Receiving Insulation Grants

There are a number of insulating products that effectively increase the energy efficiency of your home, and you may be eligible for an insulation grant from the government.  In an effort to help cut the costs of heating and cooling for low-income families, in addition to creating a more energy conscious country, the United States government has several programs to help people pay for everything from insulation to windows and doors.  The construction is paid for by federal government grants distributed by the states.

You may be wondering, what a grant is and do you have to pay that money back?  The answer is, no.  If eligible, federal and state grants are free money from the government to increase the energy efficiency of your home and lower your heating bill.  They provide this service as a way of helping low-income families, creating jobs across the country, and decreasing the energy consumption of the country as a whole.  Navigating the insulation grant process can be difficult and confusing, but if you think you may be eligible the payoff can be worth it.

Insulation Grants In The United States

There are two primary insulation grants available in the United States.  The first of which requires you to earn less than a certain amount of money each year, and the second requires that you live within a certain distance of an airport.  The insulation grant that most people qualify for is called the Weatherization Assistance Program, run by the Department Of Energy.

• Weatherization Assistance Program - The weatherization grant is an insulation grant provided by the federal government, but distributed by each individual state.  Created in 1976, the WAP gives low income families up to $6500 dollars to weatherize their homes for efficiency.  The requirements for eligibility vary state to state but a good rule of thumb is that you must earn around 60% less than the median income of your state.  For example, in New York, you would need to earn less than $22,000 to qualify.  To apply, visit the application page on the Dept. Of Energy website.
• FAA Soundproofing Program – If you live near an airport, you may be eligible to have your home soundproofed to reduce the distraction of planes flying overhead.  However, distributions of the grants are not made to individuals, rather you need to contact the airport near you and request information and consideration.

Insulation Grants In The UK

If you are 70 or over, or if you make less than £15,460 and live in England you could qaulify for up to £3,500 in grants from the Warm Front Scheme.  To apply simply visit the Warm Front Website and check your eligibility.  If selected you can use your grant for loft or cavity insulation, hot water tank insulation, draught-proofing or many other energy efficient practices.  Even if you don’t apply for any insulation grants, you should consider insulating as the savings on your energy bill often offset the upfront costs.