Quality Refrigeration Celebrates 75 Years of Service and Innovation

In 2025, Quality Refrigeration celebrates its 75th anniversary in the HVAC and refrigeration industry. Founded in 1950 by Jack Appelt in Wilmington, California, the company began by servicing ships and tankers, providing air conditioning for comfort and spoilage prevention.

By the mid-1970s, the company's growth necessitated a move to a larger 6,000-square-foot facility. In the mid-1990s, following the relocation of Navy operations to San Diego, Quality Refrigeration expanded by opening an office there to continue servicing the Navy fleet.

In 2005, the company transitioned to third-generation leadership under Jeff Hawke, the founder's grandson, who has been part of the company for almost 35 years. citeturn0search4 Today, Quality Refrigeration continues to operate with the same passion and dedication to service as it did in 1950. 

Throughout its history, Quality Refrigeration has remained committed to its core values, focusing on health and safety, vision, adaptability, commitment, and building long-lasting relationships through exceptional customer service.