Cost to run a central air conditioner in Colorado

$0.60/hour

Central Air Conditioner at 3,500 W in Colorado (17.17¢/kWh) · $146.15/month at 8 h/day

By hours of use

Use	Per day	Per month	Per year
1 h/day	$0.60	$18.27	$219.35
2 h/day	$1.20	$36.54	$438.69
4 h/day	$2.40	$73.08	$877.39
8 h/day	$4.81	$146.15	$1,754.77
12 h/day	$7.21	$219.23	$2,632.16
24 h/day	$14.42	$438.45	$5,264.32

A 3-ton central AC typically draws 3,000-4,000 W while running; SEER rating and duct losses matter.

How much does it cost to run a central air conditioner in Colorado?

At 3,500 W and 17.17¢/kWh: $0.60 per hour, $4.81 per day and $146.15 per month at 8 h/day.

How does Colorado compare with other states?

The same use costs $108.27/month in Nevada (cheapest) and $401.60/month in Hawaii (most expensive); the US average is $154.58.

Price: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential, August 2026 preliminary; released October 23, 2026).

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