LEZZZ GO! We’re excited to introduce Gabriel Gonzalez, also known as @hvac_sg, as our October Viper Tech of the Month.
Gabriel was nominated by numerous fellow HVAC techs, and it’s easy to see why. His passion for the trade, his positive attitude, and his dedication to helping others in the community make him a standout choice.
Becca, our Director of Marketing, recently chatted with Gabriel to learn more about his career journey, his go-to Viper product, and what keeps him inspired.
A Career Built on Hard Work and Passion
Gabriel’s HVAC journey began 14 years ago, and like many in the trade, he didn’t always know what he wanted to do. He initially considered culinary arts but eventually found his way into HVAC—and hasn’t looked back since.
“I was that kid back in the day that didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life… I even went to another trade school for culinary arts, but then I saw HVAC. I didn’t know anything about it, but once I got into it, I was hooked,” Gabriel said.
And he definitely learned the hard way about keeping it safe on the job.
“First time getting into an attic, I fell through a roof! I wasn’t paying attention, and it was a hard lesson to learn. But hey, it happens to the best of us.”
His Arizona-based company, HVAC SG, was officially launched in January 2021 and provides everything from service and installation to maintenance.
While operating in Arizona presents its own unique challenges, Gabriel explained how the extreme heat is just part of the daily grind:
“We’re the hottest state nine months out of the year. I always wonder why we’re putting air handlers in attics where it’s nearly impossible to move around? It’s definitely one of the toughest parts of the job, especially when you’re pulling out old units and installing new ones in those tight spaces.”
Despite the intense conditions, he finds the most rewarding part of his job is helping clients get their systems back up and running, especially on those scorching hot Arizona days:
“There’s nothing better than walking into a house that’s 98 degrees and being able to fix it so the family can be comfortable again. Making sure my customers are satisfied is what it’s all about.”
Go-To Viper Products
When it comes to HVACR chemicals, Gabriel swears by Viper. His favorite? The Viper aerosol coil cleaner:
“I love the aerosol can. It’s handy, and I can just throw it in my bucket and go. It’s perfect for quick jobs on the roof or in the attic.”
Gabriel’s connection with Viper goes beyond just product quality—he appreciates the story behind Refrigeration Technologies and supports the brand’s commitment to creating safer, more effective solutions for HVAC techs.
“I started using Viper products because of the people and their story. It’s a company with values I support, and they genuinely care about the community. That’s important to me.”
The Importance of Positivity and Community
Gabriel is well-known on Instagram for spreading positivity and sharing helpful tips with his followers. He’s passionate about inspiring the next generation of HVAC techs, and his posts reflect his commitment to helping others grow in the industry:
“I try to spread as much positivity as possible. Everybody has stuff going on in their lives, and if my positivity can help even one person turn their day around, then I’ve done my job.”
This sense of community is also what Gabriel values most about attending events like AHR Expo:
“It’s great to see new products and demos, but for me, it’s about connecting with the HVAC community. Meeting people face-to-face, shaking hands, and just coming together under one roof—it’s all about bettering ourselves and the industry.”
Life Outside of HVAC
When Gabriel isn’t hard at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife Sonia and their five kids, who range in age from 14 to 20. The “SG” in @hvac_sg stands for Sonia and Gabriel, a testament to the partnership they share both in life and in business. Sonia handles much of the behind-the-scenes work for HVAC SG, helping keep the business running smoothly.
Outside of work, Gabriel loves bowling, golfing, and simply finding peace in life’s quieter moments:
“There’s already so much going on day-to-day with work. Peace is something I aim for when I’m off the clock.”
Words to Live By
When asked for any final words of wisdom, Gabriel offered this simple yet powerful advice:
“Just always show up, do what you gotta do, and make it happen. LEZZZ GO!”
Gabriel’s dedication to his craft, his positive outlook, and his willingness to help others make him a true standout in the HVAC industry. We’re proud to have him as our Viper Tech of the Month and look forward to seeing more of his incredible work and impact on the community.