Weatherization Tips

The Yamhill Community Action Partnership Weatherization Program provides free weatherization services to income eligible residents (homeowners and renters) of Yamhill County.  Approximately 60 homes are completed each year.  Income eligible clients must be  at or below 60% of Median Income (Oregon Statewide Average).  Applicant households must meet  eligibility criteria. (See Eligibility Criteria)

Funds used to weatherize homes are provided by federal government  grants and utility rebates.  There is no cost to the homeowner or renter, and at no time is there a lien or attachment to property or possessions.  In some cases necessary repairs or weatherization services beyond the scope of this program will be the responsibility of the property owner.

The purpose of this program is to lower energy usage, and help lower your utility cost.

Home Energy Audit

A certified Energy Analyst will complete an extensive home assessment, which will include a diagnostic blower door test.  The results will be computed to determine the priorities and cost effectiveness.

General Heat Waste

Seal or repair air infiltration areas such as; broken window glass, reglazing windows, interior caulking, weather-strip windows and doors, wrap water heater, and water pipes.

Base load Measures

Replace Refrigerator based on metered results.  Install compact fluorescent lighting, and low-flow shower and faucet kits.

Heating Systems

Pressure test forced air system, air seal and insulate supply and return duct system.  Install as    appropriate: flame retention burners, electronic ignition devices, and heating system repairs.

Attic Insulation

Bring ventilation up to code, provide protective barriers around heat producing devices, and insulate to cost effective level.

Wall Insulation

Blow loose fill insulation into wall cavities to reduce heat loss and air infiltration.

Floor Insulation

Provide vapor barrier on the ground, and install fiberglass batt insulation in the joist cavities.

Windows

Based on results from home assessment, window treatments may not be cost effective.

Skirting

Install appropriate materials around perimeter of the dwelling unit to control air flow in the crawl space.

Energy Education

Consultation with the Energy Professionals to maximize energy savings.

Energy Tips

• Plug space heaters directly into wall plugs.  
• Vacuum heat register to let air circulate. Be sure registers are open in all rooms.
• Keep furniture and drapes away from the heating registers to let air circulate. Keep interior doors open.
• Why pay for a TV that no one is watching? A color TV or computer left on at all times cost $7 to $10 per month.
• Wash full loads of laundry. Always use cold rinse setting.
• A light not on will waste no energy.  Use compact   fluorescent bulbs:  Compact fluorescent bulbs are 4 times more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs and provide the same lighting.