Weatherization
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 work our weatherization teams do to homes is determined by preliminary energy audits, during which the auditor:
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tests the home for the presence of carbon monoxide (CO)
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checks chimneys for proper draft
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conducts combustion safety tests on appliances such as water heaters, furnaces, and stoves
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checks the home for air tightness
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checks the home for existing insulation
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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.
How Weatherization Helps
Weatherization reduces energy bills by performing improvements that can include the following:
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 you money on your energy bills! 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
How to Apply for Weatherization
The Weatherization program doesn't take applications directly from families. Instead, they draw from the existing pool of LIHEAP applicants to decide which homes receive services. Families can apply year-round.
There are many homes that could benefit from weatherization services, and families are placed on a priority list for services depending on their energy usage.
If you are interested in being considered for weatherization, start by applying for our LIHEAP program.
Do you qualify for Weatherization?
To qualify for MICA's weatherization program, you must:
Reside in Hardin, Marshall, Poweshiek, Tama or Story counties
Meet income guidelines
Pay a vendor (such as a utility company) directly for your primary heating source
To apply for weatherization and LIHEAP, visit your local family development center or download an application online.
