Photo: Galina N on Unsplash
Northeast Ohio is in the throes of a cold, wet winter, something that was predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The organization’s meteorologists predicted the cause as La Nina, a phenomenon that affects the ocean water in the Pacific Ocean, thereby changing climates across the US.
In Ohio, this means more snow and lower temperature averages. Temperature control experts advise that people cover air conditioners during the winter months to prevent damage.
La Nina And Akron
Experts state that this year’s La Nina is weaker than last years. This is the second year in a row that La Nina has occurred. La Nina weather cycles vary from year to year, and sometimes the effects only last for a short period, such as just two months. Although experts were not sure if La Nina would occur this year, it was confirmed in early November.
Preparing for winter months
How will the colder temperatures and high amounts of precipitation affect the citizens of Akron? Besides bundling up when taking in the festivities of the winter season, people will also have to consider keeping homes safe and cozy.
One factor to consider is home temperature control. Many individuals will need to use more energy for heating. This means that those with home heating and cooling units will be firing up heating units and letting cooling equipment rest for an extended period.
Winterizing air conditioning units
To best care for your air conditioning during the winter months, experts advise winterizing the units. This is especially true for outdoor units, referred to as HVAC units. These can become damaged in cold, wet weather due to frozen pipes or rusting parts.
To winterize a unit, individuals must first locate the unit, switch it off, and clean it thoroughly. Foam covers can be applied to piping, and a waterproof cover should be applied over the top of the unit. Experts also advise securing the cover so that it won’t come off due to the weight of snow, or high winds.
After winterizing the unit, the owner also needs to check it throughout the winter months, to make sure that no snow is finding its way under the waterproof cover. If the air conditioner is allowed to sit in the snow, exposed metal could become rusty and will no longer work properly.
One last concern for air conditioner owners comes in the form of falling ice. Because Akron may get higher than average amounts of precipitation this year, it is essential to protect the air conditioning unit from large chunks of ice that could fall from above and dent the unit. A wooden or metal barrier above the air conditioner would absorb the force of the falling ice.
La Nina is here, and experts do not yet know how long the cycle will last. Meteorologists predict cold temperatures and high levels of precipitation. Akron citizens who own air conditioners can protect their equipment by winterizing it properly. Cleaning and covering the unit are critical, and protecting it from falling ice will ensure that it lasts through the winter without damage.
