Government-Funded Home Improvements: Window Replacement

Government-Funded Home Improvements | Lower Energy Bills | Improve Comfort

If your home is older or struggling with high energy bills, the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), can help eligible households reduce energy costs and improve home efficiency. This includes replacing old windows with energy-efficient models to enhance comfort and lower heating and cooling expenses.

In addition to WAP, the DOE also supports energy-efficient home upgrades through tax credits and rebates, helping homeowners offset costs for new windows, heating and cooling systems, insulation, and appliances.

🌟 Why Window Replacement Matters

Older windows often allow heat to escape in winter and make cooling more expensive in summer. Installing energy-efficient windows through WAP or other DOE-supported programs can:

✔ Lower energy bills – Households can save hundreds of dollars annually on heating and cooling costs.

✔ Improve home comfort – Reduce drafts and maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.

✔ Increase home energy efficiency – Help lower overall energy consumption.

✔ Government-funded upgrades – Eligible households can receive government-funded window replacements and other energy-saving retrofit services.

👥 Who Qualifies for Assistance?

WAP focuses on low-income households, including:

✔ Families with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

✔ Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children.

✔ Homeowners and renters (with landlord approval).

Other DOE-supported programs, like energy tax credits and state/local rebates, may also be available to homeowners upgrading to energy-efficient windows or appliances, regardless of income.

🏠 What’s Included in the Weatherization Program and Home Upgrades

WAP provides a home energy assessment and services based on household needs:

✔ New insulation for walls, attics, and floors.
✔ Sealing of air leaks to improve efficiency.
✔ Replacement of windows and doors.
✔ Heating and cooling system improvements.
✔ Energy-efficient lighting and water heater upgrades.

Through DOE Home Upgrade programs, eligible homeowners can also:

✔ Claim federal tax credits for qualifying energy-efficient home improvements.
✔ Access state, local, or tribal rebates for window replacement and other upgrades.
✔ Offset costs for energy-efficient appliances such as stoves, dryers, and HVAC systems.

👶 Recommended Age Categories for Applicants

📝 How to Apply

1. Visit the DOE Weatherization Assistance Program website:

2. Locate your state’s local weatherization provider.

3. Submit an application with proof of income and residency.

4. Schedule a home energy audit to determine eligible improvements.

5. If approved, a certified contractor will install energy-efficient windows and perform other upgrades.

For DOE Home Upgrade tax credits and rebates:

1. Check the list of eligible upgrades

2. Claim federal tax credits using IRS Form 5695 when filing taxes.

3. Check your state, territory, or tribal rebate programs via the Home Energy Rebates Portal.

💰 Additional Support

In addition to WAP, eligible households may explore:

✔ Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Helps cover heating and cooling costs.

✔ State and local energy programs – Provide supplemental funding for efficiency improvements.

✔ Utility rebates – Some energy providers offer rebates for window replacements and appliances.

🚀 Take Action

The Weatherization Assistance Program and DOE Home Upgrade initiatives help eligible households make energy-efficient upgrades, including windows, insulation, heating and cooling systems, and appliances. These programs can save money, improve comfort, and reduce energy use. Contact your local WAP agency or check DOE’s Home Upgrades portal to see if you qualify for these government-funded improvements.

Source: U.S.