Texas Comptroller Susan Combs has announced the state will use approximately $23 million in federal stimulus funds for a mail-in rebate program benefiting consumers who purchase qualifying energy efficient household appliances. The Texas “Cash for Appliances” program will run April 16- 25.

Better Business Bureau serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas advises consumers to plan ahead and research rebate availability before making major purchases.

“Replacing older appliances with more energy-efficient models can have a positive impact on energy and water bills month after month,” said Carrie A. Hurt, president and CEO of BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas.

“Consumers should start planning and saving now if they wish to purchase these new appliances next April.”

The U.S. Department of Energy approved rebates for consumers who purchase eligible Energy Star appliances and replace the same type of old appliance that is functional. The program will also offer incentives to recycle old appliances.

“We want to create a program that works for Texas -- one that stimulates retail, helps consumers save money and energy and conserves our natural resources by responsibly disposing of as many old appliances as possible,” said Mrs. Combs.

According to energystar.gov, the typical household spends more than $2,200 annually on energy bills, but could save over one-third per year by making the switch to Energy Star products.

Energy Star standards are set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency and help consumers identify energy-efficient products in 60 different categories including appliances, windows and doors, heating and cooling equipment and water heaters.

In 2008, about 55 percent of new major household appliances had the Energy Star seal.

Following are a few details on the Texas cash for appliances program.

Consumers will be able to call a toll-free number or register online approximately two weeks before April 16 to reserve their appliance rebate. After the reserved rebates are awarded, the rest of the $23 million will be rebated to consumers on a first-come, first-served basis. Consumers are only eligible for two appliance and recycling rebates per household.

Consumers have a limited window to purchase. The rebate program will only apply to purchases made between April 16-25 to coincide with Earth Day.

The following Energy Star certified appliances will qualify with the following rebate amounts:

Refrigerator, $240; freezer, $180; room air-conditioner, $45; clothes washer, $150 or $180; dishwasher, $110 or $140; central air-conditioner, $600, $800 or $1,000; heat pump, $1,200 to $1,600; water heater, $255 to $640.

Unlike the Cash for Clunkers program where consumers had to trade in their old car, participants in cash for appliances don’t have to exchange an older appliance for a new one.

However, a $75 incentive will be given to consumers who wish to recycle their old appliances.

Take advantage of existing programs now, said Mrs. Combs. “Consumers who can’t wait to purchase a new appliance can still take advantage of other programs. Both the federal government and many state governments already provide tax credits for purchasing energyefficient appliances. Also, more than 25 states have recycling programs for appliances."

The Database for State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (www.dsireusa.org) provides a state-by-state breakdown of local incentives and policies for renewable energy and energy efficiency.

For more BBB advice, visit www.bbb.org.