Plum HVAC offers comprehensive heat pump replacement in Foster City, CA, guiding homeowners through evaluating existing systems, selecting the right high-efficiency unit, and executing a safe, code-compliant installation. We cover sizing with load calculations, energy-performance metrics, corrosion resistance for bay-area conditions, and zoning options. We'll explain removal, disposal, permits, and inspections, along with available rebates, financing, and a realistic project timeline. We also highlight warranties, aftercare, and maintenance tips to protect your investment. Trust Plum HVAC to handle every step.

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Heat Pump Replacement in Foster City, CA

Upgrading your heat pump is one of the most impactful improvements you can make for year-round comfort and long-term energy savings in Foster City homes. Whether your existing system is beyond economical repair, struggling to maintain temperature, or simply past its expected lifespan, a full-system heat pump replacement restores reliable heating and cooling, improves indoor air quality, and lowers utility bills. This page explains how technicians evaluate systems, how to choose the right new unit, what the replacement process looks like, and what to expect for permitting, rebates, warranty, timeline, and disposal—specifically for Foster City, CA.

Why replace a heat pump in Foster City

Foster City has a mild, coastal climate where heat pumps perform efficiently year-round. Modern heat pumps can both heat and cool more economically than older electric systems.
Proximity to the San Francisco Bay can increase corrosion risk for outdoor equipment. Selecting corrosion-resistant components and proper installation height helps extend system life.
California energy standards and local utility incentives make now a sensible time to upgrade to high efficiency equipment to capture available rebates and tax incentives.
Older systems often lose capacity, leak refrigerant, or use outdated refrigerants that are expensive to recharge. Replacement eliminates those recurring costs.

Common heat pump replacement reasons and issues in Foster City

System age 10 to 15 years with declining efficiency and frequent repairs
Refrigerant leaks and poor performance during shoulder seasons
Inadequate capacity after a remodel or changed household needs
Noisy operation or frequent cycling due to compressor wear
Corrosion or damage to outdoor unit from salt air and high humidity
Incompatible controls or thermostats preventing zoning and smart controls

How technicians assess your system and home

A proper replacement begins with a complete assessment to match a new system to your home and usage patterns:

Visual inspection of indoor and outdoor units, ductwork, electrical panels, and insulation
Performance checks: airflow, temperature split, refrigerant charge, and compressor operation
Measurement of duct leakage and evaluation of duct size and condition
Load calculation (Manual J) to determine correct capacity based on home size, orientation, insulation levels, windows, and occupancy
Review of electrical capacity and panel suitability for modern heat pump requirements
Identification of site-specific issues like salt exposure, limited outdoor clearances, or noisy neighbors

This assessment ensures the replacement is sized and specified correctly for optimal comfort and efficiency.

Selecting the right capacity and energy-efficient model

Correct sizing: Avoid oversized units that short cycle and undersized units that run continuously. A professional load calculation is the standard method to determine capacity in tons.
Efficiency metrics: Look for high SEER and HSPF ratings or their current regulatory equivalents. Higher ratings mean lower energy consumption over time.
Variable-speed and inverter-driven compressors offer more consistent comfort, quieter operation, and better dehumidification — valuable in coastal fog and muggy conditions.
Corrosion resistance: Choose units with protective coatings and elevated mounting options to resist bay air.
Controls and zoning: Consider smart thermostats, multi-stage equipment, or ductless mini-splits for part of the home to target comfort in rooms with different loads.
Compatibility: Ensure the new system works with existing ductwork or plan for duct upgrades when necessary.

Removal, disposal, permits, and inspections

Refrigerant recovery: Technicians must recover refrigerant according to EPA regulations before removing the old unit. Proper handling protects the environment and avoids fines.
Safe removal and disposal: Old equipment is disconnected, removed, and recycled when possible. Metals, plastics, and hazardous components are handled per local and state requirements.
Permits: Replacing a heat pump in Foster City requires local permits and inspections. Permit coordination ensures the installation meets building and electrical codes.
Inspections: After installation, city or county inspectors verify code compliance. Your technician typically schedules and manages permit submittals and inspection appointments to streamline the process.

Rebate and financing assistance

Many Foster City homeowners are eligible for utility or state rebates for high-efficiency heat pumps. Utility programs and state incentives frequently change, so qualified installers often help identify current opportunities.
Paperwork: Proper documentation, system specifications, and contractor certification are usually needed to claim rebates. Keep invoices and equipment model numbers on file.
Financing options: Because replacement is an investment in comfort and savings, there are commonly available financing routes such as low-interest loans, deferred payment plans, or on-bill financing through some utilities. A vendor can outline typical options and documentation required.

Expected project timeline

Assessment and proposal: 1 to 3 days for inspection and load calculation
Permitting: 3 days to several weeks depending on permit cycles and required documentation
Equipment lead time: From same-day availability to a few weeks for special-order models
Installation: Most full-system replacements are completed in 1 to 3 days for typical single-family homes; complex ductwork upgrades or multi-zone installs can take longer
Final inspection and commissioning: 1 to 3 days after installation to complete city sign-off and system tuning

Plan for variable timelines if specialty equipment or custom ductwork is required.

Warranty, registration, and disposal practices

Manufacturer warranty: New equipment comes with a manufacturer warranty on the compressor and heat exchanger. Registration within required timeframes often preserves full warranty benefits.
Labor warranty: Reputable installers provide a labor warranty for workmanship for a stated period after installation.
Disposal documentation: Proper disposal and refrigerant recovery records should be provided for your files, which can be necessary for rebates or future property transactions.

Benefits of upgrading and long-term maintenance

Lower energy bills: High-efficiency heat pumps reduce electric consumption and operate effectively during Foster City mild winters and summers.
Improved comfort: Better temperature control, reduced humidity swings, and quieter operation are common benefits.
Reduced maintenance: Newer units require less frequent repairs and often have longer service intervals.
Environmental impact: Upgrading reduces household greenhouse gas footprint, aligning with California energy goals.
Increased home value: Modern HVAC systems are attractive to buyers and inspectors.

Maintenance tips to protect your investment

Schedule annual or biannual tune-ups for refrigerant charge, coils, and electrical checks
Replace or clean filters every 1 to 3 months depending on occupancy and filtration level
Keep outdoor unit clear of debris, salt build-up, and vegetation; rinse coils gently if salt accumulates
Monitor refrigerant levels and unusual noises early to prevent compressor damage
Register the product and keep installation and service records for warranty and resale value

A full-system heat pump replacement in Foster City, CA restores predictable comfort, lowers operating costs, and reduces long-term risk of mid-season failures. With proper assessment, correct sizing, permit coordination, and attention to local conditions like salt air exposure, a modern heat pump delivers reliable performance 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.

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