Heater control device and method to save energy
First Claim
1. A control system for controlling a hot water heater to effect energy savings comprising first sensing means for sensing over an extended period of time the exit pipe flow of a hot water heater, second sensing means for sensing over an extended period of time the tank temperature of a hot water heater, a processor including(a) first circuit means for establishing a hot water usage profile of the exit pipe flow defined by periods of water use and periods of water non-use, (b) second circuit means utilizing the hot water usage profile for predicting at least one of future hot water non-usage and hot water usage through future use/non-use algorithm circuitry, and (c) third circuit means for utilizing the predicted future hot water usage to control a heater of the hot water heater to effect energy savings.
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Abstract
A device and method is provided for automatically controlling the heating element(s) of an electric hot water heater to minimize electric energy consumption over a prolonged time period by projecting the future need for hot water based on it'"'"'s use in prior time periods as well as by monitoring the use of hot water during current periods. The device saves energy by switching the heater “off” during times when the projected and current need for hot water is low or nonexistent thereby reducing the tank temperature and therefore energy losses to the ambient, while detecting the instantaneous requirement for hot water through utilization of a flow sensor arrangement, one of which is the utilization of thermistors on the exit pipe and on the tank or body of the heater. The device leaves all existing controls intact and may be adapted by end users to existing heaters or by manufacturers of original equipment (OEMs).
166 Citations
31 Claims
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1. A control system for controlling a hot water heater to effect energy savings comprising first sensing means for sensing over an extended period of time the exit pipe flow of a hot water heater, second sensing means for sensing over an extended period of time the tank temperature of a hot water heater, a processor including
(a) first circuit means for establishing a hot water usage profile of the exit pipe flow defined by periods of water use and periods of water non-use, (b) second circuit means utilizing the hot water usage profile for predicting at least one of future hot water non-usage and hot water usage through future use/non-use algorithm circuitry, and (c) third circuit means for utilizing the predicted future hot water usage to control a heater of the hot water heater to effect energy savings.
Specification