Green Innovations

Developing renewable and clean technology companies in New York

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

NYS retailers gear up for "Great Appliance Swap Out" starting February 12

Retailers across New York State are gearing up to handle high demand for energy efficient appliances as New York’s "Great Appliance Swap Ou" launches this week, according to NYSERDA. The program, from February 12 through 21, is expected to issue nearly 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million to New York State residents who purchase qualified ENERGY STAR appliances during that time period. 

Rebates for high-efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, and freezers will range from $50-$105 for a single unit and up to $555 for the purchase of a three-appliance package of high-efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, and dishwashers, provided on a first-come, first served basis. 

The program requires consumers to replace old appliances, and encourages recycling by offering a larger rebate to consumers who recycle their discarded appliances. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is administering the program.

Guidelines for the program:
  • Residents only.  Consumers must be New York State residents and the appliance must be installed at a New York State residential address to be eligible for the proposed rebate program.
  • Energy Efficiency Requirements.  Appliances can be purchased at any retail location and must meet specified ENERGY STAR or Consortium of Energy Efficiency (CEE) standards.
  • Qualifications.  The program is open only to residents of single-family homes and to residents of multi-family buildings who own the existing appliance that is being replaced.
  • Process.  After purchasing a qualified appliance, consumers must complete an application form to reserve their rebate.  Customers will print their completed form with rebate reservation number and return it with required documentation; those who fill out forms by phone will have an application mailed to them.  Before purchasing, consumers can check to see if funding is still available at www.NYapplianceSwapout.com or by calling  1-877- NY-SMART (877-697-6278). 
  • Finding an application.  Applications may be completed online at www.NYApplianceSwapOut.com or by calling toll-free at 1-877-NY-SMART.  Once the application is verified as complete, it will be processed and payment will be issued.
  • Documentation.  Consumers must submit all required documentation with their completed rebate application by March 15, 2010.  For rebates:  Consumers must attest in writing that the purchased appliances are replacing existing appliances.  For recycling bonus:  Documentation must be obtained from the retailer or recycler.  In NYC, a confirmation number obtained through 311 may be used for refrigerator and freezer recycling documentation. 
  • Restrictions.  The rebate cannot be combined with other appliance rebate programs from utilities or municipalities. The rebate can, however, be combined with other manufacturer rebates or retail promotions.
  • Recycling. Many appliance retail stores will offer to pick up and recycle your old appliance when you purchase a new one from them. In addition, a list of many local recycling centers and transfer stations that will recycle can be found at:  www.NYapplianceSwapout.com.  
Appliances may be purchased at any location.  NYSERDA works with more than 1,000 of retail partners to help promote the sale of ENERGY STAR Products.   Click here for a list of NYSERDA retail partners Upstate.