Obscure Energy Hacks Every Montanan Needs This Summer

BUTTE, MT - As temperatures across Montana creep toward the triple digits, the pressure is on. That is, both on your air conditioner and your wallet.

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With the state experiencing warmer and longer heat waves in recent years, saving energy is a good idea for the environment, and it’s a necessity for your power bill and our power grid.

So how can Montanans stay cool without maxing out their home’s energy use or straining local utilities?

Here are smart, easy tips every Montanan should keep in mind this summer:

Keep Your Thermostat in the Upper 70s

Yes, it might feel a little warm at first, but setting your AC between 76-78°F can make a noticeable difference.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, every degree you raise your thermostat can cut your electricity bill by up to 3%.

With many Montana households relying on electricity from hydropower and regional grids already under strain during peak hours, that small change adds up.

Shut the Blinds During the Day

Montana’s big skies and long summer days mean sunlight is plentiful, but that also means more indoor heat.

Keeping blinds or curtains closed during peak daylight hours (typically 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) helps block out excess solar heat and keeps your space naturally cooler.

Unplug Devices That Aren’t in Use

That idle coffee maker? The never-used DVD player?

They could be quietly drawing power even when turned off.

Phantom power can cost households up to $200 per year. If it’s plugged in and not being used, unplug it—or better yet, invest in smart plugs that let you control power remotely.

Run Heat-Heavy Appliances After 8 p.m.

Your oven, clothes dryer, and dishwasher all generate heat—lots of it.

Running them in the heat of the day forces your AC to work harder. Shift laundry and dinner prep to later in the evening or early morning, when temperatures are lower and the electrical grid is under less pressure.

Prepare for Power Outages

Extreme heat increases the chance of brownouts or blackouts. If you or someone you know lives in a rural area or doesn’t have transportation, have a backup plan.

That could mean checking in with neighbors, identifying safe spaces in town, or having backup water and battery-powered fans on hand.

Know Where to Cool Off

While Montana doesn’t have a centralized 2-1-1 cooling center system like some states, county emergency offices often publish lists of public cooling locations: libraries, community centers, and sometimes even schools.

Keep an eye on your local health department’s website or call your city’s emergency services line to find the nearest cooling zone.

In the end...

Summer in Montana is beautiful—but it’s also intense.

A few mindful changes can help you keep your cool, protect your power bill, and preserve resources for everyone.

Whether you’re in Butte, Bozeman, or Bigfork, these energy-saving tips will help you beat the heat without burning through your budget.