Tax Holiday For Energy Efficient Items In Virginia

Virginia is holding its fourth annual tax holiday on energy-efficient products.

Gov. Bob McDonnell said Monday the tax holiday will begin on Oct. 8 and run through Oct. 11.

During that time, residential consumers can save money by buying sales-tax exempt heat pumps, dishwashers, washing machines, insulation, toilets, showerheads and other products.

Items must be priced at $2,500 or less and certified as being energy efficient with the Energy Star and WaterSense designations. Used items, as well as those purchased online, also will be exempt from sales tax.

McDonnell said everyone needs to do their part to use energy more wisely and conserve natural resources.
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Energy Star Rebates Available Beginning Today

If you've been thinking about replacing an appliance, you might be eligible for an energy star rebate from the Va. Department of Energy. The program starts Wednesday, April 28 and will offer Virginians up to $300 off on certain energy star qualified appliances.

Heat Pumps will earn up to a $300 rebate, gas furnaces are eligible for a $250 rebate; tankless gas water heaters are eligible for a $225 rebate; a new energy efficient washer carries a $75 rebate; refrigerators are eligible for a $60 rebate and if you plan on replacing your storage gas water heater you can earn a $35 rebate.

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Department of Energy has provided $300 million for states to set up the programs to encourage residents to replace old appliances with newer more energy efficient models. Rebates will not be available on appliances purchased before April 28 and are limited to one per family.

Federal rebates and tax credits are also available for on demand water heaters and certain biomass heating appliances. Visit the U.S. Dept. of Energy website for details.

Kathy Wert of the Sears Hometown Store in Onley says they are ready and willing to help customers take advantage of the program.

"We will work with customers to simplify the process," says Wert. "Sears carries more Energy Star Appliances than anyone and we carry all of the top appliance brands."

According to Wert, a purchase of an energy star appliance can qualify buyers for rebates up to $75 for their old and inefficient appliances.

More Information Va. Dept. of Energy Website

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