LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Folks will be cranking up their air conditioners in mid-Michigan all through this week–and with good reason.

But what about that energy bill?

Consumers Energy has suggested six ways to save on energy this summer:

• Refresh your AC filters. Clean or replace them once a month, so your AC will run more efficiently.

• Install a Smart Thermostat. Many of these will automatically adjust the temperature at the best setting in order to save energy.

• Adjust your AC: Raise your thermostat 5 degrees for eight hours. Doing this from 2-7 p.m. will maximize your savings, Consumers says.

• Postpone Your Chores. Wash your dishes or laundry after 7 p.m.–in off-peak hours.

• Swap out your lights: Replace old, incandescent light bulbs with LEDS. Start with your five more-used bulbs.

• Plug into a Smart Strip. Plug your electronic devices into a smart power strip to prevent them from using energy when they’re off or in standby mode.

Tips provided by Consumers Energy

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