New rebates have been added for 2010.

Our local utility Pacific Gas and Electric has a bunch of cash rebates and ways to go green for energy efficient appliances, appliance recycling, insulation, Central Natural Gas Furnace, Whole House Fan, Duct Sealing, cool roofs, water heaters, pool pumps, Home lighting, and more. You can even submit rebate requests online and then send in proof of purchase.

Check your local utility’s web site for similar deals before you buy a new item.  Most rebates run through December 31.

We recently bought a new dishwasher that had a $50 PGE rebate that was not advertised by the vendor. PGE fulfilled the rebate in only 2 weeks. Green homes and cash back.

You can also call PGE and ask for a Smart Home Rebate Booklet

Be sure to also take advantage of the 30% Federal Energy Tax Credit which expires 12/31/2010.

photo credit: chippenziedeutch

I keep hearing Air Duct and Vent Cleaning commercials on the radio. Clearly it is a big business.  They brush and vacuum up each air duct and into each return where possible.  It is supposed to help remove dust, mold, etc especially helpful for people with allergies.

American Lung Association states:

“Duct cleaning has not been shown to prevent health problems, nor is scientific evidence currently available to conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not recommend that air ducts be cleaned routinely, but only as needed.”

They also have tips for improving Air Quality.