Weatherization Assistance Program

In the mid-1970s, MICA began helping families lower utility costs by increasing their homes' energy efficiency. Today, MICA weatherizes more than 100 homes every year.

The repairs our weatherization teams make to homes are determined by preliminary energy audits, during which the auditor:

• tests the home for the presence of carbon monoxide (CO)
• checks chimneys for proper draft
• conducts combustion safety tests on appliances such as water heaters, furnaces, and stoves
• checks the home for air tightness
• checks the home for existing insulation
• meters refrigerators and freezers for electricity use

A specialized computer program called NEAT (National Energy Audit Technology) analyzes the information collected during the audit. NEAT identifies home improvements with the highest energy savings per dollar invested. MICA's Weatherization Technicians complete the identified improvements, which may include such strategies as:

• insulation of attics and walls
• sealing air leaks in walls, floors and ceilings
• replacement of unsafe furnaces and water heaters
• replacement of inefficient refrigerators and freezers
• installation of high-efficiency light bulbs
• installation of low-flow faucet aerators or shower heads 
• insulation of hot water pipes

 What Weatherization Cannot Do

 The Weatherization Assistance Program has a great reputation for saving energy and keeping more money in your savings account! However, there are some things our weatherization program cannot do. The program will not do any of the following:

• remodel or renovate homes
• install storm doors or windows
• repair or replace roofs or siding

 Find out if you qualify

For more information on MICA's Weatherization Assistance Program, please contact your local county Family Development Center.