SUMMIT COUNTY — On Oct. 3, more than 200 volunteers representing several organizations across Summit County will join together to provide free furnace checks to 100 eligible low-income elderly, veterans and disabled homeowners.

Thanks to the support of Rebuilding Together Summit County, the Professional Association of Comfort Contractors, the Cleveland Housing Network, Dominion East Ohio, the city of Akron and Summit County, homeowners will receive a free furnace check, new filter, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and, in some cases, on-the-spot repairs, according to Rebuilding Together officials.

This is the fifth year for the event in Summit County. More than 350 homeowners have been served, and in many cases, technicians discovered serious problems that required furnaces to be shut down or replaced, according to agency officials.

“Getting your furnace checked regularly is one of the most important things you can do to save energy, prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and extend the life of the furnace,” said Rebuilding Together Summit County Executive Director Paul Holm.

Low-income elderly, veterans and disabled homeowners are encouraged to apply as soon as possible for Rebuilding Together’s program to participate in “Heat the Town” on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call (330) 773-4100 or visit www.rebuildingtogether-sc.org.

Free old house advice available

AKRON — Residents of older houses who have always wanted to talk to an expert about projects or problems at their properties are invited to call the staff at the Heritage Home Program.

Since 1992, the Cleveland Restoration Society has been running a home repair program specifically for homes that are 50 years old and older. The Heritage Program provides homeowners free technical advice and low-interest loans for a variety of home repair projects.

In the summer of 2007, the organization expanded the program into Akron and opened an office in the Old Firehouse in the West Hill Neighborhood. Heritage Home Program services are now available to older properties throughout the city of Akron. Staff members will make a site visit to the property, answer questions and look at outstanding maintenance and efficiency issues. Free services also include color consultations, bid reviews and resource assistance.

These free services, and a loan at a 3.5 percent fixed interest rate, are available for homeowners who meet certain program and income criteria.

To schedule a free site visit or for more information on eligibility, call the Akron program office at (330) 814-3400. To learn more about the Cleveland Restoration Society, visit www.clevelandrestoration.org.