Dear Editor,

Belmont County’s Weatherization Program came to my rescue this month after my hot water tank heated its last gallon of water.

I purchased a 30 gallon tank in the fall of 2003. The tank worked hard for my needs and survived several inches of water when the original clay water line pipe burst and crumbled as a result of tree roots.

When I came home from the hospital in 2014, I could tell that the tank was struggling as hot water phased out quickly during showers. I had to unscrew the main plate to hit the reset button and wait for the water to warm up for showers.

The tank finally gave in and I had to heat gallons of water on the stove to transfer to the bathroom tub. Ten gallons was required to get a comfortable water level.

I got stuck in the tub and it took me 25 minutes to try to get out.

I placed a call that day to the Belmont County Weatherization Program. Lori connected me with Brian Stang with the AEP Energy Program.

Brian came to my home with equipment and a camera to document my tank. The bottom of the tank had a ring of rust that would have posed even more problems.

About a week passed and Brian called to say that I was approved for the program. We set an appointment and Brian brought a wonderful 50 gallon tank. Hot water would once again be in my future!

Brian’s skill with installing the tank was excellent. A few problems popped up, but he knew exactly what had to be done to solve them.

The work was completed in a little more than two hours, and I was able to once again enjoy hot water!

Being a home owner can result in obstacles and issues. The Belmont County Community Action Commission is there to help!

Kudos to Gary Obloy, Executive Director of the county’s CAC; Dean Redinger, Energy Coordinator; and Brian Stang with the AEP Energy Program. Because of these wonderful people, household problems can be solved in an efficient, professional and courteous manner!

For information on programs offered through the Belmont County Community Action Commission’s Weatherization Program (and qualifications), call 740-695-0293 or 740-633-6340.

Respectfully submitted,

M. Paula Ginther

Shadyside