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Rethink Energy: Has Your Fridge or Freezer Reached The End Of Its Shelf Life?

Rethink Energy fridge recycle get paid

This regularly-scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by the Arlington Initiative to Rethink Energy team (AIRE). This county program helps you make smart energy decisions that save you money and leaves a lighter footprint on the environment. Got a question? Email us at [email protected]!

If your old second fridge or freezer is putting a freeze on efficiency, why not get rid of it and receive a $50 rebate at the same time? Act now — applications for rebates must be submitted before May 31, 2017!

The way people save energy with air conditioning or heating, is by using it less, but that isn’t really an option with your refrigerator.

The best way to save money with your fridge or freezer is to get rid of an older model, particularly if you have a second appliance located in a basement or garage. This program targets second appliances to take them out of circulation. Commonly referred to as a ‘beer fridge’ these older units aren’t just a little less efficient, they are WAY LESS EFFICIENT. A 1986 vintage 18 cubic foot refrigerator uses 1400 kWh a year, while a new ENERGY STAR model uses only 350 kWh — a whopping 75% difference!

Dominion Virginia Power (DVP) is conducting a refrigerator and freezer roundup that will pay you to take away and recycle your old second appliance. You don’t have to lift a finger and they will pay you $50. Not a bad deal, right?

As with anything, terms and conditions apply. The appliances must be between 10-30 cubic feet in size, older than 10 years, and be in working order. Please visit the program website to review all information and to register.

Act now! The program will no longer accept applications after May 31, 2017. If you’ve been thinking of getting rid of your second fridge or freezer, there is no easier way to do it and get paid. They’ll even come and haul it out of your basement.