Texas homeowners looking to remodel or upgrade their home will get a big sales tax break on energy efficient purchases this Memorial weekend. To qualify for the tax-free offer, which in San Antonio will save residents 8.125 percent in sales tax, purchases must be Energy Star-qualified.
You can purchase everything from air conditioning units to compact fluorescent light bulbs tax-free over Memorial Day weekend, May 23 through 25.
The statewide tax-free weekend, similar to one usually held for clothing purchases in late August, can save homeowners hundreds of dollars when major appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines and air conditioning units are purchased.
The Energy Star label was developed by the Environmental Protection Agency and appears on appliances that use less energy or water to operate than the industry standard.
According to the state comptroller's office, the tax-free weekend includes:
• Air conditioners priced under $6,000 (both room and central units)
• Washing machines
• Ceiling fans
• Dehumidifiers
• Dishwashers
• Light bulbs (incandescent and fluorescent)
• Programmable thermostats
• Refrigerators priced under $2,000.
Washing machines are on the list but dryers are not because Energy Star doesn't certify dryers. But people who purchase combination washer and dryer units will qualify for the exemption as long as the appliance is classified as a clothes washer by Energy Star. Find out at www.EnergyStar.gov.
Another great thing is that San Antonio Water System customers who purchase the highest efficiency washing machines (Tier 3) can qualify for a $100 rebate on their water bill. The Tier 3 machines reduce energy use up to 70 percent and water use up to half.
There is no limit on how many Energy Star items someone can purchase so landlords, home builders, developers, dealers, service providers and contractors can purchase appliances tax free even if they are held in inventory.
