Appliance rebate confuses customers

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Constant rings of confusion came from the sales cubicles at Kiva Kitchen & Bath in north Austin Tuesday. Customers with questions about the energy efficient rebate registration the next day continued to call until close.

As part of the Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program , you can use the rebates to buy "green" appliances and save hundreds of dollars in the process. The countdown to the opening hour of 7 a.m. Wednesday put some potential customers in a panic, as they worked to figure out those last-minute details.

"You actually have to sign up to get a place in line to reserve a rebate,” said Alan Dove, Kiva general manager.

TexasPowerfulSmart.org is the necessary tool. Some Kiva customers scoped out the displays Tuesday to get their rebates exactly right.

"You can't just do it in five minutes,” Jan Neese said. “It's going to take a little longer than that."

The actual time to purchase new products after you receive your rebate starts April 16 and runs through April 25. The rebates and the energy efficient appliances are first come first serve.

"We don't anticipate having to referee any fights, but we'll see,” Dove said with a laugh.

With only $23 million in federal stimulus, Texas' portion of the program won't be open long. The Web site will also tell you how to recycle your old appliance. Disposal, at least, is required for the rebate.