Weatherization in PA

Helping Pennsylvanians Save Energy and Stay Safe

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps low-income families across Pennsylvania reduce energy costs, improve comfort, and ensure health and safety in their homes.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) through its Center for Residential Reinvestment Programs, WAP provides energy efficiency services in all 67 counties through a network of local public and nonprofit agencies.

Since its creation in 1977, Pennsylvania’s WAP has helped thousands of households make long-term improvements that lower utility bills and enhance home comfort.

In addition to DOE funding, WAP receives supplemental support from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) through the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). These additional funds may be used for weatherization services, when available, helping extend the reach of the program to even more Pennsylvanians.

What Is the Weatherization Assistance Program?

The Weatherization Assistance Program increases a home’s energy efficiency by identifying and fixing energy leaks, performing safety repairs, and installing energy-saving upgrades.

Each participating household receives a comprehensive energy audit or follows a DOE- approved priority list to determine which measures will have the most impact. Typical improvements include:

• Insulation and air sealing
• Heating and cooling system upgrades
• Energy-efficient lighting and appliances
• Health and safety testing for combustion gases, mold, and ventilation

The program not only saves energy—it helps create healthier, safer homes for Pennsylvania residents.

Who is Eligible?

Pennsylvania residents may qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program if their household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines annually set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Households automatically qualify if any member receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF), LIHEAP or are found eligible for specific means- tested Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs.

Priority is given to:

• Elderly residents
• Individuals with disabilities
• Families with children
• Households with high energy usage or burden

Learn more about income eligibility requirements for Pennsylvania’s WAP.

Typical Energy Efficiency Measures

Weatherization services are customized based on a home energy audit or following a DOE-approved priority list. Improvements may include:

Mechanical Measures

• Clean, tune, or replace heating and cooling systems
• Install duct and pipe insulation
• Repair duct leaks and improve airflow
• Add programmable thermostats
• Upgrade or insulate water heaters

Building Shell Measures

• Add insulation to walls, attics, and floors
• Perform air sealing to prevent drafts
• Repair or replace windows and doors
• Address minor roof or wall leaks before insulation

Electric & Water Efficiency

• Install energy-efficient lighting
• Replace inefficient refrigerators
• Add low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators

Health & Safety Improvements

• Test and repair heating system safety features
• Install carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors
• Improve ventilation for better indoor air quality

Client Education

Participants also receive energy education, including tips on:

• Reducing household energy use
• Preventing mold, fire, and air quality hazards
• Operating new energy-efficient equipment

WAP Readiness Program

Some homes need critical health and safety repairs before they can be weatherized. The WAP Readiness Program provides funding to fix those issues—ensuring more households can benefit from energy-saving services.

Homes must already qualify for WAP and have been deferred due to repair needs. Clients cannot apply directly; eligibility is determined after a WAP energy audit.

Common WAP Readiness repairs include:

• Mold remediation and moisture control
• Knob-and-tube wiring replacement
• Roof and gutter repair or replacement
• Grading and drainage improvements
• Pest control
• Radon and asbestos testing or mitigation
• Sump pump installation

Additional Weatherization Resources

Looking for more ways to save energy and make your home more efficient?

Explore additional weatherization resources available through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). You’ll find helpful tools, partner programs, and information on home energy conservation, weatherization training, and funding opportunities.

Have Questions About Weatherization?

Find answers to common questions about eligibility, services, and how to apply in our Weatherization Assistance Program Frequently Asked Questions.