If you recently bought or plan to buy a new Energy Star-labeled appliance, you may be eligible for an unexpected bonus: a $25 to $150 rebate.

Doni Ingram, director of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, said $1.8 million in rebates remain available for residents. The Alabama Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate program was launched in April to encourage residents to replace old inefficient appliances that are costly to operate with new energy-efficient models.

Rebates are available for five appliance types: room air conditioners, $25; freezers, $50; dishwashers, $75; clothes washers, $100; and standard-size refrigerators, $150. To be eligible, appliances must have an Energy Star label and be purchased on or after April 19. State residents can reserve a rebate by visiting www.alrebates.com or calling toll-free (877) 856-6645.

“I encourage Alabamians to take advantage of this opportunity while funds are still available,” Ingram said. “Consumers who purchase one of these Energy Star appliances get more than a rebate; they also save money every month on utility bills and help conserve our natural resources.”

Rebates apply only to appliances purchased from a retail store on or after April 19. Consumers who apply for rebates will have 15 days to mail the application form and purchase validation.

The program is open to Alabamians age 18 and older and is limited to one rebate per appliance type and no more than two rebates per household. Approved applicants will receive a Visa Prepaid Card by mail. The cards can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.

Funding for the rebate program was made available to ADECA by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.

Ingram said that rebate funds are still available because some residents reserved a rebate but failed to purchase an appliance or mail in the required documentation. To check the current fund balance, go to www.alrebates.com.