Many of us have an extra fridge tucked in the garage storing soda, waters, beer, juice boxes, sports drinks and generally anything that doesn't fit in the kitchen refrigerator.

The one in my garage was inherited from my husband's old office. I would guess it is circa 1988.  Every once in a while it makes a pretty alarming noise, but then all is well and it goes back to purring along. I am sure that a good half of my electric bill goes to keep this thing going.

If you live in Virginia, this might be your weekend, to finally head out to the store to replace the old junker and get the new appliance you've been considering. According to the Virginia Department of Taxation website, 'Energy Star and WaterSense qualified products purchased for non-commercial use and costing $2,500 or less will be exempt from sales tax.'

This can add up, especially if you are outfitting the whole kitchen!

You may have heard about the Cash for Clunker Appliances program that is coming.  I just researched it to find out when, and if, we can expect it. According to what I found out, each State is supposed to submit a detailed plan to the Federal Government by October 15. The Fed will review it and then provide the States money to fund it. The Program should be available at the end of this year or the beginning of 2010. As with Cash for Clunkers, there will be a set amount of funds. When the money is  gone, it is gone, so if you plan to use this option, be prepared to jump on it as soon as it is announced.

So now if you live in Virginia ,you have two options to reduce the cost of getting new, energy efficient appliances. Everywhere else has at least one option, too.

What are you waiting for? Get out there and get that new washer, dryer, refrigerator, stove or dishwasher that you have been dreaming of!