Reservation Launch Time and Other Details Announced for Texas Appliance Rebate Program

The Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program reservations officially begin Monday, April 5, at 7 a.m. CT, when consumers can receive rebate forms for select ENERGY STAR® appliances by visiting the online reservation system at www.TexasPowerfulSmart.org or calling (877) 780-3039. Texans can use the rebates to buy energy efficient appliances in eight different appliance categories and replace the same type of old, functional appliance.

Both the online reservation system and the toll-free phone number will offer bilingual customer support in English and Spanish. Once all guaranteed rebates are reserved, consumers may continue to sign up on a waiting list for any guaranteed rebates that go unused; it is important to note that placement on the waitlist does not guarantee a rebate.

Shoppers are limited to two appliance rebates per household. Consumers need to submit a separate reservation or waitlist request if they want to request rebates for two appliances. This will help ensure more Texans have a fair chance at requesting at least one rebate. Though up to two rebates are allowed, they must be for different appliance categories. Consumers will need to provide their name, address and appliance category when making a reservation, and must be on the guaranteed rebate reservation list or the waitlist in order to print or receive the application forms necessary to mail in to claim rebates. Rebate applications from waitlist participants will be processed in the order received, pending available funds.

“We anticipate high interest in this program, so we expect rebate reservations will go quickly because there is a limited amount of funds available,” said Texas Comptroller Susan Combs. “Once consumers have received or printed a rebate form through the guaranteed reservation list or the waitlist, they can buy appliances on the set dates. Then consumers must mail in the rebate form and a copy of the receipt, along with any other required documents, postmarked within 60 days of reservation.”

The purchase period for all appliances begins April 16, 2010. For refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers and room air conditioners, the purchase period ends April 25, 2010. For central air conditioners, hot water heaters and heat pumps, the purchase period ends 60 days from the rebate reservation or waitlist request date; this allows contractors, who install these items, to collect payment at installation. Central air conditioners and air-source heat pumps will require installation by a Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR) licensed contractor.

Disposal of the old, functional appliance of the same type is required for all rebate applications. There is an additional $75 rebate for recycling the old appliance. Proof of disposal or recycling requires the signature and address of the entity (such as a retailer, contractor or other business) assuming responsibility for the proper disposal or recycling — details will be provided on the rebate application form.

A courtesy list of partner recycling agents is listed on www.TexasPowerfulSmart.org. Recycling is not limited to the entities on the courtesy list. The Web site also has a list of eligible appliances, category amounts, timelines, frequently asked questions and helpful tips.

The state of Texas received approximately $23 million in federal stimulus funds to administer and implement the rebate program. ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances must be purchased by Texas residents at stores located in Texas or through Texas contractors.