Need a new roof?
How about insulation for the attic?
Or are you waiting to do both?
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has $5 million available from the U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program that will help Macomb Community Action pay for home repairs that are sometimes needed before weatherization services can be provided.
“When a family is already struggling to make ends meet it can be an almost insurmountable challenge when a furnace goes out or a roof needs fixing,” MCA Executive Director Ernest Cawvey said.
MCA has always provided help for low-income families in need of weatherization improvements, which can save the homeowner an average of 30% on their bill, typically about $283 per year. What is done to the home is determined by a home energy audit that MCA conducts for anyone who might need help.
Weatherization services and support may include:
- Wall insulation
- Attic insulation and ventilation
- Floor/foundation insulation
- Air leakage reduction
- Furnace repair or replacement
- Other energy saving measures
- MCA can also help with utility and electric bills.
However, many homes in a state of disrepair cannot take advantage of weatherization funds because the repairs or services installed could be compromised.
“We can’t put insulation in the attic if the home needs a new roof,” Cawvey said.
The additional funding will enable the agency to make repairs on everything from weather stripping windows and other small repairs to replacing a furnace or repairing a roof.
It will also help to reduce the waiting list for weatherization services, Cawvey added.
“Weatherizing homes is a great way to reduce energy costs for Michiganders and prevent low-income families from having to worry about affording their bills and staying warm and safe,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a news release announcing the available funding. “Many families have suffered financial hardships due to the pandemic and have put off maintenance that needs to be addressed before their homes can be weatherized. I urge these families to take advantage of these new services that will lower their costs and keep them warm. We will continue finding ways to put Michiganders first and help them have the resources they need to thrive.”
Cawvey also encourages families to inquire about what’s available for them. The criteria for services change and one never knows what they might be eligible for.
“We’re here to help people and that begins with an assessment,” Cawvey said.
He added a lot of people who might qualify for this program may also be eligible for other programs aimed at helping families in the county who are struggling.
The MDHHS Bureau of Community Action and Economic Opportunity administers the U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program, which benefits approximately 1,300 low-income families annually in Michigan. Community Action Agencies and non-profit organizations provide weatherization services at the local level.
“MDHHS wants to help as many residents as possible weatherize their homes to save money and energy,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “High energy costs can cause families to fall behind on their utility bills or be forced to pay their energy bills with money that could otherwise be spent on nutritious food or other needs. No one should be ineligible for cost-saving weatherization assistance due to costly needed repairs.”
In a weatherization job, trained professionals known as energy auditors use computerized software and advanced diagnostic equipment such as blower doors and infrared cameras to create a comprehensive energy analysis of the home. This analysis determines the most cost-effective measures to install in each home. The energy auditor creates a customized work order so trained contractors and crew members can install the identified energy-efficient and health and safety measures.
These measures include items such as insulation, blower-door-guided air sealing of key leakage junctures, and installations such as lighting and water saving measures.
Health and safety issues such as elevated levels of carbon monoxide, moisture problems, mold, ventilation needs, and heating systems safety and efficiency are also addressed. There is growing evidence the program provides benefits beyond energy savings. Improved indoor air quality and appropriate ventilation strategies lead to healthier living conditions in weatherized homes, which often lead to reduced asthma triggers and fewer doctor visits.
Those interested in having an assessment can call 586-469-6999 or visit Macomb Community Action’s Weatherization Program online at mca.macombgov.org/MCA-CommunityServices-WeatherizationAssistanceProgram.
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Originally Appeared Here