By Katie Martin | Point of View
If you’re facing high utility bills and fall into the low-income category, weatherization might be the perfect solution for you.
The Weatherization Assistance Program is designed to help reduce energy costs by addressing various repairs and improvements in your home. Here are some valuable tips and insights about weatherization that can help you save money and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
FSL’s weatherization services
FSL is proud to hold the WAP contract for Maricopa County and Tucson, improving the health of thousands of households each year through life-changing weatherization services. Reduce your energy bills by making energy-efficient home modifications with this FREE program for low-income households.
As the largest provider of weatherization services in Arizona, FSL aims to reduce energy usage in homes while ensuring health and safety. Our services include:
- Repair or replacement of air conditioners, water heaters, and other systems/appliances
- Installation of insulation
- Installation of energy-efficient LED light bulbs, CO/smoke detectors
- Shade screens
- Sealing duct work
The benefits of weatherization
- Reduce your energy burden: The Weatherization program can implement repairs that significantly lower your energy usage, thereby reducing your monthly utility bills.
- Optimize home comfort: Weatherization isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about making your home more comfortable. Installing proper insulation, efficient air conditioning, and other measures can keep your home at a more consistent and comfortable temperature and improve the quality of the air you breathe each day.
Key weatherization measures
- Sun screens: In hotter climates like Arizona, sun screens can provide a great return on investment. Consider installing 80% or 90% sun screens to block a significant amount of heat from entering your home, keeping it cooler and reducing the need for air conditioning.
- Insulation inspection: Ensuring that your home’s insulation is properly installed is a critical part of a weatherization audit. Installing proper insulation can drastically reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home.
- Duct sealing: Sealing ducts can prevent air leaks, ensuring that your heating and cooling systems operate more efficiently.
- Energy audits: Certified Weatherization Energy Auditors will inspect your home for energy inefficiencies and consider health and safety issues for the occupants.
- Common repairs: Typical weatherization repairs include duct sealing, installing sun screens, adding insulation, and upgrading air conditioning systems. These measures can lead to significant reductions in utility bills.
Getting started with weatherization
Weatherization is available in all 50 states, and each state has multiple providers. To find out if you qualify for weatherization, connect with your local Community Action Program, Weatherization Subgrantee, or local municipality. If you live in Maricopa County (excluding Phoenix and Mesa) or Tucson, FSL can help. We offer weatherization services for eligible households, focusing on energy efficiency and safety.
Eligibility requirements
- To benefit from our weatherization program, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Must live within Maricopa County (excluding Phoenix and Mesa) OR Tucson
- Must own your home (renters may qualify upon review)
- Must meet income qualifications
- Home must not have been weatherized in the last 15 years
- Submit an inquiry today to see if you qualify by visiting www.fsl.org/weatherization.
Quick tips to start saving now
While you explore weatherization options, here are some immediate steps you can take to start saving on energy costs:
- Thermostat settings: Set your thermostat to 78-80 degrees in the summer and 68-70 degrees in the winter.
- Doors and windows: Keep exterior doors and windows closed and open interior doors when the air conditioning or heater is on.
- Ceiling fans: Rotate ceiling fans counter-clockwise in the summer and clockwise in the winter. Remember to turn fans off when no one is in the room.
- Air filters: Replace or clean air filters at least once a month to ensure efficient airflow and reduce strain on your HVAC system.
- Energy-efficient lighting: Use LED lights and turn them off when they are not needed.
- Appliance usage: Avoid running major appliances like washers or dryers during peak daytime hours to reduce energy consumption and cost.
By taking advantage of FSL’s weatherization services and implementing these simple tips, you can lower your utility bills, improve your home’s comfort, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Don’t wait—start exploring your weatherization options today!
Editor’s Note: Katie Marin is administrator of home improvements & community services at The Foundation for Senior Living
