heat pump installation guide

Heat Pump Installation Guide Galaxy Services

Heat Pump Installation from Start to Finish

Switching from a gas furnace to an all-electric heat pump is one of the smartest decisions a Bay Area homeowner can make. It cuts carbon emissions, improves comfort, and often reduces long-term utility costs — especially with generous local rebates.

But a great result starts with a great installation. At Galaxy Services, we take a full-service approach focused on your comfort, your home, and your budget.

Here’s exactly what happens during a heat pump installation — featuring two top-tier, all-electric ducted systems:

  • American Standard 5A6H7036A1000A + TAMXB0C36V31DBA
  • Mitsubishi SUZ-AA36NL + SVZ-AP36NL

(Both use eco-friendly R-454B refrigerant)

You’re Buying More Than Equipment — You’re Buying Home Comfort

Every home has unique needs. That’s why we start by understanding:
– Your household usage (e.g. daytime vs nighttime occupancy)
– Special zones like baby bedrooms or home offices
– Budget considerations and energy goals
– Available panel capacity and rebate eligibility

We design the system not just for performance — but for quiet operation, optimal airflow, and personalized comfort.

Step-by-Step: How the Installation Works

  1. In-Home Evaluation
    – Full inspection of your gas furnace, ducts, and panel
    – Manual J load calculation to size the system correctly
    – Duct evaluation for leaks, undersized returns, or poor insulation
    – Panel capacity check (is a 240V circuit available?)
    – Review of rebates (BayREN, Clean HEET, SVCE, PCE)
    – Planning for permit and Title 24 requirements
  2. System Removal & Prep Work
    – Remove the gas furnace and old AC coil (if present)
    – Cap the gas line in accordance with code
    – Rebuild or modify air handler platform and duct transitions
    – Verify filter box, plenum, and return size
    – Begin outdoor unit site prep: leveling ground or wall-mount planning

Outdoor Unit Placement: Quiet, Code-Compliant, and Thoughtful

We carefully select the best location for your new heat pump condenser:
– Meets California code for airflow, setbacks, and access
– Avoids bedrooms (especially children’s rooms) to reduce noise concerns
– Can be installed on:
• Concrete pad (we level and prep the base)
• Wall bracket (ideal for small yards or sloped ground)
• Vibration-isolated feet for quieter operation

System Options

American Standard Ducted System (R-454B, 240V)

– Model: 5A6H7036A1000A + TAMXB0C36V31DBA
– Variable-speed 3-ton heat pump system
– Full-size ducted air handler
– Thermostat: UX360, Ecobee, or Nest
– Requires two dedicated 240V circuits (air handler and condenser)
– May require panel upgrade in homes with <100A service

Mitsubishi Ducted System (R-454B, 240V)

– Model: SUZ-AA36NL + SVZ-AP36NL
– Slim ducted design, fits in closets or attics
– Outdoor condenser: SUZ-AA36NL, inverter-driven, ultra-quiet
– Air handler: SVZ-AP36NL, powered via the outdoor unit
– Requires one 240V dedicated circuit for the outdoor unit
– Indoor air handler is powered by the outdoor unit
– No need for separate indoor power circuit — great for limited panel space

Condensate Drainage: We Don’t Cut Corners

– Properly sloped gravity drain with P-trap and cleanout
– Secondary drain pan with float switch for attic installs
– Condensate pump installed if natural drainage isn’t available

Line Set, Electrical, and Commissioning

– Run new R-454B-rated line set (insulated, sealed, flare or brazed)
– Pressure test with nitrogen (300–400 PSI)
– Pull deep vacuum to 500 microns or below
– Charge system to spec using weigh-in method
– System startup and commissioning:
• Verify airflow, delta T, refrigerant pressure
• Confirm smart thermostat communication
• Adjust fan speeds, zoning, and programming

Final Steps: Inspection, Registration & Walkthrough

– Schedule Title 24 HERS testing
– Schedule city final inspection
– Register your equipment warranty (10-year parts coverage)
– Provide system documentation, filter sizes, and maintenance tips
– Walkthrough with homeowner — we don’t leave until you’re comfortable

Ready for Total Home Comfort?

At Galaxy Services, we don’t just install equipment — we deliver tailored comfort, energy savings, and long-term peace of mind. Whether you’re going with a Mitsubishi or American Standard system, we’ll guide you from the first conversation to the final inspection — and handle every detail in between.
Call now for a free estimatephone (925) 578-3293