Nevada part of appliance rebate plan

Nevada is among about three dozen states that soon will offer you a rebate of as much as $200 if you trade in your clunky old clothes washer, refrigerator, freezer or dishwasher for a more efficient model. Besides the money back, you'll see savings on your electric bill.

Nevada's program starts April 17. Consumers can go to www.nevadaappliancerebate.com for a reservation on that day. Nevada residents who have no computer access should call 877-273-6213.

Act as soon as possible, urged Sean Sever, outreach coordinator for the Nevada State Office of Energy. Rebate reservations were gone within a day in Iowa and Minnesota, he said.

The energy office estimates that 14,700 Nevadans will receive rebates through the $2.5 million grant to the Silver State. Some may get rebates on more than one type of appliance. Nevada offers a $200 rebate on refrigerators, $150 on freezers and washing machines and $100 on dishwashers.

After getting a confirmed reservation, go to one of the participating retailers in Nevada buy an Energy Star replacement appliance. Energy Star appliances are certified to attain a minimum level of energy efficiency.

Keep the receipt and arrange for the retailer to deliver the new model. The retailer will remove the old appliance. To qualify for the rebate, a consumer must provide proof of purchase, proof of residence and proof that the old product was traded in.

There are about 20 participating retailers in Nevada, including well-known national chains. Some stores may offer additional rebates of their own, Sever said.

Appliances purchased in other states or bought before the program begins are not eligible for rebates.

The Obama administration is trying to stimulate economic activity while encouraging consumers to be more efficient in their energy use. Under the federal stimulus act (formally the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009), the government has allocated $300 million to the states and seven U.S. territories for appliance rebates.

The Energy Department says replacing a clothes washer made before 2000 with a new Energy Star model can save $135 per year in water and electricity costs; replacing a refrigerator made before 1993 with a new Energy Star one can lower your electric bill $65 per year.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.