IAQ by the Numbers

IAQ by the Numbers

Cold winter days mean more time spent inside trying to stay warm. But winter also means we’re at greater risk of exposure to the various pollutants that reside inside our homes. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) can have a big impact on our health – from allergies and asthma, to respiratory issues, heart disease, and even cancer.

---

• Radon

• Mold

• Dust Mites

• Carbon Monoxide

• Nitrogen Dioxide

• Household scents/chemicals from paints, solvents, aerosol sprays, cleaning products etc.

• Pesticides

---

• Poor ventilation

• Temperature control problems

• Humidity issues

• Construction

---

• Attack the source of the pollutants

• Improve home ventilation for fresh air from outdoors

• Clean the air with help from your HVAC system

---

We know Indoor Air Quality can be easy to overlook but it’s vital for your family’s and home’s health. To make it a bit easier to resolve your IAQ concerns, our Comfort Specialists and Technicians are here to help evaluate your home’s system and recommend products to improve your home’s air quality.

Schedule your free IAQ consultation at 860.583.4609.

A Happy and Healthy New Year

As we kick off 2024, we’re actually pretty pleased to do a bit of reminiscing on the past year.

We’re always thankful for our team. Not only do they show up to keep your homes nice and warm this time of year, but they go the extra mile with our customers and the community. And it seems you’ve noticed too! We had a bunch of reviews come in and we loved reading them all! Your feedback helps us continue to make our customer experience even better!

Like many of you, our community efforts pick up in the fall and winter – there’s a lot of good energy this time of year (oh I know, very punny Jim). Our team dressed up for Wear Pink Day in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and some of us went all in for No-Shave November. We held coat drives, toy drives and made about 100 cards for boxes we put together with Make-A-Wish Connecticut.

I’m sure we’ll continue to bring this enthusiasm into everything we do in the new year. Cheers to a happy and healthy 2024!

Jim Hickey
Quinoco Energy Services
General Manager

Congratulations to our UGLY BOILER CONTEST Winner!

Congratulations to our Ugly Boiler Contest winner!

We are pleased to announce that Bristol resident Nancy Wallen has won our 2023 "Ugliest Boiler" Contest. 

Quinoco Energy Services General Manager Jim Hickey and Energy Kinetics Territory Manager Mark Santangelo presented Mrs. Wallen with a state-of-the-art Energy Kinetics Ascent Combi boiler alongside her daughter Janice Pierce.

“The Ugly Boiler Contest couldn’t have come at a better time. Mom’s boiler was on its last legs and parts were hard to find. This really is the best Christmas present,” enthused Pierce.

Energy Kinetics Mark Santangelo was present for the installation. “Mrs. Wallen will enjoy years of fuel savings and quiet boiler operation. Many congratulations from our entire team at Energy Kinetics.”

According to the contest selection committee, the boiler was original to the house and still housed many of the equipment’s original components.

“It was really incredible to see that Mrs. Wallen’s boiler still had its original oil burner. Sixty-five years ago, peak efficiency was at 1725rpm whereas current models run at 3450rpm. From just that upgrade alone, Mrs. Wallen will see a big improvement in how she heats her home,” explained Hickey.

“All together I’ve been a Quinoco customer for over 60 years,” said Wallen. “Quinoco has always taken care of me and my home.”

Quinoco’s Ugliest Boiler Contest received many entries from not just their service area but across the state and even one entry from Rhode Island! “Getting entries from all over the state really is a sign of how so many homeowners struggle to heat their homes and update older rundown heating equipment,” shared Hickey. “A new boiler like the one we’re installing for Mrs. Wallen can reduce a home’s annual oil consumption by up to 40% and will pay for itself in energy savings in a few short years while significantly reducing carbon emissions.”

Mrs. Wallen wasn’t the only one to benefit from Quinoco’s Ugliest Boiler Contest. The second and third place winners, also from Bristol, will enjoy $1000 off and $750 the installation of a new boiler or furnace from Quinoco respectively.

---

***COMPETITION IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED***

QUINOCO IS GIVING AWAY A NEW HIGH-EFFICIENCY BOILER OR FURNACE TO ONE LUCKY WINNER!

SO, IF YOUR HEATING SYSTEM IS PREHISTORIC,
IT’S TIME TO ENTER
QUINOCO’S UGLIEST BOILER CONTEST*

---

The Ugly Boiler Contest and members of our team will be featured on October’s At Home with Kerri-Lee!

How to watch:

• 10/7 on WFSB at 12pm

• Every Saturday on WTNH at 11:30pm

• Online at athomeKLM.com

• Click below

Heading South For Winter

If you have a seasonal home or you’re taking advantage of some great travel deals, it is important to proactively prepare and protect your home when away for an extended period of time this winter.

Maintain your heat:

No matter how you heat your home, maintaining your heat to a certain level is critical. Make sure your heating system is working properly prior to departing and set your thermostat to 55 degrees or higher.

Monitor your home:

Asking family, friends or neighbors to regularly check on your home in your absence can help prevent costly damage in freezing conditions. Flooding, freeze-ups and ice dams leads to millions in insurance claims annually. Water from broken pipes can flood an empty or unoccupied home in a matter of hours, causing structural damage to the house and loss of personal property.

And don’t forget to utilize the technology already in your home while away: program your smart thermostat, set up additional alerts, and adjust the cameras on your home security system to capture potential problem areas.

Jump-Start Your 2024 Resolutions

LEARN TO BREATHE EASIER

Start off the new year with a pause and take a breather. While meditation and breathwork is great for your mental health, the quality of the actual air you breathe is just as important for your physical wellbeing. Our Comfort Specialists are here to help manage your indoor air quality. We offer solutions that can remove over 99% of airborne particles and reduce the presence of viruses in your home by 99.92%. Learn more about indoor air quality at quinoco.com/home-air-quality.

MY AIR DUCTS WERE LAST CLEANED NEVER

There’s plenty of reasons why decontaminating your air ducts yearly should be one of your 2024 resolutions. Don’t you want to breathe easier, sneeze less, reduce dusting and cleaning, and extend the life of your heating/cooling system?

IT’S TIME FOR YOUR ANNUAL CHECK UP

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! Annual tune-ups are a regular part of the maintenance our service plan customers enjoy, and they can be performed at any time during the year. Call 860.583.4609 or email us at info@quinoco.com to schedule your tune-ups for the year!

CONSIDER SOME SIMPLE HOME UPGRADES

A few little updates can give your home a whole new vibe for the new year. Here are a few we’re considering for 2024: installing a smart thermostat to improve energy efficiency, adding propane amenities to enhance home entertaining, and creating reminders to donate unused items seasonally to clear clutter.

Our TV Debut

Did you catch us on TV last month? We connected with Kerri-Lee Mayland and her team that produces her seasonal At Home With Kerri- Lee for a special segment on boilers and our Ugly Boiler Competition which closed October 31st.

Technician Ryan and I brought our combined star power to the show, talking about Quinoco and boilers - if only you saw the outtakes! It was a real pleasure working with Kerri-Lee and her team. She made the process very relaxing and conversational, so it was easy to forget we were being filmed. If you haven’t seen it yet, we have the video up on our website.

Our Ugly Boiler Competition might be over (the winner will be announced soon), but our fall savings on high efficiency heating equipment is still available until November 30th. So if you’re interested in a new boiler or another system upgrade, give us a call to set up an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists.

Let us know what you thought about our TV debut by emailing askjim@quinoco.com.

Enter Our UGLY BOILER CONTEST in October!

***COMPETITION IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED***

QUINOCO IS GIVING AWAY A NEW HIGH-EFFICIENCY BOILER OR FURNACE TO ONE LUCKY WINNER!

SO, IF YOUR HEATING SYSTEM IS PREHISTORIC,
IT’S TIME TO ENTER
QUINOCO’S UGLIEST BOILER CONTEST*

---

The Ugly Boiler Contest and members of our team will be featured on October’s At Home with Kerri-Lee!

How to watch:

• 10/7 on WFSB at 12pm

• Every Saturday on WTNH at 11:30pm

• Online at athomeKLM.com

• Click below

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.

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

---

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!

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/

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!