Climate control has been an important part of human adaptation since the first humans roamed the earth. Not only were shelters designed to protect early humans from natural predators, they were designed to protect them from the elements as well. Whether we need additional warmth or shelter from the heat, humans have always found a way to protect themselves.
If you’re a new homeowner or you just want to learn more about your heating and cooling systems, you know that there are a lot of great resources out there, but here are five surprising facts about heating and cooling that you may not have known.
1. Before Air Conditioning, There Was Ice
The first “air conditioners” were basically just ice and hand-operated fans. Ice is cool (literally), and it can sure cool down a room. As a matter of fact, this method is still used by people who don’t currently have air conditioning units, or if their units have malfunctioned and they have to wait for repairs. It’s definitely not the most effective or efficient means of cooling a room, but it does its job in emergencies.
2. The Romans Had Heaters
The first heater was called a hypocaust. This furnace heater was very much like a central heating unit in today’s homes. It utilized high-temperature heating by flowing warm air to the walls and floors of high-class roman homes. These heating systems were referenced as early as 350 B.C. This invention drastically benefited people’s comfort levels, keeping them cozy and warm in their homes.
3. Temperature Affects Your Sleep
The temperature of your room affects how you sleep. If you sleep in temperatures that are too cold or too hot, you probably aren’t going to get a very deep sleep. As a matter of fact, if you try to sleep in a room that is too warm, you may find that you have insomnia. The perfect temperature to sleep in is between 60 and 67 degrees. While this may seem a little too cold, it does make for deeper sleeping.
4. Air Conditioners Are Linked to Summer Vacation
Actually, before air conditioners, places with warmer climates found that the heat felt worse when there were too many people in a room. When it came to schools, this made buildings far too hot to conduct classes. When summer rolled around, children couldn’t gather in a classroom for long periods of time – thus, summer vacation. After air conditioners were invented, however, summer vacations remained for many regions. The most interesting part about this is the fact that before air conditioners, many businesses also had summer vacations. However, when air conditioners came along, they took those vacations away from the adults.
5. Willis Carrier Invented Air Conditioning
The first mechanical air conditioner was invented in 1902 by Willis Carrier. Let’s all take a moment to posthumously thank him. Air conditioners don’t just blow cold air into an area. As a matter of fact, they were first designed to remove heat and humidity from an area. We can all thank Mr. Carrier for keeping us cool and breezy during the hot summer months.
Got more questions about your HVAC system? Contact Triad Mechanical . They can help you with all of your needs regarding HVAC in Suwanee, GA. Call today!