Intro: This article might be a bit “out of the norm” compared to our typical computer-based blog-posts but serves as an example of what using your computer can do for you. I found out about this program, and the details, via Google Reader. Reader allows me to follow multiple blogs and pick out the articles I want to read. In this case, I was following the Switched.com blog when I ran across the article titled States Extend Cash-for-Clunker to Appliances. The article contained the links I needed to drill down to the Texas Appliance Rebates web site.
That’s right, the highly successful Cash for Clunkers program will soon extend to home appliances, like dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators and air-conditioners. The thought process here is that the program will encourage consumers to put more money back into the economy, while removing older, less efficient appliances from the “grid.” As Terrence O’Brien (author of States Extend Cash-for-Clunker to Appliances) points out, “cars aren’t the only aging and inefficient products that people tend to retain long past their expiration dates.”
What does this mean for you and I?
First, you will need to arm yourself with the details of the program and what your state is going to do for you (since the rebate amounts depend on the individual state programs). We’ve provided a quick guide to show you the process of using the internet to get this information, using Texas as the model. Spoiler: The following steps are a bit cumbersome, but well worth your efforts. It’ll only take about 5 minutes to get through the links and locate the details for your state.
1) Visit the U.S. Department of Energy “Energy Savers” web site here.
http://www.energysavers.gov/financial/70020.html
- “Enery Savers” Web Site for U.S. Department of Energy
Read up on the details of the program, the types of appliances and the FAQ area (Frequently Asked Questions). Note that any appliance you replace must be Energy Star qualified and each state may select its own products.
2) Click on the map of the U.S. or the link provided (Learn about those programs and when they are projected to start.) to find out the details for your state.
- Find Rebates in Your State
3) Choose your state from the map or use one of the links listed below the map.
- Texas Appliance Rebates page
4) To get the REAL information on the program for Texas, you need to follow the link labeled Texas State Energy Conservation Office. **I would not have clicked on this link if I wasn’t investigating the program for the article and I suspect you would have skipped over it at this point as well. Usually “contact” is reserved for emailing someone.
- Stimulus Chart from Texas SECO Page
5) Believe it or not, we still aren’t there. To get the details, click on the link labeled Energy Efficient Apppliance Rebate Program. This page outlines the Program Objectives, Status and Details and this is where you will need to pay close attention. The program has a very small window of opportunity and a strict rebate process, but the rebate amounts are very attractive and understanding the program could save you anywhere from $120 – $1,075.
As shown in the image below, if you want to qualify and receive a rebate, you’ll have to map out your purchase plan in advance. You must “reserve” an appliance rebate by calling a toll-free number or registrering online “two weeks before April 16, 2010.” (that’s April 2nd) Then, you must make your purchase between April 16 and April 25, 2010. Mark your calendars now!
- Timing and Rebate Process for Texas Cash-for-appliances
UPDATE: (posted 3/24/2010 @ 4:00 pm)
Per an email sent out by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, a new site has been established for the “Texas Trade Up Appliance Program.” All appliance rebate program details will be posted on http://www.texaspowerfulsmart.org over the coming weeks.
Also, according to the same email “We are working to provide Texans with the most up-to-date information by creating a comprehensive program guide that will outline application details, how to apply and terms and conditions. We will post that document and notify subscribers to our Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program e-mail list once it is available. ”
UPDATE: (posted 4/02/2010 @ 6:00 am)
The official web site for the Texas Trade Up Program has new information, added yesterday 4/01/2010. Also, the Rebate Reservation period will now start on April 7th. Please see our latest article Texas – Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program – UPDATE for details.
Tags: appliance, cash-for-clunkers, Energy Savers, Google Reader, rebate, Savings, Switched.com, Texas
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