Typical in-ground pool solar system on house roof	IGP panels on aluminum racks	Simple above ground pool solar panel along-side pool

Solar Works!!

Whether you have an in-ground pool (IGP) or above ground pool (AGP), solar is the most economical and cost-effective method of heating any pool in any climate during the typical swim season for that area.  If you are now using a gas or electric heater (even a heat pump) to heat your inground or larger above ground pool, the payback (return on investment) for a solar pool heating system is generally less than 3 years just from energy savings alone.  While you are amortizing your investment, all operating energy costs are ZERO over the life of the system which should well exceed 20 years (if properly maintained)!

Your solar-heated pool will not only be warmer, but will be warmer longer by weeks on each end.  You'll swim earlier and later and have warmer water to boot.  Solar systems can also be used to cool pools down if they get too warm on their own during the hottest months.

ecosystems is the exclusive master distributor for FAFCO solar pool heating systems for Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Hawaii and unofficially for northern Utah, and other upper and central Midwest states.  We have over 30 years of experience with FAFCO products.

Why FAFCO?

• Oldest and largest solar pool heating manufacturer in the world--founded 1969
• All components are made in the USA in Chico, CA
• Panels have the highest performance ratings in the industry
• Products last well beyond their 10-15 year warranties which are the highest in the industry
• We have over 30 year experience with their products
• All FAFCO components are kept in stock throughout the season in the Portland, OR area for quick distribution throughout the region
  • All components can be shipped UPS or common carrier in the continental U.S.
  • We have a wholesaler in Honolulu, R&R Solar Supply, 808-842-0011, ask for Rolf.
• Like FAFCO, we fully support their product, our dealers, and their customers
  • We offer full design, installation, service, and maintenance support. 
  • Customer service is our focus.

Designing a system

The key to proper design is using the right system for your pool application AND sizing it properly to achieve the desired temperatures for the length of your desired swim season.  Local climate is critical.  Retaining heat in the pool overnight greatly assists any system's ability to achieve higher temperatures so pool covers are highly recommended if night losses are excessive.  The type of solar system recommended depends on type of pool.  Pick the button at the top of the page or here for whatever pool type you have, either an in-ground or above ground. 

FAFCO systems are uncomplicated in design.  This is especially true of their AGP system for above ground pools.  Yet even for in-ground pools, the FAFCO panels are non-metallic and lightweight, the piping used to connect them to your pool is PVC, and the recommended controls are simple differential thermostats.  If you want to save some money, these systems are quite easy to self-install (see Self-installation Program for more information). 

Within our "official" distribution area (OR, WA, ID, MT, WY, CO and HI), all FAFCO components are sold through qualified dealers ONLY.  We feel it is in our best interest and yours for you to work with and purchase from a local dealer.  They not only offer us greater exposure, they should be more convenient for you as well.  In many cases, our dealers buy and stock panels and other parts in sufficient quantity to lower both unit and freight costs vs. buying direct.  Go through the site, find what components you are looking for, than check with your pool dealer.  If you can't find what you are looking for, contact us.

We currently have over 150+ dealers and the list is growing.  A "typical" dealer is a company involved directly in the pool business such as a pool/spa retail store, pool contractor, pool service company, or pool solar contractor or in the solar business.   Some dealers sell components and do the installations, others only sell components.  Let us know what you need. 

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Page last updated: May 28, 2014