For comprehensive heat pump care for San Mateo homes, Plum HVAC covers installation and replacement to repair, tune-ups, and preventative maintenance. We highlight coastal considerations, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality integrations such as smart controls, filtration, and ERVs. Our customer process is detailed from free quotes to commissioning, warranty enrollment, and ongoing maintenance. Licensing, standards, and warranties are explained, along with scheduling, rebates, and emergency support. We emphasize coastal durability, code compliance, and dependable, efficient year-round comfort.

Schedule My Service

(650) 605 – 5986

Heat Pump Service in San Mateo, CA

Effective heat pump service in San Mateo, CA keeps homes comfortable year‑round, maximizes energy savings, and preserves indoor air quality in the unique coastal and Peninsula climate. Whether you need a new heat pump installation, replacement, repair, seasonal tune‑up, or ongoing preventative maintenance, this page outlines what to expect from a professional heat pump service tailored for San Mateo homes, including the customer process, quality standards, indoor comfort integrations, and local considerations like rebates and corrosive marine air.

Why a heat pump makes sense for San Mateo homes

San Mateo’s mild Mediterranean climate — cool, foggy mornings with moderate daytime temperatures — is ideal for modern heat pumps. They deliver efficient heating and cooling without the seasonal extremes that burden other systems. Benefits for local homeowners include:

Year‑round comfort with a single system for heating and cooling
High energy efficiency that reduces monthly bills in an area with relatively high energy costs
Improved indoor air quality when paired with filtration, ventilation, and smart controls
Strong performance in coastal microclimates when equipment is selected and protected for salt‑air exposure

Common heat pump issues in San Mateo

Homeowners searching for “common heat pump issues in San Mateo” typically encounter problems related to local conditions and normal wear:

Reduced airflow from clogged filters or restricted ducts
Corrosion and accelerated wear on outdoor coils and fasteners due to marine air
Refrigerant leaks or loss of capacity leading to weak heating or cooling
Faulty thermostats, controls, or zoning malfunctions
Icing or defrost system failures in cooler, damp periods
Electrical failures such as capacitor or contactor issues that cause intermittent operation

Services offered: installation, replacement, repair, tune‑ups, and maintenance

Professional heat pump service covers the full lifecycle of equipment:

Installation and replacement

Site inspection and load calculation (Manual J) to size equipment for San Mateo’s microclimates
Equipment selection focused on efficiency (SEER/HSPF) and coastal durability (coated coils, stainless fasteners)
Permit handling and coordination with local building inspections to meet California codes and Title 24 where applicable
Full system installation including outdoor unit, indoor air handler, thermostats, and zoning dampers if requested
Commissioning and system balancing to ensure correct refrigerant charge, airflow, and performance

Repairs

Diagnostic testing for refrigerant, electrical, compressor, and control issues
Leak location and repair, refrigerant recovery and recharge per regulations
Component replacement (compressors, contactors, capacitors, reversing valves) with manufacturer‑grade parts
Emergency troubleshooting and temporary stabilization to restore safe operation

Tune‑ups and preventative maintenance

Seasonal inspection and cleaning of coils, condensate drains, and filters
Lubrication, motor and blower checks, refrigerant pressure verification, and defrost cycle validation
Electrical safety checks and thermostat calibration
Maintenance plans to extend equipment life and maintain manufacturer warranties

The customer process from free quote to completion

A clear, dependable workflow helps homeowners feel confident at decision time:

Free initial consultation and estimate: remote or in‑home assessment to understand needs and provide options
Detailed site survey: Manual J load calculation, duct evaluation, and discussion of indoor air quality or zoning goals
Proposal and rebate review: comparison of equipment options, expected performance, warranty terms, and potential incentives
Permit and scheduling: handling permit submittals and scheduling around homeowner availability
Professional installation or repair: certified technicians complete the work, following safety and quality standards
Commissioning and walkthrough: system performance verification and homeowner orientation on operation and maintenance
Warranty registration and follow‑up: documentation of manufacturer and workmanship coverage, plus scheduling of first maintenance visit

Licensing, warranties, and quality standards

Heat pump work in California should be performed by licensed HVAC contractors with the appropriate C‑20 classification or equivalent credentials. Professional services adhere to industry standards such as:

Proper refrigerant handling and EPA compliance
Manufacturer‑approved installation practices to preserve warranties
NATE certification or equivalent technician competency for accurate diagnostics
Use of permit processes and local inspection requirements for safety and code compliance

Warranties typically include manufacturer coverage for major components and a workmanship warranty from the installer. Proper maintenance and documented commissioning are often required to keep manufacturer warranties valid.

Indoor comfort and air quality integrations

Enhancing a heat pump with modern controls and air quality systems delivers the best comfort and health benefits for San Mateo homes:

Smart thermostats for scheduling, learning, and remote control that optimize efficiency
Zoning systems with dampers and independent thermostats to balance comfort across multiple rooms and reduce energy waste
Advanced filtration (MERV 8–13) and whole‑home air cleaners to reduce particulate matter and allergens
Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) for controlled fresh air without energy loss, useful in well‑sealed homes
Humidity management to prevent mold and maintain comfort during foggy, damp periods

Scheduling, emergency response, and rebate assistance

Reliable scheduling and response expectations are important at the decision stage:

Routine tune‑ups and maintenance can be scheduled seasonally to prevent issues during peak cooling or heating needs
Emergency response services provide diagnostics and temporary measures outside normal hours when systems fail unexpectedly
Assistance navigating local and state incentives: technicians can review available rebates, tax credits, and utility programs (including common Peninsula and PG&E incentives) and help with paperwork to maximize homeowner savings

Maintenance checklist homeowners should expect

Regular maintenance preserves performance and warranty coverage:

Replace or clean filters every 1–3 months
Clean outdoor coils and check for salt corrosion quarterly in coastal exposure
Verify refrigerant charge and electrical connections annually
Clear condensate drain and pan, test condensate safety switches
Test defrost cycle and heat mode in shoulder seasons
Inspect and recalibrate thermostats and zoning controls

Final considerations for San Mateo homeowners

Selecting and maintaining a heat pump in San Mateo requires attention to equipment sizing, coastal durability, and integration with indoor air quality solutions. Proper installation by a licensed professional, documented commissioning, and routine preventative maintenance protect investment value, ensure dependable comfort, and improve efficiency — all while helping homeowners access available local and state incentives. With the right system and ongoing service, a heat pump can deliver quiet, efficient comfort and cleaner indoor air that matches the needs of Peninsula homes.

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