Portola Valley homeowners can always count on Plum HVAC for comprehensive, local HVAC services, perfectly tailored to hillside homes. This includes expert installation, replacement, repair, and ongoing maintenance for furnaces, air conditioning, heat pumps, ductless systems, ductwork, thermostats, zoning, and IAQ equipment. Our service process focuses on accurate sizing, transparent proposals, and professional installation, complete with thorough commissioning and post-install guidance. All our licensed technicians hold California C-20 HVAC licenses and EPA qualifications. Plus, we offer warranties, financing options, and rebates to support your electrification and energy efficiency goals, all while ensuring safety and code compliance.

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(650) 605 – 5986

HVAC Company in Portola Valley, CA

Portola Valley homes demand HVAC solutions that balance comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality. With hot, dry summers, cool wet winters, and seasonal wildfire smoke that affects the entire Bay Area, residential heating, cooling, and air filtration systems need careful selection, precise installation, and timely maintenance. This page explains the full scope of HVAC capabilities for Portola Valley residents—installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance of furnaces, air conditioning, heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, ductwork, thermostats, zoning systems, and air quality equipment—plus licensing, warranty information, safety measures, service area and typical hours, rebate and financing guidance, and a clear outline of the service process so homeowners know what to expect.

Comprehensive HVAC services in Portola Valley

We provide end-to-end HVAC services tailored to local homes, including:

System installation and replacement: Central air systems, high-efficiency heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, gas and electric furnaces, and packaged systems sized for Portola Valley’s unique home designs.
Repairs and troubleshooting: Diagnostics and repairs for compressor issues, refrigerant leaks, failing heat exchangers, thermostat errors, airflow problems, and intermittent cycling.
Routine maintenance: Seasonal tune-ups, filter replacement, coil cleaning, duct inspection, and performance testing to extend equipment life and maintain efficiency.
Ductwork services: Duct design, sealing, insulation, and repair to improve airflow and reduce energy loss in older or retrofit installations.
Indoor air quality (IAQ): Whole-house filtration upgrades (MERV 13+ options), HEPA systems, UV-C air purification, ERVs/HRVs for controlled ventilation, and filtration strategies for wildfire smoke.
Controls and zoning: Smart thermostats, multi-zone control, and zoning dampers to optimize comfort in multi-level or uniquely configured homes.

Common HVAC issues in Portola Valley homes

Homeowners in Portola Valley frequently encounter these problems:

Reduced cooling during summer heat waves due to undersized systems or dirty coils.
Poor indoor air quality and lingering smoke odors during wildfire season.
Uneven temperatures in homes with multiple levels or long duct runs.
Rising energy bills from aging equipment or leaky ducts.
Short cycling caused by improper system sizing or refrigerant issues.

Understanding these common issues helps homeowners make informed choices between repair, retrofit, or full system replacement.

The service process: what to expect

A clear, professional process ensures systems are effective and compliant:

Consultation and needs assessment

Review home layout, insulation, existing ductwork, occupancy patterns, and indoor air quality concerns.
Discuss goals: maximum efficiency, improved IAQ, electrification with heat pumps, or targeted cooling for additions and remodels.

2. Accurate system sizing

Perform Manual J load calculations that account for Portola Valley’s climate and home specifics rather than relying on rule-of-thumb sizing.
Recommend equipment matched to capacity needs and efficiency targets.

3. Detailed proposal and equipment selection

Provide options that compare SEER/HSPF ratings, heat pump vs. furnace choices, single-stage vs. variable-speed equipment, and IAQ add-ons.
Outline expected performance, warranty coverage, and estimated operating costs.

4. Installation and quality control

Professional equipment placement, refrigerant charge verification, duct sealing, and electrical and gas connections performed to code.
Post-installation commissioning to verify airflow, temperature differentials, and system controls.

5. Testing and customer orientation

Demonstrate thermostat programming, zoning operation, and IAQ system maintenance needs.
Provide documentation for equipment warranties and maintenance schedules.

6. Follow-up and seasonal maintenance

Recommended seasonal inspections to preserve efficiency and detect issues early, with routine checks of refrigerant levels, safety controls, and filtration.

Licensing, certifications, and warranties

Technicians hold required California contractor licensing (C-20 HVAC) and EPA Section 608 certification for handling refrigerants. Local building permits and code compliance are managed for all installations.
Equipment choices include manufacturer-backed warranties for parts and compressors; workmanship guarantees cover installation quality. Warranty terms vary by manufacturer and product; owners should retain warranty documentation and maintenance records to preserve coverage.

Rebate and financing guidance

Portola Valley homeowners can often access incentives to lower upgrade costs and improve payback:

Utility incentives and rebate programs through PG&E and regional programs (including Bay Area energy efficiency initiatives) may apply to high-efficiency heat pumps, HVAC upgrades, and heat-pump water heaters.
State and federal tax credits or rebate programs for electrification and energy-efficient equipment can further reduce net costs.
Financing assistance is commonly available through third-party lenders with options for affordable monthly payments to spread investment over time.

A project quote will typically identify applicable local rebates and provide guidance on program requirements and documentation.

COVID-19 and jobsite safety

Work protocols prioritize homeowner and technician safety:

Technicians follow current public health guidance, using PPE when appropriate and minimizing indoor exposure time.
Contact-reducing practices such as remote estimate options, digital documentation, and scheduled service windows help limit interactions.
Enhanced sanitation practices are employed for indoor visits and equipment handling.

Portola Valley service area and typical hours

Services are focused on Portola Valley and adjacent communities where similar climate and home characteristics influence system design and performance. Typical service hours are weekday daytime windows, with emergency service options for critical system failures outside normal hours.

Benefits of timely HVAC action and maintenance

Improved comfort during heat waves and cool evenings with properly sized, commissioned equipment.
Lower operating costs and greater equipment lifespan through seasonal maintenance and efficient system selection.
Better indoor air quality and reduced smoke impacts during wildfire season with high-efficiency filters and whole-home filtration strategies.
Compliance with local codes and incentives that make modern electrification and heat pump technology increasingly attractive for California homes.

Maintenance tips for Portola Valley homeowners

Replace or check filters monthly during heavy-use seasons; consider MERV 13 or higher when wildfire smoke is present.
Schedule preventive tune-ups before summer and winter peak seasons.
Seal and insulate ducts during home improvements to reduce losses in older systems.
Consider smart thermostats and zoning to optimize comfort in hilly, multi-level homes.

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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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