AC Not Cooling in Chicago, IL

Air Conditioner Running But Not Blowing Cold Air? Here’s What to Do.

When your air conditioner is on but your home just won’t cool down, it’s one of the most frustrating situations a Chicago homeowner can face, especially when temperatures climb into the 90s. The system sounds like it’s working, but the air coming out of your vents is warm, weak, or barely noticeable.

At Tabor’s Complete Comfort Mechanical, we diagnose and repair no-cooling AC problems across Chicago every day during the summer season. We offer same-day service and 24/7 emergency response so you’re never stuck in the heat for long.

📞 Call (773) 715-3860 or Book Online for fast AC diagnostics today.

Contact us now & Get a Free Quote Today!

Why Is My AC Not Cooling My House?

An air conditioner that runs without cooling is almost always a symptom of an underlying mechanical or refrigerant problem — not a sign that the system needs to be replaced. In most cases, our technicians can diagnose the root cause in a single visit and restore full cooling the same day.

Here are the most common reasons an AC unit runs but fails to cool:

Refrigerant is the substance your AC uses to absorb heat from indoor air and release it outside. When refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, the system loses its ability to cool effectively. You may notice warm air from vents, ice forming on the refrigerant lines, or the system running constantly without reaching your set temperature. We locate the source of the leak, repair it, and recharge your system with the correct refrigerant, R-410A for modern systems or R-22 for older units still in service. Recharging without fixing the leak is a temporary fix; we address the root cause first.

The dual run capacitor provides the electrical boost your compressor and condenser fan motor need to start and keep running. When it fails — which happens frequently during Chicago summers when systems run for hours at a time — the compressor may not engage at all, or the outdoor unit will hum without the fan spinning. A failed capacitor is one of the most common AC repairs in Chicago and one of the quickest to fix. Most capacitor replacements are completed within the same visit.

If airflow through the system is restricted — due to a dirty air filter, blocked return vents, or a failing blower motor — the evaporator coil inside your air handler can freeze over. When the coil is encased in ice, it can no longer absorb heat from your home’s air, and cooling stops entirely. You may notice ice on the refrigerant lines near the indoor unit, water leaking around the air handler, or a sudden drop in airflow from your vents. We shut the system down to allow the coil to thaw, identify the cause of the restricted airflow, and address it. If the coil itself is damaged, we perform an A-coil replacement.

The outdoor condenser unit releases the heat removed from your home. When condenser coils get caked with dirt, pollen, and debris — which happens every season in Chicago — the system can’t expel heat efficiently. The result is a system that runs constantly but never quite cools the house down, and one that puts enormous strain on the compressor over time. We clean the condenser coils as part of our AC maintenance service and as a standalone repair when it’s the primary cause of a no-cooling complaint.

The condenser fan pulls air across the outdoor coils to help release heat. If the fan motor burns out, the outdoor unit will overheat and the compressor will shut off on thermal protection — leaving you with no cooling. You may notice the outdoor unit running briefly then shutting off, or the unit humming with no fan blade movement. We test the motor, confirm the failure, and replace it with the correct unit for your system. This is typically a same-day repair.

The compressor is the heart of your AC system. When it fails or begins to fail, cooling performance drops significantly or stops altogether. Compressor issues are often preceded by warning signs: hard starting, loud banging or clicking noises from the outdoor unit, or the system tripping the circuit breaker repeatedly. Compressor repairs are more involved and may point toward a broader conversation about system age and replacement. Our technicians will give you an honest assessment of whether repair or replacement makes better financial sense for your situation.

In some cases, the AC system itself is fine — but a faulty thermostat, incorrect wiring, or a failed control board means the system isn’t receiving the right signal to enter cooling mode. This can present as a system that runs the fan but not the compressor, or one that won’t respond to thermostat changes at all. We test the thermostat, control wiring, and system controls to isolate communication failures. If a thermostat replacement is needed, we also install smart thermostats including Nest and Ecobee for better long-term control and efficiency.

Signs Your AC Isn’t Cooling Properly

Not every no-cooling situation is obvious. Watch for these warning signs before the system fails completely:

Warm or lukewarm air from vents even when the AC is set to a low temperature
The AC runs continuously but the house never reaches the set temperature
Certain rooms are significantly warmer than others
Unusual noises from the outdoor unit — clicking, banging, or humming without fan movement
Ice forming on the refrigerant lines or around the indoor air handler
Water pooling around the indoor unit or air handler
A sudden spike in your electricity bill without a change in usage
The system short-cycles — turns on and off frequently in short bursts

If you’re experiencing any of these, don’t wait for a full breakdown. Early diagnosis almost always means a less costly repair.

What Happens During a No-Cooling Diagnostic?

outdoor condenser, indoor air handler, refrigerant lines, and electrical components

to confirm whether the system is properly charged and identify potential leaks

capacitors, contactors, motor windings, and control board

filter condition, blower operation, coil cleanliness, and duct integrity

confirming the system is receiving and responding to signals correctly

we explain exactly what’s wrong and what it will cost before any work begins

our clients

client testimonials

Tabor's Complete Comfort Mechanical, LLC

4.9

Based on 251 reviews

review us on

Antonio Hill

1 month ago

From start to finish Tabors Complete Comfort did an amazing job, very knowledgeable and professional. They took their time to thoroughly evaluate my HVAC system and clearly explained what was needed to make it more efficient and comfortable for me and my family.

If you’re looking for a company that truly knows HVAC and cares about doing the job right, Tabors Complete Comfort is the one to call. Highly recommended—give them a call today! Thanks for everything!!

GP Ramaswamy

1 month ago

We needed two ac units and one furnace for our dual zone townhome. We shopped around for quotes, but we decided to go with Alan because of his competitive quote, knowledge of the products, and quick responses to our text messages.

The project was difficult installation because one of the furnaces is on the top floor of our townhome and the two ac units are on the top roof. Alan's crew had to go up and down the fire escape and ladder to bring in and install new the units.

They did a great job! They did not stop working until all three units were installed. They even came when it was raining. After a couple of weeks, we noticed an unusual sound coming from the new HVAC. I texted Alan and his crew came two days in a row to diagnose and fix problem.

We highly recommend them. Really great work!

Will Schultz

2 months ago

We had a very good experience with Tabor's. Our thermostat was dead; we called Tabor's at 11 on Saturday, and Alan was out there to take a look by 2. It took him less than half an hour to get everything figured out and to install a new thermostat. At a reasonable price, too!

Heather Malpass

2 months ago

A/C annual maintenance-Exceptional service and attention to detail and his rates are a bargin for what what you get. I highly recommend Tabors Comfort Mechanical.

Anthony Walker Jr

3 months ago

Alan is our go-to guy for all of our heating and cooling needs. He’s always been honest, upfront, and fair with his pricing, which is hard to find these days. He gets the job done right the first time and stands behind his work. You can tell he takes pride in what he does. If you’re looking for someone reliable who knows his stuff, I highly recommend Alan.

Tasha

3 months ago

Excellent customer service! They get the job done right and fast. I fully trust them. They can come to you fast to get you back on track. 10/10 would recommend

Venis Frazier

4 months ago

Mr.Tabor was very professional
And showed up within the timeframe specified. He identified the issue immediately. Thank you so much!

Eli Barrows

4 months ago

Woke up to a cold house and a furnace with no error codes! TCC was super quick, came out in less than an hour and had everything working before 9am. Courteous, professional, and fast.

Triana Mayers

4 months ago

I appreciate Mr, Tabor so much! He was very professional and definitely got the job done! 100% recommend!!!

4 months ago

Very knowledgeable and honest. Recommend them highly!

Ricardo Izguerra

4 months ago

Tabor helped us with a heater problem, same day service.! Making an emergency repair to help tenants get heat on one of chicago's coldest days he replaced and ordered parts to complete the job. Honest , affordable and professional service that is hard to find these days. I found my new hvac guy. Thank you Tabor.

Cordaro and Desiree Binion

5 months ago

Tabors Complete Comfort did an outstanding job at my home! From start to finish, they were extremely knowledgeable and professional. They took the time to thoroughly evaluate my HVAC system and clearly explained what was needed to make it more efficient and comfortable for me and my family.

They corrected and added proper supply ducts from the furnace and fixed the return airflow issues, ensuring that every area of my home receives consistent heat during the winter months and balanced central air during the summer. The difference in comfort was noticeable right away.

If you’re looking for a company that truly knows HVAC and cares about doing the job right, Tabors Complete Comfort is the one to call. Highly recommended—give them a call today! Thanks for everything!!

Geoffrey&Kenya

6 months ago

I used Tabor's Complete Comfort Mechanical over the past couple years and he was always prompt, professional and went above and beyond. My family and I were without heat on cold Sunday and he came out to troubleshoot the issue and continued to come out until the issue was fully resolved.

Mary Gonzalez

6 months ago

Ramone Hankle

6 months ago

Tabor’s Complete Comfort executed the job quickly and efficiently proving a heatless unit with heat in a few days.

Isiah Williams

6 months ago

Ida Byrd

6 months ago

I just want to thank Alan and his company, he came and did the job, he is good at his craft and I am so thankful I have heat now. Thank you Alan and KUDOS to you and your company. God Bless. Ida Byrd

Nicole Keenon

7 months ago

Always professional, always on time. Thorough, trustworthy - I trust Tabor's Complete Comfort with all my HVAC needs - and anyone who's looking? I confidently refer Tabor's Complete.

Response from the owner 7 months ago

We thank you fir all the years you've entrusted our company with the comfort and care for your home!

Sha'Ron Hill

7 months ago

Always prompt, and professional. I trust Tabor completely. He has been my furnace/AC guy for many years and I would recommend his services to everyone!

Response from the owner 7 months ago

I remember when we first met! You took advantage of our Groupon special and i love the fact, we've been locked in ever since!

Marilyn Joseph

7 months ago

Technician was very polite and respectful and knowledgeable . My problem was resolved the in a matter of hours. I would definitely recommend this company.

Response from the owner 7 months ago

Thank you for being apart of our community and we take pride in serving you correctly

Tamiko N.

7 months ago

Alan has been our mechanical technician for heating and air for years! He is reliable, honest, and always efficient in diagnosing the issue with our appliance and fixing it quickly. Even the routine check ins have been right on time too! Thank you for all you do!

Response from the owner 7 months ago

We definitely appreciate you being apart of our community. We'll definitely continue to live up to your expectations as long as we serve you!

T Brown

7 months ago

My recent experience in having Tabor Comlplete Mechanical was excellent.

Response from the owner 2 years ago

We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience with us! Our team takes pride in providing top-notch service and we're glad to know that we exceeded your expectations. Thank you for your review!

Keyana Payne

7 months ago

Robin Evans

7 months ago

I’m very happy with the service received from Tabor. Professional, honest & helped to make sure , after evaluating the problem, that we understood what was causing the problem & how to fix it! Pricing was great as well!!! No where near the thousands of $$$ quoted by others advertising on tv for our business & making up problems that don’t exist!! Thank you so much for your honestly & professionalism I will definitely refer your business to others.

Anson Brown

7 months ago

Alan at TCC Mechanical, LLC is fantastic! I had to reschedule my furnace tune-up a couple of times due to family emergencies, and he was super understanding and flexible. When he came out, he was professional, friendly, and did a thorough job. I highly recommend him for any HVAC service!

annette ewing

7 months ago

Allen is a very knowledgeable and reliable technician. He is able to assess the situation and completes the work. He does not over charge and cleans up when he is finished. I recommend him to anyone that is in need of air conditioning or furnace work of any kind. He is truly a blessing.

Carol E Bell

7 months ago

Great pricing, very good customer service, amd prompt responsiveness. Have used them across several years for two furnace units.

Tom Sawyer

7 months ago

Alan is great. When my AC went out, he undertook thorough troubleshooting and fixed the problem on a clear timeline. He’s prompt with service calls and clear in communication. Also an all around nice guy. Couldn’t be happier that I called him up.

working with us

Why choose us

Customer-First Approach

We prioritize your comfort, satisfaction, and peace of mind.

Experienced Technicians

Over 21+ years of trusted HVAC repair and installation.

Fast & Reliable Response

Always on time with same-day and emergency service.

Licensed & Insured Experts

Certified, bonded, and fully insured for your safety.

Honest & Upfront Pricing

Transparent estimates with no hidden costs or surprises.

Schedule Air Conditioning Repair in Chicago Today

If your air conditioner is running but not cooling, don’t let it run another day without a diagnosis — continuous operation without proper cooling accelerates wear on the compressor and other components. Call (773) 715-3860 or request a service online.

Service Areas

Downtown Chicago
South Loop
China town
Near South Side
Orland Park
Tinley Park

Uptown
West Loop
Northbrook
Old Town
Hyde Park
Pilsen

Lake View
Bronzeville
Morgan Park
River North
South Shore
Oak Lawn

Wicker Park
Lincoln Park
Beverly
Humboldt Park
Gold Coast

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common causes are low refrigerant, a failed capacitor, a frozen evaporator coil, or a faulty compressor. A professional diagnostic is the fastest way to identify which is causing the problem in your specific system.

Some basic checks — replacing a dirty air filter, clearing debris from around the outdoor unit, or resetting the circuit breaker — are safe to do yourself. However, anything involving refrigerant, electrical components, or internal parts requires a licensed HVAC technician. Attempting refrigerant work without certification is illegal in Illinois.

Cost depends entirely on the cause. A capacitor replacement is a relatively straightforward repair. Low refrigerant requires locating and repairing the leak before recharging. Compressor failure is a more significant repair. Tabor’s provides a full diagnostic and upfront quote before any work begins.

We offer same-day service during summer months and 24/7 emergency response for urgent situations. Call (773) 715-3860 for availability.

It depends on the age of the system, the cost of the repair, and the efficiency of the current unit. Our technicians will give you an honest assessment — if replacement makes more financial sense than repair, we’ll tell you. We never push unnecessary work.

AC Not Cooling in Chicago, IL