Highland Park, IL Air Conditioning Repair

AC Repair Solutions You Can Trust

When the summer heat rolls across Lake County, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to quit on you. A broken-down AC isn’t cool, especially on a sticky, humid summer day in Highland Park, IL. Fortunately, local homeowners can count on the trusted experts at Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for quick and reliable AC repair services.

Since 1928, our family-owned and operated business has proudly served the Highland Park area and other northwest Chicago communities with heating and cooling services, drains and sewer services, plumbing, and electrical services.

Don’t wait for the heat to become unbearable. If your cooling system is acting up, contact Ravinia Plumbing to schedule a service appointment today for AC repair in Highland Park, IL. We respond quickly, diagnose the problem with care, and provide repairs that last—so you can get back to enjoying your North Shore home, whether that’s relaxing after a walk through Danny Cunniff Park or cooling off after a day at Rosewood Beach.

Around-the-Clock Comfort

A broken air conditioning system on a hot summer night in Highland Park can be unbearable—but you don’t have to wait to get help! Our team is on call 24/7, weekends and holidays included, ready to perform emergency AC repairs and restore cool air when you need it most.

Reliable Service You Can Depend On

When your comfort is on the line, you need a team you can count on. Ravinia Plumbing has been serving Lake County and the North Shore for decades, earning a reputation built on honesty, skill, and care. From families near the Mary W. Adams House to neighbors by Park Avenue Beach, local homeowners know we deliver service that puts their needs and satisfaction first.

Here’s why so many Highland Park residents choose us for AC repair:

Decades of Local Experience: Deep roots in Highland Park and surrounding Lake County mean we understand the unique cooling needs of North Shore homes.
Highly Trained Technicians: Our NATE-certified team stays up to date with the latest AC repair techniques and technology.
Transparent Communication: Count on us for upfront pricing, honest recommendations, and no hidden surprises.
Fast, Reliable Service: We respond quickly to restore comfort when you need it most, whether it’s a weekday evening or a summer weekend.
Commitment to Quality: Every repair is done right the first time, for lasting performance you can rely on to keep your home cool and your family comfortable.
Trusted by Your Neighbors: From families attending concerts at Ravinia Festival to those cheering on the Highland Park Giants, we’ve built relationships across the community.
Home Care Club Membership: Maintenance program members enjoy priority scheduling, regular maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns, and special discounts.

No matter the brand of your air conditioner or the issue affecting it, Ravinia Plumbing is dedicated to solving it quickly and getting your home back on track.

Do You Need Air Conditioning Repair in Highland Park, IL?

Regular air conditioning maintenance can extend the lifespan of your AC. But even with proper care, problems can occur, especially with heavy use.

There are various signs that could indicate that you need air conditioning repair services. If you’re seeing any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional HVAC company for air conditioner service:

It Won’t Turn On

If your air conditioning system won’t turn on, it could be a problem in the main power source, a faulty breaker, the thermostat, or another mechanical fault. It’s best to call one of our expert HVAC repair technicians to take a look. We will inspect your system and offer honest advice about the most cost-effective and efficient solutions.

It Shuts Off Too Early

If your air conditioner keeps shutting off before it cools your Highland Park home to the preset temperature, it is “short cycling.” There are several possible causes for HVAC system short cycling, including a faulty thermostat, an overheating blower fan, or an interrupted power source. Continuing to run your AC in this state can lead to serious damage. Give us a call so we can determine the problem and recommend the best fix to restore peak performance.

You Have High Cooling Bills

If your energy bills keep creeping up for no obvious reason, your air conditioner might be operating inefficiently. Don’t make the mistake of procrastinating about AC repairs in Highland Park, IL. It’s better to address problems preemptively because waiting increases the odds of more expensive repairs or even an AC replacement. You need your air conditioner to work economically and reliably, which will save you money in the long run.

You Notice Subpar Airflow From the Vents

If you notice that not very much air is coming out of your vents, contact us for an inspection. It could be something simple, like a dirty filter. However, it could also be a malfunctioning blower fan, an obstruction in the ducting, or various other issues with your equipment. One of our NATE-certified technicians can get your AC back on track to cool your Highland Park home.

Our AC Repair Process Is Simple, Clear, and Stress-Free

When your air conditioner stops working, you shouldn’t have to guess what comes next. Ravinia Plumbing keeps Highland Park homeowners informed and comfortable throughout the AC repair process. Here’s how it works:

Schedule Your Service Call: Contact us any time—day or night—and our friendly team will set up a visit that works for your schedule.
Thorough System Inspection: Our skilled technicians arrive promptly, listen to your concerns, and carefully inspect your AC to identify the root cause of the problem.
Clear, Honest Recommendations: Once we know what’s wrong, we explain your options in plain language, provide an upfront estimate, and answer your questions before any work begins.
Expert AC Repairs Done Right: Our team is equipped with the latest tools and techniques. We complete the repair with precision so your system runs efficiently and reliably again.
System Check: Before we leave, we test your AC to make sure everything is working perfectly and offer tips to help prevent future issues.

By the end of the visit, you’ll know your air conditioner has been repaired the right way—and you’ll have complete confidence that your home will stay cool and comfortable. With clear communication, expert workmanship, and a customer-first approach, Ravinia Plumbing makes AC repair a stress-free experience from start to finish.

What Causes AC Units to Break Down?

Knowing the reasons an AC commonly breaks down can help you avoid future repairs and extend the life of your cooling system.

Common Reasons for AC Repairs

At Ravinia Plumbing, we’ve fixed everything from minor issues to major malfunctions. Here are the most common reasons the AC may be acting up in your Highland Park home:

Dirty or Clogged Air Filter

One of the most frequent culprits behind AC repairs is a dirty or clogged air filter. When filters aren’t cleaned or changed regularly, dust and debris can build up. This restricts airflow and makes it harder for the system to keep up.

Duct Issues

Problems with the ducts or vents can also limit airflow and lead to repairs. Some common issues include air duct leaks, clogged ducts, and blocked supply registers.

Refrigerant Leaks

If your system is low on refrigerant, it may struggle to cool your Highland Park home efficiently. Refrigerant leaks lead to a drop in pressure, which can freeze the evaporator coil and lead to decreased performance.

Reduced Airflow

Over time, the evaporator coil can get dirty, whether due to dirty filters or clogged ductwork. When debris builds up, it reduces airflow and causes system inefficiency or even failure.

Thermostat Malfunctions

The thermostat is responsible for reading the temperature and communicating with your AC system. If it malfunctions, it can cause short cycling or prevent the system from turning on at all.

Benefits of AC Repairs and Services in Highland Park, IL

There are many benefits associated with maintaining your AC and having it repaired as needed to keep it running optimally. These include maintaining indoor comfort, improving air quality, and, of course, saving money.

Improve Air Quality

Your air conditioner does more than just blow cool air out. It also filters the air, removing contaminants that can make you sick. Furthermore, a properly functioning air conditioner keeps humidity levels in check, between 30% and 50% as recommended. This is particularly notable because high humidity encourages the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, and mildew. Our air conditioning services can help you maintain healthy indoor air quality, which is especially important for the elderly and people with allergies or respiratory illness.

Maximize Your AC’s Lifespan

All mechanical devices require periodic maintenance and services to stay in optimal working order. Just like your car requires tune ups, oil changes, and other automotive mechanical services, your AC unit requires similar services to ensure its proper operation. Our expert HVAC technicians are certified and have a deep knowledge of all facets of AC maintenance and repair. We will keep your system running smoothly and reliably to maximize its lifespan, putting more time between you and a new air conditioning installation.

Save Money

Working with Ravinia Plumbing saves you money overall by ensuring that your AC is performing optimally. A regularly maintained AC operates efficiently and reliably, with less chance of malfunction. It can even extend the time before you need new air conditioning installation, adding up to considerable savings over time.

Repair or Replace: What’s Right for Your Air Conditioner?

When your AC breaks down, the big question is whether it makes more sense to repair it or invest in a replacement. At Ravinia Plumbing, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all answers—we take the time to evaluate your system, explain your options, and help you make the choice that’s best for your home and budget.

Here are some key factors we consider together:

Age of Your System: Most air conditioners last 10–15 years. If yours is older and experiencing frequent problems, replacement may be the smarter long-term choice.
Cost of Repairs: A good rule of thumb is if the repair cost is close to 50% of the price of a new unit, replacement is usually the better investment.
Energy Efficiency: Newer systems on the market are significantly more efficient. Upgrading could lower your monthly cooling bills and keep your home comfortable with less strain on the system.
Frequency of Breakdowns: If you’re scheduling repairs every summer, it may be time to stop patching the old system and enjoy the reliability of a new one.
Comfort & Air Quality: If your AC struggles to keep the whole house cool or humidity under control, a replacement may give you the consistent comfort you’ve been missing.

Our goal is simple: to give you clear, honest guidance so you can feel confident in your decision. Whether a quick repair solves the problem or an HVAC system replacement is the smarter long-term solution, we’ll be there with the expertise and support you need to be at peace with your decision. If you make the choice to install new AC equipment, we offer financing options with approved credit to make upgrading your home’s comfort more budget-friendly and stress-free.

Additional HVAC Services in Highland Park, IL

We offer more than AC repairs. Highland Park customers can also trust us to handle:

Heating services, including furnace repair, installation, and maintenance
Electrical installation and repair
Generator services
Sewer services and drain cleaning
Plumbing fixtures
Pipe replacement and repair
Home Care Club maintenance memberships

Contact Ravinia Plumbing for AC Repair Services in Highland Park, IL

If your AC won’t start or struggles to cool your home efficiently, our knowledgeable AC professionals can help. We treat our customers as friends, and we’re committed to providing cost-effective solutions and superior air conditioning repair services in Highland Park, IL.

Whether your AC breaks down in the heat of summer or your furnace stops working during the frigid winters, we’re here when you need us all year long. For all your HVAC service needs, contact Ravinia Plumbing to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Highland Park, IL

What is the most common AC repair?

The most common 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.

How much does it cost to fix an AC?

The cost of fixing an AC unit can range 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.

How do you troubleshoot an AC problem?

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

Check the Thermostat: Make sure it is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
Inspect the Air Filter: A clogged filter can block airflow, so replace it if it’s dirty.
Examine the Circuit Breaker: If the breaker is tripped, reset it.
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 contact Ravinia Plumbing to diagnose the system issue and fix it.

What is the average life expectancy of an AC unit?

The average life expectancy of an air conditioning unit is typically 10 to 15 years, but the actual lifespan is affected by several factors. These include the quality of the installation, frequency of use, and maintenance history. If your system is nearing the end of its life, our experts can help you decide whether AC repair or replacement is the best option.

What is the most expensive part to replace on an AC unit?

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.

Does homeowners insurance cover AC?

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.