Local appliance stores are preparing to be bombarded by customers today during the Florida Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program.
The program, made possible by a federal grant and legislation signed by Gov. Charlie Crist in 2009, will provide 20 percent rebates for about 68,000 new Energy Star appliances purchased from Florida retailers.
Stores will have additional inventory, extended hours and extra staff to assist customers applying for rebates.
Crist said appliances purchased between today and April 25 will qualify for rebates, according to a press release. Purchasers can reserve rebates by applying for a priority number starting at 11 a.m. today.
Energy Star refrigerators, freezers, washers, dishwashers, gas tankless water heaters and room air conditioners are eligible for rebates.
Robert Jammer, appliance professional at Martin Appliance Family on Northwest Fourth Boulevard, said employees have been working day and night to accommodate the high number of costumers they expect. The store has also been assisting customers by offering layaway sales that will end Friday.
The store will be extending its hours over the weekend, staying open from 6 a.m. until at least 2 a.m.
“This is the biggest appliance day in the last 20 years,” he said.
Allen Crabtree, general manager of Sears at the Oaks Mall, said the store will be opening at 6 a.m. today and Saturday, and every employee on staff will be working.
“It’s good for the environment and good for the customer,” he said. “It’s a win-win situation.”
