Floridians can buy energy-saving appliances for the next three days without paying sales taxes.

The Florida Legislature approved the sales tax holiday earlier this year. The tax holiday started at 12:01 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19, and runs through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014.

For shoppers like Princeton Derosier, now is the time to buy whether it’s a washing machine, a refrigerator or even a light bulb.

“With electricity being high right now… You know? It’s the perfect time,” Derosier said.

At Appliance Direct, manager Ed Audy explained.  “They are getting rid of their old appliances that suck up all the electricity for newer better appliances,” he said. 

Which is why customers like Derosier have planned on shopping this weekend.

This tax holiday comes after Governor Rick Scott signed a bill back in May which says that No local or state taxes can be collected on the first $1,500 of the sales price of Energy Star of Water Sense products. Local businesses like this Appliance Direct in Kissimmee said that they’re expecting a big weekend.

Some people looking for new appliances told us they are excited to spend when it’s tax free.

Florida's sales tax is 6 percent, and local governments sometimes charge extra.

Consumers do not have to pay the tax on the first $1,500 of energy-efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers and air conditioners. Other items that qualify include efficient light bulbs and ceiling fans.

The tax is also waived on toilets, faucets and other items that cut down on water consumption.

Tax-exempt appliances in Florida, Sept. 19–21, 2014

The tax break is limited to a single purchase for each item that costs $500 or more. There is no limit for items under $500.

Qualifying Energy Star Products

  • Air purifier
  • Ceiling fan
  • Clothes dryer
  • Clothes washer
  • Dehumidifier
  • Dishwasher
  • Freezer
  • Light bulbs (packages)
  • Refrigerator
  • Room air conditioner
  • Swimming pool pump
  • Water heate

NOTE: An Energy Star item must be designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Department of Energy as meeting or exceeding the requirements under the Energy Star Program. An Energy Star label must be affixed to the product.

Qualifying WaterSense Products

  • Bathroom sink faucet
  • Faucet accessory
  • High-efficiency toilet or urinal
  • Showerhead
  • Weather or sensor-based irrigation controlle

NOTE: A WaterSense item must be recognized as water efficient by the WaterSense Program sponsored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. A WaterSense label must be affixed to the product.

This holiday does not apply to the rental or repair of any of these items.