Would you take $50 for that old fridge?

Would you take $50 for that creaky old fridge in the garage?
I know, that second machine comes in handy when you want to stock up for Memorial Day cookouts or thaw a Thanksgiving turkey.
OK, I’ve also used it to hide the last piece of Greek Custard in Phyllo Dough that I make maybe once a year. (If you’re doing the dishes you have that right, don’t you?)
Either way, Duke Energy will pony up a little cash if you unplug your energy guzzler. Those older models cost up to $150 a year more to operate.
With an estimated 170 million refrigerators and refrigerator/freezers in use in the U.S., the big concern is over climate change.
Duke started recycling refrigerators and freezers in the Carolinas in 2012 and since has dismantled more than 8,700 of them. Most of those were made before 1996, the year the EPA started the Energy Star rating system for home appliances.
So maybe it’s time to replace your older machine. Duke will send someone to pick it up, as long as it’s in working condition and between 10 and 30 cubic feet in size. (Call 855-398-6200 or visit duke-energy.com/recycle.)
Before you buy a new one, visit www.energystar.gov to compare certified models; they use about 20 percent less energy.
I guess it was for the best when my old clunker died on its own. I’m still figuring out how to stock up for big events without it, but there’s definitely more than one way to stash a pastry.

Karen’s blog: http://homelifeclt.blogspot.com; on Twitter @sullivan_obs.