Catching Up with Fieldpiece and Refrigeration Technologies at AHR

Key takeaways

Fieldpiece is celebrating 35 years of innovation, providing specialized tools tailored for HVAC technicians.
The importance of modernization in testing practices, especially regarding combustion analysis and refrigerants.
Refrigeration Technologies has expanded significantly, showcasing a commitment to safety and effective products.
Community involvement and unique marketing strategies can drive brand engagement and education.
Safety is a paramount concern for both Fieldpiece and Refrigeration Technologies in product development.
Emphasizing data-driven methodologies improves HVAC service efficiency and enhances customer trust.

Summary

Innovation at Fieldpiece

Tony Gonzalez from Fieldpiece celebrates the company's 35th anniversary and shares insights into its evolution within the HVAC industry. He discusses the groundbreaking HS26 meter that filled a gap for specialized HVAC testing tools when it was launched. The conversation highlights advancements in combustion analysis, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and consistency as the three pillars. Fieldpiece’s innovative JobLink system is noted for its ability to enhance technician documentation and improve customer interactions through comprehensive digital reporting.

Technological Advancements in HVAC

As the conversation progresses, Tony explains how the evolution of refrigerants and POE oils has reshaped industry practices. He provides an in-depth discussion on how modern systems require rigorous testing and adherence to safety standards, which weren't as critical in earlier HVAC frameworks. There's a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making and the transformative impact of technology in diagnostics.

Refrigeration Technologies: Viper's Journey and Expansion

Mike and Ashley from Refrigeration Technologies share the company’s origin story, spotlighting Mike's father, John Pastorello’s journey. John leveraged his chemistry background to develop their flagship product, Big Blu, in the context of a family business that has seen impressive growth. The discussion encompasses their recent expansion into a larger facility and making the Inc. 5000 list for three years, showcasing their commitment to safety and innovation. Ashley reveals initiatives like the 'Viper Bowl' competition and underscores the company’s mission to ensure technician safety without sacrificing effectiveness.

Community Engagement and Safety

Both segments of the podcast underline the importance of community engagement in the HVAC industry. The Viper team discusses their commitment to providing safe products and conducting unique marketing initiatives, such as the 'swear jar' campaign that raised funds for women in HVACR. This culture of safety and fun creates a collaborative environment that fosters industry advancement.

Show notes

In this special episode from the 2025 AHR Expo, Bryan brings us two fascinating conversations with industry leaders who are shaping the future of HVAC technology and tools. The episode kicks off with Tony Gonzalez from Fieldpiece celebrating their 35th anniversary. Tony shares his remarkable journey from packaging meters in the warehouse to his current leadership role, providing unique insights into the company's evolution. The discussion explores Fieldpiece's pioneering role in developing HVAC-specific testing equipment, particularly highlighting their groundbreaking HS26 meter that filled a crucial gap in the industry when no other company was creating specialized meters for HVAC technicians.

The conversation with Tony delves deep into the technical aspects of modern HVAC work, particularly focusing on combustion analysis and its three fundamental pillars: safety, efficiency, and consistency. Tony explains how Fieldpiece's JobLink system has revolutionized the way technicians document their work and communicate with customers through comprehensive digital reporting. The discussion also covers the evolution of refrigerants and POE oils, emphasizing how practices that weren't considered critical in the past have become essential with modern systems and materials.

In the second segment, Bryan sits down with Mike and Ashley from Refrigeration Technologies' Viper division, where they share the compelling origin story of their company. Mike recounts how his father, John Pastorello, a chemist who found himself taking an AC technician job in the 1980s, leveraged his chemistry background to develop superior products, starting with their flagship product, Big Blu. The conversation highlights Refrigeration Technologies' impressive growth, including their recent expansion to a campus-like facility with an additional 30,000 square feet and their achievement of making the Inc. 5000 list for three consecutive years. Ashley, their Director of Education and Brand Management, discusses their innovative approach to industry engagement, including their first-ever "Viper Bowl" competition and their commitment to safety in product development.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

Fieldpiece's 35-year journey and the evolution of HVAC-specific testing equipment
Modern combustion analysis fundamentals and the importance of proper testing
The JobLink system and its impact on documentation and customer communication
Evolution of refrigerants, POE oils, and critical installation practices
Refrigeration Technologies' origin story and growth from a family business to an industry leader
Development and innovation of essential HVAC chemicals and tools under the Viper brand
The importance of safety in product formulation and application
Global expansion and market reach in the HVAC industry
Impact of modern technology on HVAC diagnostics and documentation
Training approaches and industry education initiatives
Company cultures focused on innovation and problem-solving
The role of family businesses in advancing HVAC technology

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