Summer in Sisters, Oregon brings sunshine, warm temperatures, and the occasional scorching day. While many residents are focused on outdoor fun and summer road trips, your HVAC system quietly works overtime to keep your home cool and comfortable. But every year, homeowners in Sisters unknowingly make HVAC mistakes that reduce efficiency, increase energy bills, and shorten the life of their system.
Here are the top 5 HVAC mistakes homeowners in Sisters, OR make each summer—along with expert advice from Einstein Pros Sisters on how to avoid them.
1. Skipping Pre-Summer HVAC Maintenance
Many homeowners assume that if their AC kicks on, everything is fine. But neglecting seasonal maintenance is one of the biggest HVAC mistakes you can make. Over time, dust, debris, and wear and tear can significantly reduce your system’s performance.
Why it matters:
According to Energy.gov, regular maintenance improves efficiency and can reduce energy use by 5% to 15%.
What to do instead:
Schedule an annual tune-up in late spring with a licensed HVAC technician, like the pros at Einstein Pros Sisters. We’ll clean coils, inspect refrigerant levels, and ensure your system is summer-ready.
2. Closing Too Many Interior Vents
Some homeowners believe that closing vents in unused rooms saves money. In reality, this can increase pressure in the ducts, causing your HVAC system to work harder and wear out faster.
Why it matters:
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends leaving interior vents open for balanced airflow and system longevity.
What to do instead:
Keep all vents open and unobstructed. Use zoning systems or smart thermostats if you want to regulate temperatures in specific areas of your home efficiently.
3. Using the Wrong Thermostat Settings
Setting your thermostat to “cool” and letting it run all day—even when no one is home—is a costly mistake. Similarly, setting the temperature too low to “cool faster” doesn’t work; your system cools at a consistent rate.
Why it matters:
ENERGY STAR reports you can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling by using a programmable thermostatand adjusting settings when you’re asleep or away.
What to do instead:
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. And remember: a setting of 78°F while home and higher when away is recommended for optimal energy efficiency.
4. Neglecting Air Filter Changes
Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce cooling efficiency, and worsen indoor air quality—especially important in Sisters, where dust and wildfire smoke can linger during summer.
Why it matters:
The EPA emphasizes clean filters as a key component of good indoor air quality. A clogged filter can lead to poor cooling and even system freeze-ups.
What to do instead:
Check your filter every 30 days during peak summer use and replace it at least every 60–90 days. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to replace it more frequently.
5. Ignoring Duct Leaks or Poor Insulation
If certain rooms feel hotter than others or you notice higher-than-usual energy bills, your ducts might be leaking air into the attic or crawl spaces—a common issue in older Sisters homes.
Why it matters:
According to the U.S. Energy Star Program, leaky ducts can reduce HVAC efficiency by 20% or more.
What to do instead:
Have your ductwork professionally inspected and sealed. At Einstein Pros Sisters, we use proven techniques to locate and correct inefficiencies that may be costing you money.
Final Thoughts
Your HVAC system is one of the most important—and expensive—components in your home. Don’t let simple oversights cost you comfort and cash. Whether you’re dealing with poor airflow, rising bills, or inconsistent cooling, addressing these common mistakes early can save you from a mid-summer breakdown.
Need expert help? Contact Einstein Pros Sisters HVAC today for inspections, repairs, maintenance, or new system installation. We’re local, experienced, and committed to keeping Central Oregon homes cool and efficient.
Schedule your summer HVAC tune-up with Einstein Pros Sisters today.
📞 Call us or book Einstein Pros Sisters Online