Is there going to be a "Cash for Clunkers" program for appliances?

By Kirk Mason (mason@wsbt.com)

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The U.S. Department of Energy is adopting a program called the Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program to boost sales in the struggling appliance industry. (WSBT photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Sep 21, 2009 at 10:52 AM EST

Story Updated: Sep 21, 2009 at 4:31 PM EST

When you can get a deal on a new refrigerator may depend on where you live.

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Pamela King of Middlebury has a Good Question: “Is there going to be a ‘Cash for Clunkers’ program for appliances?”

There is one, but when you can take advantage of it remains unclear.

The Cash for Clunkers program led to many car sales, and that was a situation where not everyone qualified. Your current car had to meet certain miles-per-gallon standards to get a tax credit for a more fuel-efficient car.

The Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program is a $300 million stimulus plan designed to boost appliance sales. You have to buy energy efficient appliances such as refrigerators, washers and dishwashers, but every consumer should qualify.

And while it will help consumers, it should also help the appliance business. For example: Benton Harbor-based Whirlpool has been forced to lay off workers during this recession. This program could lead to a boost in their sales.

No trade-in is required. Buyers will get a rebate, the amount of which could vary depending on the state. That's because individual states apply for this stimulus money through the U.S. Energy Department by October 15, and then set up their own program.

When it will be available in each state remains unclear, for example Michigan doesn't expect to have the program up and running until early next year.

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