With the huge success of last years “Cash for Clunkers” program, the Federal and State Governments are at it again with what’s being deemed, “Cash for Clunkers: Home Edition” . This time around there will be substantially less money available, but through combined state and federal programs, consumers who are in the know will start the year with a little extra money in their bank accounts. The Federal Government will handle the mechanicals of the home, while each state will be responsible for allocating energy efficient appliance and mechanicals rebates for qualified products.
The U.S. Department of Energy is offering a tax credit program that will give consumers up to $1500 in credits to help defer the cost of energy efficient products and renewable energy systems such as HVAC, water heaters, insulation, roofs, windows and doors and biomass stoves otherwise known as pellet stoves. As with any program there are specific guidelines to follow - but they’re conveniently mapped out step-by-step on the Department of Energy website www.energystar.gov. It’s a program that ALL homeowners should look into.
On the local level, each state will be responsible for putting together Federally funded programs that will give rebates on the purchase of new Energy Star rated appliances. In Rhode Island, the program will be run through mail-in rebates that will help residents replace older less efficient appliances and home heating systems with Energy Star rated products. Head to www.energy.ri.gov and click on the “appliance rebate program” link for more information.
Now that you know where to find the money, you’re probably wondering what to do with all of the left over stoves, boilers and other tired appliances. Well luckily Rhode Island has an answer; the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation gladly accepts old appliances at no charge and for just $12 will accept any refrigerator. This fee covers the cost of safely removing the freon gas. I’ve personally recycled several televisions and computers there and it was much easier than I expected. To find more information on recycling in Rhode Island go to www.rirrc.org.
Please note that the money is available on a first come first served basis and it will eventually run out - so don’t be left out in the cold. Make sure to check into these programs today to ensure that you’ll be getting the cash back that you deserve.
Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources
U.S. Department of Energy FAQ page for appliance rebates
U.S. Department of Energy “Energy Star” tax credit program page
U.S. Department of Energy “Energy Star” homepage
Bob Black REALTOR Williams & Stuart Real Estate 870 Oaklawn Ave Cranston, RI, 02920 | Work: 401.942.0200 ext 28 Mobile: 401.261.1599 | |
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