Lifetime of HVAC/R w/ John Pastorello - Short #279 · HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs summary

Key takeaways

John Pastorello exemplifies the spirit of curiosity and innovation in the HVAC/R industry.
Hands-on experience and field testing are crucial in developing effective HVAC solutions.
The importance of maintaining family-run businesses in trades and the impact they have on innovation.
Recognition in the form of awards can help highlight the contributions of individuals to a broader community.

Summary

Introduction to HVAC/R and John Pastorello

The episode features Brian Orr from the HVAC School Podcast interviewing John Pastorello, the founder of Refrigeration Technologies. The conversation revolves around John's extensive career in HVAC/R, his innovative spirit, and his recent recognition with the HVAC Tactical Lifetime Achievement Award.

John's Journey in HVAC and Chemistry

John recalls his beginnings as a chemist and how his transition into HVAC was spurred by the financial opportunities he saw in the field. He shared stories of how he developed products like Big Blu and Nylog, emphasizing the importance of research and real-world testing.

Family Business and Growth

John discusses the growth of Refrigeration Technologies from a small startup to a recognized name in the industry, highlighting the involvement of his family in the business. His son, Mike, now runs the company, continuing the legacy of innovation and quality.

Lifetime Achievement and Industry Impact

John reflects on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, his contributions to HVAC education, and the importance of mentorship in the industry. He expresses gratitude for the community that supported him throughout his career.

Show notes

In this short podcast episode from AHR Expo 2026, Bryan sits down with John Pastorello for a discussion about the latter's lifetime of HVAC/R. John was a chemist and an HVAC technician before founding Refrigeration Technologies in 1987, and he received the HVAC Tactical Lifetime Achievement Award in 2026.

Prior to entering the trade, John was a chemist in a lab. He applied for and was hired by an HVAC company when he realized the financial opportunity in the trade. He eventually owned a contracting business, but he didn't truly make his HVAC/R chemistry debut until 1987 with Big Blu. When he noticed problems with existing liquid leak reactants and inaccurate electronic leak detectors, John developed Big Blu in his kitchen (with the help of his local library and patent office for research) and tested it in the field.

Big Blu was the first Refrigeration Technologies product, and it was the only one for a while. He then developed Nylog in the early 1990s while developing a different product. After falling down research rabbit holes and doing lots of trial and error, he eventually realized the product's potential as an assembly lubricant, and Nylog became an official Refrigeration Technologies product.

Even as Refrigeration Technologies continues to grow and has received several purchase offers, it remains a family business. John's son, Mike, became a mechanic but eventually decided to return to the business, and he runs it to this day. John's career culminated with the HVAC Tactical Lifetime Achievement Award, which is a testament to the service, education, and mentorship he has shared with the HVAC/R industry.

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Lifetime of HVAC/R w/ John Pastorello - Short #279