Zooming in
A winter weather advisory is in effect across the Hill Country, with light icing possible on elevated surfaces. A hard freeze is also on the forecast for Friday night into Saturday morning, Jan. 10-11, with low temperatures anticipated to be in the 20s, according to the National Weather Service.
Pedernales Electric Cooperative has shared some tips on how residents can prepare for the inclement weather.
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To help mitigate high electricity bills during cold weather events, PEC recommends that Central Texas residents:
- Set the thermostat: Establish a temperature in your home to around 68 degrees, and only increase the setting by one or two degrees at a time, if necessary.
- Avoid auxiliary, or AUX, and emergency, or EM, heat: These settings use a substantial amount of energy, increasing energy use and electric bills.
- Manage the HVAC system: Change air filters monthly and have a certified technician complete yearly maintenance on the system. A faulty HVAC can increase energy use. To allow circulation, keep all vents open, make sure vents are free from obstructions like furniture, and keep interior doors open throughout the home.
- Understand utility bills: Each month’s bill reflects energy usage during the previous month. Even if it seems like the current month’s weather has been mild, last month’s weather and events will be reflected on this month’s bill.
- Prepare your home: Utilize weatherstripping and caulking around windows and doors. Keep faucets on a slow drip to keep pipes from freezing, and catch the water in a clear container to use in case of boil water notices. If pipes freeze, turn off the main water supply to prevent further damage.
- Keep cellphones charged: In case of power outages, keep your cellphone and portable phone battery packs charged.
- Build an emergency kit: Put together items in case of inclement weather impacting utilities, including flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable foods and blankets.
- Develop an emergency plan: Have an idea of what to do in case of an extended power outage, including the location of warming shelters or a backup generator.
PEC members can sign up for emergency alerts or schedule an energy assessment by calling PEC at 888-554-4732. Agents are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Information and updates on how the inclement weather is impacting PEC can be found at www.mypec.com.
Updates on weather conditions can be found on the National Weather Service website.
