Air Conditioning Repair Libertyville, IL

Air Conditioner Not Working? We’ll Get It Fixed Right

Summers in Libertyville, IL, can be hot and humid. Few things are more frustrating than coming home and realizing your air conditioner isn’t keeping up. Maybe it’s blowing warm air, making strange noises, or not turning on at all. You’re left wondering if it’s a simple fix or if you’re facing the expense of a full replacement or costly HVAC services call that will only save your unit for a little while longer.

Fortunately, Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric offers dedicated air conditioning repair in Libertyville, IL, and the greater North Chicago area. Our technicians take the time to thoroughly inspect your system, explain what’s wrong in plain language, and recommend the most cost-effective solution. In many cases, a timely repair can restore comfort to your home without the need for a new unit. And if replacement is the smarter choice, we’ll walk you through your HVAC services and replacement options so you can make the decision that’s best for your family.

Whether your home is near Libertyville High School, close to Butler Lake, or right in the heart of downtown by the Proctor Building, our team is ready to respond quickly with honest, reliable AC repair service that gets your North Chicago home cool again.

Backed by Decades of Local HVAC Experience

Ravinia Plumbing has been serving the community for nearly 100 years, and our team is backed by full insurance and industry certifications that give you peace of mind. Every technician is highly trained and committed to delivering the kind of respectful, reliable service your family deserves.

From everyday repairs to complex projects, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of safety, quality, and professionalism. That is why so many homeowners in the North Chicago area and the surrounding suburbs continue to choose Ravinia Plumbing: because they know the job will be done right the first time, every time.

 

We Provide Emergency Services for All AC Brands

Does the Illinois summer heat leave you sweating through the night? Don’t suffer another minute with a broken AC unit. Ravinia Plumbing, a trusted name in Libertyville since 1928, offers emergency service to get your air conditioning back up and running quickly. That includes same day service for homes in the north Chicago area and surrounding suburbs.

Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to diagnose and fix your AC repair problems, making comfort a priority for your home, and ensuring it stays a cool haven during the hottest days.

Troubleshooting Common AC Repairs in Libertyville, Illinois

The NATE-certified AC repair experts at Ravinia Plumbing have extensive experience in maintaining all types of air conditioning systems. We are always available to come out and inspect your system and then make honest recommendations about any services you need, even if what you need is an immediate repair.

However, there are some things you, the customer, can do to troubleshoot your system before calling us for professional HVAC repair. Let’s take a look at some of the most common issues that might be causing your AC to run inefficiently, and how you can correct them on your own to avoid any future costly breakdowns.

The Air Conditioner Won’t Power On

If you do not hear or feel anything when you turn your air conditioner on, the problem might be something as simple as a tripped circuit breaker. This is the best-case scenario as it only requires switching the breaker back to the ON position to resolve the issue, and doesn’t require an AC replacement or any electrical work.

However, it could also be the result of a thermostat malfunction or damaged wiring. If you’re unsure about what the problem is, give us a call for air conditioner repair, and let us come and fix it for you.

Thermostat Malfunction

If your thermostat is incorrectly calibrated or malfunctioning for another reason, it’s best to call a certified technician to assess the situation and make the necessary repairs. Your thermostat might just need to be recalibrated – or it could need to be replaced altogether. If that’s the case, our team is equipped with the right training and tools to make the repair process easy, and we keep your complete satisfaction our top priority.

Cooling System Isn’t Blowing Cold Air

If the air coming out of your vents is warm, your refrigerant level could be low. This will cause inefficient operation, which costs you more money while keeping you less cool than you should be. 

It could be that your refrigerant simply needs recharging. However, there may also be a leak in the refrigerant line. One of our technicians can perform a system evaluation to troubleshoot the situation and offer a smart solution.

Condenser Is Malfunctioning

Your air conditioner’s condenser channels heat removed from your atmosphere to the exterior of your home. If your condenser is not working properly, it can allow the heat to build up inside your home, working against the efficiency of your AC system. The condenser coil is located on the exterior unit, meaning it can be exposed to grass, dirt, and other substances that can make it dirty. Sometimes, the easiest fix for this is just a simple cleaning.

A dirty condenser coil will make your AC system work harder and decrease its efficiency. A quick cleaning will remove any debris and improve airflow. If this does not fix the problem, contact our team for AC service.

Evaporator Coil Is Frozen

If your Libertyville, Illinois, home isn’t staying as cool as you would like it to, it might be because your evaporator coil is frozen. The evaporator coil contains a refrigerant that is responsible for absorbing heat. Without proper airflow, the coil can form a layer of ice. If this happens, your airflow from your vents will be significantly diminished. 

Turn off the system and allow the ice to melt from the coil fully before restarting it, and while you’re at it, give it a good cleaning. Make sure that your air filter is clean and nothing is obstructing your ductwork in order to troubleshoot why your airflow is restricted. If your coils continue to freeze, contact Ravinia Plumbing to determine the cause. Low refrigerant can also cause ice to form on the coil.

Duct System Is Leaking

Your HVAC system’s ductwork is supposed to be airtight. If the duct system is not sealed properly, it will allow your cool air to escape and warm air to come in. Your ducting may need to be inspected to be sure that it was installed properly and that rodents or insects have not opened it in spots.

It’s important to take care of leaky ductwork because it will make your AC system overwork itself trying to keep your home cool, which will drive your utility bills sky high. Duct leaks also worsen your indoor air quality. Call us for a prompt inspection and professional duct sealing services, and we’ll get the job done to ensure your north Chicago home is cooling they way you expect it to.

Air Conditioner Makes a Lot of Noise

If your AC system is making noise during operation, it could be a deteriorating fan motor, a broken part, worn bearings, or a belt that needs replacing. If you hear any banging or clanging when you operate your AC, it’s best to power it off and call one of our air conditioning contractor technicians to assess the situation. Running it while it’s making noise can lead to component or entire system failure. It’s better to have it checked out as soon as possible.

AC Repair or HVAC System Replacement?

When facing air conditioning repair issues, sometimes replacing the unit may be the most cost-effective and reliable solution. Frequent breakdowns, rising energy bills, and an aging system often signal that it’s time for an upgrade. We assist you in making this crucial decision by providing a thorough assessment of your current system’s condition and efficiency. 

Our expert technicians will evaluate whether a repair can extend its life or if a new air conditioning installation would offer better performance and savings. By guiding you through the pros and cons and providing fair pricing for every HVAC service, we ensure you make an informed choice that best suits your needs and budget.

AC Maintenance for a Smooth Summer Season in Libertyville, IL

Regular air conditioning maintenance is key to preventing repair issues and ensuring your system runs efficiently. By scheduling routine air conditioning tune ups, you can catch potential problems before they escalate into costly repairs or system failures.

Investing in regular maintenance ultimately saves you time, money, and the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns. Join the Ravinia Plumbing Home Care Club for regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance service and other great benefits.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Conditioning Repair

The most common AC repair is replacing a faulty capacitor. Capacitors help start the compressor, fan motor, and blower motor in your AC unit. Over time, they can wear out or fail due to electrical surges, overheating, or normal wear and tear. A failed capacitor often causes the air conditioner to stop cooling or prevents the unit from turning on altogether. Fortunately, this repair is relatively straightforward and affordable when handled by a professional.

The cost of fixing an AC unit can vary widely depending on the issue, the type of repair needed, and the age and model of your system. For example, minor issues like replacing a capacitor or fixing a thermostat will typically cost less than major repairs such as addressing a compressor failure or refrigerant leaks. The best way to determine the cost of your AC repair is to have a professional inspect your unit, diagnose the problem, and provide a detailed quote. This way, you receive an accurate estimate and avoid unnecessary expenses.

To troubleshoot a problem with your air conditioner, follow these steps:

  1. Check the Thermostat: Make sure it is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
  2. Inspect the Air Filter: A clogged filter can block airflow, so replace it if it’s dirty.
  3. Examine the Circuit Breaker: If the breaker is tripped, reset it.
  4. Look at the Outdoor Unit: Clear away any debris and check that the fan is running.

If the problem continues after completing these steps, it’s best to call Ravinia Plumbing to diagnose the system issue and repair it.

The average life expectancy of an air conditioning unit is typically 10 to 15 years, but the actual lifespan is affected by several factors. Proper maintenance, such as regular filter changes, annual tune ups, and prompt repairs, can significantly extend the lifespan of your AC system. Other factors, like the quality of the installation and frequency of use, also impact the life of your cooling system—units that are undersized or overworked typically don’t last as long. If your system is nearing the end of its life, Ravinia Plumbing can help you decide whether air conditioning repair or replacement is the best option.

The most expensive part to replace on an AC unit is usually the compressor, which is responsible for circulating refrigerant and maintaining the system’s cooling efficiency. If it fails, the repair can be significant, both in terms of parts and labor. In some cases, especially with older units, replacing the compressor might not be cost-effective, and a full system replacement may be a better long-term solution. A professional technician from Ravinia Plumbing can help you weigh your options based on the condition and age of your unit.

Homeowners insurance typically covers AC repairs or replacement only if the damage is caused by a sudden and accidental event, such as a storm, fire, or vandalism. Wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or age-related issues are usually not covered. It’s important to review your specific policy for details on what is and is not covered.

Major HVAC repairs usually involve big-ticket parts like the compressor, evaporator coil, or blower motor. These are the “heart” components of your system, and when they fail, the repair can be costly and may even prompt you to consider replacement instead of fixing.

 

Replacing the compressor is typically the most expensive AC repair. Because it’s essentially the engine of your system, parts and labor can add up quickly. In some cases, the cost of a new compressor may approach the cost of a whole new unit.

 

In most cases, no. The average lifespan of an AC unit is 12–15 years. At 20 years old, even if you fix one issue, other parts are likely to fail soon after. Replacing the system is usually a smarter investment for long-term comfort and energy efficiency.

The $5,000 rule is a guideline for deciding whether to repair or replace your AC. Multiply the unit’s age by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5000, it’s usually best to replace. If it’s less, repair may still make sense.

Contact Ravinia Plumbing in Libertyville, IL for Air Conditioning Repair

While there are some things you can do to ensure that your air conditioning system is working properly on your own, it’s always preferable to have the assistance of a trained and qualified HVAC company when you need air conditioning repair in Libertyville, IL. 

The team at Ravinia Plumbing is always ready to assist you with inspections, preventative AC maintenance, repairs, installations, and replacements. Contact us today to schedule heating and cooling service with a member of our team.