Benefits From Updating Your AC System

Benefits From Updating Your Central AC System

With the continued advancement in technology, we are constantly seeing smarter and more efficient solutions for our everyday needs. One area in particular where upgrading can significantly enhance our comfort and well-being is in your home’s air conditioning system. While it may be tempting to stick with your old and familiar AC unit, there are numerous benefits to be gained from updating your AC system. Let’s dive in and discover some more ways updating your AC system with Quinoco Energy can help enhance your home… and don’t miss our end of summer savings when you purchase and install a central AC system.

Improved Energy Efficiency

One of the most significant advantages of a new air conditioning system is improved energy efficiency. Older models consume a lot of energy, which results in higher electric bills. Newer models use advanced technologies that consume less energy while still providing effective cooling. In the long run, a new air conditioning system can save you a lot of money on your electricity bills.

Enhanced Comfort

Newer air conditioning systems come with several features that enhance comfort. For instance, they have multi-speed fans that can adjust the airflow to meet the desired temperature. When you add zoning to your ductwork, you can control the temperature in different areas of your home independently. Additionally, new systems offer better humidity control, which makes the indoor environment more comfortable.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality is crucial for maintaining good health. An old air conditioning system can harbor dust, dirt, and other pollutants, which can affect your health. A new system comes with advanced filters that remove pollutants, allergens, and other harmful particles from the air, ensuring that you breathe clean and healthy air.

Quieter Operation

Older air conditioning systems can be quite noisy, which can be a nuisance, especially at night. Newer systems are designed to operate quietly, making them ideal for bedrooms, offices, and other areas where noise can be disruptive.

Smart Features

Most new air conditioning systems come with smart features that make them more convenient to use. For example, you can control the temperature remotely using your smartphone or tablet. Some systems also come with voice-activated controls, which allow you to adjust the temperature without even lifting a finger.

Why Regular Maintenance for Your AC is Important

Regular Maintenance for Your AC is Critical for High Heat Days

When the scorching heat of summer arrives, we count on our AC to provide relief and comfort from those rising temperatures. However, like any other mechanical system, your AC requires regular care and attention to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some reasons why AC maintenance should be a top priority for homeowners and the benefits it brings… and don’t forget to call us to schedule your AC Tune Up!

Increased Efficiency

One of the primary reasons why regular maintenance is essential is that it increases the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in your system's filters and coils, which can reduce its efficiency. Regular cleaning and maintenance help to remove these contaminants and ensure that your air conditioner runs at peak performance.

Extended Lifespan

Another benefit of regular maintenance is that it can extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to wear and tear on your system's components, resulting in premature failure. Regular maintenance helps to identify and fix problems before they become major issues, ensuring that your system lasts longer.

Lower Energy Bills

A poorly maintained air conditioner will have to work harder to cool your home, which will consume more energy and result in higher energy bills. Regular maintenance helps to keep your air conditioning system in top condition, reducing energy consumption and lowering your bills.

Fewer Repairs

Regular maintenance helps to identify and fix minor problems before they become major issues. This can save you a lot of money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs. In addition, regular maintenance can also help to prevent breakdowns and keep your air conditioner running smoothly.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Air conditioning systems play a crucial role in maintaining good indoor air quality. A poorly maintained system can become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other contaminants, which can be harmful to your health. Regular maintenance helps to keep your system clean and free of contaminants, ensuring that your indoor air quality remains healthy.

Tips to Help Save you Energy This Summer

Tips to Help Save You Energy This Summer

As the temperatures rise and the summer heat sets in, finding ways to save energy becomes crucial. Not only does it help reduce our carbon footprint, but it also contributes to lower energy bills! Here are some tips that will make a significant difference in your energy consumption while keeping you cool this summer.

Use a programmable thermostat:

Set your thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you're not at home, which can help reduce energy consumption and save money on your energy bills.

Keep your home well-insulated:

Make sure your home is well-insulated to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. This can help reduce the workload on your air conditioning system and save energy.

Use fans:

Use ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate air throughout your home. This can help reduce the temperature and make you feel cooler without having to rely solely on your air conditioning system.

Close blinds and curtains:

Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun and keep your home cooler.

Use energy-efficient lighting:

Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs, which use less energy and produce less heat.

Use appliances wisely:

Use appliances such as the dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer during off-peak hours when energy rates are lower. This can help reduce your energy bills and save energy.

Grilling outdoors:

Cook outdoors on the grill instead of using the oven or stove. This can help keep your home cooler and reduce the workload on your air conditioning system.

Avoid using heat-generating appliances:

Using the oven or dryer during the hottest part of the day can make your home feel warmer and cause your air conditioning system to work harder.

Tune ups:

Regular maintenance and tune ups for your all your HVAC equipment can improve its efficiency, leading to energy savings down the line. We offer protection plans for your heating equipment, generator, and air conditioning – all of which include tune ups! Call to schedule your annual inspection and safety check today!

Our top priority this summer is to keep you and your family cool and comfortable this summer. Feel free to call 860.583.4609 or email info@quinoco.com to schedule an appointment with a member of our team.

Energy Efficiency Dos and Donts

Energy Efficiency Dos and Donts

Energy efficiency is the name of the game this year. With the state encouraging homeowners to convert their HVAC systems to electric even with higher than ever electric rates, we’ve decided to instead focus on bringing those electric bills down by using your system more efficiently.

Follow along throughout the year as we share more Efficiency Dos and Don’ts on the Quinoco blog and don’t miss our High Efficiency Savings in May!

*Promotion ends May 31, 2023

TOP 5: Replace or Upgrade your AC System

Our Top 5 Reasons to Replace or Upgrade Your Central AC

We have many experts and specialists at Quinoco but when it comes to knowing when it’s time to replace your air conditioning system, no one knows better than our technicians and Comfort Specialists; they work on, diagnose and replace hundreds of systems every year. That’s why we decided to poll them on what they think are the top five reasons to replace or upgrade your air conditioning this season. Check out the results below!

1. Financial Savings: 100% of the group put financial savings as a top reason for replacement. The biggest savings being on electricity; a new, high-efficiency system can save you up to 38% on your electric bill. Other savings are seen in the reduction of maintenance costs. Older systems often require more frequent maintenance sometimes making it more cost effective to replace a system rather than continually repairing it.

2. Efficiency: 96% of the group put increasing efficiency as a top reason for replacement. New units have higher SEER ratings; the higher the SEER, the less electric energy the unit uses in comparison to its cooling output making it more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Greater efficiency also bring other benefits such as being more cost effective.

3. Age & Reliability: 61% of the group put age and/or reliability as a top reason for replacement. If your system is more than 10 – 15 years old, it is reaching its life expectancy and has a higher chance of breakdown or failure. Being proactive, not reactive will ensure your unit will be running and reliable during the hottest weather.

4. Refrigerant Phase Out: 61% of the group put the phase out of the refrigerant R-22, also commonly known as Freon as a top reason for replacement. R-22 is part of an EPA phase out plan for ozone-depleting substances which will make it unavailable by 2020. Any unit using R-22 will ultimately need to be replaced.

5. Comfort: 43% of the group put factors that increase comfort as a top reason for replacement. New units are much quieter, cool faster and more consistently, remove humidity more effectively and create better air quality. This is especially relevant if conditions in your home have changed since your AC was originally installed; for example, a renovation would make your current unit not properly sized for your home.

Some others factors that didn’t make the list include: increasing the value of your home for resale, updating the look and appearance of the units outside your home, the ability to add air cleaners and other tech features like wifi thermostats and sensors.

Call us today at 860.583.4609 to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

Get Ahead of AC Season with a Ductless System!

If you don’t have ductwork in your home or central air conditioning would be too complicated or costly, there is another option: a ductless AC system.

Highly efficient ductless systems provide even air distribution throughout your home while delivering year-round comfort with its dual cooling and heating capabilities.

Features & Advantages:

• Sleek wall mounted indoor units mount discreetly, usually high on walls

• Slim compact outdoor units require minimal ground space or service clearance

• Indoor and outdoor units run quietly and provide years of efficient operation

• Installation consists of two basic components: an indoor air handler and an outdoor condensing unit, which require drilling a small hole in the wall or ceiling for refrigeration lines and power supply

Now through March 31st, receive $500 in savings when you purchase and install a ductless heat pump system.

Visit quinoco.com/heatpump or call 860.583.4609 to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists.

Spring is Service Season

We’ve got a spring in our step and it’s not just from the change in season! This time of year, we really start thinking about service and maintenance. Just like an annual physical is important to your health, an annual tune up for your heating and cooling equipment can diagnose problems before they become big ones and set the stage for a healthy year of usage!

This winter, we saw many customers sign up for our Bronze Heating Oil Protection Plan. If you have a Heating Oil or Propane Gas Protection Plan, give us a call now to schedule your annual tune up. All annual inspection and safety checks must be scheduled between 3/01 to 11/30.

In fact, annual tune ups are a regular part of the maintenance all our service plan customers enjoy. If you have a central AC system, make sure you schedule your tune up not just to ensure your system runs smoothly but to check if it’s an R22 system that will need to be replaced in the next few years per the EPA.

Give us a call at 860.583.4609 and cheers to Spring!

Heating Oil or Propane Gas Protection Plan

AC Protection Plan

Comfort Specialist & Equipment Expert

Have you met Mike?

You may have noticed we reference our Comfort Specialist quite a bit… if you haven’t already met him, let us introduce you to Mike Fields! With 23 years in the business, Mike is a trusted expert who keeps your needs and budget in mind during every appointment. Here are a few things to know before Mike comes out to visit your home.

• We get lots of calls about replacing your equipment but our most popular items: Energy Kinetics Boilers and Trane Air Conditioners.

• Every visit is unique – sometimes it might feel like we’re interviewing you but what we’re really doing is figuring out your needs and determining solutions in order to provide the best recommendations that are right-sized to your home’s requirements.

• Before we arrive, we appreciate a little prep: clear a path to the equipment and work area, secure pets in another area of the home, and determine your budget.

• And lastly, we take a consultative approach to appointments. Mike will provide you with equipment options and walk you through the installation process, including billing and permitting so you can make an educated decision on your replacement.

If you’re interested in replacing any HVAC equipment in your home, Mike is waiting for your call! Schedule an appointment today at 860.583.4609.

13 Summer HVAC Tips

13 Summer HVAC Tips!

The hottest time of the year is finally here which means enjoying the warm weather, having fun outdoors, and wanting to return to a cool home. Here are 13 ways to ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently and cost effectively:

1. Change your filters

Your AC system collects dirt, dust, and other matter which can reduce efficiency, decrease your indoor air quality, and deteriorate your system. It is important to check, clean, and change your air filters for your system to work to the best of its ability.

2.  Inspect your ducts and vents

Dirty vents and ducts can lower the quality of the air circulating through your home and reduce your equipment efficiency. We recommend keeping your vents wide open for optimal airflow and having your ductwork professionally cleaned. 

3.  Clean the outdoor areas

Your exterior AC condenser needs a good once over; clear at least a 2-foot perimeter from leaves, branches, and other debris that may impede on the unit’s ability to perform.

4.  Improve your cooling power

Programmable thermostats allow you to have more control over the temperature inside your home and a smart thermostat can be managed from your smartphone.

5. Shop energy efficient

Invest in energy-efficient accessories like window coverings and appliances so your cooling equipment doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.

6. Check the electrical

Every AC system has a wiring system that needs to be checked occasionally. Ensure that the wiring has no scorching and if it does, you should set up an appointment with one of our technicians ASAP!

7.  Clean Condenser Coils

Cleaning your condenser coils is another way to make sure that your AC system is running smoothly. All you have to do is turn off the power and spray the coils with water to remove any dirt and debris!

8. Listen for noise

As your AC unit is running, do you hear any grinding, hissing, rapid vibration, or other strange noises? If you hear any unusual noises, give us a call to schedule a technician to come find out the cause!

9. Check for leaks

Visually check the drain lines from your AC system and ductwork for any leaks, holes, or tears. If you see any cause for concern, call us right away to send a technician out.

10. Consider an upgrade

If you have an older unit (greater than 15 years old or an R22 unit), you are at risk for a break down that won’t be fun in the middle of summer. Upgraded systems are more energy efficient and will help you save money in the long run!

11. Maximize air flow with fans

Positioning fans like ceiling fans, tabletop fans, and floor fans throughout your home can make a huge difference in your overall comfort while helping your AC system not work so hard on hot days.

12. Reduce Heat from other appliances

Avoid using heat from large appliances; for example, instead of using your oven consider using your grill or move your clothes outside to dry on a line rather than the dryer.

13. Schedule a professional tune up

Give your AC system some TLC to make sure your home stays cool all summer long.

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OUR TOP PRIORITY IS TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SAFE and cool this summer

Please call 860.583.4609 or email info@quinoco.com to schedule an appointment with one of our Technicians or Comfort Specialists.

SUMMER WEATHER TIPS TO KEEP COOL ALL SEASON LONG!

Summer Weather Tips

Review our important summer weather tips to ensure you stay cool all season long!

1. KEEP A CONSISTENT TEMPERATURE

During extreme heat, it can take several hours to cool your home. Set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature (74 degrees) and keep it consistent throughout the day. This will allow your system to work efficiently and keep up with the daytime heat. 

2. CHECK YOUR AIR FILTER

We recommend changing your air filter every 60-90 days with a filter rated MERV 10 or higher. Air filters can easily get clogged reducing your system’s efficiency to keep your home cool. This is especially important if you have pets, children, or family members with allergies or asthma.

3. KEEP YOUR AC CONDENSER CLEAR

Your condenser units outside need ample space for airflow. Obstructing airflow will make your AC system work harder and less efficiently. Make sure the area around your condensers are clear of objects and debris (leaves, weeds etc.).

4. RUN THROUGH OUR EXTREME HEAT CHECKLIST

• Check that all thermostats are on cool mode.

• Check if the outside condenser is blocked and if air filters are clogged.

• Make sure all furnace and air handler switches are on as well as all circuit breakers.

• Check that air vents are set to an open position.

• Check for signs of ice on the outside unit. If there is ice, turn the thermostat to the OFF position and turn the fan from AUTO to ON. The ice must melt before service can be performed.

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Check out our great interview

with Kevin Hayes, Publisher of BeLocal MAgazine

The EPA's R-22 Phase Out & Your AC

R22 aka Freon is a very common refrigerant used in air conditioning units across the United States. Due to its negative environmental impact, the EPA has been phasing out residential use of R22 for over a decade and it is now effectively banned - both from being produced and imported. With many systems still using R22 today, here’s a brief overview of what you need to know: 

What is R22?

R22 (HCFC-22) is a chemical used in both air conditioning units and heat pumps. The liquid refrigerant runs through the system continuously, absorbing and releasing heat in order to provide cool air to the home.

Why did the EPA phase out R22?

When released into the air, R22 contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer. In an effort to protect the ozone layer and slow climate change, the EPA is phasing out production of many ozone-depleting substances.

How do I know if my unit uses R22?

If your air conditioning unit is more than 10 years old, it most likely uses R22. There are a few ways to know for sure: You can check the owner’s manual or look for the data plate located on the outside condensing unit; both will be labeled with HCFC-22 if the unit uses R22. Or, you can give us a call to have one of our technicians or Comfort Specialists come take a look.

What are my options if I have an R22 unit?

Most R22 units are nearing the end of their lifespan so it is only a matter of time before they will need to be replaced. Because R22 is no longer available for purchase, it has become increasingly difficult and costly to repair these units each season.

We strongly encourage homeowners to start budgeting now for their replacement unit.

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Let us help take care of your home!

Please contact us at 860.583.4609 or info@quinoco.com if you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists or Technicians. And don’t forget, now through May 31st, we’re offering up to $700 off the purchase and installation of a new central air conditioning system.

Debunking AC Myths - Now's the time to upgrade!

Making a big purchase for your home is not always the easiest decision. And with lots of information available at our fingertips, it’s easy to end up in a research wormhole. With our team of Comfort Specialists and Technicians, we’ve spotted the top AC myths we hear from customers:

I don’t need to swap my r-22 freon unit.

False. The EPA has phased out the use of R22 Freon for residential air conditioning systems. It is no longer available for purchase and it has become increasingly difficult and costly to repair these units as they age. We strongly encourage you to start budgeting for your replacement unit.

If it still works, I don’t need to replace my unit.

Not always true. Even if your unit still works, there are other factors that can impact the need to replace it, in particular the unit’s age, efficiency and maintenance/repair history.

Central air systems are one size fits all.

Maybe your unit was sized for your home and needs when it was first installed but over time occupancy changes and renovations can impact how effectively it works to cool down your home.

air filters only need to be changed once a year.

False. We recommend changing your air filter every 60-90 days with a filter rated MERV 10 or higher. Air filters can easily get clogged reducing your system’s efficiency to keep your home cool. This is especially important if you have pets, children, or family members with allergies or asthma. And changing your air filter is easy! Next time our technician visits your home, be sure to ask how to replace it and what type to keep on hand for your unit. Learn more about air filters in our Indoor Air Quality Guide.

SPECIAL SPRING SAVINGS WITH QUInoco

NOW THROUGH MAY 31st RECEIVE $500 off WHEN YOU
PURCHASE & INSTALL 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 and let us help you stay cool call summer long.**

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

How's your AC running?

Is It Time To Change Your Air Conditioning Equipment?

Replacing your air conditioning unit is no small decision, but our Comfort Specialists and technicians can guide you through the process from start to finish. Here are a few questions to get you started:

Does your air conditioning unit use freon/R-22?

It’s been phased out by the EPA and is much harder and more expensive to acquire.

How old is your unit?

If it’s pushing the ten-year mark, it’s time to start planning for an upgrade before a breakdown or failure during a heatwave.

Has your living situation changed?

From home renovations to additional occupants, your cooling equipment needs to be right sized for your needs to work efficiently.

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists this spring.

Enjoy $500 in savings on the purchase and installation of a new central air conditioning system before May 31st! For more information and to get started, visit Quinoco.com/ac-savings or call us at 860.583.4609.

Home SWEAT Home

Home SWEAT Home

It’s now been a year since the EPA finished phasing out Freon/R-22 as a refrigerant in air conditioning units. While we saw many customers replace their units in 2020, we encourage those who haven’t to be proactive and start taking steps now for replacement.

Remember that Freon is no longer available for purchase so it will become increasingly difficult to repair these units as they age. While some units might have the option to be retrofitted to utilize a different refrigerant, it’s important to evaluate the recurring costs of servicing older units compared to installing a new efficient model that will lower your energy costs.

STAY COOL ALL SUMMER LONG

This Spring, save up to $400 on the purchase and installation of a new air conditioning system from us! If you’ve considered waiting until next year, check our blog at Quinoco.com for the Top Five Reasons to Consider Replacing or Upgrading your AC System in 2021.

For more information visit Quinoco.com/2021-AC or call 860.583.4609 to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists.