Tim Agne/KJZZ

Air conditioning equipment in an Arizona attic.

Maricopa County has dedicated more money to a program designed to provide complimentary air conditioning repairs to homeowners in the Valley. It comes from the county’s share of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.

The emergency HVAC repair and replacement fund is getting a $3.6 million boost. 

The program provides assistance to households that make $70,000 or less for “life threatening issues” during hot summer months. 

Jacqueline Edwards is the director of the county’s Human Services Department. 

“It’s really important to be able to have working air conditioners," Edwards said. "So this program truly helps families cover an unexpected cost and, essentially, may actually save lives.”

Edwards says the program has already helped about 200 homes in the county over the last year and expects to help 200 more.

“We are continuing to accept applications and work with individuals and families throughout Maricopa County to support them when they’re having a life-threatening emergency, like no running water or no cooling in their home," Edwards said.

residents can apply for assistance at maricopa.gov/hcd.