Our Blog

Category: Air Conditioning

September 5, 2019 Air Conditioning

Why Does My A/C Have Ice on It in the Summer?

There’s nothing that’ll get you more steamed than coming home to a hot house in the summer. Imagine your surprise when you...

July 1, 2019 Air Conditioning

My A/C Is Running but Not Blowing Cold Air

Summer is in full swing and, on really hot days, all you want to do when you get home from a long...

June 13, 2019 Air Conditioning

5 Air Conditioning Noises and Their Causes

Summertime—it’s sunshine, warm breezes, barbecues and the gentle hum of air conditioners keeping houses cool throughout the neighborhood. In a split second,...

July 3, 2018 Air Conditioning

Top 4 Reasons Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Working

Oh, fantastic. You’re sweltering on a hot day and no matter how low you set the thermostat, your air conditioning system just...

August 29, 2017 Air Conditioning

Warm Days, Cool Nights: Seasonal AC Tips for Energy Efficiency

This is the time of year when those of us in the Chicago area can still experience some pretty warm daytime temperatures as our nighttime temperatures begin to get downright cool. Humidity begins to drop and the air starts to feel fresher. It can be tempting to consider turning seasonal AC on and off or to only use it as needed. We may even view it as a way to save energy. That may not exactly be the result. For...

August 3, 2017 Air Conditioning

6 Tips for End of Summer AC Maintenance

Most people in Chicago consider air conditioning maintenance a part of their spring or summer routine. The fact is, the spring and early fall are both good times to conduct maintenance on your AC. End of summer AC maintenance, though, can ensure your system is ready to go for any “Indian Summer” days we may yet experience and is good to go in the spring. If there is a problem or potential problem, there is plenty of time to get...

August 3, 2017 Air Conditioning

Is Switching to an Energy Star Air Conditioner Worth It?

You’ve likely heard about Energy Star air conditioners and how they’re more energy efficient. But are they really worth it—in other words,...

August 2, 2017 Air Conditioning

Repair or Replace? Average Life of an Air Conditioning Unit

Some of the most frequently asked questions we get at Althoff Industries are related to the repair, replacement, and lifespan of HVAC equipment. This time of year in Chicago, questions about the average life of an air conditioner unit and whether the repair or replacement of a central air conditioner is better are common. It is not an easy answer because personal situations and equipment quality vary so widely but we can add some perspective. What Is the Average Life...

July 27, 2017 Air Conditioning

7 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair

It isn’t always obvious that your air conditioner needs repair. The warning signs of an A/C problem are usually there long before the unit breaks down. Your utility bills are going up.You have to set the thermostat lower to stay cool.Your air conditioner runs too long or is short cycling.Your air conditioner has started making strange noises.Certain rooms aren’t cooling properly.The A/C unit is on but not blowing cool air.The A/C doesn’t come on at all. We’ll get into these...