This Year, Buy Heaters, Air Conditioners and Other Products That Make a Difference!In the market for a new heater, air conditioner or any kind of electric appliance for your home? If so, why not get paid for your energy-efficient purchase? Throughout 2010 the federal government’s Energy Star program is offering all kinds of rebates and incentives to purchasers of new, Energy Star-rated appliances.
As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (President Obama's economic stimulus program), states and U.S. territories have been authorized to use funds from the $300 million stimulus payout to provide compensation to consumers who choose to replace old appliances with new, more energy efficient models that carry the Energy Star rating.
More than 70 percent of the energy we use in our homes comes from the operation of heating and cooling systems, appliances and electronic devices. Energy Star appliances can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills while diminishing your impact on the environment.
While the rebate program will vary from state to state, participants have been instructed to choose from the following list of qualified appliances in deciding which products to include:
- Boilers
- Washing machines and dryers
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Dishwashers
- Air conditioners
- Furnaces
- Heat pumps
- Water heaters
Consumers can expect rebates of around $50 to $250 depending on the type of appliance purchased, the purchase price and other factors. Most states plan to offer refunds at the point of purchase in the form of cash returns, product discounts or credits, while some states may require a form submission before a check can be mailed to the purchaser. More specific information about how each state will handle the Energy Star rebates should be available very soon.
Energy Star rebate programs will be fully functional in most locations by early 2010—if not sooner—and will last as long as states can support them with the Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds. The stimulus legislation says that all monies must be spent by February 2012, but it is probable that funds will run out well before then.
Only new appliances purchased during the program’s duration qualify for rebates. Energy Star-rated appliances cannot be included retroactively so if you’re in the market for a new refrigerator or washing machine, best to wait until your state’s rebate program begins.
The federal government is also offering other incentives to citizens who make a commitment to reducing their energy consumption at home. These incentives come in the form of tax breaks for things like energy efficient new home construction, home improvement projects, new windows and doors, water heaters, and heating and cooling systems. Consumers are permitted to benefit from all of the incentives they qualify for, even if the benefits are related to the same product purchase or service. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency can provide more details about particular programs in your area.
For more information about the Energy Star rebate offers available in your state, check with your state’s department of energy or visit Energy Star's list of Approved Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Programs.
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