I've shoveled the steps more this week than I have all winter, the cat's water dish is freezing over after 20 minutes outside, and I've reached into the back of my closet to pull out the "only a few days a year" gear. Yep - it's getting dang cold out there! Here come the single digit temps during the day and negative temps overnight for the next couple of days. Heater systems are going to prove their worth over the next 72 hours!

We all know the last year has been rough with the pandemic affecting everyone in different ways. I saw a Missoulian article that had some info for NorthWestern Energy customers that might be feeling the pinch with the combination of COVID-19 and increasing energy bills from higher heat use. NorthWestern Energy can work with anybody facing a hardship - including payment plans and emergency assistance. If you feel you need help you can contact them at 888-467-2669.

The article also included the following tips if you're looking for ways to conserve energy and help lower your bill:

  • Bundle up inside rather than turning up the temperature on your thermostat. Wear a cozy sweater and warm socks. Curl up in a blanket when reading or watching TV.
  • Check your hot water heater’s temperature to make sure it’s safe and efficient — 120 degrees is plenty.
  • Check your refrigerator and freezer temperatures to make sure the refrigerator is set between 37 and 40 degrees F and your freezer temperature is between 0 and 5 degrees F.
  • Check your heating equipment to make sure it is working properly and clean or replace the furnace filters.
  • Inspect your windows and doors for air leaks. If you see daylight around a door or window frame, then the door or window leaks. Seal up the leaks by caulking, adding weather stripping, or installing a door sweep. Visit our How-To videos page for videos on how to assist with energy saving projects.
  • Wrap your hot water tank and install pipe insulation on the first 10 feet of the hot water pipe.

Find more info at NorthWesternEnergy.com.

Let's all bundle up and power through the next few freezing days! Oh, and don't worry about my cat and his frozen water dish - he's nice and toasty as he resides inside for the immediate future!

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