Heating system and method of making and use

Abstract

Heating systems including heating elements and fastener materials covered and protected from the environment by a heating cap structure. The heating cap structure can interlock mating ribs or other structure in adjacent heating panels. Additional heating cap, transition, or flashing sections may further cover and protect heating system components. One or more heating elements may include heating cable or heating fluids or materials penetrating heating element bodies. The heating element bodies and heating cap panels and covers can include extruded or otherwise formed sections having a wide variety of shapes that can be varied to provide desired objectives, such as for example supporting strength, increased heat transfer, component cost minimization, component life, heating system weight, and ease of assembly, use, maintenance, expansion, contraction, and adaptability. The outer and other surfaces of the heating system may be painted, including to improve aesthetics. Sealing films and materials may be included.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A heating system comprising in combination:
 A. at least a first heating element having a bottom surface and an upper surface; and   B. at least a first heating panel having a heating element cover section surrounding the upper surface of the heating element, a first heating panel connection section extending from a first side of the heating element cap section, and a second heating panel connection section extending from a second side of the heating element cap section opposite the first side of the heating element cap section.   
     
     
         2 . The heating system of  claim 1  wherein the first heating element is in heat transfer communication with the first heating panel heating element cover section. 
     
     
         3 . The heating system of  claim 2  wherein the first heating element is in contact with and supports the heating element cover section.