Travel through our history timeline

Name: Quality Refrigeration
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.8

Come on a journey through Quality Refrigeration’s company history. We’ll begin in 1950 and finish in the present day.

Along the way, we’ll see why Jack Appelt started providing AC and how the company expanded across decades and generations. We’ll follow the multiple expansions of both the warehouse and the geography. Before arriving here today, at the 75 year old industry leader in HVAC/R. Ready?

Explore our story below.

Time travel through the Quality Refrigeration story

Prior to 1950

Uncle Dave's Mentorship

In the early 1900s, Jack Appelt acquired his HVAC/R expertise under the mentorship of his Uncle Dave, a technician at the Frigidaire Electric Refrigeration Company. Through countless hours of dedicated work, Jack learned the essential skills to becoming a proficient HVAC/R technician.

1950

New Company Founded

In 1950, Jack Appelt founded Quality Refrigeration in an 800 square foot warehouse in Wilmington, CA. He personally provided HVAC/R services and parts to the local Maritime and Navy Ships, Commercial Fishing Fleets and area businesses.

Mid-1970s

First Warehouse Expansion

Jack’s passion and dedication to service propelled the company’s growth requiring a larger space by the 1970s. The company expanded the current location to 6,000 square foot

1973

Proudly became Authorized Carrier Marine Dealer

Quality Refrigeration became an authorized Carrier Marine Dealer, bringing top-tier HVAC/R solutions to our customers. We continue our stronger partnership, providing exceptional solutions to our customers.

1976

Proudly became Authorized Johnson Controls York Marine Dealer

Quality Refrigeration became an authorized Johnson Controls York Marine Dealer, bringing top-tier HVAC/R solutions to our customers. We continue our stronger partnership, providing exceptional solutions to our customers.

1985

2nd Generation Charlotte Hawke Pesusich

Quality Refrigeration transitioned the business to 2nd generation Charlotte Hawke Pesusich. Charlotte managed the office, accounting and operations. She retired after dedicating 50 years to the company.

1990's

Geographic Expansion to San Diego

Following the closure of the Long Beach Naval Shipyard in 1997, the company expanded its operations to San Diego to continue servicing the Navy and Maritime Fleets.

2003

New Warehouse Expansion

Quality Refrigeration relocated to our current 18,000-square-foot facility. This move allowed us to expand our operations and better serve our customers with enhanced capabilities.

2005-TODAY

Third Generation - Thriving through the Years

Today, Quality Refrigeration remains a proud third-generation family-owned business. Under the leadership of President Jeff Hawke, the company continues to thrive with the same passion and dedication instilled by previous generations. With Jeff’s children now actively involved in the business, the business is well-positioned for a strong fourth-generation future.

Prior to 1950
Uncle Dave's Mentorship
1950
New Company Founded
Mid-1970s
First Warehouse Expansion
1973
Proudly became Authorized Carrier Marine Dealer
1976
Proudly became Authorized Johnson Controls York Marine Dealer
1985
2nd Generation Charlotte Hawke Pesusich
1990's
Geographic Expansion to San Diego
2003
New Warehouse Expansion
2005-TODAY
Third Generation - Thriving through the Years

Our Company Values

H ealth and Safety

Our priority is protecting the welfare of our team, customers and Community.

V ision

Focusing on the future while honoring our past.

A daptable

Embracing our evolving industry while meeting the changing needs of our customers and employees.

C ommitment

Dedicated to conducting business with integrity and honesty.

R elationship

Building long-lasting relationships through teamwork and exceptional customer service.

**Staying Cool Since 1950**

FOLLOW US ON:

Locations

Wilmington, CA
310 E Harry Bridges Blvd
Wilmington, CA 90744
Phone: 310-549-1532
Fax: 310-549-1734

San Diego, CA
1680 Logan Ave
San Diego, CA 92113
Phone: 619-230-1534
Fax: 619-230-1345