News 12 This Morning, March 31, 2010

AIKEN, S.C. -- Today marks the start of the Energy Star federal tax rebate program in South Carolina. However a new report to lawmakers find fraud with some Energy Star labeling. The report shows that some companies have not disclosed all of the item specifications when applying for the consumer seal.

The Energy Star helps consumers identify products that are certified energy and water efficient. The detailed report, by the Government Accountability Office, shows several products such as a "gas powered alarm clock" that were able to obtain the Energy Star logo, without meeting any energy standards.

As the rebate period begins, appliance experts suggest you compare labels carefully, and ask sales associates about the true differences in appliances. For example. a top load 'efficient' washer can consume up to 24 gallons of water, while a front load can use a fraction of that, retailers tell News 12.

The South Carolina appliance rebates apply to clothes washers, dishwashers, and some refrigerators. The rebates, up to $150.00, will continue until the 3.9 million dollars in earmarked funds run out. The program is only available to South Carolina residents, and consumers must be ready to trade in their old appliance for the new Energy Star model.

We've assembled several resources for you on this page, to explain the program and the government report, in greater detail.