Kitchen Appliance Tax Deduction: What You Can Actually Claim

When you buy a new kitchen appliance tax deduction, a potential reduction in your federal income tax for purchasing energy-efficient home equipment. Also known as home energy tax credit, it’s not a rebate—it’s a direct cut to what you owe the IRS. Most people think this only applies to solar panels or insulation, but certain kitchen appliances qualify too—if they meet strict federal efficiency standards.

Not every new fridge or dishwasher gets you a deduction. Only those labeled with the Energy Star, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program that certifies products meeting high energy efficiency standards. Also known as ENERGY STAR certified appliances, these products use 10–50% less energy than standard models. For 2024 and 2025, you can claim up to 30% of the cost (capped at $600) for qualifying energy efficient appliances, kitchen equipment like refrigerators, ranges, ovens, and dishwashers that meet updated federal efficiency benchmarks. That means if you buy a $2,000 ENERGY STAR fridge that qualifies, you could knock $600 off your tax bill. But here’s the catch: you must have paid for it yourself, installed it in your primary home, and kept the receipt and manufacturer’s certification statement.

What doesn’t count? Regular upgrades like a new microwave or a basic blender. The IRS doesn’t care about convenience—it cares about energy savings. You also can’t claim appliances bought for rental properties or second homes. And no, you can’t stack this with state-level rebates unless the program allows it. Some states offer their own credits on top of the federal one, but you’ll need to check your state’s rules separately.

Want to know if your appliance qualifies? Look for the yellow Energy Star label on the box or check the manufacturer’s website for a certification document. The product must be listed on the ENERGY STAR product database (though you don’t need to link to it—just verify). If it’s a range or oven, it must be electric and meet the 2023 efficiency standard. Dishwashers need to use less than 2.5 gallons per cycle. Refrigerators must have a specific annual energy use rating. These aren’t guesses—they’re exact numbers the IRS checks.

Don’t assume your contractor or store clerk knows the rules. Many salespeople mix up rebates, tax credits, and deductions. The kitchen appliance tax deduction is real, but it’s narrow. Only a few models qualify each year, and the rules change slightly every cycle. If you’re planning a kitchen upgrade, buy the appliance first, then file your taxes with Form 5695. Keep everything: the receipt, the certification label, even the packaging. The IRS doesn’t ask for it upfront, but they will if you get audited.

Below, you’ll find real guides on how to pick appliances that save you money—not just on your electric bill, but on your taxes too. We’ve covered what actually qualifies, how to spot the right models, and how to avoid the common mistakes that cost people their credits. Whether you’re replacing a 15-year-old fridge or upgrading your dishwasher, these posts give you the straight facts—not marketing hype.