Rebates may be available for your energy-efficient air conditioning unit.
In 2009, the United States Department of Energy announced the launch of an incentive program called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. One of the purposes of this program is to encourage energy-efficiency in the home and workplace, and to that end, $300 million dollars was allotted to cover state rebates for a variety of energy-efficient products, including air conditioning units. Although upfront prices for energy-efficient air conditioning units may be high, rebates and long-term savings in utilities bills help homeowners recuperate these costs. Rebates are designed and distributed by each individual state or territory in the United States. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Purchase an Energy Star-approved air conditioning unit. Energy Star products are officially guaranteed to be more energy-efficient than standard models. Approved air conditioning units have higher seasonal energy-efficiency ratings (SEER) and and energy efficiency ratings (EER) than standard models, which results in monthly savings on utility bills. Both central and room air conditioning units are eligible for rebates. Visit the Energy Star website to browse and compare qualified products, or look for the Energy Star product label while shopping in stores.
2. Research rebates in your state. The Energy Savers website provides a helpful online map of each state and territory, and includes detailed information about the rebates available in that state. In some states, the rebate program may be closed, or air conditioning units may not be available for rebates.
3. Visit your state's rebate program website to obtain details about the rebate application process. The Energy Savers website provides links to each state's particular rebate program. Specific application requirements vary by state, so be sure to read all information thoroughly and complete all necessary paperwork by the required dates.
4. Explore alternative rebates and credits for energy-efficient air conditioners. If your state rebate program is closed, there may be other rebate opportunities available from manufacturers. The Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE) provides information on local and utility sources of rebates and credits for energy-efficient products. Companies that are partnered with Energy Star may also have promotions pertaining to efficient air conditioners.
Tags: Energy Star, rebate program, conditioning units, your state, your state rebate, conditioning unit
