Save With Quinoco This Fall

Lots Of Ways To Save With Quinoco This Fall!

SEE YA SUMMER! SPECIAL AC SAVINGS

If you didn’t stay as comfortable as you would have liked this summer, your system faces frequent repairs or your unit uses R22 Freon (a refrigerant that has been phased out by the EPA) - it’s time to upgrade.

Don’t wait for spring to come back around, set up an appointment now with one of our Comfort Specialists to evaluate your current equipment and needs. When the first heat wave hits, you’ll be glad you did. And, take advantage of our end of season savings!

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Save with Efficiency this Winter

When thinking about ways to save this winter, it isn’t just about the price of your fuel, the efficiency of your heating system plays a huge role.

Replacing your repair-ridden furnance or boiler or upgrading from an older inefficient model can mean big savings on your home’s energy bills - up to 40% to be exact!

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GO AUTO FOR WINTER

Automatic delivery just makes sense! We use your historical SmartBiofuel or propane usage plus a weather metric called degree days to calculate when you need a delivery. We’ll get you on our delivery schedule ahead of time so you won’t run low AND you no longer need to track your tank and call to get on an upcoming delivery route.

Switch to automatic delivery by September 30th and receive a $25 credit* on your account!

Visit Quinoco.com/auto-delivery to learn more and sign up!

Prep for Heating Season with the Quinoco Advantage

Prep for Heating Season with the Quinoco Advantage

This month’s bulletin is all about prep. You’re prepping for fall. Kids just got prepped to go back to school. And we’re prepping for the start of our busy heating season.

One way you can prep for heating season? Sign up for our Quinoco Advantage program to better budget for this year’s fuel costs. Designed to protect you from winter bill spikes, the Quinoco Advantage sets you up with a low monthly payment based on your heating costs over the last two years. You’ll love the consistency, the reliable automatic deliveries, and the lack of surprises appearing on your next fuel bill!

The Quinoco Advantage program is just another way we try to give you peace of mind. Give our office a call to sign up. The sooner you sign up, the lower your monthly payment will be for this heating season.

Good luck with your fall prep!

Jim Hickey
Quinoco Energy Services

Don't Get Caught in the Pricing Game

Don't Get Caught in the Pricing Game

September is the unofficial start of our busy season as homeowners start calling to secure their fuel for the upcoming winter. With dozens of companies out there trying to win your business, many companies will throw low ball prices out to try to entice customers to switch, and that’s when the pricing game begins…

Don’t get sucked into a deal that seems too good to be true, because it probably is! Here are some things to look out for:

AT QUINOCO, WE DON’T PLAY GAMES:

In fact, we want to be as transparent as possible and educate our customers so they can make informed decisions. You won’t see a low-ball price offer from us but our customers know that our service is unmatched and our prices are fair; that’s why many of you have been with us for not just years, but decades!

If you have any questions, concerns or need help selecting the right pricing program for the upcoming season, our Customer Care team is here to help at 860.583.4609.

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.

It's time to schedule your tank inspection!

It’s Time To Schedule Your Oil Tank Inspection!

If you have an oil tank on your property, it is important to get it inspected regularly. Oil tanks can develop leaks or other issues over time that can pose a risk to your property and the environment. We’ve compiled a few factors to consider when thinking about your home maintenance this summer while you call Quinoco to schedule your tank inspection.

Early detection of issues

Regular oil tank inspections can help identify potential issues early on, before they become major problems. This can help prevent leaks or other damage that can be costly to clean up and may pose a risk to your property and the environment.

Protection of property and environment

Oil tanks that are not properly maintained can pose a risk to your property and the environment. Leaks or spills can contaminate the soil and groundwater, which can be difficult and expensive to remediate. Regular inspections can help prevent these issues from occurring.

Peace of mind

Knowing that your oil tank is in good condition can give you peace of mind - that your tank is ready for another winter, you’re protecting your property and preventing an environmental issue.

Quinoco Advantage Payment Plan

Our Quinoco Advantage Payment Plan is here to help you! This plan is the most cost-effective way to pay for your fuel deliveries throughout the year. We deliver automatically when you need it, and you pay a consistent monthly amount.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

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

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

3. Periodically during the heating season, we will review your Advantage Plan and adjust the monthly payment amount to best reflect your actual usage and deliveries.

WHY DOES it work?

It Saves TIme

No more monitoring your tank, we will track your usage and deliver when you need it

It’s Relaible

You will never run yourself out or pay same-day delivery fees.

It’s Consistent

You pay the same amount each month.

It’s Hassle-Free

No surprises: you’ll know the schedule for payments and when to expect adjustments

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Interested in signing up for the Quinoco Advantage Payment Plan?

Give us a call today at 860.583.4609. The sooner you sign up, the lower your monthly payment will be for this winter season!

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.

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“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

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[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/

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.

Quinoco Fuel Plans Now Available

Prepare for the heating season by enrolling in a fixed-price protection program for oil or propane!

This plan performs well with stable or increasing market conditions, but remember, should the prices fall, you will remain ‘locked’ into your agreement price.

**Please Note: When you commit to this program, Quinoco simultaneously purchases that fuel for you from our suppliers – we are not able to break this agreement. This means that if market conditions decrease, you do not get a lower price.

To enroll in our Fixed Price Program or discuss other program options, call Customer Care at 860.583.4609

Propane Upgrades For Your Spring

Propane Upgrades For Your Spring

Springtime is all about getting back outside with family and friends; opening pools, hosting BBQ’s, and for me, getting my vegetable garden ready for planting. Having been in this business for decades, it’s been really nice to see a shift back outside for quality time. More and more we are working with homeowners to integrate propane as not just their primary heat source but to enhance their backyards.

I personally love propane because of its versatility. It can fuel any outdoor amenity you may have (or wish to have); pools, spas, BBQs, fireplaces, fire pits, patio heaters, and even light fixtures—and the tanks and piping are all buried underground so aesthetics are never compromised.

We even recently upgraded our heating equipment in our Bristol office and converted to propane. Our new high efficiency propane heating system kept us nice and warm all winter and even better, we saw savings from its efficiency! Below are some before and after photos of our new furnace. Pretty spiffy don’t you think?

Enjoy your spring!

Jim

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!

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.

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.

Do you know who your propane provider is?

If you can’t answer this question without digging through a pile of mail to find your last delivery invoice, you’re not alone!

For the homeowner that only gets the occasional propane delivery for a cooktop, you may not see your propane company very often, which means they don’t see you or your home very often either. With this in mind, there is a more efficient and easier option.

If you are already a Quinoco heating oil and/or service customer, you can bundle all of your home energy solutions under one roof. Our drivers and technicians know your home and we can track both your oil and propane consumption.

So trust us to take care of all of your home energy needs and we’ll help make your life a little easier. Call 860.583.4609 to see for yourself how we can help.

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

Energized for the new year!

We’re coming out of the holiday season full of gratitude and new energy for the year ahead! In November, we continued our tradition of passing out turkeys to employees; this year, that meant almost 1,000lbs of turkey! December brought our company wide Toy Drive to benefit children in the communities we serve. Our collection box was full in just a few days thanks to the generosity of our employees, as were many others by the end of the week!

Our team really blew me away in 2022: working tirelessly to serve our customers daily and improving our safety record across the board – a huge accomplishment considering we handle thousands of service calls, deliveries and transactions.

I’m energized to be kicking off 2023 with some exciting investments back into the company that will not only benefit our team but improve the way we service our customers: we’re improving our operations and parts management, continuing to grow our HVAC installation and service department, and reinvesting into our internal training and development programs to help our team members grow professionally as well as be able to serve you better.

Cheers to a happy and healthy new year!