Air conditioner

Abstract

The present invention relates to a control method of an air conditioner and an air conditioner executing the control method, the control method of the air conditioner including: a compressor outlet temperature detecting step of detecting an outlet temperature of a compressor; a hot water supply piping temperature detecting step of detecting a hot water supply piping temperature change; a system error judging step of judging an error of a system based on the outlet temperature of the compressor; and an abnormal operation judging step of judging an abnormal operation of a regulating valve based on the hot water supply piping temperature when the error of the system is judged.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner that detects abnormal operation of a regulating valve and performs an operation to solve the abnormal operation. BACKGROUND

[0002] An air conditioning system is a device for cooling or heating an indoor space by circulating a refrigerant between an indoor unit and an outdoor unit and using the characteristics of a refrigerant in a liquid state, which absorbs heat from the surroundings when vaporized and discharges the heat when liquefied, to exert a cooling or heating effect.

[0003] In general air conditioning systems, one indoor unit is usually provided on one outdoor unit, but recently, the use of air conditioning systems of a cooling and heating simultaneous type in which a plurality of indoor units having various shapes and capacities are connected to one or more outdoor units to perform cooling or heating operation for places having a plurality of divided spaces, such as schools, companies, and hospitals, is increasing.

[0004] In such a cooling and heating simultaneous type air conditioning system, the number of indoor units is greater than the number of outdoor units, and the air conditioning load of each indoor unit installed in each space differs according to the purpose of the installation space, the number of occupants, and the size.

[0005] In addition, as an example, a related art cooling and heating simultaneous type air conditioning system is configured to switch modes by additionally providing a plurality of electromagnetic valves to implement a hot water supply mode, a cooling and hot water supply mode, and a heating and hot water supply mode.

[0006] However, in the case of being configured as described above, there is a problem in that, when the electromagnetic valve leaks, liquid accumulates in a non-operation unit and the amount of circulating refrigerant decreases, so that abnormal circulation can occur, and there is no unit capable of detecting abnormal operation of the electromagnetic valve.

[0007] In addition, in the existing case, there is a problem in that, when the electromagnetic valve is abnormal, a repair technician has to stop the system to repair the air conditioner in a hardware manner.

[0008] PRIOR ART DOCUMENT: KOREAN LAY OPEN PATENT NO. 20210093560 SUMMARY

[0009] The present invention relates to an air conditioner that detects abnormal operation of a regulating valve and performs an operation to solve the abnormal operation.

[0010] The present invention relates to an air conditioner that detects abnormal operation of a regulating valve and performs an operation to solve the abnormal operation.

[0011] Further, another object of the present application is to provide an air conditioner capable of solving a problem in software without stopping the system if the problem can be solved in software according to each operation mode.

[0012] Further, another object of the present application is to provide an air conditioner capable of preventing damage to the air conditioner due to erroneous operation of a regulating valve, and capable of performing cooling or hot water supply in the air conditioner even when the regulating valve is erroneously operated.

[0013] The present application is characterized by comprising: a first sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a second sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant supplied to the water tank; and a control unit that judges abnormal operation of the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve based on each temperature value from the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0014] Specifically, the present application comprises: a compressor that compresses refrigerant; an outdoor heat exchanger; an indoor heat exchanger; a four-way valve that selectively supplies refrigerant compressed in the compressor to the outdoor heat exchanger or the indoor heat exchanger; a water tank that exchanges heat with refrigerant to generate hot water; a first regulating valve that regulates to selectively supply refrigerant compressed in the compressor to the water tank; a second regulating valve that regulates to selectively supply refrigerant compressed in the compressor to the four-way valve; a first sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a second sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant supplied to the water tank; and a control unit that judges abnormal operation of the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve based on each temperature value from the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0015] When the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control unit can stop the compressor.

[0016] When the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control unit can judge abnormal operation of a plurality of the regulating valves according to each operation mode based on the temperature value from the second sensor, and control to perform a regulating valve error coping action according to each operation mode if it is judged that the plurality of the regulating valves are abnormally operated.

[0017] In the regulating valve error coping action, the control unit can adjust the second regulating valve using an instruction for the first regulating valve, and adjust the first regulating valve using an instruction for the second regulating valve.

[0018] In the regulating valve error coping action, the control unit can stop the air conditioner.

[0019] When the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor is outside the normal temperature range, the control section can adjust the second adjusting valve using the command to the first adjusting valve and adjust the first adjusting valve using the command to the second adjusting valve.

[0020] When the temperature value from the first sensor is less than the first reference temperature value, the control section can determine abnormal operation of the plurality of adjusting valves according to each operation mode based on the temperature value from the second sensor, and if it is determined that the plurality of adjusting valves are abnormally operated, can control to perform the refrigerant circulation operation according to each operation mode.

[0021] The present application can further include a hot water supply expansion valve provided in a pipe connecting the water tank and the outdoor heat exchanger, and in the refrigerant circulation operation, the hot water supply expansion valve can be opened.

[0022] The present application can further include a hot water supply expansion valve provided in a pipe connecting the water tank and the outdoor heat exchanger, and in the refrigeration operation mode or the heating operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor is less than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor is outside the normal temperature range, the control section can control to open the hot water supply expansion valve.

[0023] The present application can further include a heater provided in the water tank, and in the refrigeration hot water supply operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor is within the normal temperature range, the control section can turn on the heater.

[0024] In addition, a third sensor that detects the temperature of the refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger can be further included, and when in the refrigeration operation mode, the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than the first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within the normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the third sensor is within the normal temperature range, the control section can stop the air conditioner.

[0025] In the refrigeration operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than the first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within the normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the third sensor is outside the normal temperature range, the control section can restart the air conditioner.

[0026] Further, the present application can include a fourth sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant passing through the indoor heat exchanger, and the control portion can stop the air conditioner when the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the fourth sensor is within a normal temperature range in a heating operation mode.

[0027] In the heating operation mode, the control portion can restart the air conditioner when the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the fourth sensor is outside a normal temperature range.

[0028] Further, the present application includes a compressor outlet temperature detecting step that detects an outlet temperature of a compressor, a hot water supply piping temperature detecting step that detects a hot water supply piping temperature change, a system error determining step that determines an error of a system based on the outlet temperature of the compressor, and an abnormal operation determining step that determines an abnormal operation of a regulating valve based on the hot water supply piping temperature when the error of the system is determined.

[0029] In the system error determining step, the error of the system can be determined when the outlet temperature of the compressor is greater than a first reference temperature value.

[0030] In the abnormal operation determining step, the abnormal operation of the regulating valve can be determined when the hot water supply piping temperature is outside a normal temperature range.

[0031] Further, the present application can include an error coping action step that performs a regulating valve error coping action corresponding to each operation mode when the abnormal operation of the regulating valve is determined.

[0032] Further, the present application can include a refrigerant circulation action determining step that determines whether to perform a refrigerant circulation action based on the hot water supply piping temperature when the error of the system is not determined.

[0033] In the regulating valve error coping action, a second regulating valve can be regulated using an instruction for the first regulating valve, and a first regulating valve can be regulated using an instruction for the second regulating valve.

[0034] Further, the present application is characterized by comprising: a compressor that compresses refrigerant; an outdoor heat exchanger; an indoor heat exchanger; a switching section that selectively supplies refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the outdoor heat exchanger or the indoor heat exchanger; a water tank that exchanges heat with refrigerant to generate hot water; a first regulating valve that regulates to selectively supply refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the water tank; a second regulating valve that regulates to selectively supply refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the switching section; a first sensor that detects the temperature of refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a second sensor that detects the temperature of refrigerant supplied to the water tank; and a control section that controls at least one of the first regulating valve, the second regulating valve, and the compressor based on respective temperature values from the first sensor and the second sensor, wherein the control section can stop the compressor when the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035] Figure 1 is a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0036] Figure 2 is a configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0037] Figure 3 is a use state diagram of a first mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0038] Figure 4 is a use state diagram of a second mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0039] Figure 5 is a use state diagram of a third mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0040] Figure 6 is a use state diagram of a fourth mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0041] Figure 7 is a use state diagram of a fifth mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0042] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0043] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a control method of a refrigeration operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0044] Figure 10 ​​​​​is a flowchart showing a control method of a heating operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0045] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a control method of a cooling hot water supply operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0046] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing a control method of a hot water supply operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Advantages, features and methods for achieving them of the present application will be more apparent from the following embodiments described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present application is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various forms. The present embodiments are merely to more completely disclose the present application and to more fully and completely convey the scope of the present application to those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0048] As shown in the drawings, "below", "beneath", "lower", "above", "upper", and the like, which are relative terms with respect to space, can be used for convenience of explanation of the relationship between one element and another element. The relative terms with respect to space should be understood to include terms of different directions of the elements from each other at the time of use or at the time of action, in addition to the directions shown in the drawings. For example, in the case where the elements illustrated in the drawings are reversed, an element described as being "below" or "beneath" another element can be placed "above" the other element. Thus, "beneath" as an exemplary term can include both beneath and above. The elements can be oriented in other directions, and thus the relative terms with respect to space can be interpreted according to the orientation.

[0049] The terms used in the present specification are used to describe the embodiments, and are not intended to limit the present application. In the present specification, unless particularly stated otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions. "Comprises" and / or "comprising", used in the specification, do not mean that one or more elements, steps and / or actions exist or are added in addition to the elements, steps and / or actions mentioned.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the present specification are to be interpreted as is customary in the art to which this application belongs. It will be further understood that the terms defined by dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined in the present specification.

[0051] In the drawings, the thickness or size of each of the constituent elements is exaggerated or omitted or schematically shown for the purpose of convenience or clarity of explanation and illustration. In addition, the size and area of each of the constituent elements do not completely reflect the actual size or area.

[0052] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application includes a compressor 111, an indoor heat exchanger 114, an outdoor heat exchanger 113, a water tank 140, a first regulating valve 131, a second regulating valve 132, a first sensor 161, a second sensor 162, a switching portion, and a control portion 150. The switching portion includes a four-way valve 112.

[0054] The indoor heat exchanger 114 functions as an evaporator that evaporates a refrigerant during a cooling operation, and functions as a condenser that condenses a refrigerant during a heating operation. The indoor heat exchanger 114 can be provided in plural. The indoor heat exchanger 114 can be accommodated in an indoor unit IU.

[0055] The outdoor heat exchanger 113 functions as a condenser that condenses a refrigerant during a cooling operation, and functions as an evaporator that evaporates a refrigerant during a heating operation.

[0056] The compressor 111 compresses a low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator into a high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant. The compressor 111 can be applied to various structures, and can be a reciprocating compressor using a cylinder and a piston, a scroll compressor 111 using a rotating scroll and a fixed scroll, an inverter compressor 111 that adjusts the compression amount of a refrigerant according to the operation frequency, etc. Preferably, the scroll compressor 111 can be used.

[0057] The compressor 111 can include a plurality of compression chambers having different internal pressures from each other. For example, a first compression chamber (not shown) that compresses a refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator, and a second compression chamber (not shown) that compresses a refrigerant discharged from the first compression chamber can be included. It is noted that the number of compression chambers is not limited thereto.

[0058] The compressor 111 is connected to the four-way valve 112. In the cooling operation, the refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger 114 flows into the compressor 111, and in the heating operation, the refrigerant evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 113 flows into the compressor 111.

[0059] The four-way valve 112 is a flow path switching valve that switches the flow of the refrigerant at the time of cooling and heating. In cooling, the four-way valve 112 directs the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 111 to the outdoor heat exchanger 113, and in heating, to the indoor heat exchanger 114.

[0060] One side of the four-way valve 112 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 111 by the first connection pipe 171. The other side of the four-way valve 112 is connected to the inflow side of the compressor 111 by the second connection pipe 179.

[0061] One side of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is connected to the four-way valve 112 by the third connection pipe 173, and the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 114 and the water tank 140 by the fourth connection pipe 174.

[0062] The plurality of indoor heat exchangers 114 are connected to the water tank 140, the outdoor heat exchanger 113, and the four-way valve 112. One side of the plurality of indoor heat exchangers 114 is connected to the plurality of first indoor unit pipes 175, which are connected to the fourth connection pipe 174. The other side of the plurality of indoor heat exchangers 114 is connected to the second indoor unit pipe 177, which is connected to the four-way valve 112.

[0063] The water tank 140 exchanges heat with the high-temperature refrigerant discharged by the compressor 111 to generate hot water and supply the hot water. The water tank 140 can be provided with a heater 141 for heating the water in the water tank 140.

[0064] The water tank 140 can be connected to a hot water use site (not shown). The water tank 140 is connected to the hot water use site by a hot water inflow pipe 142 and a hot water outflow pipe 143.

[0065] The water tank 140 is connected to the compressor 111. The water tank 140 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 114 and the outdoor heat exchanger 113.

[0066] Specifically, one side of the water tank 140 can be connected to the compressor 111 by the first hot water supply pipe 172. One end of the first hot water supply pipe 172 is connected to the water tank 140, and the other end of the first hot water supply pipe 172 is connected to the first connection pipe 171. The other side of the water tank 140 and the fourth connection pipe 174 are connected by the second hot water supply pipe 176.

[0067] The first regulating valve 131 is regulated to selectively supply the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the water tank 140. The first regulating valve 131 can be disposed in the first hot water supply pipe 172. The first regulating valve 131 can be constituted by a solenoid valve or an electronic expansion valve.

[0068] The second regulating valve 132 is regulated to selectively supply the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the four-way valve 112. The second regulating valve 132 can be disposed in the first connection pipe 171. The second regulating valve 132 can be constituted by a solenoid valve or an electronic expansion valve. The second regulating valve 132 can be disposed in the first connection pipe 171 between a connection position of the four-way valve 112 and the first hot water supply pipe 172.

[0069] The expansion valve 120 can expand and regulate the opening degree of the refrigerant. The expansion valve can be provided with a plurality of expansion valves. The expansion valve includes an outdoor unit expansion valve 121, an indoor unit expansion valve 122, and a hot water supply expansion valve 123.

[0070] The outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 113, the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 114, and the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is connected to the water tank 140.

[0071] Specifically, the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is disposed in the fourth connection pipe 174, the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is disposed in a plurality of first indoor unit pipes 175, respectively, and the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is disposed in the second hot water supply pipe 176.

[0072] The air conditioner can include a plurality of sensors to control the operation. The first to fourth sensors 161 to 164 can include a temperature sensor or a pressure sensor. The first to fourth sensors 161 to 164 can convert the pressure into the temperature and provide the temperature value, or can provide the temperature value itself.

[0073] The first sensor 161 detects the temperature of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 111. The first sensor 161 can be disposed in the first connection pipe 171.

[0074] The second sensor 162 detects the temperature of the refrigerant supplied to the water tank 140. The second sensor 162 can be disposed in the first hot water supply pipe 172.

[0075] The third sensor 163 detects the temperature of the refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 113. The third sensor 163 can be disposed in the third connection pipe 173.

[0076] The fourth sensor 164 detects the temperature of the refrigerant passing through the indoor heat exchanger 114. The fourth sensor 164 can be disposed in the second indoor unit pipe 177.

[0077] The control unit 150 can control the compressor 111, the four-way valve 112, the expansion valve, the first regulating valve 131, the second regulating valve 132, and the heater 141. The control unit 150 causes the air conditioner to operate in any one of a cooling operation mode, a cooling hot water supply operation mode, a hot water supply operation mode, a heating operation mode, a heating hot water supply operation mode, and a hot water supply operation mode, based on temperature values from the first to fourth sensors 161 to 164.

[0078] Hereinafter, referring to Figures 3 to 7 , the use state of each mode of the air conditioner will be described in more detail.

[0079] Figure 3 is a use state diagram of the first mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0080] Specifically, Figure 3 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs the cooling operation mode is shown.

[0081] In the cooling operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is closed, the second regulating valve 132 is opened, the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is closed, the opening value of the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant, and the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is fully opened. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the outdoor heat exchanger 113, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the indoor heat exchanger 114 to the compressor 111.

[0082] At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as an evaporator. Since the first regulating valve 131 is closed, the refrigerant is not supplied to the water tank 140.

[0083] Figure 4 is a use state diagram of the second mode of the air conditioner shown in Figure 2

[0084] Specifically, Figure 4 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs the cooling hot water supply operation mode is shown.

[0085] In the cooling hot water supply operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is opened, the second regulating valve 132 is opened, and the opening values of the hot water supply expansion valve 123 and the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 are adjusted to throttle the refrigerant. The indoor unit expansion valve 122 is fully opened. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the outdoor heat exchanger 113, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the indoor heat exchanger 114 to the compressor 111.

[0086] ​​At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as an evaporator. Since the first regulating valve 131 is open, high-temperature refrigerant is supplied to the water tank 140 and heat-exchanged with the water of the water tank 140.

[0087] Figure 5 is a use state diagram of a third mode of the air conditioner shown in FIG. 6. Figure 2

[0088] Specifically, Figure 5 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs a heating operation mode is shown.

[0089] In the heating operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is closed, the second regulating valve 132 is open, the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is closed, the opening value of the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant, and the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is fully open. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 111 to the indoor heat exchanger 114, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger 113 to the compressor 111.

[0090] At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as an evaporator, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as a condenser. Since the first regulating valve 131 is closed, the refrigerant is not supplied to the water tank 140.

[0091] Figure 6 is a use state diagram of a fourth mode of the air conditioner shown in FIG. 7. Figure 2

[0092] Specifically, Figure 6 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs a heating hot water supply operation mode is shown.

[0093] In the heating hot water supply operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is open, the second regulating valve 132 is open, and the opening values of the hot water supply expansion valve 123 and the indoor unit expansion valve 122 are adjusted to throttle the refrigerant. The outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is fully open. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 111 to the indoor heat exchanger 114, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger 113 to the compressor 111.

[0094] At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as an evaporator, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as a condenser. Since the first regulating valve 131 is open, high-temperature refrigerant is supplied to the water tank 140 and heat-exchanged with the water of the water tank 140.

[0095] Figure 7 is a use state diagram of a fifth mode of the air conditioner shown in FIG. 8. Figure 2

[0096] Specifically,​​​Figure 7 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs a hot water supply operation mode is shown.

[0097] In the hot water supply operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is opened, the second regulating valve 132 is closed, the opening degree of the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant, the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is fully opened, and the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is closed.

[0098] The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger 113 to the compressor 111. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as an evaporator, and the water tank 140 operates as a condenser. The high-temperature refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 is condensed by heat exchange with hot water in the water tank 140.

[0099] Again, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 the operation of the control unit 150 of the present application is described.

[0100] The control unit 150 can determine an error of the system and determine abnormal operation of the regulating valve based on at least one of the temperature values from the first to fourth sensors 161 to 164.

[0101] Therefore, the present application has the advantage that an error of the regulating valve can be quickly and simply detected based on the temperature value.

[0102] Specifically, the control unit 150 can determine abnormal operation of the first and second regulating valves 131 and 132 based on the respective temperature values from the first and second sensors 161 and 162.

[0103] In addition, the control unit 150 can control at least one of the first and second regulating valves 131 and 132 and the compressor 111 based on the respective temperature values from the first and second sensors 161 and 162.

[0104] Specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control unit 150 can stop the compressor 111. If the compressor 111 is continuously operated in a state where the discharge temperature thereof is higher than a reference value, it can cause serious damage to the air conditioner, so the compressor 111 is temporarily stopped.

[0105] In addition, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control unit 150 can determine abnormal operation of the plurality of regulating valves according to each operation mode based on the temperature value from the second sensor 162, and if it is determined that the plurality of regulating valves are abnormally operated, the control unit 150 can control to perform a regulating valve error coping action according to each operation mode.

[0106] Accordingly, the present application judges abnormal operation of the regulating valve according to each operation mode, performs regulating valve error coping actions corresponding to each operation mode, so that the system does not stop due to each error of the regulating valve, and thus has the advantages of reducing inconvenience to the consumer, protecting the air conditioner from various situations occurring in each operation mode, and performing actions for solving errors.

[0107] In addition, if it is a problem that can be solved in software according to each operation mode, the present application solves it in software by itself without stopping the system, thereby having the advantages of improving the convenience of the user and reducing repair costs.

[0108] In the regulating valve error coping action, the control portion 150 can adjust the second regulating valve 132 using the command to the first regulating valve 131, and can adjust the first regulating valve using the command to the second regulating valve 132. In the regulating valve error coping action, the control portion 150 adjusts the second regulating valve using the command to the first regulating valve 131 means that, in the case where it is judged that the first regulating valve 131 and the second regulating valve 132 are incorrectly wired, the control portion 150 adjusts the second regulating valve 132 using the system command or the user command to the first regulating valve 131 without adjusting the first regulating valve 131, and the control portion 150 adjusts the first regulating valve 131 using the command to the second regulating valve 132.

[0109] Accordingly, by such a software change, it is possible to solve the problem of incorrect wiring of the first regulating valve 131 and the second regulating valve 132 by the installer.

[0110] The regulating valve error coping action can include the control portion 150 stopping the air conditioner. In this case, it is recognized that the error of the regulating valve cannot be solved in software, and the air conditioner is stopped.

[0111] The regulating valve error coping action can include the control portion 150 restarting the air conditioner. The control portion 150 judges that the error of the regulating valve can be solved by restarting the air conditioner, and restarts the air conditioner.

[0112] For example, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the first sensor 162 is out of the normal temperature range, the control portion 150 can adjust the second regulating valve 132 using the command to the first regulating valve 131, and can adjust the first regulating valve using the command to the second regulating valve 132.

[0113] Specifically, in the cooling operation mode, the heating operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is outside the normal temperature range, the control section 150 can adjust the second regulating valve 132 using the command to the first regulating valve 131, and can adjust the first regulating valve using the command to the second regulating valve 132.

[0114] Therefore, by changing in such a software manner, it is possible to solve the problem of the installer incorrectly wiring the first regulating valve 131 and the second regulating valve 132.

[0115] In the cooling operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is within the normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the third sensor 163 is within the normal temperature range, the control section 150 stops the air conditioner. In such a case, the control section 150 determines that it is a problem that cannot be solved in a software manner, stops the air conditioner, and can notify the user's terminal (not shown) of the situation.

[0116] In the cooling operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is within the normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the third sensor 163 is outside the normal temperature range, the control section 150 can restart the air conditioner. In such a case, the control section 150 determines that it can be solved by restarting the air conditioner, and restarts the air conditioner.

[0117] As another example, in the heating operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is within the normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the fourth sensor 164 is within the normal temperature range, the control section 150 can stop the air conditioner.

[0118] In the heating operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is within the normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the fourth sensor 164 is outside the normal temperature range, the control section 150 can restart the air conditioner.

[0119] As another example, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is less than the first reference temperature value, the control section 150 can determine the abnormal operation of the plurality of regulating valves according to each operation mode based on the temperature value from the second sensor 162, and if it is determined that the plurality of regulating valves are operating abnormally, the control section 150 can control to perform a refrigerant circulation operation according to each operation mode. Here, the refrigerant circulation operation can be an operation of opening the hot water supply expansion valve.

[0120] Specifically, in the cooling operation mode or the heating operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is less than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is out of the normal temperature range, the control portion 150 can control to perform the refrigerant circulation action. When the refrigerant is gathered in the water tank 140 due to the erroneous operation of the regulating valve, so that the refrigerant is insufficient in the entire air conditioner, the efficiency of the system is reduced, and thus the refrigerant is circulated by the refrigerant circulation action to prevent the reduction in the efficiency of the system.

[0121] More specifically, in the cooling operation mode or the heating operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is out of the normal temperature range, the control portion 150 can control to open the hot water supply expansion valve.

[0122] As another example, in the cooling hot water supply operation mode, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is in the normal temperature range, the control portion 150 can turn on the heater 141. Even in the cooling hot water supply operation mode, the regulating valve is erroneously operated, and thus hot water needs to be supplied through the water tank 140, and thus the heater 141 is used to generate hot water.

[0123] Hereinafter, a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 8 A control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0124] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0125] Hereinafter, a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 8 The control method of the present application can include a compressor 111 outlet temperature detecting step S10 of detecting an outlet temperature of the compressor 111, a hot water supply pipe temperature detecting step S20 of detecting a change in a temperature of a hot water supply pipe, a system error judging step S30 of judging an error of a system based on the outlet temperature of the compressor 111, and an abnormal action judging step S40 of judging an abnormal action of a regulating valve based on the temperature of the hot water supply pipe in the case where it is judged that there is an error of the system.

[0126] In the system error judging step S30, if the outlet temperature of the compressor 111 is greater than a first reference temperature value, it is judged that there is an error of the system. In the abnormal action judging step S40, if the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is out of a normal temperature range, it is judged that there is an abnormal action of the regulating valve.

[0127] Further, the present application can include an error coping action step S50 of executing a regulation valve error coping action corresponding to each operation mode when it is judged that the regulation valve is not operating normally. The regulation valve error coping action is the same as described above.

[0128] Further, the present application can include a refrigerant circulation action judgment step S50 of judging whether to execute a refrigerant circulation action based on the hot water supply piping temperature when it is judged that it is not a system error in the system error judgment step S30. The refrigerant circulation action is the same as described above.

[0129] Hereinafter, the control method of the air conditioner according to the present application will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 12 The control method of the air conditioner according to the present application will be described with reference to

[0130] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a control method of a cooling operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0131] Specifically, Figure 9 An embodiment in which the air conditioner executes a cooling operation mode will be described.

[0132] In the cooling operation mode, the first regulation valve 131 is closed, the second regulation valve 132 is opened, the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is closed, the opening value of the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant, and the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is fully opened. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the outdoor heat exchanger 113, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the indoor heat exchanger 114 to the compressor 111.

[0133] At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as an evaporator. Since the first regulation valve 131 is closed, the refrigerant is not supplied to the water tank 140.

[0134] First, a system error is judged S111. Specifically, the control unit 150 judges whether the discharge pressure of the compressor 111 rises to a reference pressure or more. More specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control unit 150 judges that an error occurs in the system, and stops the compressor 111 S112.

[0135] After that, it is judged whether the temperature change of the hot water supply piping is within a normal range S113. Specifically, when the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is outside the normal temperature range, the control unit 150 judges that the temperature of the hot water supply piping is outside the normal range, and judges that the regulation valve is not operating normally S114, and can execute the wiring change logic of adjusting the second regulation valve 132 using the command to the first regulation valve 131, and adjusting the first regulation valve using the command to the second regulation valve 132 S115.

[0136] In addition, when the system is not in error, it is determined whether the hot water supply pipe temperature is within a normal range S116, and if it is determined that the hot water supply pipe temperature is outside the normal range S117, a refrigerant circulation operation S118 can be performed. Specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is less than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is outside the normal temperature range, the control portion 150 opens the hot water supply expansion valve 123.

[0137] In addition, when the system is in error and the hot water supply pipe temperature is within the normal range, it is determined whether the temperature change of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is within a normal range S119, and if the temperature change of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is within the normal range, it is determined that the regulating valve is not operating normally S120, and the operation of the air conditioner can be stopped S121.

[0138] In addition, when the system is in error and the hot water supply pipe temperature is within the normal range, it is determined whether the temperature change of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is within a normal range S119, and if the temperature change of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is within the normal range, it is determined that the regulating valve is not operating normally S120, and the operation of the air conditioner can be stopped S121.

[0139] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a control method of a heating operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0140] Specifically, Figure 10 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs a heating operation mode is shown.

[0141] In the heating operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is closed, the second regulating valve 132 is opened, the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is closed, the opening value of the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant, and the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is fully opened. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the indoor heat exchanger 114, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger 113 to the compressor 111.

[0142] At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as an evaporator, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as a condenser. Since the first regulating valve 131 is closed, the refrigerant is not supplied to the water tank 140.

[0143] First, it is determined whether the system is in error S211. Specifically, the control portion 150 determines whether the discharge pressure of the compressor 111 has risen to a reference pressure or more. More specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value, the control portion 150 determines that the system is in error and stops the compressor 111 S212.

[0144] After that, it is determined whether the temperature change of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range S213. Specifically, when the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is outside the normal temperature range, the control unit 150 determines that the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is outside the normal range, and determines that the adjustment valve is not operating normally S214, and the wiring change logic of adjusting the second adjustment valve 132 using the command to the first adjustment valve 131, adjusting the first adjustment valve using the command to the second adjustment valve 132 can be performed S215.

[0145] In addition, when the system does not have an error, it is determined whether the hot water supply pipe temperature is within a normal range S216, and if it is determined that the hot water supply pipe temperature is outside the normal range S217, the refrigerant circulation operation S218 can be performed. Specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is less than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is outside the normal temperature range, the control unit 150 opens the hot water supply expansion valve 123.

[0146] In addition, when the system has an error and the hot water supply pipe temperature is within a normal range, the temperature change of the indoor heat exchanger 114 is determined S219, and if the temperature change of the indoor heat exchanger 114 is within the normal range, it is determined that the adjustment valve is not operating normally S220, and the operation of the air conditioner can be stopped S221.

[0147] In addition, when the system has an error and the hot water supply pipe temperature is within a normal range, the temperature change of the indoor heat exchanger 114 is determined (S219), and if the temperature change of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is outside the normal range, the air conditioner is restarted (S222).

[0148] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a control method of a heating operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0149] Specifically, Figure 11 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs a cooling and hot water supply operation mode is shown.

[0150] In the cooling and hot water supply operation mode, the first adjustment valve 131 is opened, the second adjustment valve 132 is opened, and the opening value of the hot water supply expansion valve 123 and the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant. The indoor unit expansion valve 122 is fully opened. The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 to the outdoor heat exchanger 113, and supplies the refrigerant discharged from the indoor heat exchanger 114 to the compressor 111.

[0151] At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 114 operates as an evaporator. Since the first adjustment valve 131 is opened, high-temperature refrigerant is supplied to the water tank 140 and heat-exchanged with the water of the water tank 140.

[0152] First, it is determined whether a system error occurs S311. Specifically, the control unit 150 determines whether the discharge pressure of the compressor 111 has risen to a reference pressure or not. More specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than the first reference temperature value, the control unit 150 determines that a system error has occurred, and stops the compressor 111 S312.

[0153] After that, it is determined whether the temperature change of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range S313. Specifically, when the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is outside the normal temperature range, the control unit 150 determines that the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is outside the normal range. If it is determined that the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is outside the normal range, it is determined whether the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is outside the normal range S314, and if the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is within the normal range, it is determined that the regulating valve is not operating normally S315, and the wiring changeover logic for adjusting the second regulating valve 132 using the command to the first regulating valve 131, and adjusting the first regulating valve using the command to the second regulating valve 132 is executed S316.

[0154] In addition, when a system error has not occurred, it is determined whether the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range S317, and if it is determined that the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is outside the normal range, it is determined whether the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is within a normal range S314.

[0155] In addition, when a system error has not occurred, it is determined whether the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range S317, and if it is determined that the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is outside the normal range S318, the heater 141 can be turned on (S319). Specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is less than the first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor 162 is within the normal temperature range, the control unit 150 turns on the heater 141.

[0156] In addition, when a system error has occurred and the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range, it is determined whether the temperature change of the indoor heat exchanger 114 S320, and if the temperature change of the indoor heat exchanger 114 is within a normal range, it is determined that the regulating valve is not operating normally S321, and the operation of the air conditioner can be stopped S322.

[0157] In addition, when a system error has occurred and the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range, it is determined whether the temperature change of the indoor heat exchanger 114 S320, and if the temperature change of the outdoor heat exchanger 113 is outside the normal range, the air conditioner is restarted S323.

[0158] Figure 12 FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a control method of a hot water supply operation mode of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0159] Specifically, Figure 12 An embodiment in which the air conditioner performs a hot water supply operation mode is shown.

[0160] In the hot water supply operation mode, the first regulating valve 131 is opened, the second regulating valve 132 is closed, the opening degree of the hot water supply expansion valve 123 is adjusted to throttle the refrigerant, the outdoor unit expansion valve 121 is fully opened, and the indoor unit expansion valve 122 is closed.

[0161] The four-way valve 112 supplies the refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger 113 to the compressor 111. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 113 operates as an evaporator, and the water tank 140 operates as a condenser. The high-temperature refrigerant compressed by the compressor 111 is condensed by heat exchange with hot water in the water tank 140.

[0162] First, it is determined whether a system error occurs S410. Specifically, the control unit 150 determines whether the discharge pressure of the compressor 111 rises above a reference pressure. More specifically, when the temperature value from the first sensor 161 is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control unit 150 determines that a system error occurs, and stops the compressor 111 S411.

[0163] Thereafter, it is determined whether the temperature change of the hot water supply pipe is within a normal range S412. If the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is outside the normal range, the air conditioner is restarted S413.

[0164] In addition, if the temperature of the hot water supply pipe is within the normal range, the heater 141 is turned on (S414).

[0165] The air conditioner of the present application has one or more of the following effects.

[0166] The present application has the advantage that an error of a regulating valve can be quickly and simply detected only by using temperature values detected by a plurality of sensors.

[0167] In addition, the present application determines abnormal operation of a regulating valve according to each operation mode, performs a regulating valve error countermeasure operation corresponding to each operation mode, and does not stop the system due to each error of the regulating valve, thereby having the advantages of reducing inconvenience to consumers, protecting the air conditioner from various situations occurring in each operation mode, and performing an operation for solving an error.

[0168] In addition, if it is a problem that can be solved in software according to each operation mode, the present application solves the problem in software by itself without stopping the system, thereby having the advantages of improving user convenience and reducing repair costs.

[0169] In addition, in the present application, when refrigerant is accumulated in the water tank due to the erroneous operation of the regulating valve, so that the refrigerant is insufficient in the entire air conditioner, the efficiency of the system is reduced, and thus the refrigerant is circulated by the refrigerant circulation operation, thereby having the advantage of preventing the reduction in the efficiency of the system.

[0170] In addition, in the present application, even when the regulating valve is erroneously operated in the refrigerant hot water supply operation mode, hot water needs to be supplied through the water tank, and thus the heater is used to generate hot water, thereby having the advantage of supplying hot water even in the case of the erroneous operation of the valve.

[0171] The above-described features, configurations, effects, and the like are included in at least one embodiment of the present application, and should not be limited to only one embodiment. Furthermore, a person skilled in the art can implement as different embodiments by combining or modifying the features, configurations, effects, and the like of the respective embodiments with each other. Therefore, matters related to these combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being within the scope and technical idea of the present application recited in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, wherein comprises: a compressor that compresses refrigerant; an outdoor heat exchanger; an indoor heat exchanger; a four-way valve that selectively supplies refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the outdoor heat exchanger or the indoor heat exchanger; a water tank that exchanges heat with refrigerant to generate hot water; a first regulating valve that regulates to selectively supply refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the water tank; a second regulating valve that regulates to selectively supply refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the four-way valve; a first sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a second sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant supplied to the water tank; and a control section that judges abnormal operation of the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve based on respective temperature values from the first sensor and the second sensor; if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control section judges abnormal operation of the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve according to respective operation modes based on the temperature value from the second sensor, and if it is judged that the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve are abnormally operating, controls to perform a regulating valve error countermeasure operation according to respective operation modes.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the control section stops the compressor.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein in the regulating valve error countermeasure operation, the control section regulates the second regulating valve using an instruction to the first regulating valve and regulates the first regulating valve using an instruction to the second regulating valve.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that in the regulating valve error countermeasure operation, the control section stops the air conditioner.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor is outside a normal temperature range, the control section regulates the second regulating valve using an instruction to the first regulating valve and regulates the first regulating valve using an instruction to the second regulating valve.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein if the temperature value from the first sensor is less than a first reference temperature value, the control section judges abnormal operation of the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve according to respective operation modes based on the temperature value from the second sensor, and if it is judged that the first regulating valve and the second regulating valve are abnormally operating, controls to perform a refrigerant circulation operation according to respective operation modes.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein further comprises: a hot water supply expansion valve provided in a pipe connecting the water tank and the outdoor heat exchanger; in the refrigerant circulation operation, the hot water supply expansion valve is opened.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein further comprises: a hot water supply expansion valve provided in a pipe connecting the water tank and the outdoor heat exchanger; In the cooling operation mode or the heating operation mode, if the temperature value from the first sensor is less than a first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor is outside a normal temperature range, the control section controls to open the hot water supply expansion valve.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising: a heater provided to the water tank; In the cooling hot water supply operation mode, if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value and the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, the control section turns on the heater.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising: a third sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger; In the cooling operation mode, if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the third sensor is within a normal temperature range, the control section stops the air conditioner.

11. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising: a third sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger; In the cooling operation mode, if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the third sensor is outside a normal temperature range, the control section restarts the air conditioner.

12. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising: a fourth sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant passing through the indoor heat exchanger; In the heating operation mode, if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the fourth sensor is within a normal temperature range, the control section stops the air conditioner.

13. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising: a fourth sensor that detects a temperature of refrigerant passing through the indoor heat exchanger; In the heating operation mode, if the temperature value from the first sensor is greater than a first reference temperature value, the temperature value from the second sensor is within a normal temperature range, and the temperature value from the fourth sensor is outside a normal temperature range, the control section restarts the air conditioner.

14. A control method of an air conditioner, wherein comprising: a compressor outlet temperature detecting step of detecting an outlet temperature of the compressor; a hot water supply piping temperature detecting step of detecting a change in temperature of the hot water supply piping; a system error judging step of judging a system error based on the outlet temperature of the compressor; an abnormal operation judging step of judging an abnormal operation of the regulating valve based on the temperature of the hot water supply piping if it is judged that there is a system error; and an error countermeasure operation step of executing a regulating valve error countermeasure operation according to each operation mode if it is judged that there is an abnormal operation of the regulating valve; the abnormal operation judging step is, If the compressor outlet temperature is greater than a first reference temperature value, then based on the hot water supply pipe temperature, abnormal operation of the first and second regulating valves is determined according to each operating mode; The error countermeasure action step is, If it is determined that the first and second regulating valves are operating abnormally, then regulating valve error countermeasure actions are performed according to each operating mode.

15. The control method of an air conditioner according to claim 14, wherein In the system error determination step, if the compressor outlet temperature is greater than a first reference temperature value, then a system error is determined.

16. The control method of an air conditioner according to claim 14, wherein In the abnormal operation determination step, if the hot water supply pipe temperature is outside a normal temperature range, then the regulating valves are determined to be operating abnormally.

17. The control method of an air conditioner according to claim 14, wherein Further comprising: A refrigerant circulation action determination step, if it is determined that there is no system error, then based on the hot water supply pipe temperature, whether a refrigerant circulation action is performed is determined.

Images