In Fairbanks, Alaska, WAP improved the health of a family by detecting that a boiler was emitting toxic levels of carbon monoxide.
Weatherization Assistance Program
November 1, 2023
minute read time
About the Project
While energy savings are the most-often-emphasized benefit of weatherization, all Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) programs provide a range of critical non-energy benefits for households. These non-energy benefits represent tremendous value for weatherization recipients—more livable homes, fewer missed days of work due to sick days and doctor visits, and decreased out-of-pocket medical expenses. In Fairbanks, Alaska, WAP improved the health of a family by detecting that a boiler was emitting toxic levels of carbon monoxide.
Challenge
A WAP client in Fairbanks, Alaska, had ongoing, worsening asthma. Her family wondered if the boiler was causing the asthma, but they did not know how to tell or what to do about it.
Solution
The family applied for weatherization services to replace aging windows and doors. When the professional assessor found toxic levels of carbon monoxide in the house, the assessor immediately turned off the boiler and ensured the home received a comprehensive set of upgrades.
Positive Impact
This story shows the effect weatherization services on the health and safety of individuals. WAP services are not only energy-related benefits, but there are many non-energy benefits for a household. Nationally, WAP generates about $2.78 in non-energy benefits for every $1 invested.
This work is possible because of collaboration between the U.S. Department of Energy and state and local stakeholders.
This story was developed using content from an Office of State and Community Energy Programs article. View the article on their website.