Cash for Home Appliances

The Department of Energy (DOE) has its own “Cash for Clunkers” program coming this Fall as part of the economic stimulus plan that will help out appliance manufactures. Unlike the automobile program though, consumers do not have to exchange their old home appliances to receive rebates on newer ones.

Under their “Dollars for Dishwashers” program, which officials hope provide a lift to an industry that has been down 25 percent in the past 3 years, the DOE is looking at 10 categories of Energy Star-qualified 10 appliances. 

The state-run initiative may have the luxury of picking models, setting rebate amounts and may also include energy efficient light bulbs.

Some of the major appliance makers have expressed concern that though the program is a good idea, conflicting regulations and rebates from state to state may be a headache for potential customers, thus hindering sales. Some believe that in order for the program to attain its fullest potential it would make sense for the appliance program to share the same guidelines nationwide.

Personally, as fan of energy efficient products, I think the program will work – let’s see if it pans out. Now if they could maybe unravel the deficit, fix the New York City’s MTA and come up with a worthwhile healthcare package we could have some faith in big government again.