When a Carmel Valley homeowner called Bellows Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, they had a clear goal: ditch the aging gas furnace, reclaim a cramped hallway closet, and upgrade to modern all-electric comfort. What they got was a complete system transformation — new Lennox ML15 heat pump, full ductwork replacement, and an attic relocation that returned real, usable living space to the home.
Here’s exactly how we did it, and why the details matter.
From gas furnace to all-electric heat pump
The existing system was a Payne gas furnace tucked into a tight closet, with aging ductwork running throughout the home. Rather than retrofit around old equipment, we started fresh. The furnace was disconnected, the gas line capped, and the flue sealed — leaving the closet completely clear for the homeowner to use however they want.
All the ductwork was removed and replaced with a new, fully sealed system. We moved the air handler into the attic, freeing up that closet entirely. That’s real square footage returned to the homeowner. Note that in Monterey, as of 2026 homeowners can still install R6 insulated ducting. In other climate zones like Santa Clara homeowners are required to install R8.
Why duct sealing matters more than most people realize
Most homes we work in have ductwork leaking 30–50% of the air passing through the system. That means the system is running, burning energy, and conditioning air that’s escaping into the attic or walls — not your living rooms. It’s a massive efficiency loss and can pull dust, insulation particles, and allergens into your air supply.
On this installation, every joint was sealed and tested. The result: under 5% duct leakage. That change alone can dramatically reduce monthly energy bills and improve indoor air quality.
And there’s something else worth saying: brand-new ductwork is clean. No years of accumulated dust. No allergen buildup in the lining. You know exactly what’s circulating through your home.
The Lennox ML15KSPV — built for California
California has strict setback distances and sound ordinances that many standard heat pumps don’t pass. The Lennox ML15 was designed with these rules in mind. Its slim condenser cabinet fits in tight spaces including zero-lot-line properties, and it operates quietly enough to satisfy local noise requirements.
This was a 5-ton installation — you’ll notice the double-stacked fan cabinet in the photos. Units 3 tons and under use a shorter, single-fan design. The system runs on low-GWP R-454B refrigerant, meeting California’s 2025 refrigerant compliance standards.
What to expect to invest in a heat pump
A fully installed heat pump system typically starts in the range of $15,000–$25,000+ before ductwork, permits, or electrical upgrades. This Carmel Valley project included complete ductwork replacement and an attic relocation — a more involved scope that delivers a truly fresh, integrated system.
Rebates and incentives from Central Coast Community Energy can offset a meaningful portion of that investment. Our team can walk through every option with you.
The Bellows difference
Every Bellows installation starts with a plan and your home’s protection is one part of that— in this home paper was set up to protect carpets. It’s one of dozens of process standards our crews follow on every job. You shouldn’t have to think about your home while we’re working in it.
If you’re in Monterey, Santa Cruz, or the surrounding counties and want to explore what a heat pump conversion would look like for your home, call us or request a free estimate online.
Monterey & Carmel Heat Pump Installation and Service Experts
Bellows Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric is a full service HVAC company offering replacement, repair, and maintenance. A new heat pump system is a big decision and we’re happy to help you navigate the decision: efficiency, rebates, features, costs, timing, placement, brand, etc. Whether you’re in San Jose, Santa Clara, Marin, Sonoma, Santa Cruz, or Monterey, our licensed technicians are ready to help.
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