AC Replacement Services in Des Plaines, Mundelein, Glenview, Arlington Heights & Buffalo Grove

Upgrade to Reliable, Efficient Cooling with Legendary Service

If your air conditioner is limping through another brutal Illinois summer, it’s time to consider AC replacement from Legendary Service, the trusted choice for homeowners in Des Plaines, Mundelein, Glenview, Arlington Heights, and Buffalo Grove. That 15-year-old system consuming more energy each year while delivering less comfort isn’t just costing you money—it’s robbing you of the reliable, efficient cooling modern technology provides. With today’s high-efficiency options and generous rebates, AC replacement often pays for itself faster than you’d imagine.

Why AC Replacement Beats Endless Repairs

The tipping point between repair and replacement isn’t always obvious, but for many homeowners in Glenview and Arlington Heights, the signs are mounting. When repair bills start approaching $1,500, when your energy bills have crept up 50% over the past five years, or when you’re calling for service multiple times each season, AC replacement becomes the smart financial decision. The EPA’s general guideline suggests considering replacement when repair costs exceed 50% of a new system’s price, but in reality, even smaller repairs on older systems often prove to be throwing good money after bad.

Consider what’s changed since your current system was installed. If your Des Plaines home has an air conditioner from 2010 or earlier, you’re missing out on dramatic efficiency improvements. Today’s base-model 14 SEER systems are 40% more efficient than the 10 SEER units common just 15 years ago. When you factor in that older systems lose efficiency each year—typically 5% annually without proper maintenance—your 10-year-old system might be operating at just 60% of its original capacity.

The R-22 refrigerant phase-out adds another compelling reason for AC replacement in Mundelein and Buffalo Grove homes. With R-22 now costing over $150 per pound and getting scarcer each year, a single refrigerant leak repair can cost more than $1,000. Meanwhile, new systems use R-410A or newer refrigerants that are readily available and environmentally friendly. For homes still running R-22 systems, AC replacement isn’t just advisable—it’s inevitable.

Our Seamless AC Replacement Process

Legendary Service has perfected our AC replacement process through thousands of installations across the northwest suburbs. We begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your existing system and home comfort needs. This isn’t just about swapping old for new—it’s about optimizing your entire cooling system for maximum efficiency and comfort.

First, we assess whether your current ductwork can support a new high-efficiency system. In many Arlington Heights homes built before 2000, ductwork was sized for less efficient systems that moved more air. Modern high-efficiency systems require proper duct sizing and sealing to achieve their rated efficiency. We’ll identify any necessary modifications upfront, preventing the disappointment of a new system that can’t reach its potential due to undersized ducts.

We also evaluate your electrical system, as AC replacement sometimes requires panel upgrades in older Des Plaines homes. Modern systems often need different electrical configurations than older units, and bringing everything up to current code during replacement ensures safety and reliability for decades to come.

When helping you select your new system, we consider factors beyond just cooling capacity. Humidity control is crucial in Glenview’s lake-effect climate, so we might recommend variable-speed systems that excel at moisture removal. For Buffalo Grove homes with allergy sufferers, we’ll discuss enhanced filtration options. Multi-story Mundelein homes might benefit from zoning systems that eliminate hot spots and cold rooms.

On replacement day, our team works efficiently to minimize disruption. We can often provide portable cooling units if your AC replacement must occur during hot weather. Old equipment is removed carefully and recycled responsibly—we handle all EPA-required refrigerant recovery and ensure your old system doesn’t end up in a landfill. The new installation includes sealing and insulating line sets, upgrading thermostats to programmable or smart models, and ensuring all connections exceed manufacturer specifications.

Benefits of Choosing Legendary Service for AC Replacement

What distinguishes our AC replacement service goes beyond technical installation. We’re your advocates throughout the process, from securing permits to maximizing available rebates. ComEd currently offers rebates up to $1,200 for qualifying high-efficiency systems, and federal tax credits can provide additional savings. We handle the paperwork, ensuring you receive every dollar available.

Our replacement specialists are NATE-certified and receive ongoing training on the latest technology. This expertise matters when installing advanced features like variable-speed compressors, communicating controls, and hybrid systems. Proper setup of these features can mean the difference between 20% and 40% energy savings.

We also provide unique value through our comprehensive warranty package. Beyond manufacturer warranties, we offer a lifetime workmanship guarantee on our AC replacement installations. If anything related to our installation work fails—ever—we repair it free. This protection, combined with our first-year, no-questions-asked satisfaction guarantee, eliminates the risk from your AC replacement decision.

Unlike companies that push oversized systems for higher profits, we use detailed Manual J calculations to ensure proper sizing. Oversized systems plague homes throughout Des Plaines, causing humidity problems, frequent cycling, and premature wear. Our right-sizing approach means better comfort, lower bills, and longer system life.

Serving Des Plaines, Mundelein, Glenview, Arlington Heights & Buffalo Grove with Local Expertise

Our deep roots in these communities inform every AC replacement we perform. We understand that Glenview’s mature trees require careful positioning of outdoor units to avoid debris issues. We know Arlington Heights’ strict noise ordinances might necessitate sound-dampening accessories. Des Plaines’ flooding history means we always elevate equipment properly.

Local inventory at our nearby warehouse means popular systems are always in stock. When your AC fails during a July heat wave, we can often complete emergency AC replacement within 24 hours—not the weeks other contractors quote while waiting for equipment delivery. This rapid response capability has made us the go-to choice for emergency replacement throughout Buffalo Grove and Mundelein.

We also understand local utility programs and building codes intimately. Each village has specific requirements for AC replacement permits and inspections. Our established relationships with local inspectors ensure smooth approvals, preventing delays that leave you without cooling.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I know if I need AC replacement instead of repair? Consider AC replacement when your system is over 10 years old and facing major repairs, when energy bills have increased significantly, or when you’re experiencing frequent breakdowns. The $5,000 rule helps: multiply repair cost by system age—if it exceeds $5,000, replacement makes sense.
• What’s the average cost of AC replacement in Illinois? AC replacement in the Des Plaines area typically ranges from $4,500-$12,000 depending on system size, efficiency, and installation complexity. However, with rebates and energy savings, the net cost is often much lower than expected.
• Can I upgrade to a different type of cooling system? Absolutely! AC replacement is the perfect time to consider upgrades like heat pumps for year-round efficiency, ductless systems for additions, or zoning systems for multi-story homes. We’ll explain all options during your consultation.
• How much will I save with a new high-efficiency AC? Replacing a 10 SEER system with an 18 SEER model typically cuts cooling costs by 45-50%. For Glenview homes spending $1,000 annually on cooling, that’s $450-500 in yearly savings, plus improved comfort and reliability.
• Is financing available for AC replacement? Yes, we offer multiple financing options including 0% interest programs. Monthly payments are often lower than the energy savings from your new efficient system, making AC replacement cash-flow positive from day one.

Schedule Your AC Replacement Consultation Today

Stop pouring money into that aging air conditioner that barely keeps your home comfortable. AC replacement from Legendary Service transforms your home’s cooling with efficient, reliable technology that pays for itself through energy savings. Serving Des Plaines, Mundelein, Glenview, Arlington Heights, and Buffalo Grove with expert installation, competitive pricing, and unmatched warranties, we’re ready to upgrade your comfort. Call now for your free AC replacement estimate and join thousands of satisfied neighbors who’ve discovered the Legendary Service difference.

AC Replacement: Cost vs. Savings Overview

*Savings based on average Illinois cooling costs and efficiency gains from AC replacement.