Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air Podcast: From the Field to Ownership—Doing HVAC & Plumbing the Right Way

Welcome to the debut episode of the Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air podcast! In this insightful conversation, Ryan Stewart and Eric Salawa share firsthand experiences about what sets their company—and their industry approach—apart. Comfort Advisor Vs. Salesperson: What's the Difference? One topic Ryan Stewart dives into is the role of a Comfort Advisor. As Erick Silahua explains, a Comfort Advisor does much more than selling a system. They're dedicated to educating homeowners, assessing individual needs, and building lasting relationships. It's not just about making the sale; it's about offering energy-efficient, budget-conscious solutions and becoming a trustworthy partner in home comfort. "It's not just about making a sell, but it's about establishing a long term relationship with our customers." - Eric Salawa The Importance of Expertise and Sizing in HVAC A recurring theme is expertise. Eric Salawa stresses that knowledge isn’t merely about installation—it’s about understanding the details that make a system work efficiently and safely. He walks through the importance of correctly sizing systems using techniques like Manual J load calculations, inspecting insulation, and evaluating ductwork. This meticulous approach ensures homeowners get the right system for their unique situation, rather than a one-size-fits-all offer. "Anybody can just buy a system, but you have to have that knowledge to know how to do it correctly and efficiently and most importantly, safely." - Eric Salawa Not All Companies Are Equal Another highlight: Experience and certifications matter. Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air boasts NATE certification—a credential held by only 13% of companies nationwide. This sets them apart, demonstrating a commitment to best practices and continuous education. "We want to make sure to do every single thing that's in our power to get our customer the best system that they can use for their home." - Erick Silahua Tailoring Solutions to Customers Unlike companies that push whatever is “on special,” Erick Silahua takes time to listen. By understanding customer habits and needs, he can recommend the best system for their end goal. Price is discussed only after all technical and lifestyle factors have been considered—ensuring the customer feels confident and comfortable with their decision. Residential vs. Commercial HVAC When the conversation moved to commercial HVAC, Erick Silahua explained that larger-scale systems require additional expertise, special equipment, and specialized technicians. Commercial projects are often more complex, involve coordination with multiple trades, and can experience timing delays—an important consideration for business owners and project managers. Company Values: Doing the Job Right Ryan Stewart shared a personal account of how he entered the family business, emphasizing the values that have shaped Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air. For him, doing things the right way isn’t just about profit—it’s about repeat business, referrals, and truly helping customers. The company culture, he says, is rooted in fairness, honesty, and a willingness to train newcomers who are eager and honest. "It’s a lot easier to get the homeowner or existing customer to call us again than it is to acquire a new customer. So I think that’s super important." - Ryan Stewart Giving Back: Building Community Reputation Reputation matters deeply. Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air is committed to transparency and honesty, and these values extend to charitable work—school drives, holiday meals, and toy drives for local families. This community focus is central to their identity. "I would say that we're honest and that we don't try to rip people off and that will always do the right thing." - Ryan Stewart Why Start a Podcast? Wrapping up, Ryan Stewart talks about wanting to reach more families in Contra Costa County and showcase their company’s reputation for quality, integrity, and reliability. "Hard contractor, quality contractors are hard to come by. They're very hard to come by. And so when you come to work with us or you call us for a service call or any type of service, I think you're going to be happy." - Ryan Stewart Final Thoughts This first episode provides an authentic look at Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air’s philosophy—doing the job right, prioritizing customer relationships, and staying committed to the community. Whether you’re a homeowner considering a service call or just curious about the people behind your HVAC, this podcast is a must-listen! Watch the full episode to get to know Stewart Heating, Plumbing and Air—where expertise meets heart. https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FA0r5TXl91Fg%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZEYwems4QlFvWEhISUN1dnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7Q3W4U4WU5UGaN99koPf1AM4dj178BMdBli4aaIwGaBwUIolMuLx0H_1LGzA_aem__wuifBOduMf9OceA53hBAA&h=AT19PpP8MQZl6ykwp3KF6SReddtXKGHamLzawqctkzZwq-lCZVOFtK10I4KbusHHZlvgRgmcvQixRtD7GEALOKgF2d4dISS18K7kslzOqqpXIGps87b9Rc3QXc1qYct7ssapWna11J9sIld5vgzkhqNLE_fV7SH0&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT1rXm2ZAPTchntDpIgJ0PzPD1wpdKL0F5EQtYM_EDOqhqTaO8x0WQvbfA2lXJOS-caqd3PJjCH2RElW3x1i8wfqG-PLiKKlgiXd-lanM2JZOokIGEg-kkF-GlcJzMxcecFsbnNBPHAVeqs0vagQ1W4V7VvBQ3iJxZ8dDt6feBsIiF0torwoDuR_iaGu92Oyj8ulMXpH7jZ1NCu1-Qc

Top Reasons to Replace Your HVAC System in the Fall

As the leaves change color and the temperatures begin to cool, Fall presents an opportune time for homeowners to consider upgrading their HVAC system. Here are the top reasons why Fall is the perfect time to invest in a new HVAC system and how it can lead to significant energy savings: Improved Energy Efficiency: Modern HVAC systems are designed to be far more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), replacing an old HVAC system with a new, energy-efficient one can save homeowners up to 20% on heating and cooling costs. Take Advantage of Rebates and Discounts: Many HVAC manufacturers and utility companies offer incentives and rebates for homeowners who upgrade to energy-efficient systems. During the Fall, these incentives are often more plentiful, making it a financially wise time to invest in a new HVAC unit. Lower Repair Costs: If your current HVAC system has been requiring frequent repairs or is nearing the end of its lifespan, investing in a new system can actually save you money in the long run. Fall is an ideal time to replace your HVAC unit before the harsh winter months set in, reducing the risk of sudden breakdowns when you need your heating the most. Environmental Impact: Older HVAC systems are less environmentally friendly, emitting higher levels of greenhouse gases. By upgrading to a new, energy-efficient system, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Upgrading your HVAC system during the Fall not only ensures your comfort throughout the season but also leads to long-term energy savings and environmental benefits. Take advantage of the incentives available and make the switch to an energy-efficient system for a more comfortable and sustainable home. We can help – call today.

Fun Family Things to Do in the Fall

As the leaves change colors and a crisp chill fills the air, Fall presents the perfect opportunity for quality family time. From pumpkin patches to cozy movie nights, this season offers a wide array of fun activities that can create lasting memories for your loved ones. Embrace the spirit of Fall and explore these delightful family-friendly ideas! 1. Pumpkin Patch Adventures: Visit a local pumpkin patch and let the whole family pick their favorite pumpkins. Enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and festive activities for a day filled with autumnal fun! 2. Apple Picking: Head to an orchard and go apple picking together. Afterward, return home to bake apple pies or make homemade applesauce as a delicious reward. 3. Fall Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks through parks or nature trails to admire the stunning fall foliage. Collect colorful leaves, pinecones, and acorns to create a seasonal craft later. 4. Cozy Movie Nights: Set up a cozy movie night at home with classic fall films or animated favorites. Don't forget the popcorn and warm blankets! 5. Halloween Costume Crafting: Get creative and make Halloween costumes as a family. You can turn this into a fun bonding activity while preparing for the upcoming festivities. 6. Fall-themed Baking: Spend time in the kitchen baking fall treats like pumpkin muffins, cinnamon rolls, or apple crisp. Let the kids help with the measuring and mixing! 7. Bonfire and S'mores: Host a backyard bonfire with marshmallow roasting and s'mores making. Share stories and laughter as you warm up by the fire. 8. Fall Crafts: Get crafty with fall-themed projects like making leaf garlands, decorating pumpkins, or creating handprint turkeys. 9. Fall Festivals: Check out local fall festivals and events happening in your community. Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and seasonal treats together. 10. Family Game Nights: Plan family game nights with board games or card games. It's a great way to bond and have fun indoors during cooler fall evenings.

Fall Mental Health Tips

Fall can be a time of change and reflection, making it the perfect opportunity to focus on our mental health. Here are some valuable tips to embrace mental wellness and navigate the season with positivity: Embrace the Beauty of Nature: Connecting with nature can reduce stress, boost mood, and provide a much-needed break from daily routines. Practice Mindfulness: Fall can be a busy time with various holidays and commitments. Mindfulness helps to bring awareness to our thoughts and feelings, allowing us to navigate challenges with a clear and focused mind. Stay Active: Regular physical activity is not only essential for our physical health but also has significant benefits for our mental well-being. Whether it's a workout at the gym, a dance class, or a brisk walk in the crisp fall air, exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Establish a Routine: As the season changes, maintaining a consistent daily routine can provide stability and a sense of control. A structured routine can help alleviate stress and anxiety, especially during times of change. Seek Professional Support: If you find yourself struggling with mental health challenges, don't hesitate to seek professional support. Talk to a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and tools to navigate through difficult emotions.

Embracing the Future of Smart Living

Imagine a world where your home anticipates your needs, adjusts to your preferences, and makes your life easier and more convenient. Thanks to recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI), this futuristic vision is now becoming a reality, bringing smart living to the forefront of modern homeownership. Voice assistants like Alexa and Siri, robot mops and vacuums, enhanced home security, and personalized entertainment recommendations represent some of the ways AI is becoming part of our daily lives. So what’s the catch? AI systems can malfunction, require regular updates, and are in the early stages of determining ethical and privacy/data standards. Being well-informed empowers you to make responsible decisions about AI usage in your home. By embracing smart living with awareness, you can fully enjoy the benefits of AI while being mindful of potential concerns.

The Importance of Fall HVAC Maintenance for Homeowners

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, it's time to prepare your HVAC system for the fall season. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your heating and cooling equipment operates efficiently and effectively, providing you with a comfortable home environment year-round. Let's delve into why fall HVAC maintenance is essential and how it can lead to significant energy savings. Homeowners who invest in regular HVAC maintenance save an average of $115 to $236 per year in energy costs. Plus, well-maintained heating systems can be up to 15% more energy-efficient. Other reasons to give your home comfort system a little more TLC this season? Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently, resulting in lower energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, proper maintenance can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%. Longevity of Equipment: Regular maintenance not only keeps your HVAC system running smoothly but also extends its lifespan. Replacing heating and cooling equipment is a significant expense, and preventive maintenance can delay the need for a replacement, saving you thousands of dollars. Improved Air Quality: During fall, allergens and debris tend to accumulate in HVAC systems, reducing indoor air quality. Routine maintenance includes cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring cleaner air circulation and a healthier living environment. We’re happy to schedule a fall HVAC maintenance appointment for you with our experienced technicians. Our team will perform a thorough inspection, clean and tune your system, and address any potential issues before they become major problems. Don't wait – schedule your appointment today and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained HVAC system all season long!

Staying Active and Healthy During the Summer

The summer season offers ample opportunities to get outdoors, be active, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity can enhance your mood, improve your physical fitness, and contribute to your overall well-being. Summer opens up a variety of outdoor activities that are not only fun but also great for your health. Swimming is a great low-impact exercise that works all your muscle groups. Cycling, whether on a trail or in the city, provides excellent cardiovascular benefits. Hiking in nature can reduce stress, and a simple walk in the park can provide both physical and mental health benefits. Remember to protect yourself from the sun's rays and to stay hydrated during these activities to ensure you're taking care of your overall health. However, staying active doesn't mean you should disregard the importance of rest. Good quality sleep is crucial for your body to recover from the day's activities and to ensure you have enough energy for the next day. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, even during vacation or on weekends. Nutrition also plays a vital role in maintaining your health during the summer. Opt for lighter meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid heavily processed foods and drinks high in sugar, as these can lead to energy crashes and dehydration.

Smart Thermostats and Zoning

Investing in a smart thermostat can lead to significant energy savings. These devices allow you to program temperature settings based on when you're home and when you're away. Some can even learn your patterns and adjust accordingly, ensuring optimal energy use. Another strategy for energy saving is zoning. Zoning systems allow you to control the temperature in different areas or 'zones' of your home. This means you can cool only the areas of your home that are in use, rather than cooling the entire house. Both of these methods reduce the workload on your HVAC system, resulting in significant energy savings over time.

The Stewart Heating & Air Blog: The Importance of Hydration During the Summer Months

The Stewart Heating & Air Blog: The Importance of Hydration During the Summer Months: Proper hydration is crucial for our health, especially during the hot summer months when we lose more water through sweat. Not only is water...

The Importance of Hydration During the Summer Months

Proper hydration is crucial for our health, especially during the hot summer months when we lose more water through sweat. Not only is water essential for nearly all our bodily functions, but dehydration can lead to a number of health issues ranging from headaches and dizziness to severe heat-related illnesses. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day during summer, or more if you are physically active or spending a lot of time outdoors. It's a good idea to always carry a water bottle with you and take regular sips throughout the day. While water is the best hydration choice, you can also incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet. Watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries, and lettuce are all great choices. These foods not only contribute to your fluid intake but also provide beneficial vitamins and minerals. Avoid drinks with high sugar content, like sodas and commercially prepared fruit juices, as they can lead to dehydration. If plain water isn't appealing, try infusing it with fresh fruits, herbs, or a splash of lemon for a refreshing twist. Remember, hydration is not only about drinking enough fluids but also about replenishing electrolytes, especially during intense physical activities. In such cases, opt for a natural electrolyte drink or a homemade solution with water, lemon, salt, and a bit of natural sweetener.

Proper Insulation and Sealing

One of the best ways to save energy with your HVAC system this summer is to ensure your home is properly insulated and sealed. Poor insulation and air leaks can cause your HVAC system to work overtime, increasing your energy consumption and your bills. Check your home's insulation, especially in the attic, as hot air can enter your home through the roof, causing your HVAC system to work harder. In addition to insulation, check your home for air leaks, particularly around windows and doors. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these leaks and keep the cool air inside. By keeping your home well-insulated and sealed, you'll optimize your HVAC system's performance, resulting in energy savings and a more comfortable home.

Protecting Skin Health During the Summer

As the summer season rolls around, skin health becomes a primary concern due to increased exposure to sun's harmful UV rays. Ensuring your skin's health requires a combination of sun protection, good skincare practices, and maintaining overall health. First and foremost, protect your skin from the sun. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Keep in mind that even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun's harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin. Beyond sunscreen, consider wearing protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection. Seek shade during the sun's peak intensity hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Skincare is equally important during the summer. Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and dirt. Moisturize your skin to prevent dryness caused by sun and heat. Choose a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help to retain moisture. Finally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports skin health. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, and eat a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which provide essential nutrients for skin health.

Get Creative in Kitchen Organization

Large kitchens, small kitchens – whatever the size, almost everyone at some point wants a little more room. Or, if not added roominess, at least a better way to organize what you have. Creative ideas like these could be just the trick to help you free up valuable workspace: Crockpots don’t have to be just for cooking. They can also hold go-to utensils, such as wooden spoons and spatulas, in a convenient spot on the kitchen counter. Rein in the chaos of plastic containers. Store lids in a large plastic bag so you can see what you have at-a-glance – making it easier to match the lid to the right-size container. Use easy-to-grab bins or baskets to hold items in out-of-the-way spots, such as open spaces above cabinets or refrigerators. Repurpose desk organizers for your daily work at the kitchen sink. Hang them on a nearby cabinet or wall and use them to hold sponges, scrubbers, and dish detergent. Similarly, store rolls of aluminum foil and boxes of plastic wrap upright in a magazine file. Use a simple canning jar to hold measuring spoons and place it near the stove. Get those loose plastic bags out of your valuable cabinet space and push them into empty tissue boxes for quick retrieval without the clutter.

Get up to $5,500 in Rebates and Savings with Home Energy Improvements

Call now 925-427-5522 or visit www.stewartair.net

The Stewart Heating & Air Blog: Home Energy Audits

The Stewart Heating & Air Blog: Home Energy Audits: Please see the article on Redfin about Home Energy Audits.

Home Energy Audits

Please see the article on Redfin about Home Energy Audits.

Hidden Dangers of Space Heaters

Dear Friend, This “money saving” idea to heat your home can actually be quite dangerous. Get the details here.

Extreme Weather Patterns and Your Home Comfort

Have you ever noticed that sometimes life feels like you’re going from one extreme to another? Like, low, high. Cold, hot. We’ve certainly seen those extremes in weather this year – and will be seeing even more. You’d think that serious cold would be followed by a milder summertime. But that’s not what the weather people see happening. Instead, after a really cold winter pretty much across the country, we’re moving right into another extreme: a really hot summer. So those really low temperatures are headed really high, and those uncomfortably cold days are about to become uncomfortably hot. But here’s the good news. This fact of weather life does not mean that you have to be uncomfortable, especially in your own home. In fact, there’s an important step you can take right now to ensure that your home comfort stays steady whatever ups and downs the thermometer shows. This info tells you lots more. Please take a look.

Predictions… Are They a Gift or a Curse?

Most people, by nature, want to know what is in their future. Some predictions are wonderful to have like... “It is going to be a mild summer.” That one is awesome, so it would definitely be listed in the “gift” category. Other predictions may make life a little difficult for someone involved in the prediction. I would imagine it is both a coaching dream and nightmare to be predicted to win a national championship. On one hand, surely it makes recruiting a breeze – who wouldn’t want to be on that team! On the other hand, I am assuming the coach would have to work very, very hard to keep the team focused on each and every game left to play. So maybe that one is a gift and a curse. Another “gift” is knowing that this is going to be a COLD winter. Knowing it in advance allows you to make adjustments to your heating system so that you save money this winter instead of spending it unnecessarily. If you are interested in learning more about saving money on energy bills, read “Who Keeps Messing Around With Your Home’s Gas Bills?”

Prevention or Explosion?

Can you imagine if someone actually asked you that question? “Sir, would you prefer to perform a little bit of prevention today or have an explosion in your home around 2 pm tomorrow”? First, we would probably all call the police – immediately. Then, we would really, really hope he was kidding. No one wants their home to explode, or even a room in their home to explode. That would be a terrible tragedy, not to mention the mess to clean it up and the money spent trying to right everything again. It is definitely better just to avoid this happening altogether. I will take prevention every single time that choice is offered to me. While this is a very dramatic scenario, it is a real possibility for people who choose not to have their furnaces serviced year after year. For more information on what you need to do to keep your boiler and your home safe and sound this season, read “It’s a Little Bit Like a Bomb… that just happens to heat your home.”