Air Conditioning Installation in Los Altos, CA

Plum HVAC provides comprehensive air conditioning installation for Los Altos, CA homes, covering the full process from initial consultation and load calculations to duct design and selecting equipment optimized for local conditions and energy efficiency goals. Our services include both ducted and ductless options, with professional steps spanning site preparation, unit installation, refrigerant handling, testing, and commissioning. We provide guidance on permits, warranties, and long-term maintenance to ensure code-compliant installation, sustained performance, energy efficiency, and protection of your home's value.

Air Conditioning Installation in Los Altos, CA

Installing a new air conditioning system is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make for comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency in Los Altos, CA homes. This page explains the full new AC installation process so you know what to expect: from the initial consultation and load calculations through equipment selection, ductwork or ductless options, professional installation steps, testing and inspections, warranty coverage, and local permit coordination.

Why a proper installation matters in Los Altos, CA

Los Altos sits in a Bay Area microclimate. Summers are generally mild but can include multi-day inland heat spikes that stress undersized systems. Proper sizing, correct refrigerant charge, and well-sealed ductwork matter here to avoid short cycling, high energy bills, and poor humidity control. A professional installation aligned with California energy rules protects performance and helps the system run efficiently year after year.

Initial consultation and load calculations

A solid installation starts with a site visit and a precise load calculation, not a rule-of-thumb estimate. Plum HVAC performs a comprehensive home survey to ensure accuracy.

• Home survey: We evaluate square footage, ceiling heights, insulation, window types and orientation, attic ventilation, and existing duct layout.
• Load calculation: A Manual J style calculation determines cooling load in BTUs. This prevents oversizing or undersizing the system, both of which cause comfort and efficiency problems.
• Duct design and sizing: If ducts are in use, a Manual D assessment checks airflow requirements and duct sizing to match the new equipment.
• Electrical and structural check: We confirm the electrical panel capacity, circuit needs, and suitable condenser location for code compliance and optimal airflow.

Equipment selection — matching performance to local needs

Choosing the right equipment is about matching comfort, efficiency, and budget with Los Altos conditions.

• Capacity and efficiency: Look for systems sized to the load calculation. Higher SEER ratings deliver lower operating costs, especially useful during occasional heat waves.
• Compressor types: Single-stage is simple, two-stage improves part-load performance, and variable-speed or inverter-driven compressors offer the best comfort and humidity control.
• Refrigerant options: Modern systems use current refrigerants that meet California environmental standards. Proper refrigerant recovery from old units is part of compliant replacement work.
• Thermostats and controls: Smart or programmable thermostats improve day-to-day efficiency and can integrate zoning and humidity control.

Ductwork vs ductless considerations

Los Altos homes vary from older tract houses to modern remodels. Choosing between ducted and ductless systems depends on the existing infrastructure and comfort goals.

• Ducted systems:
• Best when existing ducts are in good condition.
• Evaluate leakage, insulation, and balancing. Sealing and insulating ducts in attics or crawlspaces reduces cooling loss.
• Often paired with central air handlers and traditional thermostats.
• Ductless mini-splits:
• Ideal for additions, rooms without ducts, or homes with difficult retrofit ductwork.
• Provide zoned control and high part-load efficiency. Inverter-driven models handle varying temperatures well during Bay Area heat events.
• Require careful indoor unit placement to optimize comfort and aesthetics.

Professional installation steps

A methodical installation protects your home and ensures long-term performance.

1. Pre-install preparation: Protect flooring, landscaping, and interior surfaces with drop cloths and floor coverings. Establish a dedicated staging area for equipment.
2. Removal and disposal: Old equipment is safely removed and refrigerant is recovered following EPA and California requirements. Materials are recycled when possible.
3. Equipment set and mounting: Condenser pad placement and level, indoor air handler or furnace alignment, secure mounting of mini-split indoor units as needed.
4. Refrigerant lines and electrical: Properly sized copper lines, correct refrigerant charging, and secure electrical connections are installed to code.
5. Duct repairs and transitions: Any required duct sealing, insulation, or new plenum work is completed. Dampers and return paths are adjusted for balanced airflow.
6. Site protection and cleanup: Work areas are cleaned daily. Final cleanup restores landscaping and leaves the jobsite tidy.

Inspection, testing, and commissioning

After physical installation, rigorous testing ensures the system performs as intended.

• Pressure and leak tests: Verify refrigerant lines and system integrity.
• Refrigerant charge and superheat/subcooling check: Confirm correct refrigerant level for optimum efficiency.
• Airflow testing: Measure CFM at vents and verify temperature split across the evaporator coil for proper cooling performance.
• Electrical and safety checks: Confirm connections, breaker sizing, and that safety controls are functioning.
• Condensate drainage test: Ensure proper slope, trap installation, and secondary safety measures to prevent water damage.
• Commissioning report: A final walkthrough documents performance numbers, thermostat programming, and homeowner operation guidance.

Permits, inspections, and local compliance

Installing a new AC in Los Altos requires coordination with local building and permitting processes to meet safety and energy standards.

• Permit submission: Equipment specs, load calculations, and scope of work are submitted to the City of Los Altos building department or the county jurisdiction as required.
• Code compliance: Installations follow California energy code requirements and relevant local ordinances. Permits help verify equipment efficiency, proper refrigerant handling, and electrical compliance.
• Scheduling inspections: Rough and final inspections are coordinated with local inspectors. A stamped permit and passing inspection protect resale value and ensure safety.
• Documentation: All permit paperwork, inspection approvals, and equipment documentation are retained for warranty and homeowner records.

Warranty coverage and documentation

Understand the difference between manufacturer and labor warranties and how to preserve them.

• Manufacturer warranty: Covers major components such as the compressor and coil. Registration may be required by the manufacturer for full warranty terms.
• Workmanship warranty: Covers installation-related issues like refrigerant leaks or improper electrical connections. Confirm the duration and scope in writing.
• Documentation: Save invoices, load calculation reports, permit approvals, and warranty cards. Proper documentation helps with future service, insurance, and resale.

Benefits and long-term value

A correctly installed AC offers measurable benefits for Los Altos homeowners.

• Improved comfort and humidity control during heat events.
• Lower energy bills through proper sizing and high-efficiency equipment.
• Longer equipment life when installed and commissioned correctly.
• Better indoor air quality when paired with properly sealed ducts and filtration.
• Compliance with local codes and preserved property value.

Maintenance tips to protect your investment

Routine care keeps performance up and avoids premature failures.

• Change filters regularly and use the correct MERV rating for your system.
• Schedule annual tune-ups before the cooling season for coil cleaning, electrical inspection, refrigerant check, and airflow testing.
• Seal and insulate attic or crawlspace ducts to maintain efficiency.
• Keep outdoor condenser units clear of plants and debris to preserve airflow.
• Keep records of service visits and maintain warranty registration.