I'm in Northern California too. I paid $4050 for 250 sqft of Heliocol panels. This included a motorized valve and connection to my existing controller. I believe this was for six panels. My friends purchased at the same time, but they had to add an additional panel which was $200 more. After researching and seeing both products, I decided I wanted the Heliocol and didn't get a quote on the Fafco.

Thanks, was that recent? And what company was that, if you don't mind my asking? The quotes I got were from Diablo Solar (supposedly biggest supplier) and Acro.

I am in NC, an over the phone estimate from a local solar company to purchase and install for our house was $4,500-$5,000. We purchased sungrabber solar panels by fafco, 400 sq ft on ebay. Also bought a auto on-off. My husband has installed all but the auto on-off (can't rememeber what it is called). The price was ~$1200 with a couple more hundred for the plumbing parts.

I had it installed 3 months ago by Solaron. They are authorized Heliocol dealers with offices in Sacramento and Santa Clara. The salesman brought out samples of the Heliocol and Fafco panels. Of course he was boasting about his product, but it all made sense. But what sold me was that he was concerned about aesthetics as much as I was. Plus I was concerned about possible roof leakage, and the Heliocol panels required less roof attachment points. The other thing I liked is that the Heliocol panels are able to be mounted much closer together so when you look at the system, it looks like one monolithic panel whereas other systems have 3-4 inch gaps between the panels.

Here is a link that might be useful: Solaron Pool Heating

In my area Fafco employs very aggressive tactics. Their representative overstayed his welcome by 2 hours!! Years later I am still unable to stop them calling me, no matter how reasonable or irate I get! We went with Heliocol and have been very happy! I am highly suspicious of any company that needs to use pressure tactics and remorseless telemarketing!