Weatherization… lessens the impact of the high cost of energy in maintaining a home for income-qualifying households.
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In 1977, The Missouri Department of Natural Resources responded to the energy crisis of the early 1970s, establishing the Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program (LIWAP) in the Division of Energy. The program provides cost-effective energy-efficient home improvements to Missouri's low income households, especially the elderly, children, those with physical disadvantages, and others hit hardest by high utility costs. The program aims to lower utility bills and improve comfort while ensuring health and safety. Today, weatherization is the nation's largest residential energy efficiency program.
The program uses an energy audit procedure to establish cost-effective weatherization measures. The audit is used to calculate reductions in energy usage and takes into account factors such as changes in the thermal and heat transfer characteristics of a dwelling, appropriate weather data, and economic factors such as fuel and installation costs. Energy auditors gather information and perform diagnostic tests on each home, including blower door tests and infrared tomography. These tests help detect and locate air leaks and other weaknesses in the building envelope, providing opportunities to perform more cost-effective work. Heating systems are also tested for efficiency and safety, and repairs are made accordingly.
Energy-efficient measures may include:
The program uses an energy audit procedure to establish cost-effective weatherization measures. The audit is used to calculate reductions in energy usage and takes into account factors such as changes in the thermal and heat transfer characteristics of a dwelling, appropriate weather data, and economic factors such as fuel and installation costs. Energy auditors gather information and perform diagnostic tests on each home, including blower door tests and infrared tomography. These tests help detect and locate air leaks and other weaknesses in the building envelope, providing opportunities to perform more cost-effective work. Heating systems are also tested for efficiency and safety, and repairs are made accordingly.
Energy-efficient measures may include:
- Reducing air infiltration.
- Increasing insulation in walls, attics, and floor foundations.
- HVAC repair or replacement.
- Install LED lighting.
Who is Eligible?
Missouri residents with a household income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible for the program.
Priority is given to Missourians who are older than age of 60, those with disabilities, those with children in the home. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you are automatically eligible. Please remember an application must be submitted in order to apply for services.
Missouri residents with a household income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible for the program.
Priority is given to Missourians who are older than age of 60, those with disabilities, those with children in the home. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you are automatically eligible. Please remember an application must be submitted in order to apply for services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weatherization assistance program?
It is a program for income qualified families that helps with insulation, weather-stripping, caulking, and furnace testing to make sure they are operating correctly.
Does it operate only during the winter months?
No, we operate all year long.
is It for owners only, or can renters apply also??
This program is for low-income home owners and renters.
is the weatherization program going to cost me anything?
No, it is funded by the Federal Government and Utility Companies.
do you do skirting on mobile homes?
No, we used to back in the 1980s, but studies have shown that it is most cost effective to insulate the underbelly of the mobile home.
This webpage was prepared with the support of funds through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. However, any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed herein are those of JFCAC and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
