Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible for help with my furnace through ERR?
To be eligible for ERR you must be approved for Energy Assistance, own your home and have an emergency heating situation.
How can that I prove I own my home?
A property tax statement, mortgage statement, copy of your title (for mobile homes) or information from the county recorder or assessor can be used as proof of your home ownership.
I am buying my home contract for deed. Can you help me with my furnace problem?
Yes, contract for deed is considered home ownership. You may be required to submit a copy of the contract for deed documents.
I don't need help with my bills, just my furnace. Do I have to fill out the application?
Yes, you must be approved for Energy Assistance before we can help with a furnace problem.
I had my furnace repaired last week. Can you help me with the bill?
No, all repairs must first be authorized by Minnesota Valley Action Council.
How much will this cost me?
Nothing, repairs and replacements are paid for through the ERR Program.
Who will you send to work on my furnace?
We work with licensed heating contractors from all over the area. If there is a specific contractor you would like to work with we will try to make accommodations.
The gas company shut off my furnace. What should I do?
Contact us immediately and we will arrange for a contractor to do the repair or replacement. Please save a copy of the tag so we can include it in your file.
My furnace stopped working. Is there anything I can check before calling?
Please check your fuse box and try changing your furnace filter. One of these is often the source of the problem.
Can you help me replace my water heater?
No, ERR only assists with heating systems.
Can you help me with my air conditioner?
No, ERR is a program to assist with no-heat situations only.
My furnace is really old. Can you replace it?
No, ERR is for no-heat and health and safety situations only. If your furnace is old but still works we cannot assist, but keep our number handy just in case it stops working.
My furnace needs a clean and tune. Can you pay for it?
No, ERR is for emergency situations only. We cannot pay for clean and tunes and other general maintenance.
My furnace went out over the weekend. What should I do?
Someone from our office is available for no-heat emergencies on weekends between October 1st and May 31st. Please call (800) 767-7139 for assistance.
When does the ERR program start?
Because our funding comes through the federal government, we don't know exactly when we can start authorizing furnace projects. It generally begins sometime after October 1st and runs through May 31st. If you have a furnace problem please call and we will add you to the waiting list.
I received Energy Assistance and my furnace isn't working. Can you guarantee there will be money available to fix it?
No, unfortunately our funding may be limited and furnace projects are done on a first come, first served basis. We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible to increase your chances of receiving assistance.
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