万花筒 2010-04-08&04-09 美国也搞“家电下乡”？（在线收听）

Now to one of the latest efforts to jump start the economy. It's like the government's cash for Clunker's program. But this one is for things like refrigerators and washing machines aimed at getting consumers to buy more energy efficient appliances. But as NBC's Tom Costello reports, there are questions about whether the program will work. Bargain hunting in New York City.

-"So is it fitting in your spot in your kitchen?"

-"Yeah, the height is OK."

Well, the Claire Upple's family was looking for a new refrigerator, drawn into a home depot by the government's $300 million cash for appliances’ program. Buy a new fridge, washing machine or dish washer with the energy star logo. And you could get a rebate of $50 to $250.

-"It gives me the incentive to come in today to buy a refrigerator that we kind of needed. Because for the least our refrigerator is 15 years old."

Because of the program varies from state to state. Consumers should check when their state's program begins and which appliances are included. Some offer deeper discounts for buying several appliances. Some offer cash for recycling old appliances.

"The government estimates that up to 30% of an American home's energy use comes from appliances. And energy star appliances can cut that electricity use by up to 30%."

The government is borrowing a page from last year's $3 billion cash for Clunker's program. While rebates of up to $4500 helped boost car sales. 690,000 new vehicles were sold, giving the economy a shot in the arm. But critics argue both programs are a waste of money, providing just a short-term economic pump.

-It doesn't help the economy in the long-term. What helps economy in the long-term is for consumers, household people to get their consumption up and keep it up.

But already consumers are smelling deals.

-"We have a lot of people coming in, mainly because there is a date and end date to this."

The end date is when each day's money runs out.

Tom Costello NBC News Washington