Where to Find Help With Buying Air Conditioning for Low-Income Households

Extreme heat is becoming more common in many parts of the United States, and not everyone has air conditioning at home. According to recent government information, around 14 million households in the U.S. don’t have air conditioning.

For people who can’t afford to pay for cooling, programs like LIHEAP can help. LIHEAP stands for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which offers financial support to people who struggle to pay their home heating and cooling bills, especially those with fixed or limited incomes.
 

Can LIHEAP Help You Buy an Air Conditioner?

Maybe.

LIHEAP is mainly designed to help with energy costs, like your electricity bill, usually through a one-time payment applied to your utility account. Some states, however, allow you to use LIHEAP funds for small home improvements, known as weatherization.

These improvements protect your home from hot or cold weather—for example, by adding weather stripping, repairing windows, or installing sun-blocking shades.

Depending on where you live, it may be possible to use LIHEAP funds to fix or replace a broken air conditioner. In some places, LIHEAP can even help you buy a new window or portable A/C unit.

The rules vary by state and can change, so it’s important to check with your local LIHEAP office to find out what’s possible in your area.

It’s good to keep in mind that even if you get help to buy an air conditioner, the cost of running the unit (paying for the electricity it uses) can still be high, and LIHEAP funds may be limited.
 

If LIHEAP Can’t Help Buy an A/C, What Are Your Other Options?

If your state’s LIHEAP doesn’t cover buying an air conditioner, the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) offered by the U.S. Department of Energy might be helpful.

WAP helps low-income people improve their home’s energy efficiency. This can include repairing, maintaining, or sometimes replacing home cooling systems. Check with your state’s weatherization office to learn what’s available where you live.
 

Other Ways to Get Help with Air Conditioning

Besides LIHEAP and WAP, you might find help from local resources. Some community groups and charities offer free or low-cost air conditioners, especially during heat waves. You can try checking with:
 

• Local nonprofits
• Faith-based organizations like churches or synagogues
• Mutual aid groups
• Thrift stores or donation centers (like Goodwill or Salvation Army)

You might also find affordable used A/C units at yard sales, in online classifieds, recycling centers, or from neighbors. If you’re thinking about buying a used air conditioner, try to test it first to make sure it works.
 

Talk to Your Landlord Before Installing an A/C Unit

Before installing your A/C unit, please consult with your landlord. Some landlords have rules about what types of appliances are allowed, or about how installation must be done to prevent damage to the property.

Your lease may even mention specific requirements or restrictions about air conditioners. Always get permission first to avoid problems later.

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