Get tips on how to keep your Colorado energy bills low as temperatures rise

It was a hot day in Colorado last week, so many people stayed inside and turned on their air conditioning. But staying cool this summer will likely be more expensive for many Americans. As temperatures rise, unfortunately, so will the cost of cooling your home.

On top of that, two energy groups predict that summer electricity bills will increase nearly 8% nationwide, meaning it will cost about $719 more to cool a home.

Here are some tips and tricks to lower your electricity bills.

According to Consumer’s Energy, the optimal temperature to set your thermostat at is 78 degrees when you’re at home, and even higher when you’re away from home.

Sacrificing a few degrees can save you a few dollars. For every degree you set your thermostat higher, you can save anywhere from one to three dollars for every hundred on your bill. Setting the temperature a few degrees higher also means your air conditioning doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool, saving you a few extra dollars.

What else can you do?

Use a fan, as it can make rooms up to five degrees cooler. Make sure your ceiling fans run counter-clockwise in the summer. Also, close your curtains and blinds during the day to keep the sun from heating up your home. You can also buy a smart thermostat to help save energy and money.

Here are some other tips: run kitchen and laundry appliances early in the morning or after 7 p.m., avoid using the oven in the afternoon, and keep your air conditioning in good working order, which means changing your air conditioner filter every three months.