Bureau
of Weatherization:
Who We Are |
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Weatherization
Assistance Program
The Weatherization
Assistance Program (WAP) is a federal grant program established
to help reduce the heating and cooling costs for low income persons,
particularly the elderly, disabled, and children, by improving
the energy efficiency of their homes. The WAP has developed from
a program that stressed low cost, temporary measures installed
by volunteers, to a program that uses trained crews and contractors
to install permanent cost effective measures that address both
the building shell and the heating and cooling systems in the
dwelling.
The installation
of energy efficiency measures for each dwelling is based on a
computerized energy audit which determines the cost effectiveness
of each measure. Energy efficiency measures include high density
wall and attic insulation and blower door - guided infiltration
reduction. Because the weatherization procedures result in "tightening" homes,
indoor air quality and other client health and safety issues
are also addressed. Health and safety measures include safety
checks of all combustion appliances.
Besides the
obvious benefit of conserving energy, the Iowa WAP also provides
other benefits to Iowa and its residents. The program results
in millions of dollars of additional value added to the Iowa
economy. The program also mitigates certain health and safety
problems in the client's homes, maintains affordable housing
for low-income persons, reduces utility averages, and reduces
environmental pollution.
For
more information, see below or visit the following sites:
Weatherization
Assistance Program
U.S.
Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program
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