Heliocol versus FAFCO Solar Panels - Differences???

[thepoolman1]

Both will do the job of heating the water. Two of the major differences: 1.) FAFCO panels need to have hold-down straps across the whole array. That means more penetrations throught the roof. Heliocol does not need these on most installations. 2.) FAFCO panels (as do most all other brands) use reinforced rubber tubes with hose clamps to connect the panels. Heliocol uses an "O" ring and clamp design. The FAFCO panels need to have the hose clamps tightened regularly, usually every other year or so. This always results in the headers being deformed (crushed) over time, leaking at the header, and having to be replaced.

[bell7272]

Thanks to both of you.

Do to Hurricaine Charley on 08-04 we got a new roof, so the less holes in the roof the better.

I need to get more price quotes on the Heliocol brand. First quote was $5,200.00 for 9 panels. That seems high.

W. Bell
Orlando, FL

[tphaggerty]

Not an issue in Orlando, but it's almost impossible to get Heliocol here in the Northeast. I was only able to get one quote from a builder recommended by the manufacturer, and he had only installed one or 2 systems. We were able to find a number of installers that use Fafco.

Is the 5200 installed? If so, it doesn't seem out of line, especially for the Heliocol, which seem to be a bit more expensive. We paid about 5200 for 8 4x14 panels installed last year.