Energy efficient refrigerators, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers and air conditioners are just some of the products qualifying for West Virginia's Energy Star Sales Tax Holiday.
Wednesday was the first day for the program that allows Mountain State shoppers to pay no sales tax when purchasing Energy Star products, with the event slated to last until Nov. 30. This is the third and final year for the program, according to a news release from Gov. Joe Manchin.
"We already got one sale in today (Wednesday) because of this program," said Mike Braunlich, co-owner of Braunlich's Whirlpool Sales in downtown Wheeling. "We did really well with it last year and are hoping for more of the same this year."
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Photo by Casey Junkins
John Miller, store manager at Lowe’s in Center Wheeling, shows off a display of Energy Star products available for purchase without paying sales tax.
John Miller, store manager at Lowe's in Center Wheeling, emphasized the offer is good on energy-saving items other than appliances, such as light bulbs, insulation and roof repair products. All items must be $5,000 or less.
"We definitely see significant increases in traffic," he said. "We try to run promotions to coincide with this offer."
With West Virginia's sales tax set at 6 percent, Miller noted someone could buy a $2,000 refrigerator without paying the normal $120 tax to the state.
In his news release, Manchin said, "Our citizens have realized energy savings from purchases made during the two previous tax holidays. I hope West Virginia families will continue to take steps to improve their household energy efficiency and our environment by participating one more time."
The West Virginia Legislature approved the tax holiday program in 2008.