What Is the Difference Between a Heat Pump and a Traditional HVAC System in San Jose?

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Quick Answer: A heat pump moves heat (from outside air into the home in winter, from inside to outside in summer) rather than burning fuel to create heat. It replaces both the furnace and the air conditioner with a single reversible system. A traditional HVAC system has a separate gas furnace (for heating) and air conditioner (for cooling). Key differences: a heat pump is 200-350% efficient at heating (moves 2-3 units of heat per unit of electricity used); a gas furnace is 80-98% efficient (1 unit of heat per unit of gas burned — can never exceed 100%). Heat pumps are required for new residential construction in San Jose under the 2024 California Title 24 energy code and the city’s natural gas ban for new buildings.

Heat Pump vs Traditional HVAC — San Jose Comparison

Helpful Resources:

Factor	Heat Pump (All-Electric)	Gas Furnace + AC (Traditional)
Heating efficiency	200-350% (COP 2.0-3.5)	80-98% (gas furnace)
Cooling efficiency	SEER 15-22+ (high efficiency)	SEER 14-18 (AC unit)
System count	One system heats and cools	Two systems: furnace + AC
Fuel	Electricity only	Natural gas (furnace) + electricity (AC)
California new construction	Required (gas ban in San Jose)	Gas furnaces banned in new construction
Compatible with solar	Yes — all electric, pairs well with solar + battery	Partial — AC is electric but furnace is gas
Installation cost	$5,000 – $15,000 (ducted heat pump)	$4,000 – $12,000 (furnace + AC)
Mini-split variant	Yes — ductless mini-split for rooms or ADUs	No ductless option for heating with gas
Performance below 35°F	Less efficient (modern cold-climate HP work to -13°F)	Full performance regardless of temperature

Is a Heat Pump Right for My San Jose Home?

San Jose is an ideal climate for heat pumps. Because San Jose winters are mild (rarely below 40°F), heat pumps maintain excellent efficiency year-round — the efficiency drop at low temperatures that limits heat pumps in cold climates is not a factor in the Bay Area. Most San Jose homeowners who switch from a gas furnace + AC to a heat pump see lower total annual energy costs, especially if they have solar panels. PG&E offers rebates for heat pump installation — check their current rebate schedule.

Quartz Construction installs heat pump systems and mini-splits as part of kitchen, bathroom, ADU, and room addition projects throughout San Jose. Get a free consultation. CSLB #1003436 | Call (650) 749-7436.

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Google Reviews — What Our Clients Say

      
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   Perry Finch 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’re so happy with the work Hila and her team did on our home addition. The new space flows beautifully with the existing structure, and the quality is clear in every finish. Finished on schedule and stress-free.
  
 
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   Joy Ruther 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Ohad on our full home remodel was an incredible experience. He helped us through every decision and made sure everything turned out exactly how we envisioned. The team was easy to communicate with and super detail-focused. We still can’t believe how beautiful our home looks!
  
 
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   Ajay Mukhopadhyay 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently worked with Quartz Construction (Owner: Ohad) for a construction project to remodel our Bathroom and we couldn’t be more pleased with the results. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, and exceptional craftsmanship. They maintained clear communication throughout the project, kept us informed of progress and any potential changes, and delivered everything on time and within budget. Their quality of work is outstanding — every detail was handled with care and precision. What stood out most was their commitment to customer satisfaction. They were responsive to our questions, respectful of our space, and ensured that the final outcome matched our vision perfectly. If you're looking for a reliable, skilled, and trustworthy construction contractor, I wholeheartedly recommend Quartz Construction ( Ohad and his team) .They exceeded our expectations in every way. Ajay
  
 
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   debbie curley 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience working with Quartz Construction And Remodeling. Ohad Maloul the owner was professional communicative and a pleasure to work with from start to finish. His team repaired and painted my backyard pergola and the quality of their work was truly excellent. They were always on time, friendly and responsive to any questions I had throughout the process. I appreciated the clear communication and attention to detail. I’m excited to work with Ohad and his team on future projects and highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable, high-quality construction or remodeling services.
  
 
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   Harry Lewis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hila managed our balcony addition project with care and precision. The design complements our home perfectly, and the build quality is outstanding. She communicated every step and made the whole process easy. We’re thrilled with the result!
  
 
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   Qi Lei 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the chance to work with Ohad and his construction team on a recent home project, and I was really impressed. Ohad is professional, easy to communicate with, and genuinely cares about the quality of the work. The crew showed up on time, kept the work area clean, and finished the job on schedule. It’s hard to find contractors who are reliable and transparent these days, but Ohad delivered on everything he promised. Would definitely recommend if you’re looking for someone who takes pride in their work and keeps things straightforward.
  
 
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   Boris Tyron 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’re so happy with the work Quartz Construction did on our backyard. Ohad’s team designed and built a gorgeous deck and patio that turned the area into a dream space. The quality and detail are fantastic. Highly recommend!
  
 
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   Gloria Collin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Quartz Construction built the most beautiful pergola in our backyard, thanks to Ohad. He was easy to work with, listened to our needs, and delivered a structure that’s both stylish and durable. We now have a shaded space where we can relax and entertain guests.
  
 
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   Dustin Walsh 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They built a beautiful, durable pergola that fits our outdoor space perfectly. Hila paid close attention to both style and quality. We now have the perfect spot for lounging, gatherings, and enjoying every season.
  
 
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   Paul Wilins 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We feel incredibly lucky to have worked with Hila. She made the ADU process simple and stress-free, handling everything with care and professionalism. The final space is perfect—efficient, elegant, and exactly what we hoped for. Big thanks to her and the whole crew!
  
 
  
  
 
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