How the program works

By Jeremy Redmon

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

• To be eligible for the federal stimulus program, applicants must have incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level and prove it with records such as pay stubs. For example, for a family of four to qualify, it must have an annual income of $44,100 or less. Renters are eligible but must get approval from the property owners.

• A homeowner applies to a local community action agency, nonprofit or local government. The elderly, disabled and families with young children go to the top of the list.

• The agency visits the home to determine what needs to be done. One technique is a "blower door" test that helps identify air leaks. The agency also inspects for health hazards, including the presence of carbon monoxide and gas leaks.

• The agency weatherizes the home, which may include repairing broken windows and doors, weather-stripping, caulking, and installing insulation in attics, floors and walls and around water heaters. The agency may also install thermostats and smoke detectors, repair cooling systems and replace inoperable furnaces. The agency informs the homeowner how to cut energy costs and avoid safety hazards. The average maximum amount of stimulus funds to be spent per house through the program is $6,500.

• The agency returns to inspect its work and in some cases the state does a second inspection.