How La Niña Could Impact Your Heating Needs This Winter

It’s official! NOAA scientists have announced the arrival of La Niña, a weather phenomenon that impacts climate around the globe. The entire Great Lakes region is being warned to expect greater than normal precipitation and colder temperatures this winter. What does this mean for residents in and around Highland Park, Illinois? El Niño’s colder counterpart could increase your reliance on your home heating system.

A Little More About La Niña

Named by Spanish-speaking sailors, El Niño and La Niña describe changes in sea-surface temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific. The Spanish phrase for “little girl” is used denote below-average temperatures. This cold-water condition affects the atmospheric circulation above the Pacific Ocean, which influences storm patterns around the world. This year, NOAA predicts a 55-percent chance that the winter in Illinois will be colder and wetter than usual.

What La Niña Means for Our Area

In the Great Lakes region, colder temperatures and increased precipitation are likely to result in above-average snowfall. The amount of snow that accumulates, however, depends on the strength of individual winter storms. When you live in Illinois, you know that extreme cold and snowstorms can occur in any winter season. This year’s La Niña event makes it even more important to make sure that your home stays safe and warm.

Is Your Heater Ready?

Drops in outdoor temperatures trigger your heater to run longer in order to maintain your comfort. It makes sense to ensure your heater is up for the job and ready to handle extended periods of use. Scheduling preventive maintenance now helps safeguard you against an unexpected breakdown later. Proactive care offers other benefits too:

• Professional tuneups optimize system efficiency, which helps keep energy expenses manageable through the long, cold winter.
• The tests, checks and calibrations conducted during a service call help your heater to operate safely at peak performance.
• Regular maintenance extends the system’s service life, saving you from the expense of a premature replacement.

Serving Highland Park and the surrounding communities since 1984, Carefree Comfort, Inc. is dedicated to keeping you comfortable all winter long. We will make sure you’re prepared no matter what the season brings. To learn more about our money-saving services, explore our heating solutions or call 847-388-0115.

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