It’s true. The Federal Government passed a $300 million package to provide consumers rebates on energy efficient appliances.
This rebate program has already started in many states. You won’t need to turn in your older, less efficient models just purchase models that qualified for the Energy Star designation. So, if your dishwasher is acting up or you are thinking about adding a second refrigerator or freezer, now is the time to start your research. In most states the rebate program will cover washing machines too.
In addition to the cash for appliance rebates there are few other web sites that can help you enjoy the savings. Energystar.gov has a rebate locator. Simple type in your zip code to see if Energy Star partners are offering rebates, tax exemptions, or recycling programs in your area.
Remember, you can comparison shop brands at all of the major online retailers. This a great tool to help you decipher between manufacturers. Also check out our quick tips for purchasing specific appliances below.
Dishwashers
When you are buying a dishwasher, or any major appliance, before you do anything else sit down and make a list of the features or qualities that you must have, would like to have, and ones that you don’t care about. Next go measure what you have to make sure that the new appliance will fit.
For dishwashers there are a few items to keep in mind. If cleaning is your only concern, lower priced models clean just a well as more expensive ones. Dishwasher performance is determined by the number of water levels a machine has with 3 being the average. Therefore higher levels equal better performance.
Features that can influence price include child safety locks, electronic sensors for soap and water usage, quiet mode, adjustable shelves and convertible racks which allow you to customize the inside of the machine.
To stainless or not to stainless? On the interior, a stainless steal tub will not improve washing performance. It is stain resistant, but will cost more than a plastic tub. Some newer machines are now offering gray speckled plastic tubs which do not show stains as much as their white counterparts.
Check out Consumer Reports Dishwashing Buying Guide to learn more about specific brands. You don’t have join unless you want to view the rankings.
Read also
