Politicians and social media can’t get enough of the gas versus electric stove debate (at Lifehacker, we think Electric Stoves Are Good, Actually)—but regardless of where you stand on it, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) federal legislation that was passed last year can essentially score you a free electric range in the hopes of incentivizing people to make the switch.
Who qualifies for a rebate for a new electric range
The rebate amount you’ll qualify for will depend on how your income compares to the Area Median Income in your area. (You can calculate your AMI with this tool by entering your address.) If your income falls between 80% and 150% of your local AMI, you’re eligible for a rebate of 50% of the price of your electric range, cooktop, or wall oven (up to a maximum credit of $840.) If your income falls below 80% of the AMI, you’ll qualify for a rebate of 100% of the price (up to $840.) (If your incomes is above 150% of the AMI, you do not qualify for a rebate.)
You might also qualify for rebates on things like converting from natural gas or propane to electric; upgrading your home’s electrical panel; or for insulation, air sealing, and ventilation. This calculator from Rewiring America can help you determine what you are eligible for.
How to apply for the rebate
The legislation provides funding to states for the purchase of new appliances, so the application process will vary depending on how your state sets up its own program. Per Consumer Reports:
Once the DOE allocates funding to individual states, those states will still need time to set up these programs. Once they’re up and running, the DOE suggests visiting the
Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency
, which tracks tax incentives and credits related to energy efficiency in all 50 states. Click on your state to check whether they’ve rolled out the program locally, and follow the steps listed.
Save any paperwork related to the purchase and installation of your qualifying appliance. Follow your state’s specific steps, including filing any applications. You’ll likely receive the rebate at the point of sale or in the form of a check or direct deposit. But keep in mind your state will set specific parameters. If you upgrade your home’s electrical panel to accommodate an electric cooking appliance, you’ll likely receive that money back in the form of a tax credit when you file your state and federal income taxes next year.
Electric stoves for $840 or less
If you’re below 80% of your local Area Median Income and are looking to take advantage of the full $840 rebate, you’ll find plenty of options in that price range. As of this writing, here are some current deals (prices can fluctuate):
Hotpoint: 30-in., 5-cu. ft. freestanding electric range ($529 at Lowe’s)
GE: 30-in., 5-cu. ft. electric Range ($548 at Home Depot)
Amana: 4.8-cu. ft. freestanding electric range ($599.99 at Best Buy)
Samsung: 6.3-cu. ft. freestanding electric range with “Rapid Boil,” wifi and self-clean ($749.99 at Best Buy)
Whirlpool: 5.3-cu. ft. freestanding electric range with steam-cleaning and “frozen bake” ($699.99 at Best Buy)
GE: 30-in., 5.3-cu. ft. electric range with self-cleaning oven ($758 at Home Depot)
Amana: 30-in., 4.8-cu. ft. freestanding electric range ($599 at Lowe’s)