What is Weatherization?
It is often asked what exactly is the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Pennsylvania and what it does for families and communities?
Weatherization assistance programs help empower community organizations to help individuals and families in their community have more energy-efficient heating solutions in their homes. With chilly temperatures upon us in Pennsylvania we want to take a moment to help you understand what WAP is and how it can help you or your community!
To learn more about the history of WAP and how it began, check out the details here. But let’s talk about what can be covered and how it can make a difference in the life of many PA families.
Meet Sheri.
In 2011, Sheri experienced one of the lowest moments in her life. Sheri, a single mother of three, was unable to work, as she was the primary caregiver for a medically fragile child. “I did everything that I could to help her to be healthy and safe,” says Sheri, “I was her voice.” Then, as winter approached, Sheri’s furnace stopped working. “I didn’t know what to do or where to turn until someone told me to call community action.”
Sheri connected with Avanelle, the Armstrong County Community Action of Pennsylvania’s (ACCAP) Department Manager of Weatherization, who provided Sheri with intake paperwork and hope. Avanelle determined that Sheri was eligible for assistance through ACCAP’s Weatherization Program and, soon after, ACCAP provided Sheri with a new furnace.
“Years ago, I got a new furnace, and ever since that time they have always fixed it so that we could have heat. Avanelle is the kindest lady ever and has always respected and cared about our situation,” says Sheri.
Today, more than ten years after that initial conversation, Sheri and Avanelle maintain contact, and Sheri provides updates on her family, particularly her daughter, who is now a healthy adult because of her mother’s care.
Sheri recently wrote a letter to ACCAP thanking our organization for its assistance. “Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for taking good care of us always.”
Sheri’s story is similar to many families across the commonwealth. Weatherization in a home can make a big difference for a family. It can mean the difference in the ability to stay warm and healthy to concentrate at school, work, and help a family rest a little easier at night.
How does it work, and what can be covered in a home under this program?
On-site energy audits are conducted to assess conditions in homes and to identify the most cost-effective energy-saving measures to be installed. Weatherization services include but are not limited to:
Blower door-guided air sealing to effectively locate and reduce air-leakage throughout the home
Installation of attic, wall, basement, and crawlspace insulation and ventilation to reduce energy loss
Heating system modification or replacement to increase the efficiency and/or safety of the heating system
Minor repairs, and/or health and safety measures are provided (when necessary) to allow the safe and effective installation of the weatherization measures
Client education on the proper use and maintenance of the installed Weatherization measures and ways to reduce energy waste every day
How do I know if I am eligible?
Those who are eligible are low-income individuals (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level), with priority given to higher risk residents such as the elderly, disabled individuals, families with children and high-energy users.
Where can I find help in my area?
Click here to check the appropriate Community Action organization serving your county