Our Story: A Family Legacy in HVAC

Alessio Heating & Air is a family-owned business that began in 1988, rooted in tradition, hard work, and a passion for craftsmanship. After serving in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, Francis Alessio returned home seeking a way to support his growing family. Working in restaurant kitchens, he recognized the demand for refrigeration services in the food industry. After seeing an ad for a refrigeration course, he enrolled—and never looked back.

Francis began working for various HVAC and refrigeration companies, eventually moving the family from the East Coast to San Diego, California. With a strong work ethic and desire for independence, he founded Alessio Heating & Air. His goal wasn’t just to create a business—but a legacy. Over the years, he trained his children and grandchildren in the trade and officially passed the business to his son, Paul Alessio, in 2002.

Paul’s Path: From Trade School to Ownership

From a young age, Paul Alessio was drawn to design, mechanics, and architecture. After high school, he pursued his passion by attending Universal Technical Institute (UTI), where he focused on mechanical systems and HVAC engineering. During this time, he worked in restaurants to support himself, gaining real-world experience in environments that rely heavily on commercial refrigeration and ventilation systems.

Paul’s first step into the HVAC industry was working for the same company as his father, Francis Alessio, before Alessio Heating & Air was formally established. Paul stayed with that company even after his father launched the business, quickly moving up the ranks to become Sales Manager, all while continuing to take advanced coursework in engineering and system design.

He later earned a degree from the University of Phoenix, broadening his understanding of business management and technical systems.

In 1996, when Francis required surgery, Paul stepped in to handle customer calls and day-to-day operations—and never left. His efforts helped stabilize the business, and alongside his sister Dennise and their mother Joci, the family came together to grow Alessio Heating & Air into a trusted name in San Diego.

In true Alessio fashion, the business wasn’t simply “handed down”—Paul and Dennise formally purchased the company under contract, honoring the values their parents taught them: hard work, ownership, and legacy.

Paul’s mother, Joice Alessio, was a core part of the company’s foundation and family culture. She passed away from dementia, and in her honor, the Alessio family continues to be active supporters of dementia research and awareness, keeping her memory alive through service and dedication to others.

Growth & Milestones

• Incorporated in 1998
• Expanded to 18 employees
• Became a multi-million dollar company by 2001
• Paul took full ownership in 2002
• First to specialize in wine room cooling systems in San Diego during the mid-1990s
• Specialized wine rooms gained popularity in the early 2000s, setting Alessio apart
• Certified York Dealer (2005)
• Certified Daikin Dealer (2010)
• Carrier “Commitment to Excellence” Award (2009)
• Outstanding Sales – Carrier (2003)
• Infinity and York LX Awards (2011)
• Expansion into new construction in early 2000s

What We Do

We provide complete HVAC services for both residential and light commercial clients:

• HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance
• Wine room cooling design & installation
• Whole-house air purification & quality systems
• Cool fans and ventilation
• Ducting, kitchen hoods, and exhaust systems
• New construction, remodels, and apartment complexes
• Custom design, retrofits, and full system replacements

Meet the Team

Paul Alessio – Owner & Operator
With over 45 years of experience, Paul manages construction coordination, project oversight, and team leadership. Known for balancing big-picture operations and family dynamics.
Fun Fact: Paul runs a small hobby farm at home and loves working the land.

Dennise Harrison – Office Manager / Accounting & Payroll
Dennise brings 28 years of experience to the company, overseeing finances and payroll. While she prefers to stay behind the scenes, her kindness and leadership are a key part of our foundation.
Fun Fact: She’s the calm in the storm and keeps the books balanced while lighting up the room.

Cathy Fierro – Customer Service & Scheduling / Marketing
A newer member of the team, Cathy brings focus, organization, and a drive for improvement. She manages scheduling, customer communication, and outreach efforts including BNI, networking, and team building.
Fun Fact: Known as “Momma Bear,” Cathy keeps the team fueled with snacks and is quick to help with whatever’s needed.

Field Team

Frank Alessio – HVAC Contractor & Wine Room Specialist
Paul’s younger brother and resident comedian, Frank has 40 years of experience, starting as a teen under their father’s training. Licensed and bonded since 2015, he’s a true expert in wine room refrigeration.

Wayne – Senior Service Tech
With 18 years of experience, Wayne was trained by Uncle Frank and is a favorite among service clients. Specializes in maintenance, troubleshooting, and wine room systems.

Keath – Ductwork Specialist
Family-trained by Paul, Keath is our go-to expert for custom ducting and ventilation systems.

Chris – HVAC Laborer / Trainee
Recently brought on board, Chris is family-trained and learning the ropes quickly under Paul’s guidance.

Robert – HVAC Contractor
A next-generation family member trained by his grandfather, father, and uncles. Licensed and bonded since 2023, Robert is well-rounded and focused on residential HVAC projects.