SEALING DRAFTS AND AIR LEAKS, improving the efficiency of heating systems, and adding insulation are among the weatherization services that will help anyone’s pocketbook.

The Community Action Weatherization program has been helping low-income residents across the county make their homes more energy efficient since it began in 1979.

Weatherization is particularly important for low-income households, which spend 14 percent of their total annual income on energy compared to 3.5 percent for higher income households. Low-income families often cut back on other necessities to pay their energy bills. Homes that are more energy efficient have fewer energy costs.

The weatherization program sends a certified energy inspector to eligible homes. The inspector makes note of the needs of the home and then designs a customized set of conservation measures. The Community Action Partnership (CAP) will make the improvements at no cost to the resident.

CAP Riverside uses the Whole House Weatherization concept, which requires advanced diagnostic skills and costeffective measures. Homes include single-family homes, mobile homes, multi-family homes and apartment complexes for low-income residents. Services vary and may include installation of water-saving showerheads, water heater blankets, furnace repair, attic insulation, and door and window replacements.

Weatherizing lowers heating and cooling costs, makes a home more energy efficient and safer.

Weatherization reduces gas, heating and cooling consumption in a home by nearly 33 percent, creating an average savings of $300 a year. Each year, the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County weatherizes hundreds of homes.

For more information, please see www.capriverside.org