Nearly $300 Million Government Rebate Program Coming For Appliances

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy announced a new appliance rebate program. Already dubbed "Cash For Refrigerators" the program is expected to pay out $300 million.

Starting later this year and in early 2010, consumers will be able to receive rebates to purchase new ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances when they replace their used appliances.

More than 70% of the energy used in our homes is for appliances, refrigeration, space heating, cooling, and water heating. Replacing old appliances and equipment can help American families save significantly on their utility bills.

Replacing a refrigerator made before 1993 with a new model can save up to $65 per year. Each state and territory may select its own set of products to rebate. The U.S. Department of Energy has recommended the following appliances:
Boilers
Central air conditioners
Clothes washers
Dishwashers
Freezers
Furnaces (oil and gas)
Heat pumps (air source and geothermal)
Refrigerators
Room air conditioners
Water heaters

State energy offices will administer the rebate program. Some states may offer the rebate at the point of purchase—when consumers are actually purchasing the appliances. Other states may require consumers to mail in a paper form to request a check. There may be other ways, too, since each state will set up its own processing system.

The rebates will help consumers save energy and money at home in more ways than one. Federal tax credits also are available now for many home energy efficiency improvements, including windows, doors, water heaters, and HVAC equipment for existing homes. For more information, see the Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency Web page.

Written by Jesse Slome
Los Angeles, CA
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