Multi-function water heater control device
AssigneeRoberrshaw Controls Company
InventorsAnthony W. Abraham, Raymond-Paul Joubran
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A single control device is operational to control the flow of gas to a water heater as well as to protect against excessive temperature and pressure. The control device requires only a single fitting to be attached to the water heater tank to expedite the assembly process, eliminate a number of potential sources of leakage and reduce heat loss.
Claims17
A device for controlling the operation of a water heater wherein a gas flow control valve actuator and a water valve are integrated in a single housing that is attachable to said water heater via a single port formed in said water heater, and wherein said water valve is configured to open when water within said water heater exceeds a preselected pressure.
A control device for the operation of a gas-fired water heater, comprising:
- a housing affixed to said water heater and in fluid communication therewith;
- a first temperature sensor contained within said housing and extending into said water heater, operative to actuate a gas valve that controls the flow of gas to a burner for heating water contained in said water heater;
- and
- a water valve disposed in said housing operative to allow the release of water contained in said water heater.
A method for controlling the temperature of water within a water heater, comprising the steps of:
- forming a single opening in said water heater;
- and
- attaching to said opening a single housing having disposed therein a first temperature sensor operative to control a gas valve supplying gas to a burner for heating said water within said water heater and having further disposed therein a water valve for releasing said water from within said water heater.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.