About us/our work

Hi, I'm Alekos Gailas— and this is the story of Ariston Heating & Cooling, a family-run business built on hard work, heritage, and a commitment to excellence.

My journey began in 2017, but the foundation was laid long before that. I grew up in the small town of Orinda, where my dad, Alexander Gailas, owned a few beloved local spots — including The Alekos Café. I started working there young, washing dishes, prepping meat, and eventually working the kitchen. That early exposure to small business taught me the value of showing up, doing things right, and earning people’s trust.

After high school, I found myself in construction, drawn to working with my hands and solving problems in real time. From there, I explored the automotive world at Orinda Motors — tinkering with cars quickly became a passion. But it was a conversation with my dad that nudged me toward HVAC. At first, I wasn’t sold. But something clicked once I got into the field — the blend of technical skill, hands-on work, and the chance to help people directly was a perfect fit.

By the time I started Ariston in 2017, I already had over five years of hands-on HVAC experience, learning the trade from seasoned pros. That foundation still guides everything we do today.

The name Ariston comes from the Greek word for “excellence” — a nod to our roots and a daily reminder of the standard we aim to uphold in everything we do.

The story wouldn’t be complete without my brother Michael. Though new to HVAC at the time, he brought a sharp business sense and a fresh perspective that helped us grow fast. Together, we’ve turned Ariston Heating & Cooling into more than just a service company — we’ve built a family business that values relationships as much as results.

Today, after nearly a decade of running Ariston, I’ve worked with some of the best in the Bay Area — sharpening my skills, building long-term client relationships, and taking on everything from simple tune-ups to complex installations. Our promise is simple: we do things the right way — or not at all.

Whether you're a new customer or someone we've worked with for years, we’re grateful for the opportunity to earn your trust. At Ariston, we’re just getting started — and we’re glad you’re part of the journey.