Protecting your wallet, the environment

VIGO CO., Ind. (WTHI) - Each month, energy bills stack up on everyone's counter and it seems the costs increase every time.

Many people look for ways to reduce their energy costs.

But what if you could pay less money and help the environment?

You know that old refrigerator or freezer taking up space in your garage? It’s costing you as much as $150 more in energy costs each year.

That's equivalent to a gourmet coffee every day for a month, which is money you didn't even know you had.

"I think that: one, they’re saving money they don’t realize they’re spending,” said John Langston, Product Manager of Duke Energy Appliance Recycling Program.

Now just think if you decided to recycle that old nuisance.

Duke Energy and Jaco Environmental teamed up to help get those appliances off your hands, and keep them out of the landfills.

"This is something that only helps save customers money, but it also helps to mitigate future energy costs,” said Justin Rainer, Program Manager of Jaco Environmental.

They then created the Ditch the Fridge program.

They pick up your fridge or freezer, pay you $30 and create something brand-new with it.

Part of that new laptop you buy next year could come from your old recycled fridge.

Only 5 percent of the items end up in a landfill.

Not only are you using recycled materials, but you're also helping to save the environment from harmful chemicals.

“It helps us to remove those units off the grid. That power’s just going out the window, and to be able to redirect that power, we don’t have to go out and build power plants,” said Langston.

“It helps to keep these units from going into landfills and leaking harmful products into the groundwater,” said Rainer.

This can be a win-win for everyone involved.

“It’s the right thing to do. I mean, they save money, get an incentive and they recycle,” said Langston.

For more information on how you can recycle your old refrigerator, call Duke Energy at 855-398-6200.

The appliances do have to be in working order in order for the company to take it and between 10 and 30 cubic feet. You'll receive the $30 check within four to six weeks of pickup.