Quick Answers
Yes, we do! Our team serves Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including Skokie, Evanston, Glenview, Niles, and Morton Grove. We also cover communities around Lake Zurich. These areas include Barrington, Deer Park, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Wauconda, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, and more.
Whether it’s your home or your business, we’re ready to help. We assist with all your HVAC and refrigeration needs across the northwest suburbs.
Pretty much all of them. We work with air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, rooftop units, and mini-splits. In addition, we also handle commercial refrigeration systems. This includes walk-in coolers, freezers, and ice machines.
If it heats, cools, or keeps things cold — chances are we can fix it.
We work with nearly all major HVAC and refrigeration brands. Our technicians are trained and certified to repair, maintain, and install systems. We service brands from trusted names such as Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Goodman, Rheem, York, Daikin, Bryant, Amana, Payne, American Standard, Ruud, and Mitsubishi Electric.
We also service a wide range of commercial refrigeration equipment, including True, Hoshizaki, Manitowoc, Turbo Air, Beverage-Air, and Traulsen.
No matter the brand or model, if it heats, cools, or keeps things cold — we can handle it.
Absolutely. We know HVAC problems never happen at a convenient time. That’s why we provide 24/7 emergency repair throughout the Chicago area. If your system quits on you, just give us a call. We’ll take care of it.
Twice a year is best — once before summer and once before winter. Regular maintenance keeps your system efficient. It helps you avoid breakdowns and extends its life.
If your furnace stops working, don’t worry — many issues can be solved with a few quick checks before calling a professional.
🔍 Step 1: Check Your Thermostat
First, make sure your thermostat is set to “Heat” and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature.
Sometimes, a small setting error is all it takes to stop the system from running.
⚡ Step 2: Inspect the Power and Circuit Breaker
Next, check that your furnace power switch is turned on and your circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
If it has, reset it once. If the breaker trips again, it’s best to call a qualified HVAC technician.
🌬️ Step 3: Look at the Air Filter
Then, inspect your air filter. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to overheat or shut off completely.
Replacing it is an easy and inexpensive fix that often restores normal function.
🔥 Step 4: Examine the Pilot Light or Ignition
Finally, check your pilot light or electronic ignition system.
If the pilot light is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it carefully.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing this, it’s safer to contact a professional.
🧰 When to Call for Help
If none of these steps solve the issue, it’s time to contact an expert.
At Four Elements Service, we provide same-day furnace repair in Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the northwest Chicago suburbs.
Our certified HVAC technicians will diagnose the problem quickly and get your heat running again safely and efficiently.
🧭 Step 1: Check the Thermostat Settings
First, make sure your thermostat is set to “Cool” and that the temperature is lower than the room temperature.
Sometimes, incorrect settings or dead batteries are all it takes to stop the system from running.
⚙️ Step 2: Inspect the Air Filter
Next, check your air filter. A clogged filter can block airflow and make your AC work harder or blow warm air.
Replace or clean it if it looks dirty — this is one of the easiest fixes.
🧊 Step 3: Examine the Outdoor Unit
Then, take a quick look at your outdoor condenser unit.
Make sure it’s free from dirt, debris, or leaves blocking the fan. Also, check that the power switch near the unit is turned on.
💧 Step 4: Check for Ice or Leaks
If you notice ice buildup on the refrigerant lines or any visible water leaks, turn off the system and call a professional.
Running the AC in that condition can cause further damage.
🧰 When to Call a Professional
Finally, if none of these steps fix the problem, it’s time to call for help.
At Four Elements Service, we offer same-day air conditioner repair in Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the northwest Chicago suburbs.
Our certified HVAC technicians will quickly diagnose the issue and get your cooling system running efficiently again.
If your ice machine stops making ice, don’t panic — a few quick checks can often get it running again before you need a service call.
🧭 Step 1: Check the Power and Switch
First, make sure your ice machine is plugged in and that the power switch is turned on.
If it still doesn’t start, check the breaker panel for a tripped circuit and reset it once.
Power issues are one of the most common — and easiest — fixes.
💧 Step 2: Inspect the Water Supply
Next, ensure the water supply line is connected and the valve is open.
Without a steady water flow, your machine can’t produce ice.
If you have filters, check that they’re not clogged or overdue for replacement.
❄️ Step 3: Check the Temperature and Ventilation
Then, look around the unit.
The room should be cool, and the air vents should be clear of dust or boxes blocking airflow.
If the machine overheats, it will stop making ice until it cools down again.
🧽 Step 4: Clean the Ice Machine
Over time, scale and mineral buildup can block sensors or water lines.
If it’s been a while since the last cleaning, unplug the unit and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions — or schedule a professional cleaning service.
🧰 When to Call a Technician
Finally, if you’ve checked power, water, and airflow but your machine still isn’t producing ice, it’s time to call a pro.
At Four Elements Service, we specialize in commercial ice machine repair and maintenance for restaurants, bars, offices, and grocery stores.
We provide same-day refrigeration service in Lake Zurich, Barrington, Buffalo Grove and the northwest Chicago suburbs, so you can get back to business fast.
If your ice machine is producing small, soft, or cloudy ice cubes, it usually means there’s a problem with water flow, temperature, or maintenance. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to fix with the right care.
💧 Step 1: Check the Water Supply
First, make sure your water line is open and delivering enough flow.
Low water pressure or a partially closed valve can cause smaller ice cubes.
If your water filter is old or clogged, replacing it often restores normal ice size and clarity.
🧊 Step 2: Look for Scale or Mineral Buildup
Next, check for scale or mineral deposits inside the ice machine.
Hard water can leave residue that blocks water jets or sensors.
A professional ice machine cleaning and descaling will remove buildup and help your machine produce clear, full-size cubes again.
🌡️ Step 3: Inspect Temperature and Airflow
Then, make sure your condenser coils are clean and the airflow around the unit is clear.
If your system overheats or can’t cool properly, it may freeze water too fast — leading to cloudy or misshapen cubes.
🧰 Step 4: Schedule Regular Maintenance
Finally, keep up with regular maintenance and professional cleanings.
At Four Elements Service, we provide ice machine repair, cleaning, and refrigeration maintenance throughout
Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, North Barrington, Lake Barrington, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Wauconda, Cary, Palatine, Arlington Heights, and nearby northwest Chicago suburbs.
Our certified refrigeration technicians can restore your system’s performance quickly and safely.
Keeping your commercial refrigerator in good shape doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few regular checks and cleaning habits, you can extend the life of your equipment and prevent expensive repairs.
🧽 Step 1: Keep It Clean Inside and Out
First, wipe down interior and exterior surfaces regularly using warm water and mild soap.
Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage seals or stainless steel.
A clean unit not only looks better but also runs more efficiently.
🌬️ Step 2: Clean the Condenser Coils
Next, inspect and clean your condenser coils every month.
Dust, grease, and debris can build up and cause the compressor to overheat.
Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove buildup gently — this step alone can improve cooling performance and lower energy use.
🧊 Step 3: Check Door Gaskets and Seals
Then, make sure the door gaskets (rubber seals) are clean and tight.
If you notice cracks, tears, or gaps, replace them.
Good seals prevent cold air from escaping and keep your refrigerator running efficiently.
🌡️ Step 4: Monitor Temperature Regularly
Keep a thermometer inside your fridge and check it daily.
Commercial units should stay between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C–3.3°C).
If the temperature starts fluctuating, it may be time for professional service.
💧 Step 5: Check Drain Lines and Defrost as Needed
Over time, drain lines can clog with debris or ice.
Inspect them monthly and flush them with warm water if necessary.
If frost builds up, manually defrost the unit to prevent airflow restrictions.
🧰 Step 6: Schedule Professional Maintenance
Finally, even with regular care, every system needs expert attention once or twice a year.
At Four Elements Service, we offer commercial refrigeration maintenance and repair in
Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, Mundelein, Wauconda, Cary, and nearby northwest Chicago suburbs.
We’ll check refrigerant levels, electrical components, and system performance to keep your equipment running at its best.
If your walk-in freezer is running warmer than 0°F, it’s a sign something’s not right — but you might be able to fix it before calling for service. Here’s what to check.
🌡️ Step 1: Confirm the Actual Temperature
First, use a reliable thermometer to confirm the reading.
Sometimes built-in sensors can be off by a few degrees.
If the temperature is consistently above 0°F, move to the next steps quickly to protect your food.
🚪 Step 2: Check the Door Seals and Closures
Next, inspect the door gaskets and hinges.
If the door isn’t closing tightly, warm air can leak in and cause the temperature to rise.
Clean any ice buildup around the seals and make sure nothing is blocking the door.
🌬️ Step 3: Make Sure the Evaporator and Condenser Coils Are Clean
Then, check that air can circulate freely.
Dirty coils or blocked airflow can reduce cooling efficiency.
Gently clean dust and debris from the condenser and make sure fans are running properly.
⚙️ Step 4: Avoid Overloading or Blocking Air Vents
Too many boxes stacked near vents or walls can stop cold air from moving evenly.
Try to rearrange items so there’s at least a few inches of space around fans and coils.
💡 Step 5: Check the Thermostat and Defrost Cycle
If the thermostat setting was accidentally changed, reset it to the recommended range (-10°F to 0°F).
Also, make sure the defrost cycle isn’t stuck — a unit that stays in defrost mode too long will warm up.
🧰 Step 6: Call a Professional if It Stays Warm
If you’ve checked these basics and your freezer is still above 0°F, it’s time to call for service.
At Four Elements Service, we provide walk-in freezer repair and commercial refrigeration maintenance throughout
Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Wauconda, Cary, and the northwest Chicago suburbs.
Our refrigeration specialists will quickly find the cause — from low refrigerant to fan or compressor issues — and restore proper temperature before your products are at risk.
The right temperature for a wine cooler depends on the type of wine you’re storing. Keeping it at the proper setting helps preserve flavor, aroma, and overall quality.
🍷 Step 1: Ideal Temperatures by Wine Type
Red wines: Best stored between 55°F and 65°F (12°C–18°C).
White wines: Prefer a cooler range of 45°F to 55°F (7°C–13°C).
Sparkling wines or champagne: Need the coldest setting — around 40°F to 45°F (4°C–7°C).
If your cooler is dual-zone, you can set each section for red and white wines separately.
🌡️ Step 2: Maintain a Stable Temperature
Try to avoid frequent temperature changes — sudden swings can affect the wine’s aging process.
A good-quality wine cooler keeps a steady, humidity-controlled environment to protect the corks and prevent spoilage.
🧰 Step 3: Regular Maintenance
Keep the condenser coils clean and make sure the door seals are tight so the unit maintains an even temperature.
If you notice the cooler struggling to hold temperature, it might be time for a quick inspection.
🧊 Step 4: When to Call for Service
If your wine cooler isn’t cooling properly, cycling too often, or showing error codes, contact a technician.
At Four Elements Service, we provide wine cooler repair and refrigeration maintenance across
Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Wauconda, Cary, and nearby northwest Chicago suburbs.
We’ll make sure your cooler stays perfectly tuned to preserve your collection.
If your beer is coming out warm or your glycol beer cooling system isn’t working right, it’s usually caused by a few common issues — and most can be fixed quickly once you know where to look.
🍺 Step 1: Check the Glycol Power Pack
First, make sure the glycol chiller (power pack) is running.
Listen for the compressor or look for indicator lights.
If it’s off, check the breaker or power switch, and make sure the thermostat is set correctly — typically between 26°F and 29°F (–3°C to –2°C).
❄️ Step 2: Inspect Glycol Levels and Mixture
Next, open the reservoir and check the glycol level.
If it’s low, top it off with the correct glycol-water mix (usually 30–40% propylene glycol).
Too little glycol or an incorrect mix can prevent proper cooling along the beer lines.
🧊 Step 3: Make Sure the Trunk Line Is Insulated and Cold
Then, feel the beer trunk line between the cooler and the tap tower.
It should feel cold all along the run.
If it’s warm in sections, the circulation pump might not be running or the insulation could be damaged — both will warm the beer before it reaches the faucet.
🍻 Step 4: Check the Walk-In Cooler Temperature
If the beer kegs themselves are warm, check your walk-in cooler temperature.
It should stay between 34°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C).
Blocked vents, dirty condenser coils, or a malfunctioning thermostat can all raise the temperature and affect the beer.
🧰 Step 5: Call a Draft System Specialist
If everything looks normal but your beer is still pouring warm, you may have a glycol pump, compressor, or circulation issue that needs professional attention.
At Four Elements Service, we provide glycol beer system repair, walk-in cooler maintenance, and refrigeration service throughout
Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Wauconda, Cary, and the northwest Chicago suburbs.
We’ll inspect your draft system, balance temperatures, and make sure every pour comes out crisp and cold.
It’s a fair question — and one we hear often. The short answer is that not all HVAC maintenance services are the same. The difference in price usually comes down to what’s actually included, the quality of the technician, and whether the company is doing a real tune-up or just a quick inspection.
💡 Step 1: Understand What’s Included
Some companies advertise $29 “maintenance” specials mainly as a way to get in the door.
These visits are often short and may include just a basic system check, with upsells suggested afterward.
A true HVAC tune-up, on the other hand, involves checking electrical components, refrigerant levels, blower motors, temperature splits, and safety systems — usually taking 45–60 minutes per unit.
🧰 Step 2: The Quality of the Technician
Next, consider the experience of the technician.
Certified, licensed HVAC professionals cost more because they perform detailed inspections and prevent problems before they happen.
A cheaper visit might skip important steps that could catch issues early — which ends up costing you more later.
⚙️ Step 3: Tools, Insurance, and Guarantees
A reputable HVAC company carries full insurance, proper licensing, and professional tools.
Those things add cost — but also give you peace of mind.
The higher service price often includes warranty protection, detailed reporting, and sometimes discounts on future repairs.
🏠 Step 4: Value Over Price
Finally, a maintenance visit isn’t just a box to check — it’s an investment in your comfort and equipment life.
At Four Elements Service, we focus on thorough HVAC maintenance that prevents breakdowns and keeps your system running efficiently year-round.
We serve Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, and the northwest Chicago suburbs with honest pricing and professional care — no gimmicks, no surprise upsells.
Everyone wants to save money, but when it comes to HVAC installation or repair, the cheapest bid often ends up being the most expensive in the long run. A low price might look attractive up front, but it can mean shortcuts, low-quality parts, or inexperience — and that usually leads to early breakdowns and higher utility bills.
💡 Step 1: Cheaper Doesn’t Always Mean Better Value
Some companies offer very low bids by cutting corners — skipping essential steps like system sizing, refrigerant balance, or airflow testing.
Those details matter. A poorly installed system might run, but it won’t heat or cool your home efficiently, and your comfort will suffer.
🧰 Step 2: Quality Parts and Proper Installation Cost More — and Last Longer
Professional HVAC contractors use manufacturer-approved components and follow strict installation guidelines.
Cheaper bids often use generic parts or skip warranty-backed equipment to keep costs down.
That can void your manufacturer’s warranty and cause expensive problems later.
🧑🔧 Step 3: Experience and Licensing Make a Difference
Reputable companies hire certified, insured, and licensed technicians.
These professionals take time to do the job right, ensure safety, and meet local code requirements.
Low-cost contractors may lack proper licensing or insurance — leaving homeowners at risk if something goes wrong.
⚙️ Step 4: Long-Term Efficiency and Reliability
A properly installed system runs smoother, lasts longer, and uses less energy.
Saving a few dollars now can lead to higher energy bills and frequent breakdowns later.
In the HVAC world, you really do get what you pay for.
🏠 Step 5: Honest Pricing and Lasting Results
At Four Elements Service, we focus on fair, transparent pricing — not gimmicks.
Our goal is to provide reliable HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance that saves you money long-term.
We proudly serve Lake Zurich, Barrington, Deer Park, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Wauconda, Cary, and the northwest Chicago suburbs with professional, guaranteed work you can trust.
If you’re upgrading equipment (like HVAC systems, heat pumps, or insulation) in the Chicago/North-Illinois area, both ComEd (electric) and Nicor Gas (natural gas) offer rebates (cash-back or bill credits) to customers who install qualifying high-efficiency equipment. These incentives reduce upfront cost, improve energy efficiency, and help customers make smarter upgrades.
⚡ What kinds of equipment qualify?
ComEd: Rebates are available for customers who are in the ComEd service territory and install high-efficiency heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, or ENERGY STAR appliances. Pick Comfort+2Sealed+2
Nicor Gas: Customers can get rebates for high-efficiency gas furnaces (e.g., ≥ 97% AFUE), boilers, smart thermostats, as well as air sealing, insulation, duct sealing in their homes. nicorgas.com+2nicorgas.com+2
🧾 How do you apply and what are common rules?
You must be a current customer of the utility (ComEd for electric, Nicor for gas) at the address where the equipment is installed. (Nicor’s FAQ says “All active residential Nicor Gas customers … are eligible.”) nicorgas.com
The equipment must meet minimum efficiency requirements (e.g., for Nicor: furnaces ≥ 97 % AFUE). nicorgas.com
Often the installation must be done by a qualified/participating contractor. (Nicor’s FAQ: “Ask the contractors… what training or certifications they have received for installing energy-efficient products.”) nicorgas.com
The rebate application must be submitted within a limited window (e.g., within 90 days of installation for some Nicor rebates). programs.dsireusa.org+1
Funding is limited; i.e., “first-come, first-served” for many programs. (See Nicor’s note about running out of funds.) ARC Insulation |+1
🔌 ComEd (Electric) Rebates
For qualifying heat pumps (air-source, ductless mini-splits, etc.), ComEd offers rebates in the range of $1,400 up to ~$2,000 or more for residential installations meeting high efficiency standards. ratings.munchsupplyapps.com+4heatpumppricesreviews.com+4munchsupply.com+4
Example tiers (from a compiled table):
Ductless/mixed-use mini-split heat pumps ≥ 17 SEER2 & ≥ 10 HSPF2 → $1,000 rebate. ratings.munchsupplyapps.com+1
High-efficiency heat pumps Tier 2 (≥17 SEER2 & ≥8.5 HSPF2) → $2,000 rebate. ratings.munchsupplyapps.com+1
ComEd’s “Heating & Cooling Discounts” FAQ states that for installations completed between July 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025, rebates are available when choosing a qualifying contractor and equipment. comed.com+1
There are also commercial/retrofit incentives (e.g., for rooftop units, economizers) from ComEd’s HVAC worksheet. comed.com
🔥 Nicor Gas (Natural Gas) Rebates
For residential customers of Nicor Gas, rebates include:
Smart Thermostat (ENERGY STAR) → $25 rebate. nicorgas.com+2programs.dsireusa.org+2
High-efficiency Furnace (≥97% AFUE) → rebate range roughly $100–$175. nicorgas.com+1
Boiler (≥95% AFUE) → around $350. nicorgas.com+1
Insulation/air sealing/duct sealing: e.g., air sealing up to ~$500; attic insulation up to ~$400; duct sealing up to ~$600. programs.dsireusa.org+1
The Nicor rebate FAQ clarifies applications must be submitted within 90 days of installation (for 2025 offers). nicorgas.com+1
Note: Some programs (especially weatherization/insulation) may run out of funds before end of year. ARC Insulation |
Have additional questions?
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