No Heat? Let's Start Over!

No Heat? Let’s Start Over!

Losing heat in January is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. But many times, your heating system shuts itself off because it needs a quick reset. Follow our Heating Restart Checklist to quickly get up and running again.

1. Make sure your thermostats are in heat mode and set above room temperature.

2. Check the gauge on your oil or propane tank to ensure that you are not out of fuel.

3. Check your electrical breaker to make sure it is not turned off.

4. Check that the heating system burner switches are in the ON position. The switches are located at the top of the basement stairs or outside of the utility or mechanical room, and on the heating system itself.

Once you’ve verified that all of the switches are on, you can try to reset your furnace or boiler:

1. To reset your system, locate the red reset button on the heating system itself. The button is located towards the bottom of the unit.

2. Press and hold down the reset button for 5 seconds and then release.

3. The system should start automatically within 10 seconds.

If you’ve completed these steps and your heat still isn’t turning on…

Then it’s time to bring in the professionals! Please call us at 860.583.4609 to schedule an appointment with one of our Technicians.

Taking The Lead With SmartBiofuel

Taking The Lead With SmartBiofuel

Perhaps tracking the happenings in the Connecticut State Legislature isn’t top on your list of hobbies but in our industry, we keep a close eye on how proposed and passed legislation will impact our customers.

As part of the state’s Global Warming Solutions Act, home heating oil (Bioheat) is to be blended with higher levels of low carbon fuels like biodiesel to benefit consumers and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. Even with the positive environmental impact from biofuels, many in Hartford are still pushing for an electrification only model, but let’s see how it stacks up against our SmartBiofuel:

NOT CLEAN

Did you know power plants run on natural gas and coal? Both of these fuel sources emit greenhouse gases like methane and carbon. In fact, power plants are the biggest producer of methane gas and carbon emissions continue to skyrocket every year.

With Bioheat: Carbon emissions are actually reduced by up to 74% compared to the home heating oil of the past. This means an immediate reduction in greenhouse gases.

OLD GRID

Our power grid is not in the best shape. From sparking fires from lines in disrepair to insufficient capacity for our current use, it’s hard to imagine adding more strain to this system. As it is, blackouts and lengthy power outages have become the norm.

With Bioheat: Some of the strain on the electric grid is reduced when heating your home with Bioheat, especially in New England where the ISO declared in 2021 that the region is at heightened risk for winter outages.

NO RETURN

The economics of converting a home to electric heat pumps is simply cost prohibitive for most Americans. Consider this: the number of heat pumps you’ll need is about the same as the number of window AC units you would need in the summer. The equipment installation alone costs $7,000 to $15,000 for just one heat pump, let alone multiple and don’t forget about the significant increase in your electric bill!

With Bioheat: Keeping and maintaining your Bioheat heating equipment is a minor expense in the long run, especially as higher blends of biodiesel help clean your system for greater efficiency and longer equipment lifespans.

MONOPOLY

There aren’t many options for utility companies in the area and with electricity, we’re putting all our eggs in one basket. Without competition, prices rise, quality declines, and service becomes unreliable.

With Bioheat: Freedom of choice! Home heating oil has a deep connection to entrepreneurship, small businesses, family-owned ventures and community building. These values not only let you choose your home energy provider but support your local economy with jobs as well.

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To learn more about Bioheat and the impact of electrification in Connecticut, visit quinoco.com/heating-oil.

Sources: American Energy Coalition; CEMA; Center for Climate and Energy Solutions

Fast Facts: Bioheat & the Environment

Fast Facts: Bioheat & the Environment

You’re not the only one who thinks about climate change and the environment! In fact, reducing greenhouse gases is a major mission for our industry. As Connecticut continues to adopt higher blends of renewable Bioheat, here are some fast facts that should answer your questions about its impact on the environment.

• Every gallon of Bioheat reduces greenhouse gas emissions on average 79%.

• The carbon emissions from producing biodiesel are considered recycled carbon since it’s reabsorbed by the plants that are used to create biodiesel. Traditional carbon produced from petroleum does not get reabsorbed for decades.

• The industry adoption of Bioheat significantly reduces the amount of petroleum used in CT.

• Biodiesel is made from discarded renewable organic sources and uses the byproducts from the processing of soybeans and canola.

• According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the California Air Resource Board, biodiesel reduces Greenhouse Gas emissions by up to 69 to 88% compared to traditional heating oil or diesel fuel.

• Bioheat is the only fuel currently on the market that will continue to reduce its carbon footprint annually as it evolves to a B100 blend.

• The average Bioheat blend in CT is 7% - what does this mean: The state’s carbon emissions are reduced by over 365,000 metric tons which is like removing 80,000 cars from the road.

• The carbon footprint of a home that uses heating oil decreases as Bioheat blends increase, so much so that converting to electric heat will lead to an increase in that home’s carbon footprint.

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!

Determining your Delivery Schedule

Determining your Delivery Schedule

There’s a lot of thought that goes into setting up our daily delivery schedules. Behind the scenes, our computer system does a series of calculations – and some of them are even custom to your home!

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 number of degree days = more energy used to heat your home = more frequent SmartBiofuel 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 SmartBiofuel or Propane.

Our industry has been around a long time and we’re fortunate that it continues to adopt technology to make serving customers even better!

Setting up our weekly delivery schedule relies on a lot of behind-the-scenes work – computer systems, weather calculations, and lots of geography to build out the most efficient routes that gets fuel to our customers when they need it.  It’s one of the big reasons why we encourage you to sign up for auto-delivery. You won’t need to worry about how fast you can get on our delivery schedule – you’ll already be on it!

If you’re interested in switching to automatic delivery, give us a call at 860.583.4609 and we’ll talk you through all the benefits of making the move, like our Make the Switch Credit.

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!

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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.

3 Ways To Save This Winter

Three Ways To Save This Winter

In today’s world, everyone has savings on their mind. As we head into the winter months, we have a few simple suggestions for how you can save on your heating costs and still stay warm and cozy!

Conservation

Programmable and smart thermostats can make a big difference in your home energy usage. You can track and manage your home’s temperature, schedule changes in the settings based on time of day and even set up geofencing to automatically adjust the thermostat when you’re a certain distance from home. According to the EPA, you can save about $180 a year just by programming your thermostat properly.

Insurance

Purchase one of our Heating Protection Plans now and save on costly repairs later. Regular maintenance can keep your heating equipment running efficiently, more cost effectively and extend its life. We have a variety of plans for both oil and gas heating systems.

Efficiency

Save up to 40% on the fuel you use this winter with a new heating system. Replacing your repair-ridden furnace or boiler or even upgrading from an older inefficient model can make a big impact on your home’s energy bills. Over the life of this new high efficiency equipment, you’ll see big savings - and our fall savings don’t hurt either!

There are also other ways to stay warm this winter…

…like closing doors to unused rooms or ensuring that doors and windows are closed tightly but switching your focus this fall to Conservation, Insurance, and Efficiency will ensure you reduce your energy use and lower your bills.

Budget For Winter

Budget For Winter

One way we can help you curb those winter bills is through our EasyPay Budget Plan for SmartBiofuel customers.

If you’re interested in the EasyPay Budget program, call us before the heating season starts so your plan is in place before your first delivery this fall.

How does the EasyPay Budget Work?

1. We take your average usage from the last two years or determine an estimate based on the square footage of your home if you’re a new customer.

2. We determine your estimated annual cost and divide it into equal monthly payments. Each month, you’ll receive a statement showing your monthly payment amount as well as your actual account balance.

3. Periodically during the heating season, we will review your budget plan and adjust the payment amount to best reflect your usage and deliveries.

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Interested in our EasyPay Budget Plan?

Call 860.583.4609 to speak with a member of our Customer Care team.

A Fall Market Update

A Market Update

As we head into the winter months, energy prices are on the minds of homeowners both locally and throughout the country. For the last six months, we have all been impacted by high gasoline prices, escalating food prices, and general inflation of consumer goods, as a result of COVID, supply chain issues, war, and global energy market changes.

In the wake of Russia invading Ukraine, we experienced an immediate impact on the heating oil and diesel fuel markets resulting in dramatic price increases for these energy products. We have worked tirelessly since that day to communicate with our suppliers and industry leaders to navigate the market and monitor our delivery schedules to the benefit of our valued customers.

The good news is, we have seen a steady decline in prices since its peak due primarily to removing the “fear factor” of the lack of supply from the market due to the war. Historically, when we see price spikes due to geopolitical events, we also see price declines when the dust settles a bit and the market absorbs the news. Because of these factors, we are now offering enrollment of our Fixed and Cap oil pricing programs to our customers. What else is good news… the propane market has been extremely steady so if you are a propane user, the impact has been minimal.

A couple of comments that I can provide about heating oil pricing programs based on my experience in this industry: do what makes you comfortable and stick to what got you here! Trying to guess where this market will lead tends not to work. Continue with the program you’re comfortable with and is within your risk tolerance and rest assured that we will support you and compliment that with the best 24- hour service to meet your heating and cooling needs.

Thank you for your loyalty!

Jim Hickey
General Manager

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.

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.

Proudly Propane

Proudly Propane

There are a lot of reasons to love propane. It’s one of the world’s most convenient and versatile fuels and it’s proudly made in America. Propane has been used for over 100 years and can be found in more than 50 million homes across the country

Clean

Propane was approved under the Clean Air Act of 1990 and is a low-carbon fuel that produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than most other energy sources.

Efficient

Propane equipment, including furnaces and hot water heaters, are rated with some of the highest efficiency ratings for equipment on the market today.

Reliable

Propane is a proven energy source that you can count on, even when the electrical grid is down. Having propane stored at your home guarantees you’ll always have adequate gas pressure as well as ample supply.

Available

The United States is the world’s leading producer of propane which means that it is abundantly available. And, Quinoco’s own propane storage facility ensures that our customers will never run out, regardless of weather.

Versatile

Propane is the only fuel able to power almost every appliance in your home, making it convenient and easy. Propane can be used for home heating, water heating, cooking, clothes drying, fireplaces, generators, pool heaters, grills & outdoor kitchens, decorative lampposts and MORE!

So, if you are in need of updating or replacing equipment or appliances in your home, be sure to keep propane in mind and let us walk you through all of your options. And, if you already use propane at your home and haven’t switched to us for delivery, it’s easy—just give us a call 860.583.4609 and we will handle the rest.

Health Beats Wellness Program

Health Beats Wellness Program Works for Quinoco

We’re pretty proud of our Health Beats wellness program here at Quinoco. Its purpose is simple: to enrich the lives of all our team members and educate, encourage and enable them to live healthy lifestyles. The program is run by an employee committee that creates and executes everything from fitness challenges, educational seminars and even cooking classes put on by one of our loyal customers!

So far this year we’ve hit the ground running… or at least walking through the various activities developed by our committee: April saw the MS Walk (photo below); the Make-A-Wish Connecticut Walk for Wishes and a Fun Run came in May along with a team walking challenge to coincide with National Employee Health & Fitness Day!

And, we’re always looking for new volunteer opportunities in our communities through our Quinoco Cares program. If you have an idea, please share it with me at askjim@quinoco.com.

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.

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Check out our great interview

with Kevin Hayes, Publisher of BeLocal MAgazine

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

Don't Get Blown Away This Storm Season

Don’t get blown away this storm season!

A busy storm season can make for a frightening summer. A little preparation now can save a lot of stress before, during and after a hurricane.

Before: Create a hurricane action plan to prepare your family, pets and home for a storm. Include spare batteries, extra medication, a list of important numbers, and related insurance paperwork in your emergency kit.

Quinoco Tip!

Become familiar with your propane tank - know how to turn your tank off in an emergency and how to read the gauge. Watch our How-To video on the Quinoco Storm Center.

During: Safety is a top priority – stay inside unless directed to evacuate, avoid contact with floodwaters inside or out, hunker down with flashlights, and keep pets indoors.

Quinoco Tip!

Even if you have a whole home generator, unplugging small appliances and other electronics that won’t be used during the storm can help avoid damage from power surges.

After: Once it is safe to do so, inspect your home and yard for damage, immediately report any loose or down power lines and use caution when cleaning up areas impacted by the storm.

Quinoco Tip!

Once your power has been restored, let us know via the Quinoco Storm Center so we can safely resume regular deliveries and services to your home.

SAve this page!

Quinoco Storm Center - Quinoco.com/storm

This hub is the new go-to resource for our customers before, during and after a storm. Not only does this page have valuable resources and frequently asked questions, but videos, checklists and easy ways to contact us. The Quinoco Storm Center will also host our storm service alerts to better keep you informed in case of power outages.

QUINOCO STORM SEASON CHECKLIST

Let's Talk Shop

Your reviews help us both!

If you’ve had a Quinoco service technician visit your home recently, you may have received a text message after your appointment asking for feedback. We’re focused on continual improvement and want to hear how things are going! Not only does it help us to make changes to better serve you, it also provides nice recognition for our team.

Here are some of your positive comments that kept the team going this winter!

If you’ve had a good experience with someone on our team or have a suggestion for us, I’m only a call or click away at AskJim@quinoco.com.

Pull the Plug on Your Electric Water Heater

Pull the Plug on your Electric Water Heater

Did you know the Department of Energy raised the energy efficiency requirements for water heaters? Our guess is probably not… but here’s why you should be thinking about it: swapping your older electric storage water heater for a more efficient tankless model can make a big impact on your home!

Tankless propane water heaters give you abundant hot water, reduce your energy usage, save you money AND valuable floor space. Here are a few things to consider before making the move to a new tankless water heater.

• About 20% of your home energy use goes to heating water

• Tankless water heaters deliver endless hot water as you need it

• Compact size saves up to 16 square feet of floor space

• Equipment life expectancy is 20 years, much longer than conventional water heaters

• Produce 50% less CO2 emissions compared with electric storage tank systems

• Saves more than $150/year in annual energy costs compared with typical electric storage models

Are you ready to pull the plug?

Give us a call at 860.583.4609 to set up an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists to further discuss your hot water heating options.

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.