Start of a New Era
The Russian Sputnik 1, launched in 1957 was the first artificial satellite put into orbit around the earth. In that same year, Clyde Reeve a young man from Cleveland, Ohio establishes a company to meet the needs of an emerging industry in south Florida. The availability of air conditioning for the residential market suddenly made the sub tropical summers of South Florida more enjoyable. Not only would the "snow birds" migrate for the winter ... they would stay all year.
With only a bag of tools, and a strong ambition, Clyde Reeve started knocking on doors. One of the early customers included McArthur Dairy refrigerated delivery trucks. Do you remember when the milk man made door to door deliveries?
As with any new business venture, there were the usual hardships. However, Clyde’s "fair and reliable" reputation quickly spread. Later in the year, Clyde met Bob Albea at a Philco service meeting. Clyde and Bob soon became partners. Together they established service agreements with several manufacturer’s.
Starting in 1962, REEVE was appointed as the sole Factory Authorized service provider for McGraw Edison products - Coolerator and Kelvinator room air conditioner units. Also at that time, they accepted the responsibility of Authorized Service for both Friedrich Air Conditioning, and McGraw Edison.
1970 brought about the expansion into Broward county. This new endeavor included the addition of Fedder’s to their growing list of manufacturer’s. With two offices operating, new opportunities became available. The following year they agreed to provide labor service for every Chrysler Airtemp unit sold in Dade or Broward county.
The early 80‘s saw a great many changes for Reeve A/C. 1981 brought the return of Friedrich / Zoneaire Air Conditioning. It was 1982 when Clyde and Bob decided to consolidate the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale offices into one centrally located operation in Hallandale, Florida. The following year Reeve’s received service rights for Fedders, Emerson, Airtemp, and Hampton Bay air conditioning parts.
Sadly, after battling cancer, Clyde Reeve passed away on December 4, 1990. His leadership, accomplishments, and friendships are not forgotten.
After working under the guidance of his father for many years, Stephen accepted his new role as second generation Reeve president and partner. During the nineties, business activity remained steady and predictable. However, change is inevitable. Although much of the work is still done “the old fashion way” with pen to paper, there have been many updates. Modernization includes the use of computers, electronic claims processing, e-mail parts orders, etc. Back in the day, our service techs would drop a dime to dial "plaza 8 4731. ( Reeve A/C has had the same phone number “305-758-4731” since 1960 ) now all the service technicians are connected via cell phones. All technicians are EPA certified and receive continuing education by Factory Training Seminars.
The Reeve family mourns the recent loss of two of our own. Sadly, founding partner Bob Albea passed away on Dec 31, 2009. Then just one week later, Ed Fronczak our Operations Manager, suddenly died from cancer. Both Bob and Ed will be sorely missed not only for their dedication and commitment to work, but more importantly, for the loss of their valued friendships.
Steve Reeve will carry on running the day to day operations. Reeve A/C continues its dedication to meeting the needs of the South Florida community. The company was founded on the concept of providing prompt and reliable service, equipment, and parts, at a fair price. Proudly, this tradition continues today.
Reeve Air Conditioning, Inc. 2501 South Park Road, Hallandale, FL 33009