If your home wastes energy and costs too much to heat and cool, free government assistance may be available to increase its energy efficiency. On average, weatherizing your home can reduce home energy bills by up to 20%.
The Weatherization Assistance Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy and provides grants to local agencies nationwide to increase energy efficiency for both homeowners and renters. These agencies use the grants to offer home energy audits and weatherization services at no cost to income-qualified homeowners and renters.
Since its inception, the program has weatherized over five million homes. Common upgrades that are covered include:
- Energy audits to identify energy efficiency needs
- Repairing or replacing outdated heating and cooling systems to increase energy savings
- Sealing air leaks with weatherstripping and caulking
- Upgrades to add energy-saving insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces
- Upgrades to install Energy Star-certified appliances
- Upgrading inefficient lighting
Weatherizing your home not only reduces energy bills, it also makes it more comfortable. It can have a big impact on lower-income households. Lowering energy bills, decreasing your carbon footprint, and upgrading your living conditions are just a few ways this program can benefit you.
Who Qualifies for Free Weatherization?
The Weatherization Assistance Program is income-based and open to homeowners, renters, and multi-family housing. Exact eligibility guidelines vary by state but are generally based on household income as a percentage of the federal poverty level. To check if you are income-eligible to qualify, contact your local weatherization agency. You can find listings by state through the Weatherization Assistance Program Project Map on the Department of Energy website.
In addition to weatherization assistance, many utility companies offer rebates and incentives on energy-efficient upgrades that may be combined with government program grants.
So, Is the Weatherization Assistance Application Process Worth It?
For households struggling with high energy use and energy bills, free weatherization services can provide substantial savings on energy bills and add comfort. While the application and waitlist may take some time, the long-term energy efficiency benefits are worthwhile, especially for drafty, outdated homes.
In my experience, even small upgrades like sealing air leaks, adding attic insulation, or swapping appliances for ENERGY STAR models can meaningfully boost your energy savings. Lowering your energy costs frees up more money for other essential expenses.
I recommend that if you meet eligibility criteria, you take advantage of free weatherization assistance to increase your energy efficiency and make your energy bills more affordable. Bring down those high energy bills by getting started through your local weatherization agency. Winterizing your home, along with taking advantage of the weatherization assistance program, will help to maximize your savings.
FAQs About Weatherization Assistance
How do I apply for free weatherization services?
Contact your local weatherization agency to submit an application. Find yours using the WAP Project Map.
What energy efficiency upgrades are typically covered?
Common upgrades include insulation, air sealing, heating and cooling repairs, ENERGY STAR appliances, lighting upgrades, and full home energy audits. Upgrades are customized per home.
Who qualifies for free weatherization assistance?
It’s available to homeowners, renters, and multi-family units meeting income requirements, which vary by state but are based on federal poverty guidelines.
Is there a waitlist for services?
Yes, approved applicants are placed on a waitlist. The wait time for services varies based on location and demand.
