Action News

Government Appliances Rebates – 2010 may be to appliance buyers what 2009 was to car buyers: time for government rebates.

The new Federal government appliances rebates are modeled after the popular Cash for Clunkers program, which was intended to get cars with low gas mileage off the road.

The appliance rebates are for people buying energy-efficient clothes washers, refrigerators and other appliances — those that qualify for the federal “Energy Star” designation.

The program has only $300 million, one-tenth as much money as the automotive Cash for Clunkers program, or about $1 per U.S resident, so it could run out fast.

States are receiving roughly the same amount per capita, with California getting the most at $35.2 million, but what’s eligible varies by state.

California residents, for example, can get cash back on three types of appliances: $100 for washing machines, $75 for refrigerators and $50 for room air conditioners.

Wisconsin offers rebates on washers and fridges plus $200 for boilers or furnaces, $75 for central air conditioning or geothermal heat pumps, $50 for freezers and $25 for dishwashers.

Also in effect through Dec. 31, 2010, is a federal tax credit for 30 percent of the cost up to $1,500 on equipment for a primary residence.

Rebates will be available until February 2012 or the money’s gone. And Jen Stutsman, a spokeswoman for the Department of Energy, expects the funds to run out fast.

For state by state information, visit the federal Web site http://energysavers.gov and click on “state appliance rebate program” on the right.

And that’s the latest from Action News on the Cash For Clunkers government appliances rebates.

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