Here’s how to find out if your home is eligible for weatherization funding.

1. Identify Your State Program:

Contact your state or local agency handling weatherization assistance. Be sure and check the resources section. Here you will find the weatherization program outline and be able to determine whether or not you’re likely eligible for assistance.

2. Submit An Application

Applications are pretty simple, and generally take only about 20 minutes to fill out. You’ll have to include proof of income with your submission. For most states, submissions are handled in person, at a local office.

3. Be Patient

If you are eligible, your weatherization agency puts you on a waiting list in the order you’re that your eligibility is established. Depending on the season, the amount of funding available, & the demand for energy audits. This process can be time consuming.

4. Schedule An Energy Audit

Once you are contacted, schedule a professional energy consultant for an energy audit and an analysis of your energy bills.

5. Weatherize

The energy audit will identify the best steps to take to minimize energy loss in your home. The recommendations can range from simple sealing of cracks or additional insulation, to upgrading of windows, furnaces and other home equipment. Follow up by scheduling the actual weatherization work with qualified contractors. Your state program contact and energy audit personnel can assist you in identifying contractors who work with the weatherization grants program.

6. Begin Saving Money!

Enjoy a more comfortable home with significantly lower energy bills!

• Switch to Energy Star-Qualified Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFL’s) from Incandescent Light Bulbs.
• A CFL produces about 75% less heat, so they are safer to operate and can cut energy costs associated with cooling your home. CFL’s also can last up to 10x longer than the standard incandescent bulb.
• Over the life of a CFL bulb, you pay approximately $30.00 less in energy costs per bulb.
• October is National Energy Month and the best time to buy CFL’s as they are usually promoted during this month.

REFRIGERATORS:

• Check the Temperature: You are losing money if your refrigerator is lower than 37-40 degrees F. The freezer should be between 0-5 degrees F.
• Cover and Wrap Food: Uncovered foods & liquids release moisture, which makes the fridge work harder.
• Check the Door Seals: Door seals that are old or worn can cause a dramatic decrease in efficiency and cause the refrigerator to use more energy to cool. Bad door seals also cause frost, which spoils food. A simple door seal test is to put a piece of paper half way in your refrigerator and close the door. If you can remove the piece of paper easily without opening the door, it’s probably time to replace the seals.

COOLING YOUR HOME:

• Install a Programmable Thermostat: Make sure it’s programmed to automatically turn down the heating or turn up the cooling when you are not home or you are sleeping.
• Set thermostat at 78 degrees F and use ceiling fans: You save 3-5% on your air conditioning cost for each degree you raise the thermostat in the summer.
• Clean Filters: Check Furnace and air conditioner filters monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer. Clean and/or replace as needed. A dirty filter can increase costs up to 10% if neglected.

WATER BILLS:

• Install a Water-Saving Shower head: They use one-third to 0ne-half the water that regular shower heads use.
• Turn the Water Heater Thermostat down to 120 degrees F. This saves energy and prevents minor burns on small children.
• Repair Leaky Faucets: Just 30 leaked drops of water a minute can waste as much as 50 gallons a month.
• Install Low-Flow Faucet Aerators: They reduce the amount of water released.
• If you’re purchasing a new water heater, buy one that is no larger than required for your household needs. The water heater is the second largest energy user in the home and you pay both for the water and for heating it.

LAUNDRY:

• Wash Laundry in Cold Water Instead of Hot: It takes energy to heat water, thus should only be used for very dirty loads.
• Wash & Dry Only Full Loads: Most wash machines use the same amount of water whether you wash a full load or just one item.
• Clean the Lint Filter After Every Load: Clogged filters drive up drying costs.
• Check your Outside Dryer Exhaust Vent: Make sure it opens and closes freely. If it does not close tightly, outside air is getting into your house through the dryer and you will need to replace the exhaust vent.
• Dry Clothes Outside In Good Weather: Sunlight is free and whitens clothes better than bleach.
• Buy Energy Star Washers: Qualified washers use about half the water and electricity of standard washers.