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Heat Pump Service in Los Altos Hills, CA

Premier heat pump service in Los Altos Hills, CA providing installation, repair, maintenance, and optimization with permit and rebate support.

Heat pump service in Los Altos Hills, CA from Plum HVAC delivers comprehensive installation, replacement, repair, maintenance, and optimization tailored to local climate, permitting, and electrification goals. Our diagnostic process emphasizes accurate Manual J sizing, refrigerant integrity, duct design, and smart controls, all with transparent warranty terms and clear service expectations. We coordinate permits and rebates, uphold safety standards, and provide guidance for ongoing maintenance. The result is reliable comfort, energy efficiency, quieter operation, and longer equipment life for your Los Altos Hills home.

Heat Pump Service in Los Altos Hills, CA

Choosing the right heat pump service in Los Altos Hills matters because local homes face unique comfort, efficiency, and permitting needs. With mild Mediterranean winters, warm summers, and a growing focus on electrification across Santa Clara County, a properly sized and maintained heat pump delivers consistent comfort, lower energy bills, and reduced carbon footprint. This page explains the full scope of heat pump services available in Los Altos Hills, what to expect from diagnostics and repairs, technician credentials and guarantees, how we handle permits and rebates, safety protocols, and practical maintenance guidance for long-term performance.

What we cover: installation, replacement, repair, maintenance, and optimization

  • Installation: Sizing with Manual J load calculations, equipment selection (air-source, ducted or mini-split, cold-climate models), siting for quiet operation on hilly lots, and professional ductwork design or retrofit for older Los Altos Hills homes.
  • Replacement: Efficient upgrades from aging heat pumps or fossil-fuel systems, refrigerant type changes, and transition strategies for hybrid systems to reduce winter backup usage.
  • Repair: Diagnosis and repair of compressor faults, refrigerant leaks, reversing valve problems, capacitor and contactor replacements, thermostat faults, and addressing intermittent cycling or loss of heat/cool.
  • Maintenance: Seasonal tune-ups, coil cleaning, filter replacement or filtration upgrades, refrigerant charge check, airflow and blower inspection, electrical safety checks, and defrost cycle verification.
  • System optimization: Smart thermostat integration, zoning, duct sealing and insulation, variable-speed fan and compressor tuning, and commissioning for peak efficiency in Los Altos Hills climate conditions.

Common heat pump issues in Los Altos Hills homes

  • Reduced capacity during heat waves or unusually cold nights: often caused by wrong sizing, low refrigerant, or faulty reversing valves.
  • Short cycling and high electric use: typically due to poor airflow, dirty coils/filters, or improper control settings.
  • Noise complaints on hilly properties or close-set neighbors: improper equipment placement or mounting can amplify vibration and sound.
  • Uneven heating/cooling in home additions or multilevel homes: duct imbalance, insufficient zoning, or undersized systems.
  • Frequent defrosting or ice buildup: refrigeration circuit problems, dirty coils, or incorrect defrost controls.

Diagnostic process: thorough, transparent, and local-code aware

  1. Initial assessment: Visual inspection of outdoor unit, indoor air handler, thermostat, filters, and visible ductwork.
  2. Performance testing: Measure supply and return temperatures, airflow, amperage draw, refrigerant pressures, and defrost cycle behavior.
  3. Load and duct evaluation: Manual J load calculation for proper sizing; duct leakage and insulation assessment for older Los Altos Hills homes with attic challenges.
  4. Code and permit review: Verify local permit status and plan requirements for installations or major replacements to meet city and county codes.
  5. Written findings: Clear summary of issues, recommended options (repair vs replacement), and transparent warranty and parts information.

Repair and replacement approach

  • Fix-first philosophy when cost-effective: Repairs are recommended when they restore reliable operation and align with remaining equipment life.
  • Replacement when it makes financial and efficiency sense: Modern heat pumps often deliver better comfort, quieter operation, and substantial electrical efficiency improvements—particularly valuable given local utility rates and incentive programs.
  • Duct and envelope upgrades: When needed, duct sealing, insulation, and modest air-sealing measures are included in scope recommendations to maximize system performance in Los Altos Hills homes.
  • Quality installation standards: Proper pad or bracket mounting for outdoor units on slopes, vibration isolation to limit noise transmission, and condenser placement to respect noise sensitivity in residential neighborhoods.

Technician credentials and quality guarantees

  • Licensed California HVAC contractors with appropriate state classifications and local permit experience.
  • EPA Section 608 certified for refrigerant handling and trained on low-GWP refrigerants.
  • NATE-certified technicians and ongoing manufacturer training to install and service leading heat pump brands.
  • Background-checked, uniformed technicians following clear job-site professionalism standards.
  • Warranty coverage: Work adheres to manufacturer warranties and includes a clear labor guarantee, with options for extended labor and maintenance agreements. All warranty and service terms are documented before service begins.

Coordination with inspections and rebate processing

  • Permit coordination: Preparation and submission of required documentation for local inspections, ensuring installations meet county and city building code requirements.
  • Rebate assistance: Guidance and processing support for state and utility rebates and incentives commonly available for heat pump upgrades and electrification projects, including assistance with forms and performance paperwork to help secure customer savings.

COVID-19 safety measures and job-site hygiene

  • Symptom screening and health policies for all service personnel.
  • Use of masks and gloves as requested, and hand hygiene protocols before entering homes.
  • Contact-minimizing practices: paperless estimates and documentation, outdoor equipment staging when possible, and sanitization of high-touch surfaces after service.
  • Flexible scheduling to reduce household overlap with other contractors or inspectors.

Optimization and maintenance tips tailored to Los Altos Hills

  • Seasonal tune-ups: Spring for cooling readiness and fall for heating performance to prevent efficiency loss during temperature swings.
  • Smart controls: Programmable or smart thermostats with local weather integration reduce runtime during mild nights and prevent over-conditioning.
  • Zoning for multi-level homes: Split-level and large-lot homes benefit from zoning to avoid conditioning unused areas.
  • Duct care: Inspect attic ducts for insulation and leaks—common in older properties near Stanford Ridge and Skyline areas where attics can be large and exposed to temperature extremes.
  • Regular filter programs: Keep MERV-8 to MERV-13 filters changed on schedule to balance indoor air quality and system airflow.

Benefits for Los Altos Hills homeowners

  • Year-round comfort with efficient heating and cooling tuned to local climate patterns.
  • Lower operational costs and better home energy performance, especially when paired with proper air sealing and smart controls.
  • Reduced environmental footprint as part of regional electrification efforts.
  • Quiet, low-profile systems that respect neighborhood noise expectations and property aesthetics.

Free quotes and flexible service scheduling are part of the standard offering, and all work is documented to support warranty, inspection, and rebate requirements. Regular maintenance and timely repairs extend equipment life, preserve efficiency, and ensure reliable comfort suited to Los Altos Hills homes and weather patterns.

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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