As part of a state law passed last year, utilities have adopted programs to pick up old refrigerators and freezers, haul them away and give the customers a rebate ranging from $25 to $50. That way, the inefficient energy hogs are removed from the electricity grid, moving utilities closer to reducing electricity use by 5.5% by 2015.
Since starting its program in late June, DTE Energy has picked up more than 1,000 refrigerators and freezers and given customers $50 rebates.
The appliances are stacked four high at JACO Environmental in Livonia, which has been contracted by the state's three large utilities -- DTE, Consumers Energy and Lansing Board of Water and Light -- and 20 municipal utilities to pick up and recycle the appliances.
"It means that our customers will be saving money, and we'll be getting those old refrigerators recycled," said DTE spokesman Scott Simons.
DTE has a few requirements: the appliance must be clean and in working condition, size between 10 cu ft to 30 cu ft, you must be a Detroit Edison customer, and someone 18 or older must be present to sign for it at pick up. Call 866-796-0512 to schedule a pick up or if you have further questions. They are also taking room air conditioners and dehumidifiers and offering a $20 rebate as well.
Consumers is offering $30 bucks on the old fridges, and for 2009, they are only picking up in Flint, Saginaw, Jackson, Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. They will expand to all their customers statewide in 2010. Same conditions above apply; they must be at least 10 cu ft in size, clean and working, and you are allowed two units per residence per calendar year. Call 877-270-3519 to schedule a pick up.
Not a customer of either of these two? Call your utility and see if they have anything going.
I didn't see a time limit on this, so it's not like you have to rush out immediately to take advantage of the program. Just something to tuck away for future reference for when you get a new refrigerator.