Beat the Heat: Cooling Resources for Oregonians
Posted on May 23, 2023 by Charlie Krouse
Tags, Energy, General Interest
Heat waves are arriving early across the state each year. Oregonians now have more resources to stay cool during the hotter months and keep their utility bills low while doing so. Read on for information about protections for renters, no- and low-cost cooling resources, and more!
Renters Have Expanded Protections for Cooling
In 2022, the Oregon legislature passed the Right to Cool bill (SB 1536). This bill mandated tenants’ access to cooling units in their residences. This means that, with a few exceptions, landlords can no longer ban window units or portable A/C units for renters.
The law now states that landlords must allow portable free-standing air conditioners and window-mounted air conditioners in tenants’ homes. The devices must not damage property or violate building codes. (Read Renting & Air Conditioning: Protections for Oregonians for more information about what landlords can and cannot restrict.)
This historic bill was passed to ensure Oregon reduces the risk of deaths from heat waves and allows tenants access to life-saving cooling devices.
Free Air Conditioning Available for Qualifying Households
For low-income Oregonians, cost can be a barrier to accessing portable AC units. Thankfully, there are organizations and state agencies that provide free or low-cost portable AC units across Oregon.
The Air Conditioner and Air Filter Deployment Program
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) provides free AC units to qualifying Oregonians. This program is for those who qualify for medical assistance through OHA or Medicare and are at risk of heat-related illnesses.
There is no application process and this is set up through a referral program. For Medicare recipients, the referral can come from your doctor. Referrals can also come from a member of the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services or the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities.
This program also offers a free air filtration device for those who qualify.
Cooling Portland
Through the City of Portland, qualified households can receive free AC units. These units are given out through organizations like Verde, APANO, and African American Alliance for Homeownership. Many low-income housing providers also offer programs for residents.
For more details on income requirements and the application process for the units, visit Portland.gov.
Other Resources for Summer Energy Bills
AC units can be a costly addition to your home, especially if you don’t qualify for cooling programs. You have options to reduce the cost burden of ACs throughout the summer.
Related CUB Blogs:
- Energy Saving Tips for Summer
- Renters’ Rights: Past Due Utility Bills and Preventing Disconnection
- Utilities 101: How Can Renters Be Charged for Utilities?
With temperatures already in the nineties in mid-May, it’s time to act now. See if you qualify for a free AC through the state today. Now is the time to start planning for another high-heat summer.
Stay Up to Date on Oregon Utility Issues
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05/23/23 | 0 Comments | Beat the Heat: Cooling Resources for Oregonians