Q: What are some tips for an Iowa winter?
A: Winter in Iowa can be pretty harsh for even the most seasoned Iowans. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is reporting that Iowa and other central parts of the United States should have a warmer than normal winter but I’ll still be layered up with a hat, gloves, scarf and a warm winter coat when I head outside to work on my farm. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you are going when driving in the winter in case you get stranded. And as a precaution don’t forget to keep a couple blankets in the car. I also make a point to keep my cell phone charged. The Red Cross also recommends putting together a disaster supply kit for the car that includes a first aid kit and essential medications, a battery-powered NOAA weather radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, water and extra warm clothes. For additional tips, check out http://redcross.org.
Q: Is there a way to lower energy bills in the winter?
A: There are also lots of ways to battle the high energy costs associated with an Iowa winter. Many utilities offer energy assessments at little or no cost to help lower the price of energy bills during winter. It might be a good idea to take advantage of the expertise and see if any changes they recommend work for you. Programmable thermostats are a good money saver since they can keep the house or building warm while you’re there and less when you’re not. It’s also important to have heating systems checked each year by a professional. An easy way to save some money is to change your furnace filters often. Weatherizing exterior walls, windows and doors can make a big difference too. Check with the professionals at your local utility for more tips.
Q: Is there help in case you can’t afford your energy bills?
A: The federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, helps low-income households pay for heating and cooling their homes. It provides critical assistance for families, seniors and disabled individuals who struggle to pay their home energy bills. It helps those on fixed incomes stay warm at home in the winter months and pay for other necessities like prescription medicine and groceries. In Iowa, a household of 4 with an annual gross income of up to $31,800 can apply for assistance. Priority is given to the poorest families, disabled and elderly applicants, and families with very young children. Iowans may apply in person at outreach centers located in each county.
The Weatherization Assistance Program is another federal grant program that helps reduce the heating and cooling costs for low-income persons, particularly the elderly, disabled and children, by improving the energy efficiency of their homes. The program uses trained crews and contractors to install permanent and cost effective measures to help keep homes energy efficient. Trained professionals use a computerized energy audit to determine what works best for each home.
For both the LIHEAP and Weatherization programs, Iowans should contact the Iowa Bureau of Energy Assistance at (515) 281-0859 for assistance.