Appliance Rebates: What You Should Know

‍What’s Available in Los Angeles
If you live in Los Angeles, several local rebate programs make it cheaper to buy efficient appliances:

        ▪︎  The LADWP Consumer Rebate Program (CRP) offers incentives for residential customers who purchase and install energy-efficient products. These include things like ENERGY STAR heat pump water heaters, efficient HVAC or central air conditioners, whole-house fans, etc. The CRP also offers rebates for ENERGY STAR windows and cool roofs.
        ▪︎  There’s also the California Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program (HEEHRA), which is part of the Inflation Reduction Act. It’s for income-eligible households to replace old or inefficient appliances with better ones. Note: single-family homes may need to verify income eligibility, and multifamily properties are also included.

What’s Available in New Orleans
New Orleans residents also have several strong rebate and incentive options through utility programs and state/local efforts:
‍
        ▪︎  The Energy Smart NOLA program provides rebates for a variety of ENERGY STAR certified appliances. Some example rebates include $1,000 for qualifying heat pump water heaters, $300 for heat pump clothes dryers, $50 for refrigerators or window AC units, and more.
        ▪︎  Entergy Louisiana / Entergy New Orleans has retail appliance rebates for electric customers. You can get rebates or instant discounts at participating retailers for efficient appliances like smart thermostats, air purifiers, refrigerators, etc.
        ▪︎  There are ongoing home energy assessments through Energy Smart. If you complete one, you often get advice on what appliance upgrades make sense and then can pair those with rebates.

‍Tips to Get the Most From Appliance Rebates
Here are some helpful steps and things to watch out for so you don’t miss out:

       ▪︎  Always check ENERGY STAR certification. Most rebate programs only apply to appliances that are certified because they meet higher efficiency standards.
       ▪︎  Save your receipts and documentation. You’ll almost always need proof of purchase, model numbers, invoice/receipt, and possibly proof of installation.
       ▪︎  Submit rebate applications quickly after purchase. Many programs require you to apply within a set time frame (e.g. 30-60 days after purchase).
       ▪︎  Look for participating retailers. Some programs offer instant discounts at stores that partner with the rebate program, avoiding you having to wait for a check.
       ▪︎  Check if there are income eligibility or other requirements. For example HEEHRA in California often has income thresholds, or verification needed.
       ▪︎  Combine with energy assessments when available. A free or low-cost audit of your home can identify which appliance changes will give you the biggest savings.

Why These Rebates Can Be Worth It
Upgrading inefficient appliances can reduce your monthly power bills, water use, or heating/cooling costs. Over time, the savings in energy or water usage often recoup some or most of the upgrade cost, especially when rebates help offset the upfront expense. Also, efficient appliances tend to last longer and may even increase your home’s comfort and resale value.