Weatherization is the process of protecting your home from outside weather conditions like extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain.
When your home is properly weatherized, it stays warmer during winter and cooler during summer—all while using less energy. This can save you money on utility bills and make your home more comfortable to live in.
What Happens When You Weatherize a Home?
Weatherizing involves making improvements and repairs to help your home use energy more efficiently. Here are some common examples:
Energy-Saving Upgrades:
- Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs
- Installing low-flow shower heads and faucet attachments
Heating and Cooling Repairs:
- Fixing and tuning up heating systems
Sealing and Insulation:
- Adding insulation to walls and attics
- Sealing gaps around doors and windows
- Replacing broken window glass
- Wrapping hot water tanks with insulation
- Blocking drafts by sealing air leaks
- Insulating heating and cooling ducts
Why Does Weatherization Matter?
Weatherizing your home is a smart investment that pays off over time. Benefits include:
- Lower energy bills
- Increased home value
- Better indoor air quality
- Improved sleep quality
- Fewer safety hazards related to energy use
- Less harm to the environment
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Many people with limited income have trouble paying their energy bills. Sometimes they have to choose between paying for utilities and buying food.
If this sounds like your situation, you may qualify for free help through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
WAP is the largest home energy efficiency program in the United States. It helps families with limited income improve their home's energy performance at no cost.
The program operates in all 50 states, Washington D.C., Native American tribal areas, and U.S. territories.
Key facts about WAP:
- Supports about 8,500 jobs nationwide
- Helps weatherize around 32,000 homes each year
- Saves qualifying households an average of $372 or more per year
- Services are completely free for those who qualify
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for WAP if you are a homeowner, renter, or mobile home owner. The main factor is your household income.
You generally qualify if your income falls at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, or if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Priority is given to:
- Adults aged 60 and older
- Households with a family member who has a disability
- Families with children (in most states)
- Households that use a lot of energy
- Households that spend a large portion of their income on energy
- Each state may also have additional rules for eligibility.
How to Apply
The application process varies by state, but here are the general steps:
Step 1: Submit an Application
Find your local WAP agency by visiting the Department of Energy's website and selecting your state, tribe, or territory. Follow the instructions to apply. You may need to provide proof of income, such as pay stubs.
Note: In some states, like New Hampshire, you apply for WAP through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application. Just check "yes" when asked if you want weatherization services.
Step 2: Get a Free Energy Audit
If approved, an energy expert will visit your home to assess its energy efficiency. They will look for problems like drafty windows, inefficient appliances, and safety issues like mold. Based on this assessment, they will create a plan for improvements.
Step 3: Prepare Your Home
Before the work begins, make sure to:
- Secure your pets
- Clear clutter from main areas
- Make your attic and basement easy to access
- Get permission from your landlord if you rent
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Read more: New Construction vs. Existing Homes: Which Is Right for You?
