Fedders: A History

Founded in 1896, Fedders long ago established itself as a reputable household name for generations of American families.

These days, the company aims to help sophisticated customers who are looking to improve and enhance their everyday living situations. Its Integrated Home Solutions division is committed to delivering products – like Through the Wall Air Conditioners -- that will help customers get a break from life’s daily challenges.

The company, originally known as Fedders Manufacturing Company, began operations in Buffalo, NY under Theodore C. Fedders as a producer of bread pans, kerosene tanks and milk cans.

Fedders soon broke into the heat transfer space by making automobile radiators for 30 car manufacturers. The company went public in 1928.

Two years later, Fedders drew upon its experience in heat transfer and started crafting refrigeration components, electric water coolers, aircon components and unit heaters and coolers. By the mid-1930s, the organization had optimized a non-frosting system for refrigerators used for commercial purposes. Its so-called frost-free coil technology would eventually lead to offering frost-free refrigerators to the public 20 years later.

After the end of World War Two, Fedders started making room aircon. And in 1953, Fedders was the first company to mass-produce room air conditioning systems, launching a ¾-horsepower model in 1954, which was able to safely run on a standard 115V circuit.

Fedders eventually acquired ABB KOPPEL, an important manufacturer of room and packaged air conditioning. The company grew to become the largest exporter of AC to China. And at the turn of the 21st century, Fedders invested in a factory to make room AC in India. Plans for expansion in Asia include offerings of mid-range and high-end appliances.

As one of the company’s old advertising slogans says, “The facts on air-conditioning prove there’s nothing finer than Fedders.” Question about the lines of Fedders products that we carry? Contact one of our specialists at AC World today!