Air conditioning installation in Hillsborough, CA is expertly handled by Plum HVAC, detailing site assessment, load calculations, equipment sizing, ductwork and electrical planning, permit coordination, and step-by-step installation. We cover common installation types, potential issues, and post-install testing, ensuring quiet operation, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability in Hillsborough homes. Our team emphasizes tailored design, adherence to Title 24 and local codes, and a thorough commissioning process, followed by maintenance recommendations and warranty documentation for ongoing comfort and value.

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Air Conditioning Installation in Hillsborough, CA

Installing an air conditioning system in Hillsborough, CA requires more than picking a model and scheduling a technician. Homeowners here expect systems that perform quietly, handle bay-area temperature swings, meet California energy rules, and fit discreetly into often high-end or older properties. Plum HVAC explains the full Air Conditioning Installation in Hillsborough, CA process so you understand site assessment, load calculations, equipment sizing, ductwork and electrical considerations, permit coordination, step-by-step installation, post-install testing, and long-term warranty and maintenance recommendations.

Why a tailored installation matters in Hillsborough

Hillsborough has a temperate Mediterranean climate with cool, foggy mornings and warm afternoons during summer months. Many homes feature large windows, high ceilings, and shaded lots. These factors influence cooling loads and system choices. In addition, older homes may have undersized or deteriorated ductwork and limited electrical panel capacity. Local building codes, Title 24 energy compliance, and HOA or historic-district guidelines often affect equipment location and visible components. A proper installation considers all of these to deliver comfort, efficiency, and longevity.

Common air conditioning installation types and issues in Hillsborough, CA

Central split systems for whole-house cooling in newer or updated homes. Common issue: improper sizing and poor duct sealing that reduce efficiency.
Ductless mini-splits for additions, historic homes, or rooms without existing ducts. Common issue: poor indoor unit placement leading to uneven cooling and aesthetics concerns.
Heat pump systems that provide both cooling and efficient heating. Common issue: incorrect refrigerant charge or mismatched indoor/outdoor components.
Packaged or rooftop units for certain multi-story or estate designs. Common issue: rooftop support and vibration isolation not properly addressed.

Common air conditioning installation issues in Hillsborough, CA include undersized equipment, inadequate duct insulation or sealing, insufficient electrical upgrades, noncompliant installations for Title 24, and poor site-specific placement that increases noise or reduces curb appeal.

Site assessment and load calculations

A thorough site assessment is the foundation of a correct installation. Key steps include:

Visual inspection of the home exterior and interior, attic, crawlspace, and existing mechanical systems.
Measurement of square footage, ceiling height, window orientation, insulation levels, and shading.
Manual J load calculation to accurately size the system based on the home-specific heat gain and loss factors.
Review of existing ductwork using a duct blaster or visual inspection to assess leaks, insulation, and distribution.
Electrical panel evaluation to confirm capacity for new equipment and determine if upgrades are required.

Proper load calculations prevent oversized or undersized systems that lead to short cycling, comfort problems, and higher energy bills.

Equipment sizing, ductwork, and electrical considerations

Equipment sizing: Use Manual J and equipment manufacturer data to pick a system with correct tonnage and capacity. Consider variable-speed compressors and higher SEER ratings for better comfort and efficiency in Hillsborough climate conditions.
Ductwork: Inspect and, if needed, replace or retrofit ducts. Seal and insulate ducts to reduce losses. Balance registers and consider zoning for multi-level or large homes to address differing cooling needs.
Electrical: Verify circuit availability and wire sizing, install disconnects, and ensure the service panel can handle the compressor and condenser startup loads. Where necessary, plan for panel upgrades or dedicated circuits. Consider surge protection and proper grounding per California code.

Permit and inspection coordination

Installations in Hillsborough must comply with local building codes and California Title 24 energy efficiency requirements. Permit coordination typically includes:

Submitting equipment specifications and load calculations to the Hillsborough Building Department or the local jurisdiction overseeing permits.
Securing permits for mechanical, electrical, and any structural work.
Scheduling inspections for rough-in, electrical, and final installation stages.
Addressing HOA or historic-district restrictions on equipment location and visibility when applicable.

Coordinating permits and inspections up front avoids costly rework and keeps projects on schedule.

Step-by-step installation procedure

Pre-install preparation: Confirm final equipment selection, obtain permits, and plan staging for access and noise mitigation.
Site protection: Protect floors, landscaping, and finishes while bringing in equipment.
Electrical rough-in: Install or upgrade circuits, disconnects, and panel work needed before final equipment connection.
Ductwork and condenser placement: Repair or install ducts, set the outdoor unit on a level pad, and route refrigerant lines and electrical conduit.
Indoor unit installation: Install air handler, coils, or ductless indoor units, sealing connections and ensuring proper clearances.
Refrigerant lines and evacuation: Connect lines, vacuum the system to remove moisture and non-condensables, then charge to manufacturer specifications.
Insulation and sealing: Insulate refrigerant lines, seal duct connections, and install vibration isolation for the condenser.
Final electrical hookups and controls: Wire the thermostat, controls, and safety devices. Verify communication between components.
Clean-up and site restoration: Remove debris, restore disturbed landscaping or finishes, and prepare for testing.

Post-installation testing and homeowner walkthrough

After installation, a thorough commissioning process ensures peak performance:

Verify refrigerant charge and operating pressures.
Measure airflow, static pressure, and temperature split across the evaporator coil.
Confirm electrical loads, starting currents, and safety device operation.
Check thermostat calibration, control logic, and any zoning functions.
Perform noise and vibration checks, especially where neighbors or HOA restrictions apply.

The homeowner walkthrough covers system operation, filter locations and replacement intervals, thermostat programming for comfort and efficiency, and reviewing warranty and maintenance documentation. Provide clear records of equipment model numbers, serial numbers, and installed locations for future service and warranty registration.

Warranty and maintenance recommendations

Manufacturer warranty: Review compressor and component warranties and explain any conditional coverage requirements like annual maintenance.
Installer warranty: Note typical workmanship coverage and what it includes.
Maintenance schedule: Recommend at minimum biannual professional tune-ups - one before cooling season and one before heating season if using a heat pump. Regular maintenance items include cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, replacing or cleaning filters every 1 to 3 months depending on use, and verifying duct seals and insulation.
Long-term planning: Consider service agreements for priority scheduling and seasonal checks, and maintain records for future resale value and warranty compliance.

testimonials

hear what our satisfied clients have to say

5.0

We found Plum HVAC in 2024 after spending more than 2 months searching and comparing estimates. The owner Sam gave us a very competitive price for a Mitsubishi mini-split and the installation went off without a hitch. Our experience was so positive that we later requested their services twice more to also install A/Cs for our 2 other rooms. Their technician, Jake, led our installations each time and we were very impressed by their professionalism and quality of work. Now 1 year in and we could not be any happier, nor have we encountered any issues with our models.

Jesse Y.

5.0

Sam of Plum HVAC, responded to our Heat Pump installation request promptly and provided a very competitive estimate after an onsite visit. He was very flexible and patient to answer and explain our questions. After we signed the contract, he and his team of 4 worked very hard to deliver and install the whole Heat Pump system on time with good quality. I am particularly impressed by their problem solving skills to overcome different connection challenges for the attic installation. Each day before they started, they covered the floors with protection blankets and cleaned after they were done for the day. They also revised the drainage and electric work per the city inspection guidance. Sam and his team were professional and honest so we highly recommend Plum HVAC to any customers who need HVAC work done for their houses.

Chunshi C.

5.0

We needed to install a mini-split in a backyard unit. Sam and his team helped with this, and they did a fantastic job. Sam visited our place and clearly explained to me what needed to be done, and offered a great price. He scheduled the job for a few days later, and his team performed the job with extraordinary quality. Later, I noticed a minor issue and reached out to them. Sam helped me to fix the issue on a second visit by his team later in the week, providing top-notch customer service. I will work with them in the future for my HVAC jobs, and highly recommend them given their excellent work quality and customer service.

Majid J.

5.0

I reached out to 4 companies for mini split quotes; Plum HVAC pricing came in the lowest. Beyond that, Sam was very knowledgeable and kind during the in home consultation. He offered a quote in person, & stuck by it. They removed our old furnace, and installed a two head mini split in our two story townhouse. The work as you can see is very clean! The guys who installed it were very fun & professional. Sam & his team were communicative the whole way through including the permitting process. They took roughly one full day for install, which was very fast! Including removal & disposal of our old furnace. Natalie was very helpful throughout the Bayren Rebate process & always available for any questions! This system has changed our lives, wish we would have gotten it done sooner! It’s way better than we could have imagined.

Bobby R.

5.0

Plum HVAC exceeded my expectations in every way. Sam and his installer team were not only professional but also incredibly responsible throughout the entire process. They provided top-notch service at a very reasonable price, which is hard to come by these days. I highly recommend Plum HVAC to anyone looking for quality HVAC services. You won't be disappointed!

A Chui

5.0

I recently engaged Plum HVAC to install two mini-split units at my residence, and I'm thrilled with the outcome.Throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the project's completion, Plum HVAC showcased professionalism and expertise. The technician, Sam, arrived promptly and conducted a comprehensive assessment of my HVAC system. Sam took the time to thoroughly explain the technicians' tasks, the estimated duration of the project, and provided transparent pricing options.

Romero J.

5.0

Wonderful experience with Plum HVAC on a heat pump installation! I checked several companies, compared their recommendations, timelines, reputations and prices.Sam, the owner, was very professional and has almost 2 decades of experience in HVAC. When I asked dumb questions, he answered most graciously. And when I noted that some companies we queried said we could get away WITHOUT replacing our original ductwork from 1965, he gave us his honest opinion why that wasn't a good idea. (Hubby remembered later that people who worked in our attic adding insulation told us there were lots of duct leaks.)

Marlene S.

5.0

I called 8 different HVAC companies for quotes for a heat pump heating/ac system because I want to save money by switching from a forced air gas furnace to an electric heat pump system which will give me both heating and air conditioning. In addition my old furnace (circa 1991) was way oversized for my home and the air coming out too noisy. The New heat pump system is quieter and more efficient. Back to the quotes for the system, all the other 7 companies sent a salesperson/advisor to give the quote. Sam, the owner of Plum HVAC came our to give the quote. He was quick with his quote and was very knowledgeable. He didn't try to upsell me on anything and have the lowest quote of them all. His price was 60% less than the highest quote and 15% lower than the next second lowest quote.

Michael C.

5.0

Plum HVAC is an extremely professional, knowledgeable, and an established company to hire. I highly recommend Plum HVAC! Sam and his crew did a wonderful job. Sam worked with my schedule and his crew had completed the job with ease.

Blake

5.0

Sam was one of the most professional business owners I had the chance to meet over the past few years and I'm so happy I trusted him to install our new A/C unit.- He showed up on time- He was transparent (and reasonable) regarding pricing- He offered 2-3 options- His crew did a very clean/thorough jobWhat I loved the most though, was the fact he was very easy to communicate with. I would definitely use him again and recommend him to our neighbors/friends.

Bruno L.

5.0

We recently had a complicated Bryant Evolution dual fuel system with variable speed and zoning installed in our home by Plum HVAC, and we are very pleased! The team also changed the entire crawl space ducting, ensuring a comprehensive upgrade. The price was fair, and the team was always on time and easy to contact. Sam Mousavi, the head of the team, paid great attention to detail and demonstrated a strong understanding of systems. His expertise in HVAC systems and his friendly character made us feel comfortable throughout the process. We highly recommend Plum HVAC for their professionalism and excellent service.

Amirali B.

5.0

I cannot say enough about Plum HVAC, who replaced my aging heater furnace, and in particular Sam. Sam was very highly recommended by my sister, who replaced her furnace and added air conditioning.First, they gave me a good deal for a 2-stage, at the same cost as the lowest bid for a 1-stage. The other bids were dancing around some gas line work made by previous owners.

Kumar S.

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