Solar panels generate electricity, not directly heat. However, they can power heat pumps (300% efficient) for net heating savings of 60-80%. Best strategy: solar + heat pump combination. Solar alone offsets heating costs if you use electric heat. Payback typically 8-12 years with incentives.

Average home needs 20-40 m² (200-400 sq ft) for sufficient solar capacity. Typical 6kW system requires about 30 m² (320 sq ft). South-facing roof is ideal, east/west works with 10-20% efficiency loss. Check for shade from trees/buildings - even partial shade significantly reduces output.

Solar panels work in winter but produce less energy (40-60% of summer output) due to shorter days and lower sun angle. Cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency! Snow coverage blocks production but typically melts quickly from panels. Winter is when you need most heating, so battery storage or net metering is crucial.

Not required but recommended. Grid-tied systems without batteries: cheaper ($15k-25k), net metering sells excess to utility, no power during outages. With batteries: add $10k-15k, backup power during outages, energy independence, better ROI if utility rates high/net metering unavailable. Batteries make sense for: frequent outages, high time-of-use rates, off-grid living.

Solar panels last 25-30 years with minimal maintenance. Performance degradation: ~0.5% per year, so panels at 25 years still produce 85-90% original output. Inverters need replacement after 10-15 years ($1,500-3,000). Warranties: 25-year performance guarantee (80% output), 10-15 year equipment warranty. Total system lifespan: 25-30 years with proper maintenance.