by JEN BIUNDO
If you’re getting ready to upgrade your appliances, take advantage of the Texas Trade Up program, which will provide rebates of up to $1,600 for energy efficient appliances purchased between April 16-25.
The program is funded through $23 million in federal stimulus money. Customers can get a rebate of $240 for refrigerators, $180 for clothes washers, $140 for dishwashers, between $600 - $1,000 for air conditioning systems, and $1,200 - $1,600 for air-source heat pumps. All Energy Star certified appliances at Texas stores qualify for the flat rebates.
Customers can get an additional $75 rebate for recycling their old appliances.
Beginning April 5, a toll-free phone number and an online reservation system will be available for Texans to reserve an appliance rebate. When all of the guaranteed rebates are reserved, consumers may continue to sign-up for a waiting list to receive rebates on a first-come-first-served basis. Consumers must give their name, address and appliance type when making a reservation.
Consumers must be on the guaranteed rebate reservation list or the waiting list to be able to print or receive the forms they will mail in to claim rebates. To be eligible for a rebate, a qualifying appliance must be purchased between April 16 and April 25. Consumers will have 60 days from the reservation date to install appliances and submit their paperwork for the rebate. Appliances must be purchased by Texas residents at stores located in Texas.
For more information, visit www.texaspowerfulsmart.org or call the State Energy Conservation Office at (512) 463-1931.
