IRBIS is the HVAC company Palo Alto homeowners trust for residential heating, cooling, and heat pump services — with specific expertise in the city's unique housing stock, from historic Eichlers to modern infill builds. Carrier-certified, same-day service available.
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4.9
(1,540 reviews)
4.8
(911 reviews)
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4.9
(1,540 reviews)
4.8
(911 reviews)
Fantastic experience replacing our outdated gas furnace and water heater with a new heat pump system. The team was professional and efficient. The best part? We saved thousands thanks to the generous rebates available. This upgrade is definitely worth it.
- Lamin N.
Cannot be happier with my new Heat pump water heater. It's been 2 weeks since I have it and it's working great! Tim did a thorough evaluation and installers performed neat work. Evan called to make sure we are all set up! Definitely use them again!
- Jypara E.
I must say everyone from IRBIS are very professional! Everyone from comfort advisor to scheduler and installers/technicians are very pleasant and nice to work with which totally makes the experience so great! They are really serious in bringing comfort to our home! We are happy and we'll definitely get them again for future HVAC needs!
- Shiela C.
4.9
(1,540 reviews)
4.8
(911 reviews)
Licensed CA CSLB #1048009 | Same-Day Service Available
Headquartered in San Jose, IRBIS provides high-quality air conditioning, heating, and plumbing services in the South Bay region, including Palo Alto, CA. Our fully licensed and trained technicians work throughout Santa Clara County and beyond to ensure homes are safe, comfortable, and functional.
No matter where in Palo Alto you reside, you can trust IRBIS for high-quality equipment installation, repair, and maintenance. Our skilled technicians can resolve problems of any size or scope. We’re committed to ensuring every customer is 100% satisfied. If you have an emergency, a crew will reach your home fast. And no matter what kind of service you need, discounts, specials, and financing are available to make it more affordable
IRBIS covers all Palo Alto heating and air conditioning needs — cooling, heating, heat pumps, and water heaters. Our Carrier-certified HVAC contractor is available same day, seven days a week, ready to repair, maintain, or install any system in your home.
Palo Alto's peak cooling season runs June through September, with July highs averaging 82°F and heat waves spiking above 100°F during Diablo wind events. IRBIS handles AC repair, AC maintenance, installation, and replacement.
Palo Alto winters are mild but real — December lows reach 44°F, with temperatures below 35°F on fewer than 5 nights per year. Furnace prep in October or November pays off. Repair, maintenance, and furnace installation are available.
Palo Alto's Mediterranean climate makes heat pumps ideal year-round — especially for Eichler homes, where adding ductwork simply isn't an option. One system, both heating and cooling.
IRBIS installs, maintains, and repairs water heaters — including heat pump water heaters eligible for Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) rebates.
Electrifying your entire home at once, instead of upgrading individual systems separately, creates a unified and energy-efficient solution.
Heating and cooling capabilities in one unit
Minimal carbon footprint
Comes with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind
Operates during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower
75% more energy-efficient than traditional gas water heaters
Tracks energy consumption to help reduce costs
Equipped with EcoNet Wi-Fi for remote control, monitoring, and energy-saving "away mode" from your smartphone
Seamlessly charge your electric vehicle at home
Heating and cooling capUpgraded electrical capacity to support new electric systems, ensuring safe and reliable powerabilities in one unit
Costs for electrification projects will increase as the deadline approaches. Act fast to avoid higher expenses.
Get Up to $10K 0% APR Financing With No Credit Check
Available Rebates
California Energy-Smart Homes $4250
Tech Clean up to $1000
Silicon Valley Clean Energy up to $3000
Peninsula Clean Energy up $2000
Tax credits up to $2000
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Boost Your Property Value
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As a licensed HVAC Contractor, we'll handle the manufacturer claim and secure the parts for you!
No charges for parts
No service fee with approved repair
We work with any manufacturer brand
Avoid peak electricity prices by automatically scheduling your EV charging during off-peak hours.
Use the SPAN app to charge your EV overnight or during the cheapest times of day.
Key add-on for EV charger installation, boosting your electrical system to support the 240-volt power needed for efficient level-2 charging.
Ensures safety and reliable charger performance.
Recognize the warning signs before leaks, corrosion, or pressure issues cause costly damage.
AC Repair
AC Repair provides fast AC diagnostics and fixes, using a clear process: inspection, recommendations, service, and post-repair support.
AC Maintenance
AC Maintenance that inspect, clean, and optimize your system to boost efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and extend lifespan.
AC Instalation and Replacement
AC Installation and Replacement at IRBIS means selecting and installing/replacing energy-efficient systems tailored to your home’s size, climate, and savings goals.
Discolored or Rusty Water
Brown or cloudy water often means corrosion inside your main water line — time for a full water line replacement.
Home Renovations or Upgrades
Planning a remodel? That’s the perfect time for a residential water line replacement to modernize your plumbing system.
Recognize the warning signs before leaks, corrosion, or pressure issues cause costly damage.
Furnance Repair
When your heating system falters, furnace repair restores safe, efficient heat; technicians inspect key components, explain options, and carry out the necessary fixes promptly.
Furnance Maintenance
To keep your system safe and efficient, furnace maintenance provides a scheduled tune-up that includes cleaning, testing, heat-exchanger and burner checks, and airflow verification.
Furnance Instalation and Replacement
As a turnkey service, furnace installation and replacement right-sizes, swaps out the old unit, installs to code with safe venting, and verifies startup.
Home Renovations or Upgrades
Planning a remodel? That’s the perfect time for a residential water line replacement to modernize your plumbing system.
Recognize the warning signs before leaks, corrosion, or pressure issues cause costly damage.
Heat Pump Repair
Heat pump repair quickly diagnoses and fixes issues like no heat/cool, icing, leaks, or odd noises to restore efficiency.
Heat Pump Maintenance
Heat pump maintenance is a scheduled tune-up that cleans, inspects, and tests key components to keep the system efficient and reliable.
Heat Pump Installation and Replacement
Heat pump installation covers a home assessment and right-sizing, removal of old equipment, placement of indoor/outdoor units, electrical hookups, thermostat setup, and code-compliant commissioning.
Home Renovations or Upgrades
Planning a remodel? That’s the perfect time for a residential water line replacement to modernize your plumbing system.
Alert
July averages 82°F in Palo Alto, with heat waves exceeding 100°F during Diablo wind events. January lows reach 44°F — freezing temperatures occur on fewer than 5 nights per year. Bay Area winters bring low indoor humidity, which accelerates dust buildup in HVAC systems and can irritate airways. With 261 sunny days annually and a moderate temperature range, heat pumps operate at maximum energy efficiency nearly year-round here — eliminating the cold-climate retrofits required elsewhere in California. Palo Alto's housing stock adds another layer: a significant portion of homes were built before 1980, many with flat roofs, radiant heating, and no ductwork. Standard forced-air systems are not always suitable. The local tech workforce also drives high demand for smart thermostats, energy monitoring, and premium Carrier systems.
From noisy A/C units to poor airflow — we’ve seen it all and fixed it all.
Water Heater Repair
Leaks, no heat, temperature swings, or noisy operation—are diagnosed and fixed with water heater repair, restoring reliable hot water.
Water Heater Maintenance
By cleaning, inspecting, and testing, water heater maintenance helps keep it safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
Water Heater Installation and Replacement
From sizing and choosing the correct tank to removing the old heater and running startup tests, water heater installation & replacement covers it all.
Electrical panel
Electrical Panel at IRBIS: licensed electricians diagnose, repair, and upgrade breaker panels to restore safe, handling permits and inspections.
From noisy A/C units to poor airflow — we’ve seen it all and fixed it all.
Drain Cleaning
Drain cleaning clears clogged drains using augers/snakes, hydro-jetting, and video inspection to find the cause—restoring flow, and helping prevent future blockages.
Sewer Services
Sewer services include camera inspections to find blockages, cracks, and root intrusion, plus hydro-jetting and snaking to restore flow.
Gas Line Services
Gas line services include licensed, code-compliant leak detection and repair, new line installation, and full replacements.
Water Pipe Services
Water pipe services cover leak detection, quick repairs, pressure restoration, and full replacements for damaged supply lines.
Garbage Disposal Services
Garbage disposal service covers professional repair, installation, and replacement to fix jams, leaks, and loud operation and to upgrade old units for quieter, efficient performance.
Modern cooling solution for your home.
Efficient
Quiet
Affordable
Eco-friendly
Top-tier energy efficiency.
Quiet, insulated cabinet
Modern cooling solution for your home.
Efficient
Smart
Quiet
Eco-friendly
Efficient
Smart
Modern cooling solution for your home.
Efficient
Quiet
Efficient
Quiet
Eco-friendly
Affordable
Top-tier energy efficiency.
Quiet, insulated cabinet
Saves money, delivers superior comfort
Quiet
Efficient
Affordable
Top-tier energy efficiency.
Quiet, insulated cabinet
Smart
Weak or no cooling
Poor airflow from vents
Loud or strange noises
Water leaks or moisture buildup
A/C constantly turns on and off
Rising energy bills
Thermostat not responding
Poor indoor air quality
Alert
Palo Alto temperatures rarely drop below 35°F, so standard heat pumps perform at full energy efficiency without cold-climate modifications. The shorter heating season also means lower annual operating costs compared to most of Northern California.
Bay Area winters bring low indoor humidity that accelerates dust buildup inside HVAC systems and can irritate airways. IRBIS addresses this during every tune-up: filter maintenance schedules, whole-home air purification options, and humidity balancing.
Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE): Rebates for heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.
Tech Clean CA: Equipment credits.
IRS Federal Tax Credit: Up to 30% under the Inflation Reduction Act (verify current status).
Palo Alto Utilities: Municipal green energy incentives — unique vs Sunnyvale's SJCE coverage.
IRBIS works with every residential property type — from mid-century Eichlers in Fairmeadow and Green Gables to Stanford-adjacent faculty homes and newer infill construction.
Central AC and heat pump HVAC services for single-family homes — with particular familiarity with older housing stock in Old Palo Alto, Professorville, and Crescent Park.
Palo Alto has one of the largest concentrations of Eichler homes in the Bay Area — particularly in Fairmeadow and Green Gables. These homes were built without forced-air ductwork; radiant floor heating was standard. A central AC install is not possible without major renovation. IRBIS installs ductless mini split systems that work within Eichler architecture — no dropped ceilings, no wall demolition, no compromise to the open-plan aesthetic. The job is typically completed in one day.
Whole-home electrification package's sustainability-focused homeowners and new infill builds — heat pump, heat pump water heater, and EV charger as one complete system.
Carrier Presidential Award Winner
Not every HVAC company earns this — IRBIS does. Carrier is the benchmark for premium HVAC, and this award confirms our installation and service standards meet their highest criteria.
10-Year Parts & Labor Warranty
Competitors offer 12 months on repairs and 3 years on installations. IRBIS gives you 10 years, in writing.
Same-Day Service, 7 Days a Week
Call before noon, and we will arrive today.
4.9 Google | 4.8 Yelp
1,451 Google reviews and 615 Yelp reviews from real Sunnyvale customers.
Licensed & Insured — CSLB #1048009
Every technician is a licensed HVAC professional, not a subcontractor.
Alert
Our HVAC solutions cover every major brand — Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, Daikin, Mitsubishi, Goodman, and more. Whatever system is currently installed in your home, our HVAC professionals service it.
IRBIS technicians know Palo Alto and its typical HVAC configurations — especially the ductless needs of Eichler clusters in Fairmeadow and Green Gables. We cover ZIP codes 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, and 94306, serving Downtown Palo Alto, Old Palo Alto, Crescent Park, Midtown, Barron Park, College Terrace, Ventura, Professorville, South Palo Alto, and the Stanford Research Park area.
Join for only $24.95 / month:
Seasonal Maintenance
Full HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical Maintenance
Free Inspections
Regular fee $115
VIP Priority Scheduling
Get an appointment within 48h or faster
Special discounts
20% off for repairs, 5% off for replacements
Alert
COMPREHENSIVE INSPECTION
We check every system component to catch issues early and ensure peak performance.
DETAILED REPORTING
You get a clear summary of system status and recommended actions after each visit.
FULLY STOCKED VAN
Our vans are loaded with tools and parts to fix most issues right away.
ON TIME ARRIVAL
We respect your time and always arrive as scheduled.
EXTENDED WARRANTIES
Extra protection with extended coverage on parts and labor.
Alert
You Got 10% Off Your First Service!
Step 1
Our trained and licensed specialists will diagnose your air conditioner, meticulously evaluating all components. This thorough assessment ensures the root cause of any issue is identified, preventing recurring problems and ensuring the system operates at peak efficiency.
Step 2
Based on the assessment, we will recommend tailored solutions to address your air conditioner’s issues. This approach empowers homeowners to make informed decisions about repairs, considering factors such as budget, urgency, and long-term system performance.
Step 3
Once you select a repair option, IRBIS technicians will carry out the necessary repairs using high-quality parts and tools. Their expertise and well-equipped vans allow them to handle most repairs promptly, ensuring your HVAC system is back to optimal efficiency with minimal downtime.
Step 4
We provide ongoing support and expert advice to help ensure the continued efficiency of your HVAC system.
Step 1
We begin with a whole-home review to map your path to electrification. This includes evaluating your current heating and cooling, water heating, EV charging readiness, and electrical panel capacity, so we can plan a cohesive upgrade rather than piecemeal fixes. Our team guides you step by step and focuses on efficient, all-electric options for comfort and savings.
Step 2
You will receive a tailored plan that can include a heat pump for heating and cooling, a smart heat pump water heater, a home EV charger, and an electrical panel upgrade for safe capacity. We also outline free estimates, financing options, and available incentives and rebates, including local programs and federal tax credits, to lower your total project cost.
Step 3
Once approved, IRBIS handles the end-to-end work. We remove outdated equipment, install new electric systems, set up proper electrical and refrigerant connections, and complete permitting and inspections where required. We coordinate scheduling for efficient completion, with same-day and weekend availability and a satisfaction guarantee.
Step 4
After installation, we remain available for maintenance and performance checks across your heat pump, water heater, panel, and EV charger, helping you sustain comfort, safety, and energy savings over time.
Step 1
Our licensed electricians begin with a thorough diagnostic of your electrical panel to identify the root cause of problems such as frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, burning odors, buzzing sounds, or overheating. We evaluate safety and code considerations so your home’s power is stable and reliable.
Step 2
Based on the assessment, we recommend targeted repairs or, if needed, an upgrade when the panel is outdated or damaged. Solutions can include breaker replacement and corrective wiring, all planned for safety, code compliance, and long-term reliability.
Step 3
Once you approve the plan, IRBIS technicians perform the work with quality components and strict adherence to electrical codes. We handle everything from precise repairs to complex wiring, followed by comprehensive testing to confirm safe and efficient operation before restoring full power.
Step 4
After service, we are available for follow-up checks and additional diagnostics as needed, helping maintain a safe and dependable electrical system for your home in San Jose and surrounding communities.
Step 1
A licensed technician will visit your home to evaluate the best charger location, required wiring, panel capacity, and code requirements. We check access to parking, cable routing, ventilation where applicable, and any trenching or conduit needs, so the plan is safe and efficient from the start.
Step 2
Based on the assessment, we will recommend the right solution for your vehicle and home, including Level 2 home chargers and compatible hardware. You will receive a clear proposal that covers equipment options and any permitting or inspection steps for your city.
Step 3
Once you approve the plan, IRBIS electricians handle the entire installation, including panel work if needed, dedicated circuit, conduit and wiring, mounting, and clean electrical connections. We remove any outdated equipment, obtain permits when required, schedule inspections, and complete startup and testing for reliable daily charging. Service is available across San Jose and nearby cities for prompt, professional installation.
Step 4
We provide guidance on safe operation, settings, and routine checks, and are available for maintenance or upgrades as your charging needs evolve. Our goal is a dependable, code compliant charging setup that keeps your EV ready every day.
No need to take time off work or ask a family member to stay home
Step 1
Our licensed plumbers will carefully diagnose your plumbing system, checking pipes, drains, and fixtures to pinpoint the root cause of any issue. This thorough assessment ensures lasting repairs and prevents recurring problems.
Step 2
Based on the inspection, we’ll recommend tailored solutions—whether it’s repairing a leak, clearing a drain, or replacing old pipes. Our approach helps homeowners choose the option that best fits their budget, urgency, and long-term needs.
Step 3
Once you approve the solution, IRBIS plumbers carry out the work using high-quality materials and proven methods. With fully stocked vans and years of expertise, most repairs and installations are completed in one visit, keeping your home running smoothly.
Step 4
Beyond the repair, IRBIS provides expert tips and ongoing support to help maintain your plumbing system—preventing future issues and ensuring peace of mind.
Step 1
Our trained and licensed specialists will diagnose your furnace, meticulously evaluating all components. This thorough assessment ensures the root cause of any issue is identified, preventing recurring problems and ensuring the system operates at peak efficiency.
Step 2
Based on the assessment, we will recommend tailored solutions to address your furnace’s issues. This approach empowers homeowners to make informed decisions about repairs, considering factors such as budget, urgency, and long-term system performance.
Step 3
Once you select a repair option, IRBIS technicians will carry out the necessary repairs using high-quality parts and tools. Their expertise and well-equipped vans allow them to handle most repairs promptly, ensuring your HVAC system is back to optimal efficiency with minimal downtime.
Step 4
We provide ongoing support and expert advice to help ensure the continued efficiency of your HVAC system.
Step 1
Our licensed and insured technicians will inspect your heat pump, including air-source, ducted, ductless, or hybrid configurations. We evaluate core components such as the evaporator, compressor, condenser, expansion device, controls, refrigerant charge, electrical and airflow, so the root cause is identified and efficiency and safety are restored.
Step 2
Based on the assessment, we will recommend targeted repairs, performance restoration, or a replacement tailored to your home. If replacement is the best path, we provide heat pump options, free estimates, flexible financing, and guidance on qualifying for local, state, and federal incentives, including TECH Clean California, SVCE, PCE, and federal tax credits.
Step 3
Once you choose a solution, IRBIS technicians complete the work using quality parts and professional tools. We handle removal of old equipment, clean electrical and refrigerant connections, proper airflow and charging, permitting when required, and startup and tuning.
Step 4
We provide continued care to keep your heat pump reliable and efficient, including annual professional maintenance, filter changes, coil cleaning, performance checks, and recommendations to reduce energy use. Regular service helps prevent breakdowns and extend system life.
July 8, 2026
Air conditioner replacement cost in San Jose almost never lines up with the national figures online. Most national estimates land between $5,000 and $12,000.
July 6, 2026
Most homeowners don’t think about their pipes until something forces the issue — a persistent drop in water pressure, water that runs orange when you first turn on the tap, or leaks that keep appearing in different spots, no matter how many times they’ve been patched.
June 30, 2026
Your garbage disposal stopped working, and you don’t know the cause of the problem. Before you dial a plumber or purchase a new garbage disposal, you can probably fix your existing one yourself in just a few minutes. We prepared this instruction that can help you to understand the common garbage disposal failures and how to troubleshoot them.
Jun 19, 2024
Choosing the right heating and cooling system for your home is more important than you might think. It affects your comfort, energy bills, and even the environment.
Jun 19, 2024
Choosing the right heating and cooling system for your home is more important than you might think. It affects your comfort, energy bills, and even the environment.
Jun 19, 2024
Choosing the right heating and cooling system for your home is more important than you might think. It affects your comfort, energy bills, and even the environment.
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Questions & Answers
The air filters that work best for Bay Area wildfire smoke are MERV-13 or higher filters or HEPA-grade whole-home air purifiers. These filters are effective for removing wildfire particulates and VOCs from the air. IRBIS. Services whole-home filtration systems that are compatible with your existing HVAC setup.
IRBIS offers same-day HVAC service across all Palo Alto ZIP codes seven days a week. If you call in the morning, a technician can typically arrive that afternoon to fix your AC emergency.
Yes, your HVAC system can be integrated with Google Home or Nest. IRBIS configures every system for compatibility with Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Nest, and Ecobee. You can control the temperature, set energy-saving schedules and monitor usage from your phone.
Standard HVAC installations take one day to complete. Ductless mini split installs in Eichler homes are also typically completed in a day. However, larger whole-home electrification projects, such as heat pump, water heater and EV charger installations, may take two days to complete.
Yes, IRBIS handles the building permits and inspections. IRBIS manages the permit process with the City of Palo Alto on your behalf. You do not need to file anything for the permits. IRBIS handles permits for HVAC services and coordinates inspections.
Palo Altos Reach Code, which was adopted in 2023, restricts gas installations in new construction and major remodels. However, existing gas systems can still be. Replaced with gas. IRBIS installs both gas and heat pump systems. The homeowner chooses the system that's best for their situation. Gas is not banned outright in Palo Alto.
Yes, you can install AC in an Eichler home without a duct system. Many Eichler homes in Fairmeadow and Green Gables do not have ductwork. This is because forced-air systems require gutting walls and ceilings. IRBIS installs ductless mini-splits that do not require any changes to your home. The ductless mini-splits preserve the open-plan layout of your Eichler home. Typically, the installation of ductless mini-splits is completed in one day.
To get the $5,000+ in rebates for a heat pump upgrade, Palo Alto residents can use programs. These programs are Peninsula Clean Energy rebates, Tech Clean CA equipment credits, IRS Federal Tax Credits, and Palo Alto Utilities energy incentives. The total amount of rebates for a heat pump upgrade depends on the system and your eligibility for the rebates. IRBIS's HVAC experts will assess your home and handle every application for the rebates. You do not have to file anything for the rebates.
Plumbing refers to the system of pipes, fixtures, and fittings that bring clean water into your home and remove wastewater. It includes everything from your water supply lines and drains to sewer pipes and gas lines.
No. Electrical work requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Attempting to do it yourself can result in electric shock, fire, and violation of regulations.
Whole house electrification is the process of upgrading a home so it can run entirely on electricity without the need for fossil fuels, gas, or even wood. This process usually requires guidance and work completed by a professional electrician and home services provider.
The furnace requires annual maintenance, ideally in the fall before the heating season begins. Immediate maintenance may also be necessary if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as strange noises, unusual odors, decreased comfort, or frequent switching on and off.
