Cash for Appliances: The Government’s Latest Program to Boost Energy Efficiency
Apparently ‘Cash for Clunkers’ isn’t dead yet – it has just taken on a new form, and involves other everyday machines. Dubbed ‘Cash for Appliances’, this new government program seeks to offer a rebate to those who trade in their antiquated, energy-sapping appliances for newer ones that have the ‘Energy Star’ seal of approval on them. The Obama administration is trying to make good on its promise to promote the practice of energy efficiency, and this program is sure to pique the interests of not only those who seek to live a greener lifestyle, but also those who’d love to get their hands of some new appliances for their home.
In order to determine whether or not you should ditch your old appliances, a good idea would be to understand the average life of most everyday household appliances. For instance, a dishwasher should last anywhere from 5 to 12 years, ditto for garbage disposals. Larger appliances such as washers, dryers, water heaters, furnaces, and heat pumps should run for about 8 to 12 years. Lastly, the largest appliances, which are refrigerators, stoves, and freezers, could live about 15 to 20 years. This, of course, could vary depending on how you use your appliances and how well you maintain them.
Be aware that the aim of this new program is to curb excessive electrical usage by replacing older appliances with newer, energy efficient models. Not only will it be safer for the environment, but new appliances can greatly reduce your monthly electric bill. Replacing your old appliances through this new program should save people a lot of money all around, though some may have a tough time getting approved for it. Therein lies the rub.
Much like ‘Cash for Clunkers’, its Appliances variant requires that you can get approved for credit, usually through the store at which you decide to purchase your new appliances (unless of course you have the money to pay for everything up front). If you have bad credit and end up getting turned down for the program, a worthwhile option to consider would be a payday advance loan. Not only would you be able to secure cash assistance regardless of credit, but you can have the money you need in as little as one hour. A short-term loan is very affordable, and can also help build your credit. With that option in mind, purchasing newer, energy efficient appliances through this new government program is attainable for all.
