"Cash for Clunkers" has given way to "Cash for Appliances" as the Obama administration rolls out a financial boost for home weatherization energy-efficient appliance deals."Dollars For Dishwashers” is a $300 million giveaway program that’s funded through the government’s economic stimulus plan. The program will offer rebates and other teasers for recycling certain appliances and purchases of new energy-efficient replacements.

It all combines for a nice package for the frugal but earth-friendly who may have been holding onto their wallets while waiting for the right time to strike. Watch for the FREE MONEY programs to begin run out of cash quickly in early 2010.

It's also a nice present for retailers more accustomed to getting a lump of coal as a post-holiday present, as people slow down their purchasing. Some consumers may hold back their December or January purchases in anticipation of the rebates, but it's a retail risk worth taking.

This appliance program, along with energy-efficient caulking assistance and other incentives, could be an environmental and economic win-win that should prove helpful to local, state and national recovery.