FREDERICK, Md., June 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The new Appliance Recycling Program from Potomac Edison can reduce Maryland customers' energy costs by up to $150 per year while putting $50 in their pockets when they have their old second refrigerators or freezers hauled away and recycled.

Ruth Bruening of Frederick, Md., had her old refrigerator picked up for recycling today.

"Once you realize how much money you can save, it really doesn't make much sense to keep another refrigerator running in the garage," said Bruening, who was among the first customers to take advantage of the program.

Second refrigerators are often used for overflow, leftovers or beverages. Studies have shown that refrigerators and freezers manufactured before 1990 can consume three times more electricity than newer appliances, adding up to $150 per year to a household's energy costs.

"These units represent a sizeable energy expense for a household and provide only limited use in most homes today," said Jim Fakult, president of Maryland operations for FirstEnergy. "This is an excellent opportunity for our customers to enjoy substantial annual savings, and receive a $50 rebate reward."

Today at the Bruening home, Potomac Edison representatives presented Ruth Bruening with a $50 rebate check, and her old refrigerator was hauled away for recycling. Through the recycling process, 95 percent of the old appliance will be beneficially reused, and any toxic substances, including oil or refrigerant, will be disposed of properly, another benefit when compared to sending an old appliance to a landfill.

To schedule a pickup, call 1-877-270-3521 or visit [ energysaveMD.com ]. Refrigerator/freezers and freezers are eligible for the program, and customers may recycle two units per utility account per year. Appliances must be in working order with an inside measurement of between 10 and 30 cubic feet.

Potomac Edison works with JACO Environmental, which removes the appliances from residents' homes. JACO then transports the units to its recycling facility, where the old appliances are dismantled and de-manufactured in an environmentally responsible manner.

"There are many ways for people to reduce their energy consumption and impact on the environment. Recycling a refrigerator ranks near the top. It works for the environment, your wallet and for conserving our precious resources," said Michael Dunham, director of energy and environmental programs for JACO.

Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: [ FE ]), serves 388,000 customers in Maryland and West Virginia.

FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company dedicated to safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its 10 electric distribution companies comprise one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems. Its diverse generating fleet features non-emitting nuclear, scrubbed baseload coal, natural gas, and pumped-storage hydro and other renewables, and has a total generating capacity of nearly 23,000 megawatts.

SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.

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Potomac Edison Highlights New Appliance Recycling Program to Recycle Old Refrigerators and Freezers

Potomac Edison Highlights New Appliance Recycling Program to Recycle Old Refrigerators and Freezers

Customers Can Get a $50 Rebate