As the temperature drops, heating costs rise. When it’s this cold, local families trying to stay warm pay hundreds of dollars each month to heat their home. Help is available for low-income homeowners. Through the Social Development Commission weatherization program, low-income residents may qualify for free weatherization services to significantly lower utility costs.
The process is easy.
After meeting the program requirements, an SDC energy auditor will visit the participants home to conduct an inspection. An explanation of recommendations for energy and cost saving improvements will be reviewed with the homeowner.
Qualifying homeowners are eligible for free services that may include: air sealing, insulation of an attic, floor or walls, furnace repair or replacement, energy efficient lighting and refrigerator or freezer replacement.
It makes a difference. The 2016 Weatherization Program Savings Report issued by Home Energy Plus showed that participating households typically save more than $400 each year after receiving weatherization services.
Trained and experienced technicians will make the recommended and necessary efficiency improvements at no cost to the homeowner.
Income qualified customers can benefit through monthly savings on their utility bills by conserving energy year-round.
“Annually, the Social Development Commission weatherization department services more than 1,000 homes,” said Ron Klafka, manager of SDC’s residential services. “With the slow start to winter, insulation and furnaces weren’t top of mind for homeowners. SDC still has the capacity to provide free weatherization services to more than 400 homes. We urge low- income homeowners to contact us and take advantage of this free service.”
Low-income residents of Milwaukee County can find out if they qualify by contacting SDC’s weatherization department at 414.906.2700 or stop by the Social Development Commission located at 1730 W. North Avenue, Milwaukee.
For more than 50 years, the Social Development Commission has operated as the largest Community Action Agency in Wisconsin and for Milwaukee County. SDC serves as a planner, coordinator, and provider of human service programs for low-income individuals and families residing in Milwaukee County. The agency provides pathways from poverty to success for thousands of individuals and families each year. For more information on SDC’s programs and services, visit cr-sdc.org. Connect with us on Facebook www.Facebook.com/SDCMilwaukee and Twitter www.twitter.com/CRSDC.
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It is not a free service. All utility customers in Wisconsin pay over $3/month per billing cycle that contributes to the fund that supports these weatherization services. They do make a difference in cutting the cost of heating a home often up to a 30% or more savings. Many of the homes could use a lot more in repairs than energy efficiency upgrades. Roof, porch, windows, lead paint, gutters, site drainage, mold, lead, and asbestos abatement, plumbing and electrical upgrades.