Weatherization can result in savings of 25 percent on some energy bills, according to a news release from the Kansas City, Kansas, Board of Public Utilities.
A free weatherization program is now available in Kansas, with federal funding, through the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, the news release stated.
With the average U.S. home almost 40 years old, weatherizing a home to protect it from the elements of heat, sunlight and rain can increase energy efficiency and lead to utility savings, according to the news release.
Weatherizing reduces leaks around the perimeter of a home, including sealing air ducts, bypasses, recessed lighting, as well as cracks around windows and doors.
A weatherized home not only reduces energy usage, it also helps the environment by reducing carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to global warming, according to the news release.
The U.S. Department of Energy has weatherization assistance programs in all 50 states, helping more than 30,000 homeowners get weatherization assistance annually. This program is for those who might not be able to afford the costs of weatherizing a home.
The Kansas Weatherization Assistance Program helps low-income households cover the cost of heating, cooling and energy efficiency improvements, free of charge. It is funded by the Department of Energy and Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, and regulated by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.
At no charge, income-eligible families can receive a comprehensive home energy audit, assessing their entire home. Certified energy auditors will search a home, inside and out, looking for inefficiencies and safety concerns using advanced equipment and identify a customized account of areas for cost-effective improvements.
The improvements will be provided free of charge by a network of professional crews and contractors. For more information or to enroll, go to www.ECKAN.org/weatherization/ or call 785-242-6413.
- Information from Kansas City, Kansas, Board of Public Utilities