The refrigerator was invented before the freezer. The concept of refrigeration dates back to ancient times when people used various methods to cool or preserve food, such as storing perishables in cold cellars or using ice harvested from lakes or rivers. However, the development of mechanical refrigeration systems began in the 18th century.
In 1805, Oliver Evans, an American inventor, designed the first refrigeration machine. It used vapor-compression technology and was capable of cooling but not freezing. This invention laid the foundation for modern refrigeration.
The first practical household refrigerator, known as the "Domestic Refrigerator," was invented by Carl von Linde in 1876. This early refrigerator used a compression system with a coolant to keep food cool but did not have a separate freezer compartment.
The first electric refrigerator with a separate freezer compartment, allowing for freezing capabilities, was introduced by General Electric (GE) in 1911. This marked the advent of the home freezer, which allowed people to store and freeze food for longer periods.
So, to summarize, the refrigerator was invented before the freezer, with the freezer compartment being added as a later innovation to refrigeration technology.