that? If you want to make your life easier by having one less thing to worry about on a daily basis, then, in that case, Upper Arlington Heating & Air is ready to assist. We can repair, install, and perform preventative maintenance on your current system, no matter its age.
Furthermore, our knowledgeable and friendly technicians can help you find what heating and cooling devices will make your home your oasis. We are only a click or call away. You can reach us at (614) 490-7507, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here! Let us show you the Five Star difference today!
