Washington D.C. Weatherization Assistance Program
The Washington D.C. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is funded by the US Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its goal is to assist low-income families to make their homes more energy efficient. The program conducts an energy audit and recommends energy-efficient improvements. In the District, the WAP is administered by select community-based organizations and non-profit groups. These organizations hire local contractors to install recommended efficiency upgrades. Weatherization is also tied to the Washington D.C. utility assistance program.
How Does Weatherization Work?
Weatherization is the process of installing insulation, weather stripping, and caulking to cover your home’s gaps and crevices. Weatherization increases the energy efficiency of your home by limiting air intrusion. Here is what basic weatherization in D.C. entails:
- Insulating walls, ceilings, and floors to prevent heat loss
- Installing weather stripping around windows and doors to seal gaps
- Sealing gaps around pipes, ducts, and other openings with caulk. This improves the home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
Weatherization measures include insulation, duct sealing, heating, and cooling system repairs or replacement, air infiltration mitigation, and lowering electric base load consumption with energy-efficient light-emitting diode (LED) lighting and energy star appliances.
Who is eligible to take part in this program?
In order to be eligible for this assistance program, you must reside in the District of Columbia. There is the option of providing preference to:
- Those who are over the age of sixty
- Families that have at least one disabled member (and preferably more).
- houses containing children (in most states)
If you are currently receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), you are immediately eligible for weatherization assistance under the DOE’s regulations (TANF).
Furthermore, to be eligible for this program, your yearly household income (before taxes) must be less than 63 percent of the state’s median income:
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $45,066 |
| 2 | $58,932 |
| 3 | $72,799 |
| 4 | $86,665 |
| 5 | $100,532 |
| 6 | $114,398 |
| 7 | $116,998 |
| 8 | $119,598 |
*Add $2,600 for each additional person in a household of more than eight people.
Where can I find the program’s application?
You can apply for this program by dialing 3-1-1 or by going online.
Submit an Application for Weatherization Assistance in DC.
What is the best way for me to contact you?
If you need more information about this program, call (202) 299-3316.
1-808-586-8675