World Refrigeration Day 2024: History Of Refrigeration, How It Has Evolved Over The Years

June 26 is celebrated as World Refrigeration Day -- a day that is honored to recognize the relevance and importance of refrigerators in bettering our lives. Here's a very brief history of refrigeration and how it has evolved over the years.

During 1000 BC, the ancient civilizations created rudimentary ice houses that were ingeniously designed to store ice and snow collected during winter.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, mechanical refrigeration systems were invented. Jacob Perkins, Oliver Evans, and William Cullen were among the pioneers who helped create the first refrigeration units.

Modern refrigeration was made possible by Carl von Linde's invention in the 18th and 19th centuries when he developed the first workable refrigeration system that used ammonia.

Domestic refrigerators were first introduced in the early 20th century. Among the earliest refrigerators to be commercially successful, the Kelvinator and the General Electric "Monitor-Top" used toxic refrigerants like methyl formate and sulfur dioxide.

Due to their increased safety and efficiency, non-toxic and non-flammable refrigerants like Freon were introduced in the 1930s and completely changed home refrigeration.

Smart refrigerators with Internet of Things capabilities were introduced in the 21st century. These internet-connected smart appliances let consumers monitor and manage their refrigerators remotely.