As families spend more time at home during winter, they tend to use more energy, which means energy efficiency benefits become even more critical. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has announced it has weatherization assistance available to increase energy efficiency and improve the health of your home.

According to a news release, the department’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is critical to meeting heating and cooling needs of Missourians with low-incomes, especially as many seniors and other vulnerable households shelter at home due to COVID-19. WAP makes homes more energy efficient, safer and healthier.

Officials say to apply for assistance, individuals are urged to contact their local weatherization agency. The agency will ask applicants to complete the appropriate forms, including income documentation, to verify eligibility.

Once the client is verified as eligible, an auditor from the agency will conduct an energy audit of the home to determine what measures will produce the greatest energy savings. The next step is for the agency crew or contractor to install the energy-efficient measures on the home. After the weatherization is complete, a quality control inspector will examine the home to check quality and completeness of the work.

Eligibility is based on the family unit’s size and total income. A single person with a maximum income of $25,760 is eligible and a home with two residents must have a maximum income of $34,840 to qualify. Local weatherization agencies can provide further information about maximum family income and other details regarding program eligibility.

For more ways to weatherize your home visit the department’s Weatherization webpage at dnr.mo.gov/energy/weatherization or contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy at (855) 522-2796.