Cash for cleaners: Get government rebates for new appliances

Call it stimulus a la Crazy Eddie. Uncle Sam wants you to buy appliances, and he's slashing prices to get you to do it! To stimulate spending (and to boost appliance-makers' fortunes), the government has set aside $300 million in rebates for new, energy-saving appliances. Need a new refrigerator or dishwasher for the kitchen? You'll get cash back. Need a new clothes washer or dryer? You'll get cash back. A water heater, a furnace, a boiler, an air conditioner? You'll get cash back — as much as $250!

(Fast-talking fine-print announcer guy: "Not all appliances are eligible. Rebates available while money lasts. Programs are being administered state-by-state; visit energysavers.gov to find out what's available in your area.")

(via AP)