Cut Heating Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

Cut Heating Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

If your heating system is more than 10-15 years old, chances are you’re spending more than you should to keep your home warm. Older equipment tends to run less efficiently, requiring more fuel to produce the same amount of heat. Upgrading to a high-efficiency heating system is one of the smartest ways to lower your energy expenses.

High-efficiency systems are designed to do more with less. They convert a greater percentage of fuel into usable heat, which means less waste and more savings for you. In fact, many homeowners see their heating bills drop by 30% or more after an upgrade!

If you’ve been putting off replacing your old furnace or boiler, now is the perfect time to consider an upgrade. No more chilly corners or constantly adjusting the thermostat. And on top of our fall savings on new heating equipment, many models qualify for energy rebates, making the initial investment even more affordable.

Talk to one of our Comfort Specialists to learn how much you could save by switching to high-efficiency equipment - and start enjoying a warmer home for less.

Spotlight: Cassie On Customer FAQs

Spotlight: Cassie On Customer FAQs

It’s truly impressive how many calls and emails our Customer Care team fields in a day; they’re always happy to help! Cassie, Customer Care Team Lead & Collections Specialist, shared these top questions they hear every fall.

What will the price of oil do?

Will it go up, will it go down? We get this one A LOT. My team and I would LOVE to have a crystal ball and tell every customer how to properly plan for the heating season, but unfortunately, we’re in the same boat as you. We can only advise what your home has typically used in past seasons and go over the pricing and budget options available. Heating your home has many factors, and our goal is to guide you toward the best choice for you and your heating needs.

I can only tune up my heating equipment in the winter, right?

Wrong! We can check your heating system any time of year, especially if it’s used for hot water. While most homeowners associate annual maintenance of heating equipment with the fall, it’s actually best for warm air furnaces and steam boilers to be serviced in the spring. That way, any minor repairs can be made without interruption, and we tend to have more availability in the spring and summer than during the busy fall and winter months when emergency calls increase.

I’m at ¼ tank, will I make it through the night?

Many customers tend to panic when they see their tank gauge reach ¼. While yes, it is time for a fill up, a ¼ tank of oil will last most homes anywhere from 6-10 days of heating. This can vary depending on the size of your home and thermostat settings, but I promise you will not run out overnight or over the weekend. We always make every effort to complete delivery requests within a few days to ensure a runout never occurs!

Let’s Talk Shop

Let’s Talk Shop

Now that the kids are back at school, it’s a great time to prepare your home for a cool fall and the cold winter months ahead.

Here are a few items you should consider adding to your fall checklist:

• Install and program a smart thermostat for more efficient heat

• Schedule your heat tune-up (and don’t forget to ask about an oil tank inspection!)

• Lock in your heating price plan – available for both heating oil and propane

• Get your home’s air ready with new indoor air quality products

It might sound like a lot, but just give us a call and we’ll have you covered! And with less on your Fall To-Do list, you can spend more time checking out some of the great events happening in our area this season! You can find us at these local events: Chickenstock in Farmington (9/13), Burlington Tavern Day (9/21), Bristol Mum Festival (9/26-9/28), Simsbury Meadows’ Boos & Brews (10/18).

Have fun and enjoy all that fall has to offer!

Jim Hickey

General Manager

Double The Renewables, Zero The Hassle: Bioheat Gets Greener

Double The Renewables, Zero The Hassle: Bioheat Gets Greener

Back in 2021, the State of Connecticut mandated that heating oil sold in the state be a low-carbon fuel blend: ultra-low sulfur heating oil (ULSHO) with biodiesel, a fuel made from 100% renewable resources. The law specified the percentage of biodiesel fuel to be blended as 5% in 2022, then 10% by July 1, 2025, and ultimately 50% by 2035.

Starting this summer, the Bioheat® Heating Oil we deliver to your home is now a 10% biodiesel blend, but what does this mean for you?

• Your home now receives double the amount of renewables in your low-carbon heating oil.

• No equipment modifications are needed for the higher percentage.

• The new Bioheat® is even more environmentally friendly

• More renewables mean fewer greenhouse gas emissions

• Bioheat® continues to reduce our reliance on foreign oil

We’re proud to continue delivering a better, cleaner fuel to our customers. By using more renewable fuel in every delivery, we’re not just heating homes; we’re helping build a more sustainable Connecticut for years to come.

Go Ductless This Summer!

Go Ductless This Summer!

Are you rethinking your cooling setup in the summer heat? Whether you’re upgrading a single room or ditching old window units, ductless air conditioning (including mini-splits and heat pumps) can offer a sleek, energy-efficient solution that heats and cools your home with no ductwork required.

BENEFITS OF GOING DUCTLESS

1. Easy Non-Invasive Installation: No ductwork means faster installation, often completed in just one day! You’ll enjoy upgraded comfort with minimal disruption to your home.

2. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Equipped with multi-stage filtration, ductless units help reduce dust, allergens, and airborne particles and deliver cleaner, healthier air.

3. Year-Round Comfort: Don’t be fooled by the name “heat pump.” These systems cool your home in the summer and can supplement your heat in the winter.

We even provide ductless AC in Bristol. Whether it’s your home office, attic, or sunroom, ductless systems deliver targeted relief without the hassle of major renovations. For efficient, year-round comfort, consider going ductless with Quinoco.

Pricing Programs Are Now Available!

Pricing Programs Are Now Available!

Prepare for heating season by enrolling in one of our Price Protection Programs. Our pricing programs ensure the fairest prices, coupled with the best service for heating your home!

With the pricing season upon us, now is a good time to take a look at one of Quinoco’s pricing programs of choice for our oil customers: The Cap Price Program!  Designed with a fluctuating market in mind, the Cap Price Program offers you the best protection, whether oil prices rise or fall, all for less than a dollar a day!

HOW IT WORKS:

• Stability - Your price is locked at a ceiling price and will never go up

• Security - If the market price declines, your price goes down as well

• Protection - Secure a set number of gallons with an enrollment fee up front

Peace of mind for less than the cost of a cup of coffee a day? Now that’s an investment you can rely on!

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Our Customer Care team is here to help you determine which of our various pricing programs is the best plan for your home: Cap, Float, Fixed, Prebuy. Please call us at 860.583.4609 to discuss your options and sign up.

Setting The Record Straight On Industry Myths

Setting The Record Straight On Industry Myths

At Quinoco, we believe in empowering customers with the facts, so you can make smart, confident decisions about your home comfort. Here are some common myths we hear, and the truth behind them:

Myth: "I can’t be on automatic delivery because I need to control my fuel expenses."

Fact: You can stay on top of your budget and enjoy automatic delivery. Our Quinoco Advantage Payment Plan is designed just for that. It’s like a layaway plan - breaking your winter heating costs into predictable monthly payments. You’ll stay warm without the stress of spikes during the winter and high bills.

Myth: " The annual maintenance on my heating equipment needs to be done in the Fall and AC in Spring.”

Fact: Maintenance can be done any time of year. If your heating system provides hot water year-round, there’s no need to wait until Fall. And AC maintenance can be done from early spring through late fall. Making sure we come annually is the most important thing to ensure your system runs efficiently!

Myth: "I don’t need a fuel delivery in the summer."

Fact: If your system heats your water for showers, pool, clothes, etc., then you absolutely do. Skipping summer deliveries could leave you unexpectedly out of fuel and hot water.

Myth: "My older AC unit is running fine, I don’t need to replace it."

Fact: That aging AC equipment might be silently draining your wallet. Older systems are far less efficient, often leading to higher electricity bills and unreliable performance.

Talk with Jim about Bioheat

Let’s Talk Shop About About Bioheat

I've been in the business for 43 years, and a lot has changed. From better technology and more efficient equipment, the industry has been reenergized in recent years with a greater focus on the current and future consumer. One of the most notable improvements can be found with the fuel we're delivering. BioHeat® is a renewable energy source that combines low-sulfur home heating oil with biodiesel made from surplus or byproducts of feedstocks such as used cooking oil, inedible corn oil, and more.

For our current customer, BioHeat® has some strong immediate effects. It can help reduce the overall energy demand and associated emissions when used with high-efficiency heating equipment. Additionally, Bioheat® produces fewer microscopic particles and lowers sulfur emissions when compared to conventional heating oil, leading to improved air quality and a reduction in respiratory issues related to air pollution.

For the future customer, whether it’s 5, 10, or 20 years from now, BioHeat® will help build a greener world. Increasing the percentage of biodiesel blended in BioHeat® over the next decade will further reduce greenhouse gas emissions and carbon dioxide in the air. Thanks to the renewable resources used to create biodiesel, heating your home will leave a significantly smaller carbon footprint, thanks to its carbon neutrality.

With each delivery of Bioheat® home heating oil, we hope you feel confident that Quinoco is looking out for you now and in the future.

Jim Hickey
General Manager

Roth Tank Savings & Mike's Top 3 Oil Tank Questions

Spotlight: Mike on Oil Tanks

“As someone who's been out in the field for years, I’ve answered just about every question you can think of when it comes to oil tanks. But here are three I hear most often from homeowners.” - Mike, Quinoco Comfort Specialist.

If these questions are on your mind, you’re not alone!

1. How long should an oil tank last?

You know it, really varies. Some tanks last for 10 years and some for over 50 years – it all depends on the environment and the quality of the tank. If your tank is outside, expect to replace it more frequently since it’s exposed to the elements.

2. Why did my oil tank leak? Did your oil cause this?

Leaking tanks can happen at any time, but especially with older tanks that show a lot of wear and tear. Believe it or not, if you’re someone who keeps their tank pretty empty in the off-season, you’re inviting a leak to happen. When warmer or fluctuating temperatures are combined with a partially filled oil tank, condensation starts to form on the bare walls inside the tank, eventually dripping down into the fuel. Because water is heavier than oil, it sinks to the bottom of your tank, where it creates bacteria and debris that settle at the bottom of your tank. This can lead to clogs, corrosion, decreased efficiency, and breakdowns. Some of these problems are repairable, but we often find that the oil tank needs to be replaced.

3. Why do oil tanks cost a lot less online?

Well, you might be able to buy the tank online, but it doesn’t include the parts, installation, labor, and removal of your old tank. So, while you think you’re getting a deal online, in the end, it will probably cost more. Our pricing covers your tank replacement from start to finish, with our workmanship guaranteed by a reputable local company.

Debating on Repairing or Replacing your AC System?

Debating on Repairing or Replacing your AC system?

Replacing your home’s cooling equipment can feel daunting – What system do I need? How much will it cost? How long will it take? Do I really need to replace it this year?

As we head into AC season, we asked our Comfort Specialists to share their recommendations for whether you should repair or replace your cooling system. And while reading the Repair List and Replace List, make a note of which statements apply to your system or unit(s).

Repair:

• Active warranty; some repairs may be covered.

• The system’s age is less than its life expectancy.

• Your unit had 0-2 repairs in the last 3 years.

• The unit’s performance generally functions well.

• You plan to live in your home for less than 7 years.

• Newer models, less than 10 years old, run more efficiently and keep monthly costs down.

• If you meet the $5,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost < $5,000

• The SEER is over 13.

Replace:

• Expired warranty; you are responsible for all repair costs.

• System is at or surpassed its life expectancy.

• Your unit has had 3+ repairs in the last 3 years.

• Your unit’s performance has gone down. Look for: Lessened airflow strength, difficulty with full room or house coverage, more time to change the temperature, and its ability to reach the desired temperature.

• You plan to live in your home for 7 years or more.

• The system is 10+ years old, or you want to optimize energy efficiency.

• You exceed the $5,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost > $5,000.

• Your equipment uses R-22 refrigerant.

If more statements in the Repair column apply to you, calling our experts for a repair makes sense. If more statements in the Replace column apply, then you are in luck…

Check Off Your To-Do List Before Summer Vacation

Check Off Your To-Do List Before Summer Vacation

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Reminder: Schedule your AC Maintenance and Save on a Service Plan!

Before you head out on your summer adventures, don’t forget to show your AC some love! A quick Precision Tune-Up now ensures your system is running efficiently through the hottest days ahead. Plus, this is your last month to save on our AC Protection Plan - our seasonal offer helps you stay cool without breaking a sweat (or the bank).

Early Bird Savings are still available:

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Pool Season Ready? Don’t Forget Propane Monitors

Have a propane-heated pool or spa? Let’s make sure you’re ready before that first cannonball! Installing a propane tank monitor gives you peace of mind that we’ll tailor our deliveries based on how much you use your pool this summer and how warm or cool you decide to keep it.

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It’s Never Too Early to Lock in Your Heating Pricing Program

While you're enjoying the summer sun, prepare for cooler days ahead by enrolling in one of our Price Protection Programs. We offer options to suit your budget and ensure you receive fair pricing coupled with the best service for heating your home:

1. Fixed Price Program - Lock in a set price per gallon for the entire heating season, protecting you from market fluctuations.

2. Floating Price Program - Benefit from market prices with the flexibility to adjust as rates change.

3. Fixed Price with Downside Protection - Best of both worlds! Secure a fixed price while retaining the ability to pay lower rates if market prices decrease.

Let us help you choose the plan that fits your lifestyle - and your wallet. We can even provide heating oil delivery near Goshen.

Our Involvement within the Community

Our Involvement within the Community

Walk MS - Pat’s Pack

As the warm weather rolls in, we're excited to get out into the community!

Every year, we participate in our local MS Walk. This year we’ll be at the Simsbury Walk on June 1st. It’s a cause near and dear to our team here, and I’m always proud of how many teammates come out to support this event. Consider coming out to join us or donating to the cause here.

You’ll also find us on the Terryville High School T-shirts this year. These shirts are thrown into crowds, used as prizes, and distributed to students. It’s a great way to support the Terryville HS student council.

This fall, we’ll be sponsoring Chickenstock 2025. It’s an annual music festival held at the Hein Farm in Farmington to support the CT Farmland Trust. The organization helps preserve Connecticut farmland for current and future generations of farmers.

It’s wonderful to support our community just as the community supports us. These activities are just a few we participate in, and we hope to see you out and about with us, enjoying the festivities.

Jim Hickey
General Manager

Please consider donating to the MS Walk by clicking here!

Warm Weather Is Almost Here! Is Your AC System Ready?

Warm Weather Is Almost Here! Is Your AC System Ready?

As the weather warms up, it’s time to think about your central AC system - soon, it will be more essential than ever! No one wants to be stuck in a humid home with an outdated cooling system that won’t make it through the dog days of summer.

Before it’s time to switch the thermostat over to COOL, upgrade your AC system and save $500 on a new high-efficiency central AC equipment! Investing in a new system pays off in the long run, especially with the improved energy efficiency that will result in lower electric bills. New systems come with a higher SEER rating, meaning they use less energy to cool your home.

Consider these stats:

• If your AC was installed prior to 2006, the average SEER was 10. Now, due to age, that same piece of equipment has a SEER of 7 or 8.

• The minimum SEER allowed to be installed today is 13.2. According to our Comfort Specialists, customers have been upgrading to a minimum of 16 SEER over the last two years.

• For every increase in SEER, you should see a 4-6% decrease in your electricity costs.

And don’t forget, if your AC unit is more than 10 years old, it's likely using R22 or R410A refrigerant, which have been phased out due to their environmental impact. Not only is R22 becoming increasingly difficult to find, but it's also time to replace it to ensure your home stays cool and eco-friendly. Reach out to us if you need air conditioning installation near New Hartford.

Read more information on additional industry-wide changes to the refrigerant used in your AC systems HERE.

Call us today at 860.583.4609 or visit quinoco.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

SUMMER IS COMING - SAVE BIG NOW ON A NEW CENTRAL AC SYSTEM

Call us today at 860.583.4609 or visit quinoco.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

If you haven’t read our last blog, here is a recap….

Another Refrigerant Change Is Here.

Over 15 years ago, the EPA began phasing out R-22 refrigerant, which is commonly used in air conditioning systems. This year, the EPA has added R-410A to the banned refrigerant list, which was the EPA’s recommended refrigerant to replace R-22.

Now, the industry is being directed to manufacture systems that only use R-454B, a refrigerant with a significantly smaller impact on global warming than the previous two, and has increased energy efficiency.

Should I repair or rEplace?

A new system will ultimately be in everyone’s future, but as with previous refrigerant phase-outs, there is a runway of time before 410A refrigerant and replacement parts are depleted. For now, homeowners will need to consider whether their system is worth repairing or it’s time to replace it.

Here are some things to consider:

Repair

Less than 2 repairs in the last 3 years
System worked great last year
Less than 10 years old
Refrigerant & parts readily available

REPLACE

Annual refrigerant refills
Pool cooling performance
More than 10 years old
It’s an R-22 system

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*Offer ends 5/31/2025. Offer limited to one per household. Does not apply to previously quoted AC units. Offers cannot be redeemed as a cash payout. Purchase must be a complete AC system including a condenser, air handler or cooling coil, and refrigeration line.

Refrigerant Changes are Happening in your AC System

Important Information For All Air Conditioning Equipment

The EPA has mandated that all air conditioning equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, use R454B refrigerant.

This new refrigerant and equipment should be more readily available later this year.

R454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R410A. There are no ozone-depleting compounds, it has low toxicity compared to past refrigerants, and it has proven to be more energy efficient in the US Department of Energy testing.

FAQs on The EPA’s Latest Refrigerant Change

Can I still buy a R410A system?

Yes, but only for a limited time. HVAC manufacturers are shifting production to R-454B systems, and R-410A models will no longer be available after the transition. If you buy an R-410A system now, you may face limited availability for equipment and servicing in the future.

Do I need to replace my current system?

No, you do not need to replace your current system as long as it still runs efficiently.

• If you still have an R22 system, we no longer provide this refrigerant due to this phase-out being complete.

• If you have an R410A system, replacement parts and the refrigerant are currently available.

In either case, as your system ages and nears replacement or begins to require costly repairs, you will need to consider your options.

Can you retrofit my current system?

Most systems currently installed do not meet the system requirements for R-454B, so retrofitting is highly unlikely.

Installation changes with R454B systems

Due to the EPA’s guidelines regarding R-454B, installation of your air conditioning equipment will look a bit different.

• System piping (lines) – different sizes required

• Concealed lines can no longer be used (hidden in wall cavities)

• Additional leak sensors required

• Permitting may be required

• Carpenters may be necessary to gain access to run new lines

Servicing a R454B system

Maintenance recommendations on R-454B systems remain the same as existing systems and will be available under our current Cooling Protection Plan. For our technicians, they will be required to utilize some new tools and procedures to work with the refrigerant.  

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Have additional questions?

Our Comfort Specialists are here to guide you through this transition. Please contact our office at 860.583.4609 to begin the conversation.

Protect Your AC System with Our Early Bird Special!

Protect Your AC System with Our Early Bird Special

Don’t wait until the hottest days of summer to find out your AC isn’t up to the task. Breakdowns are inconvenient and costly, but with our AC Protection Plan, you can avoid unexpected repairs and keep your home cool all season long.

WHY CHOOSE OUR AC PROTECTION PLAN?

Our plan helps prevent and diagnose issues with your Central Air Conditioning or Ductless Mini-Split systems before they turn into costly repairs. Our Annual Inspection and Safety Check includes:

• Check condenser and refrigeration coils

• Flush and check condensate drains and pan

• Check refrigerant pressures

• Check and/or replace air filters (standard 1”)

• Lubricate all moving parts

• Check temperature drop

 Check out our services across the area, including air conditioning installation in Plainville.

Stay ahead of summer heat and unexpected AC problems by calling 860.583.4609 today!

Hard-Working Hot Water Heaters

Your Water Heater is Hard at Work

Your hot water heater is one of the hardest working appliances in your home, and upgrading is one of the easiest ways to reduce your energy usage, save money, and provide you with endless hot water all year round. Whether you're taking hot showers, washing dishes, or doing laundry, a reliable water heater is essential to keeping your household running smoothly.

Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your unit, ensuring it meets your needs all year long. Even the most reliable water heaters have a lifespan of about 10-15 years.

Our reliable heating oil delivery in Burlington ensures your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.

If your water heater is showing any of these signs, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement:

• Inconsistent Water Temperature

• Unusual Noises

• Leaks or Pooling Water

• Age of the Heater

Wall-Hung Propane Units: A Smart Upgrade for Your Home

If your home already has propane and you're ready to replace your water heater, consider upgrading to a sleek wall-hung propane unit. These modern efficient systems come with several benefits:

• Saves Space: Compact and mounted on the wall, these water heaters free up valuable floor space - perfect for smaller homes or tight utility rooms.

• Energy Efficient: Wall-hung units heat water on demand, reduce energy consumption, and eliminate standby heat loss which is common in traditional tank systems.

• Long-Term Savings: Built for durability and long-term efficiency, expect savings on energy bills and fewer maintenance issues in the future.

• Environmentally Friendly: Propane is a clean-burning fuel, so it’s a great option for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

At Quinoco, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your home and ensure your water heater performs optimally. Call 860.583.4609 for expert advice and reliable installation services!

New Homeowner Guide: A Resource for Smooth Transitions

New Homeowner Guide: A Resource for Smooth Transitions

Spring is here, and the real estate season is in full swing! Whether you're buying, selling, or settling into a new home, it’s important to get familiar with the systems that keep your home running smoothly. We’ve put together a helpful New Homeowner Guide to make the transition easier.

Our guide is packed with valuable resources to help you understand everything from your energy sources to your heating and cooling systems, thermostats, indoor air quality, and even automatic standby generators. Whether you're in a brand-new home or just need a refresher, our guide is here to help you make informed decisions about your home’s efficiency and maintenance.

From understanding your home’s HVAC systems to ways to save on your first deliveries, the Quinoco New Homeowner Guide is the perfect place to start for making your home more comfortable and efficient for the seasons ahead.

Understand heating, cooling and more solutions for your home when you partner with us. We can even provide propane delivery near Unionville.

Let's Talk Shop with Jim

Let’s Talk Shop with Jim!

After coming out of a long cold winter, we’re ready to kick spring into high gear! We’ve got new service vehicles hitting the road and promotions on AC equipment to give your home a little refresh.

Internally, each Spring we hold a series of annual meetings across the company, marking what we consider the end of our busy season. One thing we highlight all year and celebrate at the annual meeting is the licenses that are obtained by our team.

At Quinoco we support our techs through the whole licensing process. All our technicians hold industry licenses; some even complete over 580 classroom hours and 8000 hours, or 4 years, of on-the-job training as required before even taking one of the more advanced licensing exams. It's not easy, to say the least! And in the past 12 months, 3 of our technicians have received additional licensing.

Through our training program, we put a lot of time and resources into helping with on-the-job training, licensing books, and professional courses. We also work closely with some of our state’s technical high schools to train aspiring technicians and prepare them for the workforce.

I’m so proud of our technicians and the training team for all their accomplishments!

Jim Hickey
General Manager

Warm Weather is Here! Is your AC System Ready?

Warm Weather is Here! Is your AC System Ready?

As the weather warms up, it’s time to think about your central AC system - soon, it will be more essential than ever! No one wants to be stuck in a humid home with an outdated cooling system that won’t make it through the dog days of summer.

Before it’s time to switch the thermostat over to COOL, upgrade your AC system and save $500 on a new high-efficiency central AC equipment! Investing in a new system pays off in the long run, especially with the improved energy efficiency that will result in lower electric bills. New systems come with a higher SEER rating, meaning they use less energy to cool your home.

Consider these stats:

• If your AC was installed before 2006, the average SEER was 10. Now due to age, that same piece of equipment has a SEER of 7 or 8.

• The minimum SEER allowed to be installed today is 13.2. According to our Comfort Specialists, customers have been upgrading to a minimum of 16 SEERs for the last two years.

• For every increase in SEER, you should see a 4-6% decrease in your electricity costs.

If your air conditioning unit is more than 10 years old, it probably uses R22 refrigerant, which has been phased out due to its negative impact on the environment. Now is a great time to replace your unit to keep your home cool and eco-friendly with the newest refrigerant, R-454B. Stay tuned for more information on additional industry-wide changes to the refrigerant used in your AC systems. We can provide air conditioning installation in Avon.

Call 860.583.4609 today or visit quinoco.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.