By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
Getting a rebate for replacing that old washing machine probably never crossed the mind of most appliance owners. Beginning April 19, a rebate program will go into effect for purchases of Energy Star-labeled appliances.
Officials with the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs have announced the availability of rebates for many appliances — including that new washing machine. The rebates are funded through the federal stimulus package passed last year.
Mike Hart, owner of Brewton’s Badcock Home Furnishings and More, said the rebate program makes purchasing a new energy-efficient appliance a good idea.
Hart said the appliances he stocks do carry the Energy Star label.
At Hainge’s Home Furnishings, Manager Wanda Simmons said the program is a beneficial one consumers need to take advantage of if possible.
Simmons said Hainge’s carries lines of appliances that qualify for rebates under this program.
The rebate program, which runs through May 9, will offer rebates of up to $150, Ingram said.
The program will give rebates of $25 for room air conditioners, $50 for freezers, $75 for dishwashers, $100 for clothes washers and $150 for standard-size refrigerators.
A total of $4.1 million will be available for the rebates, which are funded as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Hart said customers will need to act quickly to insure receipt of the rebates.
ADECA information states the rebate program will run through May 9 with customers being required to reserve rebates beginning April 19.
Consumers who reserve their rebates will have 15 days to purchase a qualified appliance from a retailer in Alabama and mail the rebate application form and purchase validation.
Approved applicants will receive rebates in the form of a Visa prepaid card that can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.
Although Internet purchases do not qualify for rebates, the program is open to any Alabama resident 18 and older.
Rebates are limited to one per appliance type with only two rebates per household allowed in the program, officials said.
For additional information concerning the rebate program, appliances included and rebate amounts for each appliance, visit the ADECA Web site, www.alrebates.com.