Recognizing the Signs: When to Replace Your Propane Tanks

Recognizing the Signs: When to Replace Your Propane Tanks

Propane tanks are a vital component of many households, providing a reliable source of energy for heating, cooking, and more. Over time, however, propane tanks may wear out or become less efficient, ultimately requiring replacement. Here are some of the signs that it may be time for a new propane tank in your home.

1. Age of the Tank:

Propane tanks have a limited lifespan, and ageing tanks are more prone to leaks, corrosion, and other issues that can compromise safety and performance. Consulting with one of our experienced technicians to assess the condition of your tank can help determine if replacement is necessary.

2. Corrosion and Physical Damage:

Inspect your propane tank regularly for signs of corrosion or physical damage. Look for issues like rust spots, or discoloration on the tank's surface, as well as dents, cracks, or other visible damage that may affect the tank's integrity. If you notice significant corrosion or physical damage, call 860.583.4609 to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians.

3. Inaccurate Fuel Level Readings:

Propane tanks often feature fuel level gauges to indicate how much propane is remaining. If you notice inconsistent or inaccurate readings, it may indicate a faulty gauge. A malfunctioning gauge can disrupt your ability to monitor propane usage effectively. In such cases, consulting with one of propane professionals can help determine if the tank needs replacement or if a repair can resolve the issue.

4. Declining Propane Efficiency:

Aging tanks may struggle to maintain optimal pressure and deliver propane effectively, resulting in higher consumption and increased costs. Upgrading to a new propane tank can restore efficiency, ensuring you receive the full value from your propane supply.

---

Recognizing the signs that indicate the need for propane tank replacement is crucial for maintaining a safe, efficient, and reliable propane system in your home. To set up a consultation with Quinoco Energy Services now, call  860.583.4609 or fill out a form here.

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.

Save Now On An Energy Kinetics (EK) System 2000

Save Now On An Energy Kinetics System 2000

Last month I mentioned that our office recently upgraded our heating equipment. We now run a high-efficiency Energy Kinetics (EK) System 2000. There are a lot of things to love about this piece of equipment, not the least of which is the big savings on our monthly energy bill.

We think it would be great if you fell in love with an EK System too. Here are a few things to help sway you:

• Case studies from both EK and our own customers have shown a 40% reduction in their energy bills

• Engineered to be super quiet, as in quieter than your microwave!

• Installation now will ensure you’re all set come heating season – we’re offering $500 off through August 31st

Visit Quinoco.com/ek2000 or call 860.583.4609 to enjoy these savings before they’re gone!

Electrification: Is It Feasible?

Electrification - is it feasible?

Climate policy and reducing carbon emissions continues to be a hot topic amongst policymakers and community leaders. The discussions are good ones but is widespread electrification feasible?

Up for debate is electrification of home heating in New England with the thought that this electricity would be generated from renewable resources in order to achieve net-zero emissions. This plan seems simple and straightforward, but it most definitely makes a lot of inaccurate assumptions.

Currently, renewable fuels generate only 12% of New England’s electricity. [1] During heightened demand periods, this percentage decreases as the grid relies on backup fuel from oil, coal, and liquid natural gas. Coupled with the fragile state of the electric grid and the fact that more than 80% of homes in New England are currently not heated with electricity, an electric only plan is problematic. [2]

Former US Secretary of Energy, Ernest J. Moniz, stated in a 2020 Boston Globe piece, “[New England’s decarbonization] success would come earlier if the oil and gas industry uses its capabilities and workforce to advance net-zero solutions while avoiding stranded workers, stranded communities, and stranded assets.” [3]

And this is exactly what our industry is doing! We have SmartBiofuel which continues to get cleaner every year AND a commitment to reaching a net zero carbon footprint by 2050; a goal that is not attainable for electricity. If you haven’t heard about our industry’s initiative, learn more at quinoco.com/heating-oil.

---

“Quinoco Energy has been our supplier since we purchased our home in 2013 and I’ve never considered changing. Their products and services are exemplary! Their service supervisor and technicians are not only skilled and knowledgeable but polite and considerate as well. I’ve never considered changing because relationships are built on trust, not cost.”

- Quinoco Customer, Bristol

---

[1] https://www.iso-ne.com/about/key-stats/resource-mix

[2] https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=52999

[3] https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/12/21/opinion/climate-challenges-opportunities-facing-biden/

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

Powerful Propane for Your Home

There are a lot of great reasons to consider propane…

and not just any propane, but propane supplied by Quinoco!

It should come as no surprise that we follow energy trends locally, statewide, regionally, and nationally and propane has become the go-to for builders and homeowners who are making significant equipment upgrades. 

Propane has a lot to offer:

On-site storage

Propane tanks used for whole house heating as well as many other amenities can be buried underground allowing for better aesthetics. On-site storage also guarantees adequate gas pressure as well as ample supply.

Efficient Equipment

Propane-fired furnaces have AFUE ratings of 95 to 99%, some of the highest requirements for heating equipment on the market today. A minimum AFUE rating of 95%, means only 5% of the fuel is not utilized in heating the home.

Versatility

Propane is extremely versatile and can be used for almost anything in the home, from whole home heat to stoves and dryers and even outside amenities like pool heaters, grills and firepits.

In addition to these benefits, propane can also bring the ease of relying on just one company for all of a home’s fuel needs. So whether you are in the market for a new home, looking for ways to update your existing home, or looking for a more reliable propane provider, make sure you give Quinoco a call: 860.583.4609!

TLC for your SmartBioFuel Tank

Just like we remind you to maintain your heating equipment, your SmartBiofuel Heating Oil tank needs just as much care and consideration. Replacing a tank is quick and easy – we are in and out in one day! So if you think it might be time to replace your tank or would like us to come inspect it, give us a call at 860.583.4609.

Tank Life Cycle

Some tanks last for 10 years, some for 70 years! At every heating tune up, our technicians visually inspect your tank for any indication that a new tank might be in your future. Here are some of the telltale signs:

Benefits of a New Tank

The material and design of tanks has come a long way in recent years and with the cleanliness of fuel today, a brand new tank will not only last a very long time, it will actually help your heating equipment run more efficiently.

Leaky Tank? We’re here to help!

A leaking tank left ignored can lead to large environmental cleanups and potential 6-digit remediation costs! If you suspect a leaky tank, it’s important that you…

Don’t Delay!

It might be tempting to bid out the project or get multiple opinions but basements, especially those with sump pumps, can become contaminated quickly. Similarly, if the fuel is left for too long, it can leach into the slab and foundation walls of your home, leading to stains and strong odors.

Call Quinoco!

We work with trusted licensed remediation contractors that have experience with mitigation and DEEP inspection regulations. When brought in immediately, they can help reduce your overall expense and environmental impact. After cleanup is complete, we work to get you back up and running with a new tank, schedule a delivery and ensure the system is properly back online.

Avoid the Cold with Quinoco

Avoid the Cold with Quinoco

It’s not only cold in the winter, but it can be costly! This season, we’ve compiled some of our favorite tips to save money and energy while avoiding any unnecessary time spent cold.

Consider your heating equipment

No one likes to be surprised by aging, poorly maintained or failing heating equipment! If your heat was struggling to keep up last winter, there’s no time to wait… schedule an appointment with our Comfort Specialist to review your equipment options and enjoy savings through November 30th.

And don’t forget, it takes a lot of energy to heat water – in fact, it’s the second highest source of energy usage. If you set your water heater to a couple of degrees cooler, it will save you some money on your energy bill and you’ll still enjoy all the hot water you like.

Stop air leaks and drafts in their tracks

There are lots of places where cold air can seep into your home: doors, windows, attics, basements, and fireplaces. To prevent drafts, consider installing weather strips where possible to stop the cold air from getting in. We know there’s something special about a fire on a cold night, but when it’s not in use, make sure you close the damper. Warm air circulating through your home can escape through the chimney and make your heating system work harder.

Temperature control is a must!

There are lots of ways to impact the temperature in your home and save money. A smart thermostat will let you to preset your preferred temperatures, so it turns down or up automatically based on your schedule. Knocking down your thermostat a degree or two can save you over the course of the heating season, sometimes up to 10% on your fuel usage. And you might be surprised to hear it, but turning your ceiling fan clockwise will create an updraft, moving warm air downward into the rest of the room.

Are you interested in more tips?

Follow us on Facebook @QuinocoEnergyServicesInc and Instagram @QuinocoEnergy where we share more great energy saving ideas for holiday lights, home décor, and more!

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.

15 Ways to Save Energy This Winter

15 Ways to Save Energy This Winter

1. Schedule your annual tune up

Don’t be caught by surprise when you turn your heating equipment back on! Your tune up is a great preventative step to ensure that your equipment is running smoothly and is ready for the season.

2. Eliminate air leaks/drafts

One way that cold air can seep into your home is through doors, windows, attics, and basements. To prevent drafts, you can install weatherstrips to stop the cold air from getting in!

3. Switch to a smart thermostat

Jump on the technology bandwagon! A smart thermostat allows you to preset your temperatures, so it turns down or up automatically based on your schedule.

4. Turn your ceiling fans clockwise

Fans may keep you cool during the warm months, but they can help your home’s energy efficiency as the weather changes. By turning your fan clockwise, you can create an updraft moving the warm air downward into the rest of the room.

5. Don’t forget your fireplace

There’s something special about a fire on a cold night, but when it’s not in use, make sure you close the damper. Warm air circulating through your home can escape through the chimney.

6. Adjust your water heater

It takes a lot of energy to heat water – in fact, it’s the second highest source of energy usage. If you set your water heater to a couple of degrees cooler, it will save you money and you’ll still enjoy all the hot water you like.

7. Let the sunshine in

The sun is a great source of free heat on bright sunny days!! But as we know, windows and doors are a way for that warm air to slip through the cracks. Consider getting insulated curtains to keep some of that free heat in overnight.

8. Close doors and vents in unused rooms

Maybe you’re an empty nester or maybe you only use a few rooms during the work week – either way, if you close doors and vents in rooms that aren’t in use, you’ll redirect the warm air to the spaces you’re in and use less heat overall.

9. Switch to energy efficient light bulbs

LED lights are known as the most energy efficient lighting. They may cost you more up front but over time they will save you money; they use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer.

10. Leave your oven door slightly open after using it

On a busy day in the kitchen, you probably notice how warm it gets as your oven gives off heat. Don’t let that heat go to waste! Leave your oven door open just a bit to have some extra heat flow when you’re done cooking.

11. Insulate your pipes

Pipes are out of sight, out of mind but they are so important bringing hot water to faucets, showers, and other appliances. Depending on how far the water has to travel, your pipes can be the cause of heat loss. Insulated pipes raise the water temperature, improves your hot water heater’s efficiency and will lead to energy savings over time.

12. Unplug unused electronics

Just because your TV, lamp, and air fryer are “off” when plugged in doesn’t mean they aren’t using energy. These are examples of “energy vampires” because they are taking energy when you don’t know it. Save energy by unplugging items when not in use.

13. Turn down the thermostat & bundle up

Knocking down your thermostat a degree or two can save you over the course of the heating season, sometimes up to 10% on your fuel usage.

Hint: When finding a temperature that you find comfortable, consider putting on a sweatshirt, sweatpants, and use an extra blanket at night.

14. Place rugs on hardwood floors

Rugs aren’t just to make your home look cool and fun. They also add a layer of insulation that keeps your feet off a chilly hardwood floor.

15. Set your holiday lights to a timer

Don’t be silly and keep your holiday lights on all night long - that is another giant energy waster! A smart plug or basic timer for your outlets is an easy solution to save energy and money. To be honest, we also forget to shut them off before bed!

---

OUR TOP PRIORITY IS TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SAFE and warm this winter

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

Get To Know Your Home

Get To Know Your Home

If you’re one of the many that moved into a new home over the last few years, whether a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, it is always important to get acquainted with the systems in your home. Here are some of the basics:

Is My Heating System A Furnace Or A Boiler?

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.

Do I Need To Know How To Turn My Heating System Off?

Yes! in case of emergency… locate your emergency switch, main water shut off valve, and electrical panel. The emergency switch is usually located as you enter the basement and should have a red switch plate. This switch shuts off the burner in your heating system, the component that houses the unit’s combustion.

What Are The Important Components Of My Propane Tank?

Make sure you locate your propane gauge and shutoff valve under the top cover of your tank. The gauge is read as a percentage of volume you have in your tank. Remember, since propane is stored as a liquid under pressure, a tank reading of 80% is considered full to ensure the propane has room to expand as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day.

It Is My First Time In An Oil Heated Home, Help!

We know an oil heated home can sometimes seem intimidating, but it’s really pretty easy. We deliver fuel from the exterior of your home through a fill pipe connected directly into your oil tank. To make it even easier, our computer system calculates when you need a delivery based on a weather metric (degree days) and the efficiency of your heating system.

How Does My Central AC Work?

There are two main components of your central AC system. The outside condenser unit(s) takes heat from inside the home, transfers it through a refrigerant and deposits it outside, leaving the inside cool. The air handler(s), located inside the home, is what circulates the cool air through your home. The air handler also houses your air filter.

For safety tips and additional guidance, our FAQ page is a great resource for insight on your home’s systems and fuel use.

What's a Heat Pump?

What’s A Heat Pump and how can it cool your home?

If you’re reading that headline and wondering what does heat have to do with cooling my home… then you’re not alone. In this case, the name heat pump is deceiving because this equipment actually has dual purpose to both heat and cool your home.

In the summertime, a heat pump and an air conditioner are essentially the same thing: they both take heat from inside the house, transfer it through a refrigerant and deposit it outside, leaving the inside cool. But in the winter, the settings on a heat pump can be reversed so that instead of depositing the hot air outside, it pushes it inside to heat your home (hence the name!).

Another great feature of heat pumps… they don’t require ductwork! Who doesn’t like a versatile piece of equipment with a simple installation? A small hole is made to connect the outdoor condenser with the inside heat pump.

While typically heat pumps are not used as the single heat source for a home, they are a great way to offset your energy bill in late fall and early spring when the days are cooler.

Visit Quinoco.com/ductless to learn the four most common situations in which ductless heat pumps are used in homes or to set up an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists.

---

Check out our great interview

with Kevin Hayes, Publisher of BeLocal MAgazine

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.

What is a Heat Pump?

What's a Heat Pump?
And How can it Cool your Home?

Most would automatically assume that a piece of equipment called a ‘Heat Pump’ would have a function related to heating. While this is true, the name is deceiving as a heat pump actually has duel functionality and can be used to both heat and cool a home.

In the summer time, a heat pump and an air conditioner are essentially the same thing, they both take heat from inside the house, transfer it through a refrigerant and deposit it outside, leaving the inside cool. What makes the heat pump different is that it can be reversed so that instead of depositing the hot air outside, it pushes it inside to heat your home (hence the name!).

Another great feature of heat pumps is that they don’t require ductwork which adds to their versatility. And while they are typically not used as the single heat source for a home, they are a great way to offset your energy bill in late fall and early spring when the days are cooler.

The 4 more common uses for ductless heat pumps:

• As a supplement to a central AC system/heating system: for spaces that were added on to a house or are located at the furthest end of the existing ductwork

• For rooms that need additional heating & cooling: such as a sunroom or for a space that requires independent temperature control such as a home office

• As a cost efficient alternative for an additional living space: such as bonus rooms, studios, cottages & barns, garages, finished attics & basements

• For homes/spaces that cannot accommodate conventional ductwork: older homes and antique homes typically do not have space to install ductwork

Replacing your Oil Tank

When to Replace your Oil Tank

When we talk about the products and services we provide to homeowners, they are all extremely important and affect our lives every day – heat for our homes, hot water, protection from power outages, etc.

But they aren’t considered fun or exciting things that anyone WANTS to buy. When was the last time you caught yourself wanting to purchase a new Bioheat tank!? For this reason, homeowners often let their equipment, and especially their tanks, go way past their life expectancy.

When to replace your Oil tank:

While there are a couple signs on the outside of the tank that will indicate that it should be replaced (corrosion and wet marks), most damage is unseen. Older tanks often have moisture and sediment that have built up over time which can cause corrosion and create holes. If not replaced in time, the tank could start to leak. If you have any question about your tank, reach out to us to come take a look.

Benefits of a new Oil tank:

With the cleanliness of fuel today, the biggest benefit of putting a new tank in is that it will last a long time and will never see the problems of tanks from many years ago. The bio component in todays oil acts as a cleanser that actively cleans the inside of the tank and prevents buildup. With the percentage of bio planned to increase over the next several years, installing a new tank now is a great investment. Also, having a new tank helps your heating equipment run more efficiently.

So don’t forget about the tank in your basement, replacing it is quick and easy – we are in and out in one day.