Austin Energy prepares for summer season

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Austin Energy said it has completed its weatherization readiness activities as it prepares for the summer, the agency said in a news release Thursday.

The utility said its summer weather preparedness was certified via the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which is "in compliance with state regulations," the release said.

The utility said it is preparing for another "record-breaking season" when it comes to energy demand.

AE said Texas reached 10 "new all-time peak demand records."

Ways customers can save energy and money can do so by doing these summer conservation tips provided by the utility below:

• Raise the thermostat by a few degrees in the summer. Set the thermostat even higher while away for two hours or more on a hot day for what the utility company said is the biggest energy savings.
• Point fans in the direction to make temperatures around feel about 4 degrees cooler. In the summer, the utility said to switch ceiling fans to run counterclockwise to push cool air downward. Only keep fans on while in the room.
• Clean the AC condenser/evaporator coils. Clean coils lower energy costs, extend the unit’s life, and provide cleaner air to breathe.
• Keep debris and high grass away from the condenser. These obstacles block airflow, which makes the condenser work harder and run longer.
• Close shades and curtains on windows hit by direct sunlight to prevent heat from getting indoors.
• Avoid turning on the oven or doing laundry during the hottest time of the day. Using the microwave produces less heat.