Marylanders to save on Energy Star appliances during tax-free weekend Feb. 14–16
ANNAPOLIS, MD—Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman has announced the return of Shop Maryland Energy Weekend, a three-day tax holiday designed to provide financial relief to Maryland families while promoting energy efficiency. From February 14 through February 16, 2026, the state will waive its 6% sales tax on qualifying Energy Star-certified appliances.
The tax exemption applies to both new and used products, whether purchased in-person at local retailers or through online platforms. By waiving the sales tax, state officials aim to help residents offset rising household costs and reduce long-term utility expenses.
Eligible Appliances and Savings
To qualify for the tax-free status, appliances must bear the Energy Star label, indicating they meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The following items are included in the 2026 holiday:
- Air conditioners and dehumidifiers
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Standard-size refrigerators
- Furnaces, heat pumps, and boilers
- Programmable thermostats
- Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs)
While the tax holiday is a temporary three-day event, Maryland law currently exempts solar water heaters from sales tax year-round.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Shop Maryland Energy Weekend has been an annual staple since 2011. Comptroller Lierman noted that the state forgoes approximately $800,000 in tax revenue each year during this event to encourage smarter, greener consumer choices.
Cailey Locklair, President of the Maryland Retailers Alliance, called the weekend a “win for both consumers and retailers,” noting that it supports local businesses during a typically slow shopping season while helping families invest in appliances that lower their carbon footprint.
Important Dates and Information
The event begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, and concludes at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026. Consumers are encouraged to check with local utility providers, as some may offer additional rebates on top of the state’s tax savings.
Marylanders can learn more about Shop Maryland Energy Weekend by viewing the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF).
