Family & Consumer Science News
Tax Holiday on Energy Efficient Products in October
By Terri Black County Extension Agent

If you are considering purchasing an energy efficient product for your home, you may want to wait until October. In Georgia, energy efficient products will be exempt from state sales tax if you purchase them between October 4th and 7th, 2007. This includes most energy efficient products with a sales price of $1,500.00 or less that are purchased for home or personal use. Energy efficient products include dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners, ceiling fans, fluorescent light bulbs, programmable thermostats, refrigerators, windows and doors. More information on qualifying products will be available on the Georgia Department of Revenue website at http:// www.etax.dor.ga.gov/salestax/ holiday/energy_efficient- _holiday2007.aspx.

When selecting a product, look for the Energy Star label. This voluntary labeling program was introduced in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers make informed decisions regarding the energy efficiency of the products they purchase. The program has expanded and now includes houses, office equipment and commercial products. Purchasing an Energy Star qualified clothes washer can reduce your energy use by up to 50 percent and can cut the amount of water used in half. It makes sense to invest in an energy efficient product. You will save money and help protect the environment.

To learn more about how you can save energy, contact the Burke County Extension office at 706- 554-2119.