Plum HVAC offers heat pump replacement in Mountain View, CA as a strategic upgrade for year-round comfort and energy savings. We explain when replacement is preferable to repair, how to size and select high-efficiency equipment, and what to expect during removal, installation, and inspections. Our guide covers permitting, rebates, financing, and warranty considerations, with a clear project timeline. You’ll understand the value of professional installation and routine maintenance to maximize reliability and long-term savings for your home.

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Heat Pump Replacement in Mountain View, CA

Replacing a heat pump is a major home investment. In Mountain View, CA, where winters are mild and cooling needs can spike during inland heat events, a properly sized, energy-efficient heat pump delivers reliable year-round comfort, lower utility bills, and better indoor air quality. This page explains when replacement is preferable to repair, how to choose the right high-efficiency system for your home, what to expect from removal and installation, permitting and inspection requirements in Mountain View, rebate and financing options, warranty considerations, and the energy and comfort gains you can expect after a professional replacement.

When to Replace vs Repair: common heat pump replacement issues in Mountain View, CA

Replacing a system is often the smarter choice when continuing repairs will keep recurring costs high or performance remains poor. Consider replacement when:

The system is older than 10 to 15 years and uses outdated refrigerants or components that are being phased out.
Frequent breakdowns or major component failures occur (compressor, reversing valve), or repair estimates repeatedly approach or exceed half the cost of a new system.
Energy bills rise despite regular maintenance, indicating degraded efficiency.
The system cannot maintain comfortable temperatures during occasional Mountain View heat waves or cool nights, or it struggles with humidity control.
Ductwork mismatch, chronic short cycling, or noise complaints persist despite repairs.
You are electrifying your home and want to remove a gas furnace or standard electric resistance heating in favor of a modern heat pump.

Choosing an energy-efficient, right-sized system for Mountain View homes

Selecting the right model and proper size is crucial for comfort, efficiency, and longevity.

Efficiency ratings and technology to consider:
Look for high SEER (cooling) and HSPF or COP (heating) ratings for better seasonal performance. ENERGY STAR qualified models and inverter-driven variable-speed compressors offer the best balance of efficiency and comfort.
Multi-zone ductless (mini-split) or variable-capacity ducted systems can provide precise temperature control and better part-load efficiency for Bay Area climates.
Right-sizing and load calculation:
A proper Manual J load calculation should account for Mountain View-specific factors: local solar gain, insulation levels, window orientation, shading from trees, and typical occupancy patterns.
Oversizing causes short cycling, higher bills, and poor humidity control. Undersizing fails to meet peak cooling or heating needs. Aim for a system matched to calculated loads, not rule-of-thumb tonnage.
Integration and future-proofing:
Consider compatibility with smart thermostats, zoning, heat pump water heaters, and rooftop solar if you plan to electrify more systems.
Ask about low-GWP refrigerant options to align with upcoming regulatory changes and reduce environmental impact.

Removal and disposal of old equipment

Safe, code-compliant removal protects your property and the environment.

Refrigerant recovery: Certified technicians must recover and properly dispose of refrigerant to meet federal and state regulations.
Component disposal: Metal, copper, and other recyclable materials are separated and recycled when possible; oil and hazardous fluids are handled per local rules.
Site protection and cleanup: Expect plastic sheeting, floor protection, and a complete site cleanup after removal. Some older systems may require additional handling for legacy materials.

Permits, inspections, and local compliance in Mountain View, CA

Heat pump replacement typically requires municipal permits and inspections.

Permit requirements: Replacing a heat pump, changing refrigerant lines, modifying ductwork, or altering electrical connections generally triggers building and mechanical permits through the City of Mountain View Building Division. Electrical permits may be required for panel changes or new disconnects.
Inspections: Mechanical and electrical inspections verify proper installation, refrigerant handling, and safety. Final startup and system commissioning are commonly part of the inspection checklist.
Coordination: Expect the installer to prepare permit applications, schedule inspections, and provide required documentation such as equipment specifications and load calculations.

Typical project scope and timeline

Timelines vary by project complexity, permit processing, and equipment availability.

Initial assessment and load calculation: 1 to 3 days for site visit and report.
Proposal and equipment selection: 1 week depending on homeowner decision time.
Permit processing: 1 to 3 weeks depending on City of Mountain View workload and permit complexity.
Equipment ordering: 1 to 4 weeks; lead times depend on brand and model.
Installation: Single-family home ducted replacement typically takes 1 to 3 days; ductless multi-zone installs can take 1 to 2 days per zone depending on complexity.
Final inspection and commissioning: Scheduled within 1 to 2 weeks after installation, sometimes sooner if permits allow expedited inspections.

Rebates, incentives, and financing guidance

Multiple incentive pathways often reduce upfront cost and improve payback.

Typical incentive sources:
Federal tax credits and state rebate programs sometimes apply to high-efficiency electric heat pumps.
Local utility and community choice aggregator incentives may offer rebates for qualifying equipment and heat pump heat conversions.
Manufacturer rebates and trade-in credits for retiring old systems can further reduce cost.
Financing options:
Many homeowners use energy-efficient loan programs, PACE financing, or low-interest loans tailored to home energy upgrades. On-bill or utility financing and flexible payment plans through contractors are also common.
Eligibility and documentation:
Rebate programs often require pre-approval, specific equipment ratings, and proof of professional installation, so gather quotes, equipment spec sheets, and permit records early.

Warranty options and long-term protection

Warranties protect your investment when paired with routine maintenance.

Manufacturer warranties: Typically cover compressors and parts for 5 to 10 years; extended warranties may be available for additional coverage.
Labor and workmanship warranties: Contractors may offer separate guarantees on installation workmanship and refrigerant leaks for a set period.
Maintenance and registration: Registering equipment with the manufacturer and scheduling annual maintenance helps preserve warranty validity and system performance.

Expected energy and comfort benefits after installation

A modern heat pump replacement delivers measurable benefits in Mountain View homes.

Energy savings: Modern high-efficiency heat pumps commonly provide significant reductions in heating and cooling energy use compared with older equipment or electric resistance heat. Savings depend on current system efficiency, usage patterns, and utility rates.
Improved comfort: Variable-speed compressors and better airflow control lead to more consistent temperatures, quieter operation, and improved humidity management during warm months.
Environmental impact: Switching to an efficient electric heat pump reduces onsite combustion and can lower greenhouse gas emissions as the California grid continues to decarbonize.
System longevity: New systems with proper installation and maintenance typically operate reliably for 15 years or more when properly sized and serviced.

Post-installation care and maintenance

To protect efficiency and warranties, follow a simple maintenance routine:

Replace or clean filters every 1 to 3 months depending on use and indoor air quality.
Schedule annual professional tune-ups to verify refrigerant charge, clean coils, inspect electrical components, and confirm controls and safety devices.
Keep outdoor units clear of debris, vegetation, and obstructions to maintain airflow and performance.

Replacing a heat pump is a strategic upgrade for Mountain View homeowners seeking consistent comfort, lower energy use, and support for home electrification goals. With the right sizing, high-efficiency equipment, permitted installation, and planned maintenance, a replacement provides lasting benefits in comfort, cost, and environmental performance.

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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