It's all part of the US economic recovery plan which is expected to benefit the environment while stimulating economic growth. The 'Cash for Clunkers' car rebate program was such a huge success, the hope is that the buzz will spill-over into the appliance sector, creating jobs at the manufacturing level, with benefits extending all the way down to the end user, the consumer. A definite win/win for the consumer who gets to enjoy a new energy efficient appliance and lower energy bills, while being kind to the environment.
States and territories that intend to participate in the program will already have made their intentions known, but have to submit their action plan by October 15, 2009. It'll include such details as which Energy Star appliance categories will be included, how they'll manage the program, how much the rebates will be and how the clunker appliances will be recycled. By the end of November 2009, most funds will have been awarded based on approved plans and a energy funding formula.
Appliances Which May Be Included in the Program:
The exact details are still pending, but one thing is clear - appliances must be Energy Star rated. It's up to the states to decide on which appliances to include, but they have asked to focus on heavy energy use appliances such as central or room air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers, furnaces (oil and gas), washers, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators and water heaters.
So they have lots of choice to choose from and any or all of these appliance groups would be good news for the consumer. Whether they'll take the clunker or not depends on their recycling plan, but when given the option, it's best to give up your clunkers and let the state collect them - you'll save disposal fees and the hassle of removing them.
Watch for Rebate Program Details
Full details on the appliance categories and rebate amounts should be rolling out once state plans are developed - so start watching for news in your state or territory. In the meantime, if you've been thinking of upgrading appliances, hold off a little if you want to save some money. You can though, start browsing new Energy Star replacements and checking out some of the high-tech features. Not sure what to look in a new appliance? Check out my Appliance Buying Tips.
Updated December 31, 2009:
State Appliance Rebate Programs - Find Your State's Details:
When will your state's program start and what appliances will be included? Since it varies with each state or territory, follow this link to download a document that lists each state/territory and gives more detail on what's included and when it will start.
Find Your State's Cash for Appliances Program and Other Useful Information
Read Quick Facts About the Rebate Programs
What Do You Do in the Meantime?
Check your state information and note the start date. If details are available for which appliances will be included in this program, it's not too early to compare prices of Energy Star home appliances so you can be ready to take advantage of these rebates when your program starts. Look at appliance features and specs so you'll have an idea of what you want. Check these appliance buying tips if you're not sure what features matter most. Also consider which of your existing old appliances may be worthy of an upgrade. Come back and review your state's information often.
Other Helpful Links:
What's Energy Star?
Energy Star US Department of Energy
More Energy Saving Tips
US Department of Energy
Follow the Funding Allocations for Each State
Go to Main Cash for Appliances Page
Go to Housewares Home Page
