US20100300377A1 - Water heater apparatus with differential control - Google Patents
Water heater apparatus with differential control Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100300377A1 US20100300377A1 US12/854,569 US85456910A US2010300377A1 US 20100300377 A1 US20100300377 A1 US 20100300377A1 US 85456910 A US85456910 A US 85456910A US 2010300377 A1 US2010300377 A1 US 2010300377A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- time period
- heat
- controller
- predetermined
- heating operation
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 title claims abstract description 108
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 59
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 claims description 18
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000000567 combustion gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000013517 stratification Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H1/00—Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters
- F24H1/18—Water-storage heaters
- F24H1/186—Water-storage heaters using fluid fuel
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
- F24H15/212—Temperature of the water
- F24H15/223—Temperature of the water in the water storage tank
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
- F24H15/355—Control of heat-generating means in heaters
- F24H15/36—Control of heat-generating means in heaters of burners
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H9/00—Details
- F24H9/20—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
- F24H9/2007—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heaters
- F24H9/2035—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heaters using fluid fuel
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to the control of a hot water heater, and more particularly to apparatus for controlling heating operation of the heater to maintain a more consistent temperature.
- a typical water heater cold water is introduced into the bottom of a hot water heater tank where it is detected by a sensor that triggers a call for heat.
- a sensor that triggers a call for heat.
- the water temperature in the tank can stratify and lead to water that is much hotter than the desired temperature setting. Stacking can be reduced by a large temperature differential setting, such as 20° Fahrenheit, so that the water temperature must drop 20° below the water temperature setting before a call for heat is initiated.
- the water in the tank will cool off and any hot water draw before a call for heat is initiated will result in complaints that the water is too cold.
- Various embodiments of an apparatus are disclosed that are configured to control heating operation of a fuel-fired water heater.
- the various embodiments include an apparatus configured to control heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature.
- the various embodiments comprise a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater, and a controller in communication with the sensor. The controller is operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature.
- the controller is also configured to determine whether a prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until one of a predetermined time period or a predetermined sensed temperature change has occurred.
- the controller is configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change, which may be dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller may be configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where two prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined time period has occurred where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined time period has occurred where two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined time period has occurred where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period, which is a given time period immediately preceding the present call for heat.
- FIG. 1 is a cut-away illustration of a water heater having one embodiment of an apparatus for controlling operation of the water heater according to the principles of the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 is a schematic of one embodiment of an apparatus for controlling operation of a water heater according to the principles of the present disclosure
- FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a first embodiment of an apparatus for controlling a water heater
- FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a second embodiment of an apparatus for controlling a water heater.
- FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a third embodiment of an apparatus for controlling a water heater.
- an apparatus configured to control heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature.
- the various embodiments comprise a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater, and a controller in communication with the sensor.
- the controller is operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature.
- the controller is also configured to determine whether a prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until one of a predetermined time period or a predetermined sensed temperature change has occurred.
- the controller is configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller may be configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where two prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined time period has occurred where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined time period has occurred where two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined time period has occurred where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period.
- the predetermined elapsed time period may be a time period immediately preceding the present call for heat, and may be between about 30 minutes to about 120 minutes.
- an apparatus 100 for controlling heating operation of a water heater 20 to maintain a desired temperature of water in the water heater.
- the water heater 20 has a storage tank 22 that stores heated water and receives cold water via a cold water inlet 26 .
- Cold water entering a bottom portion 28 of the tank 22 is heated by a fuel-fired burner 30 beneath the tank.
- Water that is heated leaves the tank 22 via a hot water outlet pipe 34 .
- Combustion gases from the burner 30 leave the water heater 20 via a flue 36 .
- the apparatus 100 provides for control of gas flow via a gas supply line 40 to the burner 30 .
- the apparatus 100 includes a sensor 102 that provides an output or value that is indicative of the sensed temperature of the water inside of the tank 22 .
- the sensor 102 may be a tank surface-mounted temperature sensor such as a thermistor, or the like.
- a temperature probe or other sensor suitable for enabling sensing the water temperature in the tank may be positioned at the bottom portion 28 of the tank 22 near the cold water inlet pipe 26 , where cold water entering the tank 22 affects the output of sensor 102 .
- the water heater 20 includes an apparatus 100 positioned, for example, adjacent the tank 22 .
- the sensor 102 is in communication with the apparatus 100 , and provides an output or value that is indicative of the water temperature in the tank 22 .
- a second sensor (not shown) may be disposed at an upper portion of the water heater 20 , to provide an output or value that is indicative of the sensed temperature of the water in the upper portion 32 of the tank 22 .
- the controller 150 may be a microprocessor, for controlling at least one gas valve actuator 160 for operating a gas valve 162 to supply gas via supply line 40 to the burner 30 , and may further operate an igniter actuator 164 for actuating an igniter 166 via connection 42 .
- the controller 150 monitors the sensor 102 and the sensed temperature of the water in the tank, and controls the actuators to establish operation of the burner 30 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature, as explained below.
- the water in the tank 22 may lose heat over time, for example, such that the sensed temperature of the water drops a given amount below a set-point temperature of the controller 150 .
- the controller 150 determines that the sensed temperature of the water is a predetermined “differential” amount below a set-point temperature
- the controller 150 establishes a call for heat to raise the water temperature back to the set point temperature.
- the call for heat will continue and the burner will continue to raise the water temperature.
- the call for heat is terminated when the sensed temperature of the water detected by sensor 102 reaches a desired set-point temperature value, which may be between about 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
- the controller 150 would initiate a call for heat when the sensed temperature from sensor 102 drops 15 degrees Fahrenheit below the 120 degree Fahrenheit set-point temperature.
- the controller 150 is operable to initiate a call for heat where water temperature drops and a difference between set-point temperature and the sensed temperature of the water exceeds a predetermined temperature differential setting.
- a decrease in water temperature may also occur, for example, when hot water that is being drawn out of the tank 22 through outlet pipe 34 is replaced by cold water entering inlet pipe 26 , which causes the temperature of the water in the lower portion 28 of the tank 22 to drop substantially below the set-point temperature (such as a 10 or 15 degree drop).
- the controller 150 may determine, for example, that a rapid drop in temperature has occurred, such as when hot water is being drawn from the tank 22 and cold water is entering the bottom of the tank through cold water inlet 28 .
- Cold water entering the tank 22 significantly reduces the temperature of the water in the lower portion 28 of the tank 22 , while water in the upper portion 32 of the tank 22 still remains hot.
- the cold water entering the lower portion 28 creates a temperature difference between the upper and lower portions of the tank.
- the cold water entering the lower portion 28 of the tank 22 thus affects the output of the sensor 102 , and the controller 150 initiates a call for heat when the difference between the set-point temperature and the sensed temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature differential setting.
- the burner 30 would heat the water in the lower portion 28 which by convection would increase the temperature of hot water in the upper portion 32 .
- the repeated operation of the burner could cause temperature stratification in the tank 22 and potentially result in hot water in the upper portion of the tank exceeding the set-point temperature.
- the controller 150 of the first embodiment is further configured to delay the start of heating operation for a given delay time period where the controller 150 identifies a prior call for heat within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat.
- the controller 150 is configured to delay heating operation until a predetermined sensed temperature change occurs (the sensed temperature drops by 5 degrees, for example) when only a single prior call for heat has occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat (such as a two hour period, for example).
- the controller 150 may also be configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period, as explained below.
- the controller 150 of the apparatus 100 is configured to determine at step 100 whether the sensed temperature (Tsensed) is within a differential setting of 15 degrees of the set point temperature (Tset-point).
- the controller 150 is operable to initiate a present call for heat at step 110 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount (e.g., 15 degrees for example) below the set-point temperature.
- the controller is configured to determine whether a single prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example) preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until a predetermined sensed temperature change (or temperature offset) has occurred at step 130 .
- a predetermined elapsed time period e.g. 2 hours, for example
- the controller 150 is configured to start burner operation at step 180 and continue operation at step 190 until the set point temperature is reached.
- the controller is further configured to determine whether two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a second predetermined sensed temperature change (or temperature offset) at step 150 .
- the controller is further configured to determine whether three or more prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a third predetermined sensed temperature change (or temperature offset) at step 170 .
- the controller 150 is configured delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- an apparatus for controlling heating operation of a water heater based on sensed temperature, as explained below.
- the apparatus includes a sensor such as sensor 102 in FIG. 1 that provides a value indicative of the sensed temperature of water, and also includes a controller similar to apparatus 100 in FIG. 1 .
- the controller of the second embodiment initiates a call for heat when a difference between a set-point temperature and the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature differential setting.
- the controller of the second embodiment is also configured to delay the start of heating operation until a predetermined time period has occurred or elasped.
- the second embodiment of a controller is configured to determine at step 200 whether the sensed temperature (Tsensed) is within a differential setting of 15 degrees of the set point temperature (Tset-point), and is operable to initiate a present call for heat at step 210 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount (e.g., 15 degrees for example) below the set-point temperature.
- Tsensed sensed temperature
- Tset-point set point temperature
- the controller is configured to determine whether a single prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until a first predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped at step 230 . Once the first predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped, the controller is configured to start burner operation at step 280 and continue operation at step 290 until the set point temperature is reached.
- a predetermined elapsed time period e.g., 2 hours, for example
- the controller is further configured to determine whether two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until a second predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped at step 250 .
- the controller is further configured to determine whether three or more prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until a third predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped at step 270 .
- the controller of the second embodiment is configured delay the start of heating operation by a predetermined time delay period that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- the third embodiment of a controller is configured to determine at step 300 whether the sensed temperature (Tsensed.) is within a differential setting of 15 degrees of the set point temperature (Tset-point), and is operable to initiate a present call for heat at step 310 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount (e.g., 15 degrees for example) below the set-point temperature.
- the controller is configured to determine whether at least 4 calls for heat, or over three calls for heat, occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example).
- the third embodiment of a controller is configured to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until either the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change (e.g., 8° F. temperature offset), or a first predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped (e.g., 10 minutes).
- a predetermined sensed temperature change e.g. 8° F. temperature offset
- a first predetermined time delay period e.g. 10 minutes.
- the controller is configured to start burner operation at step 380 and continue operation at step 390 until the set point temperature is reached.
- the controller of the third embodiment is configured delay the start of heating operation by a predetermined time delay period that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
- first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.
Abstract
An apparatus for a water heater is configured to control heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature. The various embodiments comprise a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater, and a controller in communication with the sensor. The controller is operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature. The controller is also configured to determine whether a prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until one of a predetermined time period or a predetermined sensed temperature change has occurred.
Description
- The present disclosure relates to the control of a hot water heater, and more particularly to apparatus for controlling heating operation of the heater to maintain a more consistent temperature.
- This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
- In a typical water heater, cold water is introduced into the bottom of a hot water heater tank where it is detected by a sensor that triggers a call for heat. When a water heater is subjected to repeated short draws of hot water in which water draw stops shortly after a call for heat is initiated, the water temperature in the tank can stratify and lead to water that is much hotter than the desired temperature setting. Stacking can be reduced by a large temperature differential setting, such as 20° Fahrenheit, so that the water temperature must drop 20° below the water temperature setting before a call for heat is initiated. However, over a few hours of inactivity, the water in the tank will cool off and any hot water draw before a call for heat is initiated will result in complaints that the water is too cold. For example, where a hot water heater is set to 120 degrees F., and the differential is set to 20 degrees F., water in the tank may cool to 101 degrees F. overnight such that any draw of hot water in the morning would be too cold. Thus, large differential settings result in cold water complaints in the morning. A narrower differential setting decreases energy efficiency, because the water heater turns on more often as the water temperature drops over time. Thus, there is a need for control of a water heater that reduces stacking effects yet maintains a comfortable hot water temperature.
- This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features. Various embodiments of an apparatus are disclosed that are configured to control heating operation of a fuel-fired water heater. The various embodiments include an apparatus configured to control heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature. The various embodiments comprise a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater, and a controller in communication with the sensor. The controller is operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature. The controller is also configured to determine whether a prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until one of a predetermined time period or a predetermined sensed temperature change has occurred.
- In some embodiments, the controller is configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change, which may be dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period. In such embodiments, the controller may be configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period. The controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where two prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- In other embodiments, the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined time period has occurred where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period. The controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined time period has occurred where two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined time period has occurred where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period, which is a given time period immediately preceding the present call for heat.
- Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
- The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
-
FIG. 1 is a cut-away illustration of a water heater having one embodiment of an apparatus for controlling operation of the water heater according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic of one embodiment of an apparatus for controlling operation of a water heater according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a first embodiment of an apparatus for controlling a water heater; and -
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a second embodiment of an apparatus for controlling a water heater; and -
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a third embodiment of an apparatus for controlling a water heater. - Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
- Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- In the various embodiments, an apparatus is provided that is configured to control heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature. The various embodiments comprise a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater, and a controller in communication with the sensor. The controller is operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature. The controller is also configured to determine whether a prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until one of a predetermined time period or a predetermined sensed temperature change has occurred.
- In some embodiments, the controller is configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period. In such embodiments, the controller may be configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period. The controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where two prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
- In other embodiments, the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined time period has occurred where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period. The controller may also be configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined time period has occurred where two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period, or to delay heating operation until a third predetermined time period has occurred where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period. The predetermined elapsed time period may be a time period immediately preceding the present call for heat, and may be between about 30 minutes to about 120 minutes.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , anapparatus 100 is provided for controlling heating operation of awater heater 20 to maintain a desired temperature of water in the water heater. Thewater heater 20 has astorage tank 22 that stores heated water and receives cold water via acold water inlet 26. Cold water entering abottom portion 28 of thetank 22 is heated by a fuel-firedburner 30 beneath the tank. Water that is heated leaves thetank 22 via a hotwater outlet pipe 34. Combustion gases from theburner 30 leave thewater heater 20 via aflue 36. Theapparatus 100 provides for control of gas flow via agas supply line 40 to theburner 30. - The
apparatus 100 includes asensor 102 that provides an output or value that is indicative of the sensed temperature of the water inside of thetank 22. For example, thesensor 102 may be a tank surface-mounted temperature sensor such as a thermistor, or the like. However, other embodiments can alternatively use a temperature probe or other sensor suitable for enabling sensing the water temperature in the tank. Thesensor 102 may be positioned at thebottom portion 28 of thetank 22 near the coldwater inlet pipe 26, where cold water entering thetank 22 affects the output ofsensor 102. - The
water heater 20 includes anapparatus 100 positioned, for example, adjacent thetank 22. Thesensor 102 is in communication with theapparatus 100, and provides an output or value that is indicative of the water temperature in thetank 22. A second sensor (not shown) may be disposed at an upper portion of thewater heater 20, to provide an output or value that is indicative of the sensed temperature of the water in theupper portion 32 of thetank 22. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , a schematic is shown of theapparatus 100 having acontroller 150 that is in communication withsensor 102. Thecontroller 150 may be a microprocessor, for controlling at least onegas valve actuator 160 for operating agas valve 162 to supply gas viasupply line 40 to theburner 30, and may further operate anigniter actuator 164 for actuating anigniter 166 viaconnection 42. Thecontroller 150 monitors thesensor 102 and the sensed temperature of the water in the tank, and controls the actuators to establish operation of theburner 30 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature, as explained below. - The water in the
tank 22 may lose heat over time, for example, such that the sensed temperature of the water drops a given amount below a set-point temperature of thecontroller 150. When thecontroller 150 determines that the sensed temperature of the water is a predetermined “differential” amount below a set-point temperature, thecontroller 150 establishes a call for heat to raise the water temperature back to the set point temperature. As long as the sensed temperature of the water remains below the desired set-point temperature value, the call for heat will continue and the burner will continue to raise the water temperature. The call for heat is terminated when the sensed temperature of the water detected bysensor 102 reaches a desired set-point temperature value, which may be between about 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit. If, for example, thecontroller 150 has a 120 degree Fahrenheit set-point temperature and a 15 degree Fahrenheit temperature differential setting, thecontroller 150 would initiate a call for heat when the sensed temperature fromsensor 102 drops 15 degrees Fahrenheit below the 120 degree Fahrenheit set-point temperature. Thus, thecontroller 150 is operable to initiate a call for heat where water temperature drops and a difference between set-point temperature and the sensed temperature of the water exceeds a predetermined temperature differential setting. - A decrease in water temperature may also occur, for example, when hot water that is being drawn out of the
tank 22 throughoutlet pipe 34 is replaced by cold water enteringinlet pipe 26, which causes the temperature of the water in thelower portion 28 of thetank 22 to drop substantially below the set-point temperature (such as a 10 or 15 degree drop). Thecontroller 150 may determine, for example, that a rapid drop in temperature has occurred, such as when hot water is being drawn from thetank 22 and cold water is entering the bottom of the tank throughcold water inlet 28. Cold water entering thetank 22 significantly reduces the temperature of the water in thelower portion 28 of thetank 22, while water in theupper portion 32 of thetank 22 still remains hot. When hot water is drawn from thetank 22 for more than a given time, the cold water entering thelower portion 28 creates a temperature difference between the upper and lower portions of the tank. The cold water entering thelower portion 28 of thetank 22 thus affects the output of thesensor 102, and thecontroller 150 initiates a call for heat when the difference between the set-point temperature and the sensed temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature differential setting. If, however, hot water is drawn viaoutlet pipe 34 from thetank 22 for a brief interim just long enough to affect the output of thesensor 102 and cause thecontroller 150 to initiate a call for heat, theburner 30 would heat the water in thelower portion 28 which by convection would increase the temperature of hot water in theupper portion 32. When hot water is successively drawn for brief interim periods to establish intermittent calls for heat, the repeated operation of the burner could cause temperature stratification in thetank 22 and potentially result in hot water in the upper portion of the tank exceeding the set-point temperature. - To address this issue, the
controller 150 of the first embodiment is further configured to delay the start of heating operation for a given delay time period where thecontroller 150 identifies a prior call for heat within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat. Thecontroller 150 is configured to delay heating operation until a predetermined sensed temperature change occurs (the sensed temperature drops by 5 degrees, for example) when only a single prior call for heat has occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat (such as a two hour period, for example). Thecontroller 150 may also be configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period, as explained below. - Referring to
FIG. 3 , a flow chart is shown illustrating the operation of the controller of the first embodiment. Thecontroller 150 of theapparatus 100 is configured to determine atstep 100 whether the sensed temperature (Tsensed) is within a differential setting of 15 degrees of the set point temperature (Tset-point). Thecontroller 150 is operable to initiate a present call for heat atstep 110 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount (e.g., 15 degrees for example) below the set-point temperature. Atstep 120, the controller is configured to determine whether a single prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example) preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until a predetermined sensed temperature change (or temperature offset) has occurred atstep 130. Once the sensed temperature has decreased by the predetermined sensed temperature change or temperature offset, thecontroller 150 is configured to start burner operation atstep 180 and continue operation atstep 190 until the set point temperature is reached. Atstep 140, the controller is further configured to determine whether two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a second predetermined sensed temperature change (or temperature offset) atstep 150. Atstep 160, the controller is further configured to determine whether three or more prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a third predetermined sensed temperature change (or temperature offset) atstep 170. Thus, thecontroller 150 is configured delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period. - In a second embodiment, an apparatus is provided for controlling heating operation of a water heater based on sensed temperature, as explained below. The apparatus includes a sensor such as
sensor 102 inFIG. 1 that provides a value indicative of the sensed temperature of water, and also includes a controller similar toapparatus 100 inFIG. 1 . The controller of the second embodiment initiates a call for heat when a difference between a set-point temperature and the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature differential setting. The controller of the second embodiment is also configured to delay the start of heating operation until a predetermined time period has occurred or elasped. - Referring to
FIG. 4 , a flow chart is shown illustrating the operation of the controller of the second embodiment. The second embodiment of a controller is configured to determine atstep 200 whether the sensed temperature (Tsensed) is within a differential setting of 15 degrees of the set point temperature (Tset-point), and is operable to initiate a present call for heat atstep 210 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount (e.g., 15 degrees for example) below the set-point temperature. Atstep 220, the controller is configured to determine whether a single prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until a first predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped atstep 230. Once the first predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped, the controller is configured to start burner operation atstep 280 and continue operation atstep 290 until the set point temperature is reached. Atstep 240, the controller is further configured to determine whether two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until a second predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped atstep 250. Atstep 260, the controller is further configured to determine whether three or more prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example), and to delay the start of heating operation until a third predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped atstep 270. Thus, the controller of the second embodiment is configured delay the start of heating operation by a predetermined time delay period that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , a flow chart is shown illustrating the operation of the controller of a third embodiment. The third embodiment of a controller is configured to determine atstep 300 whether the sensed temperature (Tsensed.) is within a differential setting of 15 degrees of the set point temperature (Tset-point), and is operable to initiate a present call for heat atstep 310 where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount (e.g., 15 degrees for example) below the set-point temperature. Atstep 320, the controller is configured to determine whether at least 4 calls for heat, or over three calls for heat, occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period (e.g., 2 hours, for example). Atstep 330, the third embodiment of a controller is configured to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until either the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change (e.g., 8° F. temperature offset), or a first predetermined time delay period has occurred or elasped (e.g., 10 minutes). Once the first predetermined time delay or temperature change has occurred or elasped, the controller is configured to start burner operation atstep 380 and continue operation atstep 390 until the set point temperature is reached. Thus, the controller of the third embodiment is configured delay the start of heating operation by a predetermined time delay period that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period. - The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.
- Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
- The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
- Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.
Claims (21)
1. An apparatus for controlling heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature, comprising:
a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater;
a controller in communication with the sensor, the controller being operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature, wherein the controller is configured to determine whether a prior call for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until one of a predetermined time period or a predetermined sensed temperature change has occurred.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined sensed temperature change that is dependent on the number of prior calls for heat within the predetermined elapsed time period.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where two prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a third predetermined sensed temperature change occurs where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first predetermined time period has occurred where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a second predetermined time period has occurred where two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a third predetermined time period has occurred where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the predetermined elapsed time period is a time period immediately preceding the present call for heat, of between about 30 minutes to about 120 minutes.
10. An apparatus for controlling heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature, comprising:
a sensor that provides a value indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater;
a controller that initiates a call for heat when a difference between a set-point temperature and the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature differential setting, the controller being configured to delay the start of heating operation for a given delay time period where the controller identifies a prior call for heat within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until a first delay time period has occurred where a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the controller is further configured to delay heating operation until a second delay time period has occurred where two prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the controller is further configured to delay heating operation until a third delay time period has occurred where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period.
14. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the first delay time period is at least 10 seconds.
15. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the first delay time period is at least 10 seconds, the second delay time period is at least 10 seconds greater than the first delay time period, and the third delay time period is at least 10 seconds greater than the second delay time period.
16. An apparatus for controlling heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature, comprising:
a sensor that provides a value indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater;
a controller that initiates a call for heat when a difference between a set-point temperature and the sensed temperature exceeds a temperature differential setting, the controller being configured to delay the start of heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a predetermined amount where the controller identifies a prior call for heat within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a first predetermined amount where only a single prior call for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
18. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a second predetermined amount where two prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein the controller is configured to delay heating operation until the sensed temperature decreases by a third predetermined amount where at least three prior calls for heat occurred within the predetermined elapsed time period.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein the first predetermined amount is an offset temperature decrease of at least 5 degrees Fahrenheit, and the second predetermined amount is an offset temperature decrease that is at least degrees Fahrenheit lower than the first predetermined amount, and the third predetermined amount is an offset temperature decrease that is at least 5 degrees Fahrenheit lower than the second predetermined amount.
21. An apparatus for controlling heating operation of a water heater to maintain a desired water temperature, comprising:
a sensor that provides an output indicative of the sensed temperature of water in a water heater;
a controller in communication with the sensor, the controller being operable to initiate a present call for heat where the sensed temperature is a predetermined amount below a set-point temperature, wherein the controller is configured to determine whether more than 3 prior calls for heat occurred within a predetermined elapsed time period preceding the present call for heat, and to respond thereto by delaying the start of heating operation in the present call for heat until the first occurrence of either a predetermined time of at least 10 minutes or the sensed temperature decreases by at least 8 degrees Fahrenheit.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/854,569 US20100300377A1 (en) | 2010-08-11 | 2010-08-11 | Water heater apparatus with differential control |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/854,569 US20100300377A1 (en) | 2010-08-11 | 2010-08-11 | Water heater apparatus with differential control |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100300377A1 true US20100300377A1 (en) | 2010-12-02 |
Family
ID=43218771
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/854,569 Abandoned US20100300377A1 (en) | 2010-08-11 | 2010-08-11 | Water heater apparatus with differential control |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20100300377A1 (en) |
Cited By (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080257281A1 (en) * | 2004-03-15 | 2008-10-23 | Zip Industries (Aust) Pty Ltd | Water Heater and a Method of Operating Same |
CN103836786A (en) * | 2012-11-27 | 2014-06-04 | 艾默生电气公司 | Water heater valves and controllers and methods of mounting the same |
US20150039153A1 (en) * | 2013-08-02 | 2015-02-05 | Emerson Electric Co. | Controllers and Methods of Control of Water Heaters |
WO2015088360A1 (en) * | 2013-12-10 | 2015-06-18 | Tess Electronic Company No 2 Limited | Hot water power controller |
USD771234S1 (en) * | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-08 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771233S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-08 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771789S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771791S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771793S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771792S1 (en) * | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771790S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD779650S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2017-02-21 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
US9829897B2 (en) | 2014-02-03 | 2017-11-28 | Emerson Electric Co. | Systems and methods for controlling water heaters |
US11402128B2 (en) * | 2019-10-01 | 2022-08-02 | Sit Manufacturing N.A. S.A. De C.V. | Temperature control for gas water heaters and related methods |
US11466899B2 (en) | 2019-10-01 | 2022-10-11 | Sit Manufacturing N.A. S.A. De C.V. | Systems and methods for controlling gas powered appliances |
US11499752B2 (en) * | 2020-04-15 | 2022-11-15 | Rheem Manufacturing Company | Systems and methods for preventing short cycling in high-efficiency water heaters |
Citations (57)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2266248A (en) * | 1940-11-12 | 1941-12-16 | Mcgraw Electric Co | Off-peak water heating system |
US2377440A (en) * | 1944-01-01 | 1945-06-05 | Mcgraw Electric Co | Water heating system |
US2387180A (en) * | 1944-07-20 | 1945-10-16 | Mcgraw Electric Co | Electric tank heater control system |
US2712055A (en) * | 1952-05-05 | 1955-06-28 | James R Campbell | Electric heating system |
US4337893A (en) * | 1980-04-07 | 1982-07-06 | Energy Savings Parhelion | Multi-phase modular comfort controlled heating system |
US4522333A (en) * | 1983-09-16 | 1985-06-11 | Fluidmaster, Inc. | Scheduled hot water heating based on automatically periodically adjusted historical data |
US4620667A (en) * | 1986-02-10 | 1986-11-04 | Fluidmaster, Inc. | Hot water heating system having minimum hot water use based on minimum water temperatures and time of heating |
US5135162A (en) * | 1989-03-13 | 1992-08-04 | Walter Holzer | Process and equipment designed to control a burner for heating systems |
US5203500A (en) * | 1989-09-19 | 1993-04-20 | Gas-Fired Products, Inc. | Apparatus and method for converting an electric water heater to use gas |
US5470019A (en) * | 1992-07-16 | 1995-11-28 | Riverlake Investments Ltd. | Device for controlling heating boilers |
US5660328A (en) * | 1996-01-26 | 1997-08-26 | Robertshaw Controls Company | Water heater control |
US5779143A (en) * | 1997-02-13 | 1998-07-14 | Erie Manufacturing Company | Electronic boiler control |
US5866880A (en) * | 1995-10-10 | 1999-02-02 | David Seitz | Fluid heater with improved heating elements controller |
US5968393A (en) * | 1995-09-12 | 1999-10-19 | Demaline; John Tracey | Hot water controller |
US6059195A (en) * | 1998-01-23 | 2000-05-09 | Tridelta Industries, Inc. | Integrated appliance control system |
US6080971A (en) * | 1997-05-22 | 2000-06-27 | David Seitz | Fluid heater with improved heating elements controller |
US6208806B1 (en) * | 1998-06-24 | 2001-03-27 | Aquabeat Pty Ltd. | Electric water heater control |
US6212894B1 (en) * | 1996-03-29 | 2001-04-10 | Waterfurnace International Inc. | Microprocessor control for a heat pump water heater |
US6293471B1 (en) * | 2000-04-27 | 2001-09-25 | Daniel R. Stettin | Heater control device and method to save energy |
US6350967B1 (en) * | 2000-05-24 | 2002-02-26 | American Water Heater Company | Energy saving water heater control |
US6409090B1 (en) * | 2000-05-18 | 2002-06-25 | Microtherm Llc | Self-optimizing device for controlling a heating system |
US6453993B1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2002-09-24 | Carrier Corporation | Advanced starting control for multiple zone system |
US6555796B1 (en) * | 2001-11-13 | 2003-04-29 | Sherwood-Templeton Coal Company, Inc. | Heater having over temperature control |
US6560409B2 (en) * | 2000-01-03 | 2003-05-06 | Honeywell International Inc. | Hot water heater stacking reduction control |
US20030213795A1 (en) * | 2002-05-15 | 2003-11-20 | Katsuhiko Toyoda | Heater controller for an oxygen sensor |
US20040042772A1 (en) * | 2000-12-18 | 2004-03-04 | Whitford Geoffrey M. | Thermostat system to provide adaptive control of water temperature |
US20040144528A1 (en) * | 2002-02-12 | 2004-07-29 | Keijiro Kunimoto | Heat pump water heater |
US6880493B2 (en) * | 1992-03-23 | 2005-04-19 | Todd W. Clifford | Gas water heater and method of operation |
US20050162109A1 (en) * | 2004-01-23 | 2005-07-28 | Aos Holding Company | Control circuit and method of activating a gas valve |
US20050194456A1 (en) * | 2004-03-02 | 2005-09-08 | Tessier Patrick C. | Wireless controller with gateway |
US6955301B2 (en) * | 2003-03-05 | 2005-10-18 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Water heater and control |
US7015432B2 (en) * | 2004-06-05 | 2006-03-21 | Avista Technologies, Llc | Water heater control system and method for controlling temperature with same |
US7027724B2 (en) * | 2003-02-19 | 2006-04-11 | Apcom, Inc. | Water heater and method of operating the same |
US20060081607A1 (en) * | 2004-01-27 | 2006-04-20 | Koji Niiyama | Induction cooking heater |
US7032542B2 (en) * | 2004-06-08 | 2006-04-25 | Emerson Electric Co. | Apparatus and methods for controlling a water heater |
US20060238931A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2006-10-26 | Cline David J | Shutoff system for pool or spa |
US20070006639A1 (en) * | 2005-07-08 | 2007-01-11 | Ngk Spark Plug Co., Ltd. | Liquid state detection sensor |
US20070179678A1 (en) * | 2006-01-30 | 2007-08-02 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater energy savings algorithm for reducing cold water complaints |
US20070215340A1 (en) * | 2004-09-30 | 2007-09-20 | Energy Control Systems Ltd | Boiler control unit |
US20070295286A1 (en) * | 2006-06-27 | 2007-12-27 | Emerson Electric Co. | Water heater with dry tank or sediment detection feature |
US20080011245A1 (en) * | 2006-07-12 | 2008-01-17 | Emerson Electric Co. | Control for a fuel-fired water heating appliance having variable heating rates |
US20080083403A1 (en) * | 2006-10-06 | 2008-04-10 | Norman King | System and method for monitoring heating system |
US20080295785A1 (en) * | 2007-05-31 | 2008-12-04 | Caterpillar Inc. | Cooling system having inlet control and outlet regulation |
US20080314999A1 (en) * | 2007-06-19 | 2008-12-25 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater stacking detection and control |
US20090056649A1 (en) * | 2007-08-31 | 2009-03-05 | Mackenzie Bruce G | Boiler Protection Apparatus and Method |
US20090101085A1 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2009-04-23 | Arensmeier Jeffrey N | Systems and methods for controlling a water heater |
US20090120380A1 (en) * | 2007-11-14 | 2009-05-14 | Honeywell International Inc. | Temperature control system for a water heater |
US7603204B2 (en) * | 2001-11-15 | 2009-10-13 | A. O. Smith Corporation | System and method for controlling temperature of a liquid residing within a tank |
US20090293816A1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2009-12-03 | Patterson Wade C | System and method for estimating and indicating temperature characteristics of temperature controlled liquids |
US7647895B2 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2010-01-19 | Emerson Electric Co. | Systems and methods for controlling a water heater |
US20100114384A1 (en) * | 2008-10-28 | 2010-05-06 | Trak International, Llc | Controls for high-efficiency heat pumps |
US7712677B1 (en) * | 2003-03-05 | 2010-05-11 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater and control |
US20100128644A1 (en) * | 2007-08-07 | 2010-05-27 | Fujitsu Limited | Wireless Communication Device |
US20100230088A1 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2010-09-16 | Microgen Engine Corporation Holding B.V. | Storage combination boiler |
US20110163083A1 (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2011-07-07 | Kevin Lin | Heating control device and method thereof |
US20120152514A1 (en) * | 2010-07-26 | 2012-06-21 | Panasonic Corporation | Heating system and heating system control method |
US20140023352A1 (en) * | 2012-07-17 | 2014-01-23 | Eemax, Inc. | Fluid heating system and instant fluid heating device |
-
2010
- 2010-08-11 US US12/854,569 patent/US20100300377A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (67)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2266248A (en) * | 1940-11-12 | 1941-12-16 | Mcgraw Electric Co | Off-peak water heating system |
US2377440A (en) * | 1944-01-01 | 1945-06-05 | Mcgraw Electric Co | Water heating system |
US2387180A (en) * | 1944-07-20 | 1945-10-16 | Mcgraw Electric Co | Electric tank heater control system |
US2712055A (en) * | 1952-05-05 | 1955-06-28 | James R Campbell | Electric heating system |
US4337893A (en) * | 1980-04-07 | 1982-07-06 | Energy Savings Parhelion | Multi-phase modular comfort controlled heating system |
US4522333A (en) * | 1983-09-16 | 1985-06-11 | Fluidmaster, Inc. | Scheduled hot water heating based on automatically periodically adjusted historical data |
US4620667A (en) * | 1986-02-10 | 1986-11-04 | Fluidmaster, Inc. | Hot water heating system having minimum hot water use based on minimum water temperatures and time of heating |
US5135162A (en) * | 1989-03-13 | 1992-08-04 | Walter Holzer | Process and equipment designed to control a burner for heating systems |
US5203500A (en) * | 1989-09-19 | 1993-04-20 | Gas-Fired Products, Inc. | Apparatus and method for converting an electric water heater to use gas |
US6880493B2 (en) * | 1992-03-23 | 2005-04-19 | Todd W. Clifford | Gas water heater and method of operation |
US5470019A (en) * | 1992-07-16 | 1995-11-28 | Riverlake Investments Ltd. | Device for controlling heating boilers |
US5968393A (en) * | 1995-09-12 | 1999-10-19 | Demaline; John Tracey | Hot water controller |
US5866880A (en) * | 1995-10-10 | 1999-02-02 | David Seitz | Fluid heater with improved heating elements controller |
US5660328A (en) * | 1996-01-26 | 1997-08-26 | Robertshaw Controls Company | Water heater control |
US6212894B1 (en) * | 1996-03-29 | 2001-04-10 | Waterfurnace International Inc. | Microprocessor control for a heat pump water heater |
US5779143A (en) * | 1997-02-13 | 1998-07-14 | Erie Manufacturing Company | Electronic boiler control |
US6080971A (en) * | 1997-05-22 | 2000-06-27 | David Seitz | Fluid heater with improved heating elements controller |
US6059195A (en) * | 1998-01-23 | 2000-05-09 | Tridelta Industries, Inc. | Integrated appliance control system |
US6208806B1 (en) * | 1998-06-24 | 2001-03-27 | Aquabeat Pty Ltd. | Electric water heater control |
US6560409B2 (en) * | 2000-01-03 | 2003-05-06 | Honeywell International Inc. | Hot water heater stacking reduction control |
US6293471B1 (en) * | 2000-04-27 | 2001-09-25 | Daniel R. Stettin | Heater control device and method to save energy |
US6453993B1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2002-09-24 | Carrier Corporation | Advanced starting control for multiple zone system |
US6591901B2 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2003-07-15 | Carrier Corporation | Advanced starting control for heating/cooling systems |
US6409090B1 (en) * | 2000-05-18 | 2002-06-25 | Microtherm Llc | Self-optimizing device for controlling a heating system |
US6350967B1 (en) * | 2000-05-24 | 2002-02-26 | American Water Heater Company | Energy saving water heater control |
US20040042772A1 (en) * | 2000-12-18 | 2004-03-04 | Whitford Geoffrey M. | Thermostat system to provide adaptive control of water temperature |
US6555796B1 (en) * | 2001-11-13 | 2003-04-29 | Sherwood-Templeton Coal Company, Inc. | Heater having over temperature control |
US7881831B2 (en) * | 2001-11-15 | 2011-02-01 | A. O. Smith Corporation | System and method for controlling temperature of a liquid residing within a tank |
US7603204B2 (en) * | 2001-11-15 | 2009-10-13 | A. O. Smith Corporation | System and method for controlling temperature of a liquid residing within a tank |
US20040144528A1 (en) * | 2002-02-12 | 2004-07-29 | Keijiro Kunimoto | Heat pump water heater |
US20030213795A1 (en) * | 2002-05-15 | 2003-11-20 | Katsuhiko Toyoda | Heater controller for an oxygen sensor |
US7027724B2 (en) * | 2003-02-19 | 2006-04-11 | Apcom, Inc. | Water heater and method of operating the same |
US7712677B1 (en) * | 2003-03-05 | 2010-05-11 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater and control |
US6955301B2 (en) * | 2003-03-05 | 2005-10-18 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Water heater and control |
US20050182521A1 (en) * | 2004-01-23 | 2005-08-18 | Aos Holding Company | Apparatus and method of detecting igniter type |
US20050177281A1 (en) * | 2004-01-23 | 2005-08-11 | Aos Holding Company | Apparatus and method of controlling the apparatus |
US20080145803A1 (en) * | 2004-01-23 | 2008-06-19 | Aos Holding Company | Apparatus and method of detecting igniter type |
US20050162109A1 (en) * | 2004-01-23 | 2005-07-28 | Aos Holding Company | Control circuit and method of activating a gas valve |
US20060081607A1 (en) * | 2004-01-27 | 2006-04-20 | Koji Niiyama | Induction cooking heater |
US20080011864A1 (en) * | 2004-03-02 | 2008-01-17 | Honeywell International Inc. | Wireless controller with gateway |
US20100168924A1 (en) * | 2004-03-02 | 2010-07-01 | Honeywell International Inc. | Wireless controller with gateway |
US20050194456A1 (en) * | 2004-03-02 | 2005-09-08 | Tessier Patrick C. | Wireless controller with gateway |
US7015432B2 (en) * | 2004-06-05 | 2006-03-21 | Avista Technologies, Llc | Water heater control system and method for controlling temperature with same |
US7516720B2 (en) * | 2004-06-08 | 2009-04-14 | Emerson Electric Co. | Flammable vapor sensing control for a water heater |
US7032542B2 (en) * | 2004-06-08 | 2006-04-25 | Emerson Electric Co. | Apparatus and methods for controlling a water heater |
US20070215340A1 (en) * | 2004-09-30 | 2007-09-20 | Energy Control Systems Ltd | Boiler control unit |
US7647895B2 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2010-01-19 | Emerson Electric Co. | Systems and methods for controlling a water heater |
US20090101085A1 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2009-04-23 | Arensmeier Jeffrey N | Systems and methods for controlling a water heater |
US20100132106A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2010-06-03 | Cline David J | Shutoff system for pool or spa |
US20060238931A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2006-10-26 | Cline David J | Shutoff system for pool or spa |
US20090293816A1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2009-12-03 | Patterson Wade C | System and method for estimating and indicating temperature characteristics of temperature controlled liquids |
US20070006639A1 (en) * | 2005-07-08 | 2007-01-11 | Ngk Spark Plug Co., Ltd. | Liquid state detection sensor |
US8165726B2 (en) * | 2006-01-30 | 2012-04-24 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater energy savings algorithm for reducing cold water complaints |
US20070179678A1 (en) * | 2006-01-30 | 2007-08-02 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater energy savings algorithm for reducing cold water complaints |
US20070295286A1 (en) * | 2006-06-27 | 2007-12-27 | Emerson Electric Co. | Water heater with dry tank or sediment detection feature |
US20080011245A1 (en) * | 2006-07-12 | 2008-01-17 | Emerson Electric Co. | Control for a fuel-fired water heating appliance having variable heating rates |
US20080083403A1 (en) * | 2006-10-06 | 2008-04-10 | Norman King | System and method for monitoring heating system |
US20100230088A1 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2010-09-16 | Microgen Engine Corporation Holding B.V. | Storage combination boiler |
US20080295785A1 (en) * | 2007-05-31 | 2008-12-04 | Caterpillar Inc. | Cooling system having inlet control and outlet regulation |
US20080314999A1 (en) * | 2007-06-19 | 2008-12-25 | Honeywell International Inc. | Water heater stacking detection and control |
US20100128644A1 (en) * | 2007-08-07 | 2010-05-27 | Fujitsu Limited | Wireless Communication Device |
US20090056649A1 (en) * | 2007-08-31 | 2009-03-05 | Mackenzie Bruce G | Boiler Protection Apparatus and Method |
US20090120380A1 (en) * | 2007-11-14 | 2009-05-14 | Honeywell International Inc. | Temperature control system for a water heater |
US20110163083A1 (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2011-07-07 | Kevin Lin | Heating control device and method thereof |
US20100114384A1 (en) * | 2008-10-28 | 2010-05-06 | Trak International, Llc | Controls for high-efficiency heat pumps |
US20120152514A1 (en) * | 2010-07-26 | 2012-06-21 | Panasonic Corporation | Heating system and heating system control method |
US20140023352A1 (en) * | 2012-07-17 | 2014-01-23 | Eemax, Inc. | Fluid heating system and instant fluid heating device |
Cited By (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080257281A1 (en) * | 2004-03-15 | 2008-10-23 | Zip Industries (Aust) Pty Ltd | Water Heater and a Method of Operating Same |
CN103836786A (en) * | 2012-11-27 | 2014-06-04 | 艾默生电气公司 | Water heater valves and controllers and methods of mounting the same |
US9651955B2 (en) * | 2013-08-02 | 2017-05-16 | Emerson Electric Co. | Controllers and methods of control of water heaters |
US20150039153A1 (en) * | 2013-08-02 | 2015-02-05 | Emerson Electric Co. | Controllers and Methods of Control of Water Heaters |
WO2015088360A1 (en) * | 2013-12-10 | 2015-06-18 | Tess Electronic Company No 2 Limited | Hot water power controller |
AU2014360892B2 (en) * | 2013-12-10 | 2019-05-02 | Tess Electronic Company No 2 Limited | Hot water power controller |
US9829897B2 (en) | 2014-02-03 | 2017-11-28 | Emerson Electric Co. | Systems and methods for controlling water heaters |
USD771234S1 (en) * | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-08 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771793S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771792S1 (en) * | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771790S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD779650S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2017-02-21 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771791S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771789S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-15 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD809645S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2018-02-06 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
USD771233S1 (en) | 2015-08-07 | 2016-11-08 | A. O. Smith Corporation | Air inlet damper |
US11402128B2 (en) * | 2019-10-01 | 2022-08-02 | Sit Manufacturing N.A. S.A. De C.V. | Temperature control for gas water heaters and related methods |
US11466899B2 (en) | 2019-10-01 | 2022-10-11 | Sit Manufacturing N.A. S.A. De C.V. | Systems and methods for controlling gas powered appliances |
US11499752B2 (en) * | 2020-04-15 | 2022-11-15 | Rheem Manufacturing Company | Systems and methods for preventing short cycling in high-efficiency water heaters |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20100300377A1 (en) | Water heater apparatus with differential control | |
US8322312B2 (en) | Water heater stacking detection and control | |
US20160313028A1 (en) | Thermostatic condensing gas water heater and control method therefor | |
US7628123B2 (en) | Combined hot water supply system | |
AU2009202645B2 (en) | Water heater | |
US8733297B2 (en) | Water heater | |
US20070179678A1 (en) | Water heater energy savings algorithm for reducing cold water complaints | |
US7455238B2 (en) | Control system and method for multistage air conditioning system | |
US8813687B2 (en) | Control algorithm for water heater | |
US9829897B2 (en) | Systems and methods for controlling water heaters | |
JP6303808B2 (en) | Hot water system | |
US9279590B2 (en) | Warm weather boiler shutdown | |
CN114183931A (en) | Control method and control device of heater | |
CN113983696B (en) | Gas water heater and control method thereof | |
JP5349235B2 (en) | Multi-can boiler | |
TW202122723A (en) | System and method for adjusting heating capacity of water heater | |
JP2007132576A (en) | Connection type water heater | |
JP5200748B2 (en) | Water heater | |
JP5197524B2 (en) | Water heater | |
JP6735572B2 (en) | Water heater | |
JP6289119B2 (en) | Multi-can boiler with air supply valve | |
JP2003279035A (en) | Combustion equipment | |
JP2013245895A (en) | Water heater | |
JP2014122768A (en) | Combustion device provided with one heat exchanger and two water channels | |
JP2014031925A (en) | Hot water supply system |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: EMERSON ELECTRIC CO., MISSOURI Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BUESCHER, THOMAS P.;SIRAVURI, RISHI;EVANS, EDWARD B.;REEL/FRAME:024827/0287 Effective date: 20100811 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |