Thanks for all the responses, I know it takes time to type all that stuff, and I really appreciate it. With the info you have presented, I am developing the following opinions: Get cheap batteries, and don't worry about making them last 4 years+. Look for a cheap, basic system that someone else has already engineered. If it does 80% of the job 80% of the time, and furnace is still running when I wake up, I'll be happy. There rest of the time, I'll go for a drive or start the generator. The thing is, I work 50 - 60 hours a week, and I have interests and hobbies outside of solar power. Thus I don't have time or interest in reading about it, or learning about it. Sorry, but I intend to be a pathetic mooch, and suck off of the smart people out there who have done all the leg work and research. Kind of like my wife stepping the gas pedal: she doesn't want to know how an internal combustion engine operates. She just wants to go to the store.
So can anyone recommend a kit, or a few components? Hopefully a link to something I can buy online? Maybe that black Friday sale item?
On the front slope, I should have bene more clear: (see red arrow) The front of the roof is clear of obstructions.
Thanks, Joel
