The second round of rebates begins at the end of this week while the money lasts.
Are you in the market for a new washer dryer? How about an air conditioner unit heading into summer? The government wants to reward those buying energy efficient appliances for a limited time.
The Cash for Appliances program applies to appliances bought from April 16-25. The state will give an instant 15 percent rebate of the cost of your new energy efficient appliance.
"It will help reduce energy costs," said Stephen Konya, Illinois Commerce & Economic Opportunity.
The Charbonneaus' old refrigerator died. They came to ABT electronics to see if their purchase will qualify for the rebate that starts Friday.
"I probably would have bought it either way. It's nice to have the incentive," said Mark Charbonneau.
"You don't want to be here at 8 on Friday. It's gonna be really crowded," said Linda Charbonneau.
In order to qualify, all purchases must be made at the store in person. And the state will offer the rebate only as long as funds last. To reduce crowds on Friday ABT associates are offering other discounts to offset missing the rebate for early orders.
"Whichever way we can accommodate the customer, that's what we're going to have to do. More aggressive discounts to make people happy, that's what we're gonna do," said Marc Cook, ABT Electronics.
At Sears on State Street, associates are getting several inquiries about the rebates and have a plan to deal with Friday sales.
"We're going to give out numbers and serve people as we can. We expect to be as busy as Black Friday," said Tom Russell, Sears.
The rebate includes energy efficient washers, dishwashers, refrigerators and air conditioning room unit.Other states have run out of rebate money in days. The state's spokesman expects rebate money to be available, but it is first come first serve.
There's another $75 rebate if you old appliance is recycled.
For more information, log on to www.illinoisenergy.org or call 877-782-7005.
Retailers interested in participating in the program can visit www.HelpGreenIllinois.org.
