Cash in your pocket and the removal of that old avocado green refrigerator sitting unused in the basement or garage?

A new refrigerator-recycling program taking place throughout New York offers just that. Residents are paid $30 for each fridge or freezer scheduled for free pick-up; National Grid is to thank for the effort that could account for an annual electricity savings of up to $150.

Typically, appliances recycled through the program are outdated units that either sit unused or serve as extra storage in garages and basements. But the convenience of chilling an extra six-pack and some leftovers can come with a steep price: refrigerators manufactured before 1990 can use three times more electricity than new appliances. With folks planning fall cleanup projects, and others getting used to life as empty nesters now that the kids are back-to-school and off to college, this is a perfect time to say goodbye to the old refrigerator or freezer.

To receive the $30 reward, residents only have to schedule a pick-up time to have their old, working refrigerator removed.

National Grid customers can schedule the pick-up of refrigerators or freezers by calling 1-877-691-0021 or enrolling online at powerofaction.com/unyfridge. Limit of two units for pick-up and rebates per household.