A local assistance program could help some Harris County, Texas, homeowners who cannot keep their homes at a safe temperature by providing a free window unit that handles both air conditioning and heating.
Here's what to know
Rebuilding Together Houston is providing eligible Harris County residents with no-cost window units that offer both cooling and heat as well as covering installation costs.
This program looks to help low-income families and individuals who are full-time residents of the home and up to date on their property taxes.
"The Extreme Weather program provides relief to homeowners who need additional resources to withstand Houston's unpredictable climate," the organization's website explains. As global temperatures rise, the need to provide assistance is expected to grow as weather becomes less predictable and more costly to adjust to.
To find out whether they qualify for assistance, residents need to go through a two-step screening process and apply. For more information, call 713-659-2511 or email intake@rebuildinghouston.org.
More background
The offer comes as indoor cooling remains a major issue in the Houston area, where high temperatures and humidity can make homes uncomfortable and even unsafe. For households already juggling high utility bills, appliance repairs, or other costs, receiving a free unit with installation could relieve financial strain.
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Separately, Houston has moved to strengthen cooling rules for residential rentals. The City Council recently approved an ordinance that broadened air-conditioning requirements, but it did not make central air mandatory for landlords, per Fox 26.
Window or portable units can meet the new requirement if they satisfy the city's existing temperature rule. According to Fox 26, that means the equipment must be able to keep a home 20 degrees cooler than outdoors or at 80 degrees, whichever is higher.
That change applies to rental properties, not owner-occupied homes.
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