MODERN COMFORTS: Refrigeration
Until the early 1900s, people stored cold food in ice boxes, which were literally boxes filled with blocks of ice. The ice melted quickly, meaning food would go bad in a few days.
But inventor Florence Parpart thought of a better way. Parpart received a patent for her modern refrigerator in 1914. Her invention used electricity, making ice boxes practically obsolete for homes connected to the grid.
She also marketed and sold her product at trade shows, making her a successful entrepreneur, too.
Her work opened the door for the efficient refrigerators in our homes today. So, the next time you check your fridge for a midnight snack, you can thank Florence Parpart.
If you have an older refrigerator or freezer, it could be costing you more than you realize. Recycle it and save energy! We’ll pay you $40 and pick up your old working appliance for no cost! Schedule your pickup at ElectricIdeas.com/ApplianceRecycling or call 800-253-5661.
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