What Is the Weatherization Assistance Program? How It Lowers Bills and Who Qualifies.

You may have heard that unplugging your toaster or turning off your lights when you’re not using them can help you save money on your utility bills.

It’s true — every little bit helps. But making your home more energy efficient can do much more to lower your utility bills. Making small “weatherization” upgrades — like wrapping your water heater or sealing air ducts — can be a real money saver each and every month.

Households that participate in the Weatherization Assistance Program save an average of $372 every year!

What Is Weatherization?

Weatherization refers to home upgrades that protect your home from things like cold, heat, water, and wind. These small but important upgrades keep your home safe from weather damage, and they can also help save energy – and money.

Here are some of the most common weatherization upgrades or repairs:

• Insulating attics, sidewalls, floors, and foundation perimeter
• Sealing heating ducts
• Adding weather stripping around windows or doors
• Tuning up, repairing, or upgrading heating systems or water heaters
• Reducing air leakage in the walls or attic
• Replacing broken window glass
• Installing low-flow shower heads
• Swapping in energy-efficient light bulbs

How Does the Weatherization Assistance Program Work?

This federally funded program is run by local community organizations in your area. If you qualify, here’s what happens:

1. First, a local expert visits your home. They look for places that waste energy — this is called an energy audit. 
2. Then a service team comes to make the fixes your home needs. 
3. Finally, someone checks the work when it’s done to make sure it was done right. Your health and safety are a priority during this process.

Do I Qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program?

Whether you qualify depends on your income. You may already be eligible if you get help from any of these programs:

• Aid to the Needy Disabled (AND)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)  
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)  
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)  
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/LEAP)

This program prioritizes older adults, families with a member who has a disability, families with children, and households with high energy use or high energy costs. Both homeowners and renters can apply.

How Do I Apply for Weatherization Assistance?

Step 1: Reach out to your state’s office

You may be able to apply online. But most local providers prefer you to contact the coordinator for your state or visit in person. 

Step 2: Complete your application

You’ll have to provide proof of last year’s household income, such as your pay stubs or Social Security payments.

Step 3: Wait for approval

If you’re eligible for the program, the local provider will reach out to schedule services. If you’re a renter, they’ll also need to contact your landlord.

What Other Home Maintenance Tasks Can Help Save Money?

Small tasks you do throughout the year can help you avoid big repairs later on, reducing the chance of unexpected expenses. Staying on top of home upkeep each season also helps you address any potential safety issues, like slippery stairs. Download a helpful, free checklist.

Sources:

Whole House Weatherization