Weatherization Services

What is weatherization?

Weatherization is the modification of buildings and homes to become more energy efficient through conservation measures such as air sealing and adding insulation. All homes are analyzed with the "building as a system" diagnostic approach which examines the house as one working unit to ensure safety and maximize energy efficiency. Weatherization improvements create a more safe and comfortable living space as well as lower utility bills.

Benefits of Weatherization

Personal savings

Weatherizing your home saves an average of 10-20% of your energy use
Low-income families typically spend about 20% of their annual income on energy
A home that is weatherized increases in property value by increasing the longevity and durability of the home

Health and safety

Ensures safety of combustion appliances
Checks carbon monoxide levels and installs detectors if needed
Potentially decreases fire hazards
Assesses mold, moisture, and indoor air quality and related illnesses
Lead paint and asbestos assessment

Environmental

Reduces the nation's dependency on imported oil: Each dwelling saves the equivalent of 3 barrels in the first year it is weatherized
Cuts down on the energy demand in residential areas, decreasing power plant emissions and therefore reducing air pollution
Reduces carbon dioxide output by nearly one metric ton per home

Economic

Weatherized homes nationally saved $2.1 billion for low-income families in 2012
Creates jobs directly and indirectly both nationally and locally
Stimulates economic activity in local communities

Statistical Sources: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Weatherization.org, and Commission on Economic Opportunity, Weatherization.

Typical measures

If HopeSource selects your home as a weatherization project there are a number of retrofits possible, depending on the distinct needs of each home. These services are typically at no cost to the homeowner or renter. Some possible measures include:

Adding insulation to floors, attics, and walls
Sealing and insulating duct systems
Installing controlled ventilation
Weather-stripping doors
Caulking window and plumbing penetrations
Inspecting and repairing heating systems
Pressure balancing

HopeSource is not a home repair program. For work to be performed, you and/or your landlord are responsible for the maintenance, structural integrity, and safety of the home. Incidental repairs necessary for the effective performance or preservation of weatherization materials can be made but must be able to pay for themselves in energy savings.

Healthy Homes

Along with weatherization services, HopeSource offers a Healthy Homes program. We work with those suffering from chronic respiratory illnesses or having mobility issues within their home by improving the living conditions and offering education. These services are included as part of a weatherization evaluation.

Eligibility

To qualify for the Weatherization Program applicants must live in Kittitas County and meet certain income guidelines. This program is available to both homeowners and renters. Please call the HopeSource office at 509.925.1448 for more information.

If you do not qualify for weatherization services, please check out our Conservation Services page to see what else might be available to you to help save money and energy in your home.

Selection Process

Weatherization projects are selected based on when you applied, the condition of the home, eligibility/priority status, and available funds.

In Home Energy Assesment

The first step for weatherizing a home is an in-home energy assessment. HopeSource staff members will visit a client's home to discuss current energy usage and look for low-cost/no cost ways to cut back on bills. The home will then be evaluated for more weatherization services.

Energy Audit

If the home is selected as a weatherization candidate, HopeSource auditors will return to do a technical and in–depth inspection using advanced tools such as the blower door (pictured) and infrared camera to find air leakage, spot potential safety hazards, and pinpoint the best possible weatherization measures to create an individualized, safe, and efficient scope of work.

An initial assessment and an audit do not guarantee HopeSource will be able to work on your home. The condition of the home, cost efficiency, durability of project and health and safety issues play a large role in the decision–making process. A few examples of factors that could potentially prevent HopeSource from selecting your home for a weatherization project are roof leaks, electrical problems, excessive mold, asbestos, lead paint, poor structural integrity and inability to cooperate.