In a few short months, New York State will offer you a cash rebate if you purchase an energy star freezer, refrigerator or washer. It's the idea behind The Great Appliance Swap Out. But is it worth the wait? Our Joleene Des Rosiers has more.

SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The news came out Monday. New York State is giving consumers cash back if they purchase an energy star refrigerator, freezer or washer the week of February 12th. And if you recycle your old one on top of that, your rebate increases.

Alan Poushter, president of Ra-Lin in Syracuse, says while the rebate sounds good, other offers can benefit consumers right now and maybe even give them more than what New York State can.

Jim and Mary Nicholas aren't waiting. And for several reasons. One, sale prices prove worthy.

"It's a sale! That's a $100 savings!" Mary Nicholas said, pointing to a tag on a refrigerator.

Two, other rebates could be available to them.

And three...

"You only get a rebate on one appliance. And we're going to need at least three or four!" Nicholas said.

Okay, so what if you're at home and you're thinking right now, 'I need this appliance now. I can't wait until February, but yes it would be great to save a few bucks.' Consider this. There's almost always sales and there is almost always some sort of rebate.

"Right now, the manufacturers and the retailers are offering discounts because of the holiday season, so now is a good time to buy now," says Poushter.

Poushter also anticipates manufacturers will up prices shortly before the rebate kicks in.

"Possibly after the first of the year, we think the manufacturers might try to increase the prices, so in reality, you're better off buying now than to wait," Poushter said.

Of course, only you can decide what's best for you.

There are a few different rebates you'll get if you purchase the week of February 12th:

If you buy an energy star fridge your rebate is $75.
($105 if you recycle your old one)

If you buy an energy star washer your rebate is $75.
($100 if you recycle your old one)

If you buy a new energy star freezer, your rebate is $50.
($74 if you recycle your old one)