Unalaska, AK – A new program run by the Aleutian Housing Authority is providing free weatherization upgrades for all qualifying low income homes. Income limits vary from $62,600 for single person homes to $118,000 for 8 person homes. If you qualify, the organization will assess your home to determine what improvements you need and then carry out the upgrades for free.

"All the upgrades are based on the assessment," said weatherization program coordinator Teresa Olekszyk. For example, "if some one is missing insulation in their floors or their walls or it's damaged in their attics, those types of items get replaced or worked on."

The assessors use a variety of tests, like giant fans that figure out where cracks are and computerized systems that can sense weaknesses, to determine what improvements would be the most effective. Many homes might even qualify for entirely new furnace systems. The idea is to save families money in the long run.

"Heating is one of the largest costs in the area. This helps reduce that a lot by sealing up a home and making it really air tight and installing other, more efficient measures to make your home warm."

A-HA has $6 million to spend on the project for the Western Aleutians region. Applications are due April 15. Homeowners and tenants can apply. To find out more information call 1-800-478-5614 or check out their website at www.aleutian-housing.com. If you do not qualify for this program, you might still be eligible for a weatherization rebate of up to $10,000 from the state.