Here’s an overview of professional heating installation in Millbrae, CA, detailing our comprehensive, code-compliant process from your initial consultation through commissioning and ongoing maintenance. We cover project planning, system selection (whether it's a furnace, heat pump, or ductless option), all ductwork and piping considerations, safety protocols, permitting, and meticulous quality checks. Plum HVAC emphasizes accurate load calculations, proper sizing, and thorough testing to ensure reliable comfort, excellent energy efficiency, and long-term performance for your home. You'll gain clear expectations, informed decision-making, and a solid roadmap for a safe, efficient, and durable heating system.

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Heating Installation in Millbrae, CA

Proper heating installation in Millbrae, CA means more than swapping out an old unit. It is a strategic process that starts with an accurate assessment of your home and ends with a safe, code-compliant system optimized for comfort, efficiency, and longevity. This page explains the full heating installation process—from initial consultation to commissioning and maintenance—so Millbrae homeowners know what to expect and can make an informed decision.

Why professional heating installation matters in Millbrae

Millbrae sits in a mild coastal climate with cool, damp mornings from marine fog and occasional chilly winter nights. Homes here range from older bungalows to modern builds and may have unique constraints such as limited attic space, slab foundations, or multi-unit layouts. Proper installation ensures:

Consistent warmth during foggy mornings and cool evenings
Efficient operation that lowers energy use and aligns with California efficiency standards
Safe operation with correct venting and combustion management for gas systems
Long equipment life through proper sizing, airflow, and refrigerant or gas setup

Common heating systems installed in Millbrae

Millbrae homes commonly choose among three main options depending on building type, energy goals, and budget:

Furnace (natural gas or propane): Common in homes with existing ductwork; good for rapid warmth in colder nights.
Heat pump (air-source): Highly efficient in mild coastal climates; provides both heating and cooling and aligns with regional electrification trends.
Ductless mini-split: Ideal for older homes without ducts, room additions, or targeted zone heating.

Initial consultation and home assessment

A thorough installation begins with a visit and evaluation that includes:

Measure and load calculation: A Manual J load calculation estimates heat loss and determines the correct system size.
Duct and building envelope inspection: Check duct condition, insulation levels, attic access, and wall construction.
Fuel and electrical review: Verify gas line capacity, electrical panel space, and breaker capacity for heat pumps.
Site constraints: Assess exterior mounting locations, noise considerations, HOA or neighborhood restrictions, and accessibility for larger equipment.
Occupant needs: Discuss desired temperature control, zoning, and future plans like electrification or HVAC upgrades.

System selection: factors to weigh

Choosing a furnace, heat pump, or ductless system depends on:

Home size and layout: Ducted systems suit whole-house needs; ductless works well for single rooms or homes without ducts.
Energy goals: Heat pumps offer high efficiency and reduced fossil fuel use; gas furnaces may provide lower upfront cost where gas is available.
Local climate: Millbrae’s mild winters make air-source heat pumps particularly effective.
Installation complexity: Retrofit ductwork or new piping can increase scope and time.
Long-term cost: Consider operating cost, maintenance, and equipment lifespan, not just purchase price.

Ductwork and piping considerations

Proper duct and piping work is critical for performance:

Duct evaluation: Identify leaks, crushed sections, undersized ducts, and missing insulation. Leaky ducts can waste significant energy and reduce comfort.
Duct repair and sealing: Use mastic or UL 181-rated tape and insulation to improve efficiency. Consider duct replacement when damage or poor design limits performance.
Refrigerant line sets and condensate: For heat pumps and ductless systems, route line sets logically, insulate them, and provide condensate drainage with traps and overflow protection.
Piping and venting for gas systems: Install compliant venting materials and ensure proper slope, termination, and clearances.

Professional installation steps

Typical installation flow for a whole-house system:

Finalize system selection and obtain permits if required by Millbrae and San Mateo County.
Prepare the site: remove old equipment, protect floors, and stage new equipment.
Install mechanical components: set furnace or heat pump, connect ductwork or line sets, and run condensate and venting.
Electrical and gas connections: make safe, code-compliant hookups and verify breaker sizing.
Insulation and sealing: insulate duct runs and refrigerant lines, seal penetrations, and restore finishes.
System startup: charge refrigerant if needed, purge lines, and power the system for initial testing.

Installation duration varies: simple ductless installs can be completed in a day, while full furnace replacements with duct repairs or heat pump conversions may take several days to complete and pass inspections.

Safety, code compliance, and permits

Heating work in Millbrae must comply with California building codes and Title 24 energy requirements. Key items addressed during installation include:

Proper combustion air and venting for gas appliances
Carbon monoxide mitigation and detector placement guidance
Electrical codes for disconnects, breakers, and wiring methods
Seismic anchoring for gas appliances where required
Permits and inspections through local building departments

A professional installer will handle permit pulls, necessary inspections, and documentation to meet local code and safety expectations.

Quality checks and commissioning

Commissioning confirms the system performs as intended:

Functional testing: Verify thermostat control, start/stop cycles, and safety interlocks.
Performance checks: Measure airflow, static pressure, refrigerant charge, and temperature rise for furnaces or heat pumps.
Combustion testing: For gas systems, perform a combustion analysis and test for leaks.
Duct leakage test: Optional but recommended for significant ductwork changes to ensure efficiency.
System balancing and zoning: Set dampers and thermostats for even comfort and responsive control.

Technicians should document results and provide operational instructions so homeowners understand how to use and care for the system.

Warranty and maintenance recommendations

Meaningful warranties and a maintenance plan protect your investment:

Manufacturer warranties: Confirm coverage periods for compressors, heat exchangers, and parts.
Installer warranty: Verify workmanship coverage for installation-related issues.
Regular maintenance: Annual or biannual tune-ups maintain efficiency and catch small issues early. Tasks include filter changes, refrigerant checks, combustion and venting inspection, and duct and airflow verification.
Record keeping: Maintain a log of service dates, filter types, and any parts replaced.

Scheduling and homeowner preparation

To prepare for installation in Millbrae:

Clear access: Remove furniture and create a path to equipment locations and attic access.
Pets and children: Secure pets and keep children away from work areas.
Utility availability: Ensure power and gas meters are accessible and not obstructed.
Permit timeline: Allow time for local permitting and inspections; complex projects may require several business days.
Temporary heating: Plan for brief interruptions; extended projects may require portable heating during colder periods.

The long-term benefits

A professionally installed heating system tailored to Millbrae homes delivers reliable comfort, lower operating costs, improved indoor air quality, and compliance with local standards. Thoughtful system selection, meticulous ductwork or piping work, and thorough commissioning maximize efficiency and reduce the chance of future repairs. Routine maintenance and proper warranties help protect your home investment and keep your system running smoothly for years.

This overview gives a clear expectation of the heating installation process in Millbrae, CA, helping homeowners choose the right system and understand the steps involved in a safe, efficient, and code-compliant installation.

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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