Never Too Soon To Think Cool

Never Too Soon To Think Cool

Anyone else looking forward to warmer weather?

It’s hard not to when January rolls around. So, this year we have already started thinking about sunny days and the simple joy of air conditioning, and so should you!

Meet with a Comfort Specialist for a new cooling system and receive $500 off + $100 account credit if you sign your AC contract before March 1st!

Why purchase cooling equipment in winter?

1. You’re first on the list for installations once the weather improves.

2. Extra off-season savings!

3. No chance for hot, sticky days with a poor-performing system.

Schedule your free quote at 860.583.4609 or visit quinoco.com/ac-savings to learn more about high-efficiency cooling equipment.

Healthier Homes In 2026: Remove Microplastics From The Air

Healthier Homes In 2026: Remove Microplastics From The Air

Clean air isn’t a luxury - it’s essential to your family’s health.

New research shows that indoor air can contain significantly more microplastics than outdoor air, and adults may inhale tens of thousands of these particles daily. Common household items like carpets, clothing, furniture, paint, and flooring all shed microplastics that float in the air you breathe, leading to inflammation and immune system reactions.

The good news is that adding indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions can help remove microplastics from the air, creating a healthier home environment. Air purifiers, whole-home ventilation systems, high-efficiency media filters, electronic cleaners, and HEPA-equipped systems are all designed to capture airborne particles - including microplastics as small as 0.3 microns.

When IAQ systems operate continuously, they help filter air throughout your home, reduce particle buildup, and support cleaner breathing every day. This is an often-overlooked benefit of modern IAQ equipment and one of the most effective ways to reduce indoor microplastics.

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If you’re looking to improve the air your family breathes, let our team help you choose the right Indoor Air Quality products for your home.

Call 860.583.4609 for a FREE consultation and explore our line of IAQ products. Your family deserves cleaner, healthier air, and we’re here to help you achieve it.

Keep The Heat Flowing

Keep The Heat Flowing

After a colder than normal December, you might be wondering about your next Bioheat or Propane delivery. But rest assured, our system has got your home covered!

Setting up our weekly delivery schedule relies on a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Computer systems, weather calculations, and lots of geography are used to build out the most efficient routes that get fuel to our customers when they need it.

We look at Degree Days.

Degree days are a weather measurement of how hot or cold a day is by comparing the average outdoor temperature recorded for a location to a standard indoor temperature (usually 65°F in the United States). The more extreme the outside temperature, the higher the number of degree days.

What does that mean for you?

The colder the weather = higher the number of degree days = more energy used to heat your home = more frequent Bioheat or Propane deliveries.

We calculate a K-Factor.

The number of degree days is then part of a bigger equation to determine how long one gallon of fuel will keep a specific home at 65°F. This number rarely changes and is based on your home’s square footage, insulation, windows, furnace efficiency, thermostat settings, hot water setting, etc.

What does that mean for you?

When we track your K-Factor, we can more accurately predict how quickly you’ll use the gallons in your tank. If you’re an auto-delivery customer, we can then get you on our delivery schedule before you risk running low on Bioheat or Propane.

The easiest way to keep your home consistently comfortable is to switch to automatic delivery. It’s a smart, stress-free way to keep the heat flowing all season long. Speak to one of our Customer Care representatives at 860.583.4609 to move your account to automatic delivery!

Let's Talk Shop with Jim Hickey

Let’s Talk Shop

We’re always looking for ways to improve our service, and for 2026, we’re committed to providing you even more value in the year ahead!

• Special Offers on Quinoco.com: Access year-round and seasonal discounts designed to help you save on the products and services you love.

• New Website Coming Soon: A refreshed, user-friendly website will make it easier to explore our services and get the information you need. Have ideas to share? Send them over!

• How-To Videos: We’ve added new instructional videos to the site, with more on the way, so you can get the most out of your Quinoco products. You can also view them on our YouTube channel.

• Behind The Scenes: We’re making updates to improve efficiency and better serve you over the phone, at our office, and in the field.

• Additions To The Team: Our growing team means more support, faster service, and more expertise at your disposal. If you see any of our trucks or vans around town, don’t be afraid to say hi!

2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year, and we can’t wait to share all the improvements and new resources with you!

Wishing you all a happy and healthy start to the new year!

Jim Hickey

Stay Warm This Winter: Understanding Your Heating System

Stay Warm this Winter: Understanding Your Heating System

Fall is all about keeping warm and your home comfortable; your heating system is about to become the most important piece of equipment in your home! Before we head into winter, take a moment to consider the system that will be working hard over the next few months. Call our team for expert HVAC installation in Avon and across the area.

Do I have a boiler or a furnace?

Well, boilers use hot water (think boiling water) to heat your home through radiant flooring or radiators. Furnaces, on the other hand, use warm air or ‘forced air’ that is blown through ductwork and vents to heat the home. Then, there is hydro-air, which is a boiler that converts hot water to warm air.

What is the life expectancy of my oil tank?

Some tanks last for 10 years; some last for 70 years – it really just depends on the condition of your tank. Outdoor tanks average around 10 years while indoor tanks will go 20+ years.

Do I really need a tune up every year?

Yes, we strongly recommend scheduling an annual tune-up for your heating equipment. This preventative maintenance helps reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and can extend the life of your equipment. During the tune-up, our technicians will inspect all key components, clean filters, check for any signs of wear, and make sure your heating system is ready to keep your home warm throughout the season.

How do I know when it’s time to replace my system?

Our top three signs it’s time to replace your heating equipment:

• Age: Average lifespan of a furnace is 15-20 years and a boiler is 13-21 years.

• Repairs: The cost to repair exceeds the $4,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost > $4,000

• Fuel Use: If you’re burning through more oil or propane than in past years, it’s often a sign your system isn’t running as efficiently as it used to.

Why We Stand Behind Energy Kinetics Heating Equipment

Why We Stand Behind Energy Kinetics Heating Equipment

We get asked all the time if we sell or service certain brands. The truth is, we’re pretty selective. We only work with equipment that meets our standards for quality, technical support, and reliability. This is a big reason why we stand behind Energy Kinetics (EK) heating equipment.

Our Comfort Specialists often hear customers refer to them as “that bright yellow one” - and for good reason. EK is a family-owned manufacturer we’re proud to recommend, and here’s why:

• Strong Product Support – Direct access to EK engineers and their full parts inventory

• Technical Expertise – Our team is trained and certified to service and install EK

• Made in US – Their New Jersey factory uses locally sourced steel

• One of the best Warranties in the business – lifetime protection!

• Equipment Longevity – EKs perform well over 30 years with proper maintenance

More importantly, we really like Energy Kinetics’ efficiency. EK systems are designed to help homeowners save big on fuel use and heating costs. You can see the proof in two real-life case studies at quinoco.com/heat-savings.

And one more thing to keep in mind… It’s the final month of our heating equipment promotion; we’re offering over $600 in savings when you purchase and install a new heating system with us!

Stay warm this fall and reach out for HVAC installation in Litchfield.

Jim Hickey

Guest Spotlight: Ryan, Service Technician

Guest Spotlight: Ryan, Service Technician

Q: What’s one thing you wish more homeowners knew?

A: Know where their emergency switches are!

Our Customer Care team often walks customers through finding them.

Emergency Switches shut off the burner in your heating system. Most homes have at least two: one located at the top of the basement stairs and another on or near their heating equipment. Both should have a red switch plate for easy identification.

Know where your main water shut-off valve is located in case you need to shut off the water. And make sure you know where your electrical panel is located and that the breakers are properly marked!

Prep Your Home For A Warm & Worry-Free Holiday

Prep Your Home For A Warm & Worry-Free Holiday

Everyone seems to have a Holiday Prep Checklist this time of year, and so do we! Here are five things to help your holidays go a little smoother.

• Switch to a smart thermostat: With extra people visiting, a smart thermostat will help you better regulate the temperature and save energy while you’re at home, work, or on vacation.

• Add a propane tank monitor: If cooking, baking, and entertaining are on your holiday agenda, make sure you don’t run out mid-recipe! A propane tank monitor gives you peace of mind, so you can focus on creating delicious meals instead of tracking fuel levels. Contact us to get yours installed today!

• Change to Automatic delivery: Winter is the busiest season for heating fuel, and running out is the last thing you want. With automatic delivery, we use a degree day system to track usage and make sure your oil or propane arrives before you need it, so you can relax and enjoy the season.

• Check your indoor air quality: Dry winter air and seasonal colds can make your home feel less than ideal. We offer solutions to improve your home air quality, from humidifiers to filtration systems, so everyone in your household can breathe easier and enjoy a healthier winter.

• Switch to e-delivery tickets: The holidays mean plenty of deliveries to your doorstep. Save some paper and reduce clutter by opting for e-delivery tickets. You’ll get all the info you need electronically, leaving more time to focus on holiday shopping, cooking, and celebrations.

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. Get fast, friendly, and reliable propane delivery in Goshen to keep your home warm, your appliances running, and your family comfortable all year long.

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. Enjoy fast, friendly, and dependable propane delivery in Canton to keep your home cozy, your energy supply steady, and your peace of mind all year round. 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! Stay warm and worry-free with heating oil delivery in Collinsville, offering prompt, reliable service to keep your home comfortable no matter how cold it gets.

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. Count on our heating oil delivery in Plymouth for fast, dependable service that keeps your home warm, efficient, and ready for any winter weather.

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!