Many homes are leaky, wasting energy and making occupants uncomfortable. Whole-home weatherization can make a big difference in comfort, and it’s free for eligible households.
Local non-profits, community action agencies, counties, and units of government administer the state’s weatherization programs. Find your local agency through this map or by entering your address.
Energy Audits
Having a home energy audit done is one of the best ways to determine what improvements can be made to help cut costs and increase comfort. These upgrades can include resealing windows and doors, adding eco-friendly insulation to attics and walls, and adjusting heating and cooling systems. These cost-effective measures help reduce the amount of electricity and gas that a household uses and will result in lower utility bills.
An energy audit is a series of tests conducted by an experienced, certified home or building performance specialist to identify opportunities for reduced energy use and improve overall efficiency. Some common tests include a blower door test to measure air leakage in a home, and thermal imaging that helps find hidden areas of energy loss by using an infrared camera to detect and show the location of problems.
A detailed energy audit is required for all weatherization assistance programs that are funded by DOE and THDA. DOE reviews not only the energy audit tool to estimate energy usage and potential weatherization savings, but also how a Grantee implements it.
The energy audit is the first step in a process known as ‘weatherization’ that provides low income households with improved heating and cooling efficiency. A qualified energy auditor will create a site specific plan for each dwelling that includes an inventory of all cost effective energy saving measures. Typical measures included in the weatherization program for single family and multifamily homes up to 60% of state median income are air sealing, duct sealing, insulation of attics, basements and exterior walls, and installing energy efficient furnaces and water heaters.
Insulation
Whole-home weatherization can dramatically reduce energy waste. Air leaks and under-insulated areas are the main culprits of heating and cooling energy losses, and a well-done weatherization project can produce energy savings from 10 to 45% (1). The benefits of weatherization are far-reaching, as it improves health and comfort levels in homes, reduces the risk of drafts and mold problems, and helps lower high utility costs. (2)
Programs offer a variety of services, including repairs to furnaces and other combustion appliances; sealing leaks around doors and windows; adding insulation in the attic, walls, floors, and crawlspaces; and upgrading ductwork. Some programs are run by local utilities, while others are administered by state and federal agencies.
Before a home can be weatherized, a home energy assessment (energy audit) must be performed by a professional. The assessment identifies the major energy-efficiency issues and provides the basis for the recommendations made by the program’s technicians. Locally licensed and insured private-sector contractors perform the work. Local agencies verify and inspect the completed work.
Homeowners and renters are eligible for weatherization assistance programs. To find out whether you are eligible, select your state or tribal agency from the map or list below. Eligibility guidelines vary by state, but in general, households with incomes less than 60% of the estimated state median and a member receiving TAFDC or SSI are categorically eligible.
Sealing Air Leaks
Air leakage accounts for a great deal of energy waste in the average home. The simplest way to reduce it is by sealing holes and gaps with caulking or weather stripping. The next step in weatherization is to add insulation.
When it comes to reducing energy waste and making your home more comfortable, insulation and air sealing are among the most cost-effective measures available. They can cut heating and cooling costs by 10% or more.
The biggest areas where heat and cold air escape are through doors, windows, floors, and basements. These can be addressed by sealing cracks with caulk and installing weather stripping, and adding insulation to those areas. The attic is another place where a lot of air leaks out, and insulating it will help prevent this. Finally, ducts and recessed lighting fixtures often need to be sealed with foam or caulk.
Whole-house weatherization improves comfort in all seasons and cuts energy bills. It also reduces the strain on your heating system in winter, makes it easier to keep your house cool in summer and helps protect the value of your home. You may be eligible for a seal and insulate package at zero upfront cost as part of NYSERDA’s Comfort Home program. Tap here to find out if you qualify.
Heat Pumps
As billions in rebates from the Inflation Reduction Act become available, states should strongly encourage households to pair their heat pump upgrades with insulation and air sealing improvements for maximum benefits. Together, these whole-home energy-saving retrofits will dramatically reduce household bills, stress on the electric grid and climate pollution.
The basic idea behind heat pumps is simple: Using electricity, they draw warmth from the air outside to replace fossil fuel heating in the home. They work in much the same way as refrigerators do, with refrigerants that capture and condense outdoor air to move heat into a home. This is especially efficient in cold weather, and some of the highest-efficiency heat pumps have been designed specifically for use in northern climates.
Moody’s family received a ducted heat pump from a local contractor, who offered a rebate from the state. It has already saved him money on his energy costs, and he says he loves the comfort, quiet and lower carbon footprint of the system.
Most states have programs that provide assistance to households with incomes below the federal poverty level. Check your state, territory or tribal website for details. Most offer a list of local organizations and providers under “How to Apply” or in the “Contact Us” section. In addition, many community action agencies and other nonprofits offer these services at no cost to eligible residents.