By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

Homeowners and renters can get help making their home weather-tight or upgrading their furnaces through a program that uses state and federal money to provide needed work for income-qualified applicants.

The East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation’s Weatherization program is available to low-income, elderly, or handicapped renters or homeowners.

Income limits for the program are $23,760 for a family of one, $32,040 for a family of two, $40,320 for a family of three, and $48,600 for a family of four.

Services provided include furnace repair or replacement for homeowners, or up to $250 for furnace repair for renters.

If repair or replacement of a furnace in a rental home exceeds $250, the landlord is responsible for the excess amount.

Furnaces can be cleaned or tuned-up for safety and efficiency. Leaky heating systems can be sealed. Broken window glass or holes in foundations, outside walls, or ceilings can be repaired. Insulation can be installed.

The program is funded by the federal Department of Energy and Low-Income Energy Assistance Program funds regulated by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.

Application forms and more information can be found at http://eckan.org/weatherization.html. Completed applications must be mailed along with proof of income and proof of home ownership, if applicable.