Texas appliance rebate program starts today and it won't last long

The Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program starts taking reservations for rebates today through its Web site or via toll-free call to 1-877-780-3039.

The rebate will apply to Energy Star appliances purchased after April 16 from a Texas store (not online).  It's $240 for a fridge, plus $75, if you have the fridge recycled. A list of rebates for other appliances is available here.

So, how do you recycle an appliance?  I know the answer for a fridge or a freezer: Call El Paso Electric to arrange a free pick up (1-877-643-1956). They'll even give you $30 for a fridge or a freezer. The appliances must be working and are recycled by the nationwide company JACO Environmental Inc. that recycles 95 percent of each fridge while safely handling the toxic chemicals in the appliances, according to El Paso Electric.


The state rebate, however, ends soon:

• Refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers and room air conditioners must be purchsed before April 25, 2010.
• Central air conditioners, hot water heaters and air-source heat pumps must be purchsed no later than 60 days from the date of the rebate reservation or waitlist request date.

 The state rebate is funded by $23 million in federal stimulus funds from the U.S. Department of Energy.