Program can cut utility bills
Staff writer
A weatherization program through South Central Kansas Economic Development District can lower utility bills for people with incomes up to twice the poverty level.
County commissioner Kent Becker said at Monday’s meeting that he sees many homes that could benefit.
“It’s not just windows and insulation,” Becker said.
SCKEDD sends an energy auditor to assess inefficiencies and safety concerns.
Air leaks into and out of the home are analyzed, as is equipment that needs repair or replacement because of safety issues.
When an audit is completed, SCKEDD develops a plan for cost-effective improvements. Improvements are done free to the resident by professional contractors.
Improvements may include weather stripping; caulking around doors and windows; cleaning; testing; repairs or replacement of appliances, heating, and or cooling systems; adding insulation to walls, ceilings, and foundations; infiltration reduction; and lighting and ventilation upgrades.
The program is available to homeowners and renters. Landlords must sign a form giving consent and agreeing not to raise the rent because of the improvements for one year.
Income limits to qualify are $30,120 for a single person plus $10,760 for each additional person in the household.
If a household contains a member who receives Supplemental Security Income, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits, or utility assistance from the Low Income Energy Association Program, the household automatically is considered eligible.
More information is available at (316) 262-7035, info@sckedd.org, and www.sckedd.org/weatherization.