Michigan Supports Weatherization

How Michigan Supports Household Weatherization and Energy Assistance Programs

by Don Ames

Michigan and Energy Assistance Programs 

Hey, all you energy Spy’s, most every State in the Union has a program for weatherizing low-income homes. It’s a great deal operated by weatherization professionals that know what their doing. If you think you might qualify, give your local State program a call. Don Ames

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Progam (LIHEAP) is federal money given to each state to assist low-income families with energy costs. In Michigan, the LIHEAP block grant is used for the following programs:

  • Home Heating Credit.
  • State Emergency Relief (SER.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).

Michigan’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally funded, low-income residential energy conservation program. The program provides free home energy conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services reduce energy use and lower utility bills, thus creating more self-sufficient households.

Services include:

  • Wall Insulation
  • Attic Insulation and Ventilation
  • Foundation Insulation
  • Air Leakage Reduction
  • Smoke Detectors
  • Dryer Venting

A trained inspector will assess eligible dwellings for energy conservation needs. A typical inspection will include Blower Door testing for air leakage, Combustion Appliance testing for safety and efficiency, and a Health and Safety inspection. A computerized audit is the basis for determining which measures are most cost effective for each individual dwelling.

According to national studies, households that receive weatherization services can expect heating costs to be reduced 20 to 25 percent. At today’s fuel cost, that amounts to about a $300 savings. As fuel costs continue to rise, even greater savings will result.

Eligibility is based on household income being at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Recipients of the Family Independence Program (FIP) administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS) or those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify for this no-cost program.

Community Action Agencies/non-profit organizations provide weatherization services statewide. Eligibility is based on Federal poverty guidelines. For more information about the Weatherization Program contact your local Weatherization Operator.