FAFCO Replacement Solar Pool Panels: Why You May Not Need a Whole New System
- Jul 28
- 5 min read
If your FAFCO solar pool heating system has developed one or more leaking panels, you've probably heard the same recommendation:
"You need to replace the entire system."
While a complete replacement is sometimes the right solution, it's far from the only option.
In many cases, you can replace only the failed panels while leaving the rest of your solar pool heating system in place. If your remaining FAFCO collectors are still performing well, there's often no reason to remove them simply because one or several panels have reached the end of their life.
Techno-Solis manufactures compatible 2-inch header solar pool panels that can replace many existing FAFCO panels, allowing homeowners to repair their systems without the expense of installing an entirely new solar array.
Why Replacing Every FAFCO Panel Isn't Always Necessary
Solar pool heating systems are modular by design. Each collector contributes to heating your pool, but one leaking panel doesn't automatically mean every panel has failed.
If the remaining collectors are still operating correctly, replacing only the damaged panels may be the most practical and cost-effective solution.
Whether you need:
One replacement panel
Two replacement panels
Four replacement panels
Half of the system
Nearly the entire array
you can replace only what your system requires.
The goal is to restore your solar heating system—not replace components that are still working.
FAFCO Is No Longer Manufacturing Solar Pool Panels
Many homeowners first discover this when they begin looking for replacement parts.
FAFCO ceased regular manufacturing operations in late 2024, leaving thousands of existing installations without a direct replacement source.
Fortunately, your existing system doesn't become obsolete simply because the original manufacturer stopped producing panels.
If your plumbing, solar controller, roof layout and most of your collectors remain in good condition, replacing the failed panels can often keep your system operating for many more years.
Can Techno-Solis Panels Replace FAFCO Panels?
For many residential systems, the answer is yes.
Techno-Solis manufactures 2-inch header solar pool panels in the most common replacement sizes:
These dimensions match many professionally installed FAFCO systems.
However, every installation should be verified before ordering.
Panel dimensions, header size, coupling style and plumbing configuration should always be confirmed to ensure compatibility.
Will Mixing Techno-Solis and FAFCO Panels Cause Flow Problems?
One concern homeowners often hear is that installing a different brand of panel will create water flow problems.
While different manufacturers use different internal tube designs, that doesn't automatically mean two brands cannot work together.
Proper system performance depends on several factors, including:
Pump size
Variable-speed pump settings
Filter condition
Plumbing layout
Roof height
Number of collectors
Header size
Overall system flow
A properly selected replacement panel with the correct header size and connections can operate alongside existing FAFCO collectors in many residential systems.
Hydraulic balance should always be considered during a panel replacement, but it isn't, by itself, a reason to remove every working panel from the roof.
Replace As Many Panels As You Need
Some homeowners think replacement panels can only be installed one at a time.
That's simply not true.
If multiple collectors have failed, you can replace them together.
For example:
Replace two leaking panels
Replace four damaged panels
Replace one entire row
Replace most of the array while keeping the remaining good collectors
Replacing several panels during one service visit can also reduce labour since the system only needs to be opened and restarted once.
Benefits of Replacing Only the Failed Panels
Replacing only the panels that need attention can provide several advantages:
Lower overall project cost
Keep working FAFCO collectors in service
Reuse your existing plumbing
Keep your existing solar controller
Maintain your current roof layout
Replace only the quantity you need today
Expand replacements later if additional panels eventually fail
Get your pool heating again without rebuilding the entire system
A complete replacement remains an option if that's what you prefer.
The important point is that it should be your decision, not the only recommendation simply because several collectors have developed leaks.
How to Determine Which Replacement Panel You Need
FAFCO manufactured several panel configurations over the years.
Before ordering replacement panels, verify:
Panel length
Panel width
Header size
Header outside diameter
Coupling style
Number of replacement panels required
Mounting hardware needed
If you're unsure, simply send us:
A photo of the entire solar array
A close-up of the headers
A photo of the connections
Your approximate panel length
We'll help identify the correct replacement panel before you order.
FAFCO Replacement Solar Pool Panels Available in 4' × 8', 4' × 10' and 4' × 12' Sizes
Techno-Solis 2-inch header panels are manufactured in St. Petersburg, Florida and are available for nationwide shipping or factory pickup.
Choose the size that matches your existing FAFCO system:
Whether you need one replacement panel or several, we also supply the connecting hardware and mounting components required for most replacement projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace two or four FAFCO panels at the same time?
Absolutely. You can replace as many failed panels as necessary. You're not limited to replacing a single collector.
Do all my solar pool panels need to be the same brand?
Not necessarily. Many existing FAFCO systems can successfully use Techno-Solis replacement panels when the panel size, header size, plumbing connections and system flow are properly matched.
Will mixing FAFCO and Techno-Solis panels reduce performance?
Different manufacturers have different flow characteristics, but this doesn't automatically create problems. Proper sizing and adequate water flow are far more important than matching brand names.
What if I don't know which FAFCO panels I have?
Send us photos of the system, the headers, the connections and the approximate panel length. We'll help identify the correct replacement panel before you purchase.
Can multiple replacement panels be shipped together?
Yes. We regularly ship single panels as well as larger replacement orders throughout the United States. Factory pickup is also available in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Need Help Choosing the Right FAFCO Replacement Panels?
Every solar pool heating system is a little different.
Before ordering replacement panels, we'll help you verify:
The correct panel size
Header compatibility
Number of replacement panels required
Couplings and hardware
Shipping options
Whether you're replacing one leaking panel or rebuilding most of your existing FAFCO array, we'll help you select the right Techno-Solis replacement panels so you can restore your solar pool heating system with confidence.
Send us a few photos of your existing system and we'll help identify exactly what you need.
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