Safety system for a gas fueled water heater

Abstract

A system for monitoring temperature in the combustion chamber of a gas fueled water heater using a thermoelectric device placed near the gas burner. Based on the measured temperature, the water heater can determine whether abnormal operation is occurring that would require closing the flow of gaseous fuel to e.g., the main burner, pilot burner, or both.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The subject matter of the present disclosure relates generally to temperature monitoring and gas flow control in the combustion chamber of a gas water heater.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]A variety of energy sources are used in creating hot water for commercial and residential use including electric, solar, and various fuels. Natural gas and propane are preferred by some customers due to e.g., the relatively quick heating rate. These fuels are supplied as a gas that is burned in a combustion chamber to provide heat energy to raise the water temperature.[0003]Temperatures in the combustion chamber are relatively high and can e.g., reach 600 degrees Fahrenheit of higher during normal operation. A flame is created by burning a mixture of the gaseous fuel and air. Proper combustion requires that the air and fuel are provided within a particular ratio to ensure e.g., complete combustion and avoid wasted fuel or the production of unwanted by-products such as...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a system for monitoring the temperature in the combustion chamber of a gas fueled water heater using a thermoelectric device placed near the gas burner. This system allows the water heater to detect abnormal operation and quickly close the flow of gas to prevent damage or injury. The invention includes a thermopile positioned near the gas burner, a valve for controlling the flow of gas, and a controller for making the necessary decision based on the temperature signal from the thermopile. Overall, the invention improves safety for gas-fueled water heaters and helps to prevent accidents.

Problems solved by technology

If the water heater is e.g., installed in a dusty area containing above average levels of e.g., dirt, oil, or lint, the air intake of water heater can become clogged.

The lack of enough air can cause the temperature of the combustion chamber to become too hot.

Such reset requirement can be undesirable, particularly if the increased temperature was not due to a unwanted event such as clogging of the air flow.

Also, because the bi-metal switch must be placed in contact with the combustion chamber wall, it does not provide a direct measurement of the temperature of the combustion process.

Instead, heat must be transmitted to the wall of the combustion chamber before the bi-metal switch can be triggered due to an unsafe condition.

Furthermore, the bi-metal switch does not provide for multiple temperature measurements or adjustment of the temperature at which it is activated.

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