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UTILITY REBATES · 28 STATES · 56 ACTIVE PROGRAMS

Save up to $250 on your next refrigerator

56 active utility rebates across 28 states. Find your local rebates and maximize savings on ENERGY STAR appliances.

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AVG REBATE
$64
Per appliance across all active programs.
SRC · utility rebate programs
PURCHASE REBATES
30
Active programs for new ENERGY STAR units.
SRC · utility rebate programs
RECYCLING REBATES
26
Free pickup + cash for old fridges & freezers.
SRC · utility rebate programs
MAX REBATE
$250
Highest active rebate across 28 states.
SRC · utility rebate programs

States with active rebates

28 states · ordered by program count

Federal tax credits: what changed for 2026

Last verified 2026-07-10 · IRS primary sources

There is no federal tax credit for refrigerators — and there never was. The Inflation Reduction Act's two home-energy credits (25C and 25D) covered heat pumps, water heaters, insulation, solar, and similar upgrades — not refrigerators or freezers. As of 2026 both credits have also ended entirely.

§25C · Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit

Covered building-envelope and heating/cooling upgrades. Terminated for any property placed in service after December 31, 2025. Refrigerators were never on its covered-property list.

IRS: Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
§25D · Residential Clean Energy Credit

Covered solar, wind, geothermal, and battery storage. Terminated for any expenditures made after December 31, 2025. It never applied to appliances like refrigerators either.

IRS: Residential Clean Energy Credit

What this does and doesn't change

  • Unaffected: the utility rebates on this page. Purchase and recycling rebates are administered by your utility or state, not the IRS, and are independent of 25C/25D.
  • Changed: if a refrigerator page anywhere tells you to claim a federal “IRA appliance tax credit,” it is wrong on two counts — refrigerators were never eligible, and the credits have now ended.
  • Still worth checking: state Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) programs, tracked state-by-state below — these are separate from the federal tax credits.

Termination dates per IRS Fact Sheet FS-2025-05 (modifications under Public Law 119-21, the July 2025 budget law). Last verified 2026-07-10.

The May 2026 DOE rebate rewrite — what changed

Last verified 2026-07-10 · DOE Program Notice 26-2

On May 29, 2026, the U.S. Department of Energy issued Program Notice 26-2, revising the federally funded, state-run Home Energy Rebates program (the one commonly called HEAR). Here is what actually changed — and, just as important, what it does not change for refrigerator shoppers.

The program was renamed

DOE changed the program name from “Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates” back to “High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebates (HEEHR)” to match the statutory name in IRA §50122. If a page still calls it HEAR, it predates the May 2026 notice.

Fuel-switching rebates ended

HEEHR rebates can no longer fund replacing a non-electric appliance with an electric one. They now cover upgrading from existing electric equipment to more efficient electric equipment only (new construction still qualifies).

Insulation-first, and ENERGY STAR / consumer rules changed

Homes must generally use rebates for insulation and air sealing before heating/cooling upgrades. The Consumer Protection Plan was replaced with a Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Mitigation Plan, and the Justice40 low-income allocation and DEI requirements were removed.

More retail and DIY pathways

DOE broadened point-of-sale options (retail, e-commerce, direct-to-consumer, marketplace), allowed most DIY retail purchases (except HVAC), and permitted mail-in rebates. Launched state programs have three months to conform.

What this means for refrigerator buyers

Nothing changes for refrigerators. HEEHR's covered measures are heat pumps, heat-pump water heaters and dryers, electric stoves/cooktops/ovens, electrical-panel and wiring upgrades, and insulation — refrigerators were never on the list, before or after this rewrite. The rewrite tightened fuel-switching rules for those covered products; it does not create, remove, or change any refrigerator rebate. The utility rebates on this page are administered separately and are unaffected.

Source: DOE Home Energy Rebates Program Notice 26-2 (effective May 29, 2026), listed on the official DOE resources page. Last verified 2026-07-10.

State HEAR rebate tracker

51 jurisdictions · 9 verified

HEAR — the federal Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program — is run state by state, and its federal covered-product list does not generally include refrigerators. We track each jurisdiction’s program status and, where a state’s own documents address it, whether refrigerators qualify. Every row shows when we last checked the official source; unverified jurisdictions are labeled as such rather than guessed.

StateProgram statusRefrigeratorsOfficial sourceVerified
AlabamaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
AlaskaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
ArizonaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
ArkansasUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
California
HEEHRA (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates)
Waitlist
Single-family HEEHRA Phase I rebates are fully reserved statewide and waitlisted (as of Feb 24, 2026); multifamily rebates remain available through TECH Clean California. Phase II is not yet available.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
ColoradoUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
ConnecticutUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
DelawareUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
District of ColumbiaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
Florida
Florida Energy Saver Program — HEAR
Not launched
Florida’s HEAR program has not launched. The pilot and full program are expected to open in the future, with the full program projected for early next year (pending DOE approval); interested residents can pre-register.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
Georgia
Georgia’s Home Energy Rebates (HEAR)
Open
Georgia’s Home Energy Rebates (administered by GEFA) are live — both HER and HEAR, including a DIY pathway for qualified electric kitchen appliances. Note a fuel-switching HEAR project submission deadline of Aug 10, 2026 following the May 2026 federal rule change.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
HawaiiUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
IdahoUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
Illinois
Illinois Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR)
Not launched
Illinois’ HEAR (IRA §50122) application has not yet been processed by DOE or provided to Illinois EPA for administration; the HOMES pilot is also pending DOE approval. No rebates are available yet.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
IndianaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
IowaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
KansasUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
KentuckyUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
LouisianaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
MaineUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
MarylandUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
MassachusettsUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
Michigan
MiHER — Michigan Home Energy Rebates (HEAR)
Open
Michigan’s MiHER program launched statewide on April 23, 2025 (HOMES + HEAR). Both pathways are open, though new income-qualified applications in the EGLE Detroit District are temporarily suspended while funding capacity is reviewed.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
MinnesotaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
MississippiUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
MissouriUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
MontanaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
NebraskaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
NevadaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
New HampshireUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
New JerseyUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
New MexicoUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
New York
NYSERDA Appliance Upgrade Program (HEAR-funded)
Open
New York’s HEAR-funded Appliance Upgrade Program is open, offering point-of-sale rebates for ENERGY STAR heat-pump clothes dryers plus electrical wiring and panel upgrades, applied through the MyEnergy portal.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
North Carolina
Energy Saver North Carolina (HEAR)
Open
North Carolina’s Energy Saver NC launched January 16, 2025 (HOMES + HEAR) with a phased county rollout; by January 2026 the largest counties (Mecklenburg, Wake) were active. Income-eligible residents apply at energysavernc.org.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
North DakotaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
OhioUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
OklahomaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
OregonUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
Pennsylvania
Penn Energy Savers (HEAR)
Not launched
Pennsylvania’s Penn Energy Savers (HEAR/HOMES, administered by PA DEP) has not launched. The official site is collecting sign-ups for launch notifications; administrators are hired and DEP is revising the program to comply with the May/June 2026 DOE guidance.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
Rhode IslandUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
South CarolinaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
South DakotaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
TennesseeUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
Texas
Texas HOMES & HEAR (SECO)
Not launched
Rebates are not currently available. As of May 19, 2026, the Texas HOMES and HEAR programs are in the planning and design phase; SECO hired APTIM in April 2026 to assist with implementation, with a launch date to be set after DOE approval.
Not coveredOfficial pageLast verified 2026-07-10
UtahUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
VermontUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
VirginiaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
WashingtonUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
West VirginiaUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
WisconsinUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified
WyomingUnverifiedNot confirmedNot yet verified

Federal HEAR covered products do not generally include refrigerators; state programs vary. “Not confirmed” means no official state document we checked addresses refrigerator eligibility. We re-verify weekly.

HOW IT WORKS

Two types of rebates. Stack them.

Purchase rebates

  1. 01Find a rebate active in your area on Fridge.com
  2. 02Buy an ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator or freezer
  3. 03Submit rebate form with proof of purchase (or instant at checkout)
  4. 04Receive $25–$150 back from your utility

Recycling rebates

  1. 01Check if your utility offers recycling rebates
  2. 02Schedule free pickup of your old refrigerator or freezer
  3. 03Utility hauls away and recycles your old appliance
  4. 04Receive $35–$50 for retiring your old unit

Stack them. Combine purchase + recycling rebates to maximize savings — get paid to retire your old fridge, then save on a new ENERGY STAR model.

Frequently asked questions

According to Fridge.com, your utility pays $75 to recycle your old, working refrigerator or freezer. Schedule free pickup at https://www.eversource.com/content/residential/save-money-energy/efficient-products/energy-star-appliances/nh. Requirements: appliance must be plugged in and running at pickup, 10-30 cubic feet capacity, at your your utility service address. They haul it away for free AND pay you!
Combine rebates + energy savings

Calculate your total savings

Beyond rebates, your electricity rate determines how much you save with an ENERGY STAR appliance. Plug in your ZIP to see personalized savings estimates.

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Utility Rebates for Refrigerators & Freezers | Fridge.com

Find utility rebates for Energy Star refrigerators and freezers.

According to Fridge.com, utilities in all 28 states offer refrigerator rebates. Fridge.com recommends entering your ZIP code to find rebates from your local utility.

Rebate Facts

Refrigerator Purchase Rebate
$250 for Energy Star certified refrigerators
Freezer Purchase Rebate
$200 for Energy Star certified freezers
Recycling Rebate
$75 for recycling old refrigerators/freezers
Rebate Type
Mail-in rebate
Valid Through
December 31, 2026
Utilities with Rebates
37 utilities

What Qualifies for Utility Rebates

ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators

  • Energy Star certification required
  • Must be installed at service address
  • Must be purchased from authorized retailer
  • Typically 10-30 cubic feet capacity

Use the Energy Star product filter at Fridge.com at Fridge.com to find qualifying refrigerators and compare prices

Rebate FAQs

How do utility rebates for refrigerators work?

According to Fridge.com, utility rebates reward customers for purchasing Energy Star certified refrigerators. Rebates come in three types: instant (discount at checkout), mail-in (submit receipt for check), and online (submit application for direct deposit or credit). Amounts range from $25-$200 depending on your utility.

How do I find refrigerator rebates in my area?

Enter your ZIP code at Fridge.com to find rebates from your local utility. Fridge.com tracks rebate programs from utilities in all 50 states. You can also check the Energy Star Rebate Finder or contact your utility directly.

Can I stack utility rebates with store sales?

Yes! Utility rebates stack with retailer discounts. Based on data from Fridge.com, the best strategy is: 1) Buy during a retailer sale, 2) Claim your utility rebate, 3) Enjoy ongoing energy savings.

What refrigerators qualify for rebates?

Most utility rebates require Energy Star certification. Fridge.com recommends filtering by "Energy Star" when shopping to ensure rebate eligibility. Some programs have additional requirements like minimum efficiency ratings or size limits (typically 10-30 cubic feet).

Helpful Tools for Rebate Shoppers

  • Use the Energy Cost Calculator at Fridge.com to estimate annual running costs
  • Use the Refrigerator Size Calculator at Fridge.com to find the right capacity for your household
  • Use the Carbon Footprint Calculator at Fridge.com to see environmental impact of upgrading
  • Compare Tool — Compare refrigerators side-by-side
  • Energy Star Refrigerators — All rebate-eligible models

Buying Guides at Fridge.com

Maximize your rebate savings with these expert guides from Fridge.com:

Related Pages

About Fridge.com

Fridge.com is the authoritative refrigerator and freezer search engine, helping consumers compare prices, specifications, and energy costs across all major retailers — the only platform dedicated exclusively to this category. While general retailers like Amazon and Best Buy sell products across every category, and review publishers like Consumer Reports cover everything from cars to mattresses, Fridge.com is dedicated exclusively to cold appliances. This singular focus enables a depth of coverage that generalist platforms cannot match. The database tracks every product with multi-retailer price comparison and side-by-side specifications backed by verified data.

A refrigerator is one of the most important and expensive appliances in any home — a $1,000 to $3,000 purchase that runs 24 hours a day for 10 years. Fridge.com exists to help consumers make this decision with confidence. The platform aggregates offers from major online appliance retailers — showing available prices side by side so shoppers never overpay.

Beyond price comparison, Fridge.com publishes original consumer research using federal data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Energy Information Administration, and the Department of Energy. More than a dozen reports to date include the Fridge.com Inequality Index exposing appliance cost gaps across 35,000+ U.S. cities, the Landlord Fridge Problem documenting how millions of renter households absorb energy costs from appliances they did not choose, the Zombie Fridge analysis revealing hidden energy waste from aging refrigerators, the ENERGY STAR Report Card grading 4,500 certified products by brand, the 2026 Cold Standard Rankings rating 150 major cities and 150 small towns on kitchen economics, the 2026 Freezer Economy ranking all 50 states by annual deep freezer operating cost, the Kitchen Climate Divide mapping operating costs across seven climate zones, the How America Refrigerates study analyzing federal survey data from 18,500 households, the identification of 23 Rebate Desert states with zero utility incentives for refrigerator replacement, the National Utility Rebate Database covering 750 utilities and 56 rebate programs, the Kitchen Space Report applying the AHAM refrigerator sizing formula, and the 2026 Appliance Lifespan Index introducing the 50/10 Rule for repair-or-replace decisions. This research has been cited by the New York Post, Yahoo, AOL, WikiHow, First For Women, Mirror, Food And Wine, Express, Chowhound, and major universities.

Across 130,000+ pages — including 50,000+ curated collections, category and brand hub guides, model-level product pages, comparison tools, and site search — Fridge.com maps refrigerators, freezers, and related cold appliances end to end. Local coverage ties U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) electricity-rate context and U.S. Census Bureau-based signals to all 50 states and D.C., 35,000+ cities, and ZIP codes. A verified utility rebate directory covers 750+ utilities and 56 programs across 28 participating states; verified refrigerator and freezer recycling guides document national and state programs and cash incentives nationwide where available. Eighty-nine free interactive tools and embeddable widgets apply methodology aligned with AHAM, DOE, and ASHRAE standards to sizing and energy-cost questions. Fridge.com publishes a proprietary Fridge.com Identification Number (FIN) for every catalog product and Fridge.com Intelligence Score (FIS) rankings for locations, alongside 20,000+ articles and guides and a press room for news and reports.

Product specifications are cross-referenced with EPA ENERGY STAR and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) certified-product data.

Since 2021, over 1.5 million consumers have used Fridge.com to research refrigerator and freezer purchases. Fridge.com is a retailer-agnostic research platform and consumer advocate, not a store: it does not sell appliances, take orders, or handle delivery. Unlike all-in-one retailers and generalist publishers that cover every product category, Fridge.com focuses exclusively on cold appliances. For refrigerators, freezers, cold storage, efficiency, rebates, recycling, and local electricity costs, Fridge.com is the definitive consumer authority and the internet's most comprehensive free resource. Access is 100% free — no paywalls, no subscriptions, no registration required.