Considering a new heat pump in Atherton, CA? We're here to explain the complete installation process, focusing on energy efficiency and seamless integration with your home's unique style. Our thorough approach covers everything from your initial consultation to setting up your warranty. We’ll help you choose between ducted and ductless systems, navigate local considerations like seismic requirements and insulation, and handle all the installation steps: permits, duct sealing, refrigerant charging, and commissioning. After installation, we perform rigorous testing, ensure safety, and offer maintenance programs to maximize your heat pump's performance and long-term reliability in your Atherton home.

Schedule My Service

(650) 605 – 5986

Heat Pump Installation in Atherton, CA

Choosing a heat pump is a practical, energy-efficient way to heat and cool homes in Atherton, CA. With mild winters and warm summers, heat pumps deliver consistent comfort, lower operating costs compared with older electric resistance systems, and support the region’s move toward home electrification and reduced carbon emissions. This page explains the full heat pump installation process in Atherton, CA, from the initial consultation and site assessment to system selection, professional installation, testing and commissioning, safety and COVID-19 precautions, and warranty and maintenance onboarding.

Why a heat pump makes sense in Atherton

Atherton’s mild Mediterranean climate means heat pumps operate at high efficiency year round, providing both heating and cooling without separate systems.
Many homes in Atherton are high value or older estates; modern heat pumps can be integrated into existing architecture with minimal visual impact, especially ductless options.
Local emphasis on energy efficiency and electrification increases long-term value and may align with available regional incentives or utility rebates.

Common heat pump types and common heat pump issues in Atherton, CA

Ducted heat pumps: Use existing ductwork to distribute conditioned air. Common issues in Atherton homes include inadequate insulation in older ducts, leaky supply runs, and compatibility with legacy furnaces.
Ductless mini-split systems: Offer room-by-room control with minimal disruption. Common issues include improper indoor unit placement, undersized linesets, or aesthetic concerns for historic interiors.
Hybrid systems: Combine a heat pump with a gas furnace for cold snaps. Less common in Atherton given mild winters but useful in poorly insulated buildings.

Common heat pump issues in Atherton, CA:

Reduced capacity from dirty coils or clogged filters
Inefficient operation due to under-sizing or incorrect load calculation
Integration problems with older ductwork or single-zone controls
Outdoor unit clearance or mounting concerns on sloped or landscaped properties

Initial consultation and site assessment

An effective installation starts with a thorough consultation and on-site assessment. Key steps include:

Review of your comfort goals, budget, and any preferences for ducted or ductless systems.
Walk-through of the home to evaluate existing HVAC equipment, ductwork condition, attic and crawlspace access, electrical service capacity, and outdoor unit placement.
Proper load calculation using current industry methods to determine the correct heat pump size for heating and cooling demand, not a rule-of-thumb estimate.
Identification of potential installation constraints common in Atherton: historic property restrictions, limited outdoor space, noise considerations, and seismic mounting needs for outdoor units.
Discussion of energy efficiency targets and local incentive eligibility so system selection supports long-term operating savings.

System selection: ductless versus ducted heat pump installation in Atherton

Choosing between ductless and ducted systems depends on home layout, aesthetics, and performance goals.

Ducted heat pumps

Best for whole-house replacement where existing ductwork is in good condition.
Pros: Uniform temperature, hidden equipment, familiar thermostat controls.
Cons: Requires adequate, well-sealed ducts; retrofit can be disruptive in older homes.

Ductless mini-splits

Ideal for room additions, historic homes, or where ducts are absent or poor.
Pros: Zoned control, high efficiency, easier install with small penetrations through walls.
Cons: Indoor units are visible; multiple heads may be needed for whole-house coverage.

Hybrid considerations

In some Atherton homes, a hybrid approach—heat pump plus supplemental heat—can provide optimal comfort and energy savings while minimizing disruption.

Professional installation steps

A professional installation follows a clear, methodical process to ensure performance and longevity:

Pre-install preparation: Obtain necessary permits, verify electrical panel capacity, and schedule appropriate crew sizes for minimal disruption.
Equipment staging: Deliver and inspect heat pump components; plan outdoor unit placement for airflow, noise, and service access.
Ductwork and mounting: Repair or upgrade duct sealing and insulation where needed; install wall or ceiling brackets for indoor units; anchor outdoor units with seismic fastening if required.
Refrigerant lines and electrical: Properly size and route refrigerant linesets, install condensate drainage, and connect power and controls to code standards.
System startup: Evacuate and charge refrigerant per manufacturer specifications; configure controls and zoning.
Final testing and balancing: Verify airflow, temperature differentials, and system pressures; ensure even distribution and stable operation.

Ductwork and integration considerations for Atherton homes

Inspect and seal existing ducts to prevent loss of conditioned air; leaky ducts undermine heat pump efficiency.
Evaluate insulation levels in attics and crawlspaces and recommend improvements to optimize heat pump performance.
For slab or limited-access homes, plan routing for linesets and condensate safely without compromising landscaping or foundation.
Coordinate aesthetics for historic properties by choosing low-profile indoor units and discreet line routing.

Post-installation testing and commissioning

Thorough commissioning confirms the system meets design expectations:

Measure and record temperature splits, airflow rates, refrigerant pressures, and electrical draw.
Test controls and zoning for correct scheduling, setback behavior, and remote access if installed.
Demonstrate system operation and maintenance basics for homeowners, including filter access and thermostat settings.
Provide a completion report with measured performance data and recommended service intervals.

Safety and COVID-19 precautions during installation

Installers follow best practices to protect occupants and crews:

Use of masks, gloves, and workstation sanitation during indoor work.
Minimize crew size inside the home and offer off-hour scheduling to reduce overlap with occupants.
Maintain ventilation while working indoors and avoid shared tools when possible.
Follow manufacturer safety guidelines for refrigerant handling and electrical connections, and ensure all work meets current code requirements.

Warranty and maintenance onboarding

Proper onboarding ensures long-term reliability and preserves warranty coverage:

Confirm manufacturer warranty terms and register equipment where required.
Provide a written maintenance plan that includes filter replacement schedules, annual inspections, refrigerant leak checks, and coil cleaning.
Explain what is covered under warranty and what routine maintenance homeowners are expected to perform.
Recommend seasonal tune-ups and maintain service records to support future claims and optimize system life.

Benefits, long-term considerations, and local relevance

A professionally installed heat pump in Atherton, CA delivers year-round comfort, improved indoor air quality, and lower operational costs compared with older systems. With growing emphasis on home electrification in the Bay Area, a heat pump is both a practical and forward-looking investment. To maximize performance, prioritize correct sizing, duct sealing, and regular maintenance. Addressing these elements during the installation process reduces common heat pump issues in Atherton and helps ensure efficient, reliable operation for years to come.

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.

Leave a Review

View All Reviews