A temperature controlled valve, a water heater and a method of operation thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a temperature control valve, a water heater and an operation method thereof. The temperature control valve is installed in a circulating water path of the water heater and is located at a water use point. The temperature control valve comprises a valve body, a valve cavity is arranged in the valve body, a hot water inlet and a hot water outlet which are in communication with the valve cavity are arranged in a first part of the valve body, the hot water inlet is in communication with the hot water outlet, a cold water inlet and a cold water outlet which are in communication with the valve cavity are arranged in a second part of the valve body, and the cold water inlet is in communication with the cold water outlet. A temperature control stop valve is detachably installed in the valve cavity and is used for controlling the on-off of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When the water temperature in the valve cavity is lower than a preset temperature T, the temperature control stop valve opens the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When the water temperature in the valve cavity reaches the preset temperature T or above, the temperature control stop valve closes the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of household appliances, in particular to a temperature control valve, a water heater and an operation method thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the prior art, when a zero-cold-water water heater operates a preheating function, the preheating temperature is controlled according to the temperature preset by a user. Due to heat loss of water in the circulation pipeline of the water heater, the temperature of the return water in the circulation pipeline rises slowly, and generally 2 to 3 cycles of circulation heating are required to complete the preheating. The user needs to wait for a long time (generally more than 4 minutes) for hot water, and a large amount of gas is consumed, which is poor in energy saving. For a two-pipe zero-cold-water gas water heater using a cold water pipe instead of a return water pipe, the cold water pipe will be filled with hot water after preheating, and a large amount of hot water will flow out when the user opens the cold water mode at the water use point, which will cause damage to household appliances such as washing machines and water purifiers.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a temperature control valve to solve the above problems. SUMMARY

[0004] The present application aims to at least solve one of the problems existing in the prior art to some extent. To this end, the present application provides a temperature control valve which can reduce the energy consumption of a water heater, and when applied to a water heater using a tap water pipe as a return water path, can also avoid the problem that the return water path is filled with hot water, the user opens the cold water mode at the water use point, and hot water flows out from the water use point, thereby causing damage to household appliances such as washing machines and water purifiers in the user's home.

[0005] The above-mentioned purpose is achieved by the following technical solutions:

[0006] A temperature control valve is installed in a circulation water path of a water heater and located at a water use point. The temperature control valve comprises:

[0007] A valve body is provided with a valve cavity. A first part of the valve body is provided with a hot water inlet and a hot water outlet which are in communication with the valve cavity. The hot water inlet is in communication with the hot water outlet. A second part of the valve body is provided with a cold water inlet and a cold water outlet which are in communication with the valve cavity. The cold water inlet is in communication with the cold water outlet.

[0008] A temperature control stop valve is detachably installed in the valve cavity and used to control the on-off of the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When the water temperature in the valve cavity is lower than a preset temperature T, the temperature control stop valve opens the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When the water temperature in the valve cavity reaches a preset temperature T or above, the temperature control stop valve closes the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

[0009] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve comprises:

[0010] A shell is provided with a through hole, a water channel is formed on the side wall of the shell, water in the valve cavity can flow into the through hole through the water channel, and the shell is mounted in the valve cavity and detachably connected with the inner wall of the valve cavity;

[0011] A plug is arranged in the through hole, and the diameter of the plug is greater than the diameter of the water outlet;

[0012] A deformation module is arranged in the through hole, one end of the deformation module abuts against the end of the shell away from the cold water inlet, and the plug is located between the deformation module and the water outlet; when the water temperature in the water channel is lower than a preset temperature T, the thickness of the deformation module along the radial direction of the through hole is L1, and the plug is in a state of opening the water outlet; when the water temperature in the water channel reaches a preset temperature T or above, the thickness of the deformation module along the radial direction of the through hole is increased to L2, so as to extrude the plug to move along the through hole and block the water outlet.

[0013] Optionally, the deformation module comprises:

[0014] A gasket is arranged along the radial direction of the through hole, and the thickness of the middle part of the gasket is greater than or smaller than the thickness of the peripheral side;

[0015] A bimetallic piece is arranged on both sides of the gasket, the bimetallic piece comprises a first metal sheet and a second metal sheet arranged in close contact with each other, the second metal sheet is arranged close to the gasket, and the thermal expansion coefficient of the second metal sheet is greater than the thermal expansion coefficient of the first metal sheet;

[0016] When the water temperature in the water channel is lower than a preset temperature T, the middle parts of the two bimetallic pieces are bent towards each other and in close contact with the middle part of the gasket; when the water temperature in the water channel reaches a preset temperature T or above, the middle parts of the two bimetallic pieces are bent away from each other and separated from the middle part of the gasket.

[0017] Optionally, the deformation module comprises:

[0018] A gasket is arranged along the radial direction of the through hole, and the thickness of the middle part of the gasket is greater than or smaller than the thickness of the peripheral side;

[0019] A bimetallic piece is arranged on one side of the concave surface of the gasket, the bimetallic piece comprises a first metal sheet and a second metal sheet arranged in close contact with each other, the second metal sheet is arranged close to the gasket, and the thermal expansion coefficient of the second metal sheet is greater than the thermal expansion coefficient of the first metal sheet;

[0020] When the water temperature in the water channel is lower than the preset temperature T, the middle part of the bimetallic piece bends towards the middle part of the gasket and adheres to the middle part of the gasket; when the water temperature in the water channel reaches the preset temperature T or above, the middle part of the bimetallic piece bends away from the middle part of the gasket and separates from the middle part of the gasket.

[0021] Optionally, the shape change module is provided with a plurality of.

[0022] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve further comprises a sliding block, the sliding block is arranged in the through hole and can slide relative to the through hole, the sliding block is arranged between the shape change module and the plug and connected with the plug.

[0023] Optionally, further comprising an elastic reset member, one end of the elastic reset member is connected with the end of the shell close to the cold water inlet, the other end is connected with the sliding block, when the water temperature in the water channel is lower than the preset temperature T, the plug is reset under the elastic force of the elastic reset member and opens the water outlet.

[0024] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve comprises an adjusting screw, the adjusting screw is arranged in the through hole and located at the end of the shape change module away from the cold water inlet, the adjusting screw is threadedly connected with the inner wall of the through hole.

[0025] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve further comprises a first sealing ring, the first sealing ring is arranged between the screw and the inner wall of the through hole, for sealing the gap between the screw and the through hole.

[0026] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve further comprises a second sealing ring, the second sealing ring is arranged between the end of the shell close to the cold water inlet and the inner wall of the valve cavity, for sealing the gap between the end of the shell close to the cold water inlet and the inner wall of the valve cavity.

[0027] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve further comprises a third sealing ring, the third sealing ring is arranged between the end of the shell away from the cold water inlet and the inner wall of the valve cavity, for sealing the gap between the end of the shell away from the cold water inlet and the inner wall of the valve cavity.

[0028] Optionally, the end of the shell away from the cold water inlet is threadedly connected with the inner wall of the valve cavity, and the end of the shell close to the cold water inlet abuts against the inner wall of the valve cavity.

[0029] Optionally, the hot water inlet and the hot water outlet are located on the same straight line and arranged perpendicularly to the shell, and the cold water inlet and the cold water outlet are located on the same straight line and arranged perpendicularly to the shell.

[0030] Optionally, a one-way valve core is arranged in the valve cavity and located on the side of the temperature control stop valve close to the cold water inlet.

[0031] Optionally, the valve body comprises a first valve body and a second valve body detachably connected with the first valve body, the hot water inlet and the hot water outlet are arranged on the first valve body, the cold water inlet and the cold water outlet are arranged on the second valve body, one end of the temperature control stop valve away from the second valve body abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body, and the other end of the temperature control stop valve close to the second valve body abuts against the second valve body.

[0032] Optionally, the shell comprises a first shell and a second shell connected with the first shell, one end of the first shell away from the second shell abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body, and the other end of the second shell away from the first shell abuts against the second valve body, and the water channel is arranged on the side wall of the first shell.

[0033] Optionally, the first sealing member and the second sealing member are arranged between the second shell and the inner wall of the valve cavity for sealing the gap between the second shell and the inner wall of the valve cavity, and the second sealing member is arranged between the first valve body and the second valve body for sealing the gap between the first valve body and the second valve body.

[0034] Another aspect of the present application provides a water heater comprising the temperature control valve, the temperature control valve is installed in the circulating water circuit of the water heater, the hot water outlet is communicated with the hot water interface of the water using point, and the cold water outlet is communicated with the cold water interface of the water using point.

[0035] Optionally, the circulating water circuit comprises:

[0036] a main water circuit arranged in the water heater body of the water heater;

[0037] a return water circuit, one end of which is communicated with the water supply pipeline outside the water heater and the water inlet end of the main water circuit, and the other end of which is communicated with the cold water inlet;

[0038] a hot water circuit, one end of which is communicated with the water outlet end of the main water circuit, and the other end of which is communicated with the hot water inlet.

[0039] Still another aspect of the present application provides a running method of the water heater, comprising the following steps:

[0040] S1: the water heater starts the preheating function;

[0041] S2: the water pump of the water heater is started;

[0042] S3: judging whether the measured water flow is greater than the starting water flow, if yes, entering S4;

[0043] S4: the water heater is started and ignited, a preheating mode is run, and a flow meter of the water heater detects the circulating flow of the water heater in real time;

[0044] S4: judging whether the first preheating condition of the water heater is met, if yes, the water pump is turned off and the preheating program is exited, if not, entering S5;

[0045] S5: judging whether the second preheating condition of the water heater is met, if yes, the water pump is turned off and the preheating program is exited, if not, returning to S4.

[0046] Optionally, the first preheating condition is that the measured water flow is less than the starting water flow.

[0047] Compared with the prior art, the present application has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0048] The temperature control valve provided by the present application is installed in the circulating water circuit of the water heater and located at the water use point. The temperature control valve comprises a valve body and a temperature control stop valve. The valve body is provided with a valve cavity. The first part of the valve body is provided with a hot water inlet and a hot water outlet which are in communication with the valve cavity. The hot water inlet is in communication with the hot water outlet. The second part of the valve body is provided with a cold water inlet and a cold water outlet which are in communication with the valve cavity. The cold water inlet is in communication with the cold water outlet. The temperature control stop valve is detachably installed in the valve cavity and used for controlling the on-off between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When the water temperature in the valve cavity is lower than the preset temperature T, the temperature control stop valve opens the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When the water temperature in the valve cavity reaches the preset temperature T or above, the temperature control stop valve closes the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. Specifically, when the water heater is in the preheating process, if the hot water in the circulating water circuit of the water heater reaches the preset temperature T and flows to the water use point, the temperature control stop valve will close the communication between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet, thereby ending the preheating program, and preventing the hot water from continuously flowing to the backwater circuit of the circulating water circuit, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the water heater. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0049] Figure 1 is a perspective structural schematic view of the temperature control valve provided by the first embodiment of the present application;

[0050] Figure 2 is a sectional view of the temperature control valve provided by the first embodiment of the present application (when the plug opens the water outlet);

[0051] Figure 3 is a sectional view of the valve body of the temperature control valve provided by the first embodiment of the present application;

[0052] Figure 4is a sectional view of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment one of the present application;

[0053] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment one of the present application;

[0054] Figure 6 is a sectional view of the housing of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment one of the present application;

[0055] Figure 7 is a sectional view of the deformation module of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in some embodiments of embodiment one of the present application (when the thickness of the deformation module is L1);

[0056] Figure 8 is a sectional view of the deformation module of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in some embodiments of embodiment one of the present application (when the thickness of the deformation module is L2);

[0057] Figure 9 is a sectional view of the deformation module of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in some other embodiments of embodiment one of the present application (when the thickness of the deformation module is L1);

[0058] Figure 10 is a sectional view of the deformation module of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in some other embodiments of embodiment one of the present application (when the thickness of the deformation module is L2);

[0059] Figure 11 is a sectional view of the deformation module of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in some further embodiments of embodiment one of the present application (when the thickness of the deformation module is L1);

[0060] Figure 12 is a sectional view of the deformation module of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in some further embodiments of embodiment one of the present application (when the thickness of the deformation module is L2);

[0061] Figure 13 is a sectional view of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment one of the present application (when the plug blocks the water outlet);

[0062] Figure 14 is a perspective structural schematic view of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment two of the present application;

[0063] Figure 15 is a sectional view of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment two of the present application (when the plug opens the water outlet);

[0064] Figure 16 is a sectional view of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve provided in embodiment two of the present application;

[0065] Figure 17 is an exploded view of the temperature control stop valve of the temperature control valve according to the second embodiment of the present application;

[0066] Figure 18 is a structural schematic view of the water heater according to the embodiment of the present application;

[0067] Figure 19 is a flow chart of the operation steps of the water heater according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0068] in the figure:

[0069] 1, valve body; 11, hot water inlet; 12, hot water outlet; 13, cold water inlet; 14, cold water outlet; 15, valve cavity; 151, second internal thread;

[0070] 2, temperature control stop valve; 21, housing; 2101, first housing; 2102, second housing; 2103, first sealing member; 211, flange step; 212, first internal thread; 213, through hole; 214, water outlet; 215, second external thread; 216, water passage groove; 217, second groove; 22, adjusting screw; 221, first internal thread; 222, adjusting groove; 223, first groove; 23, deformation module; 231, bimetallic piece; 2311, first metal sheet; 2312, second metal sheet; 232, gasket; 24, sliding block; 25, plug; 26, elastic return member; 27, first sealing ring; 28, second sealing ring; 29, third sealing ring;

[0071] 3, one-way valve core;

[0072] 4, water heater body; 41, main water path; 410, water inlet end; 420, water outlet end;

[0073] 5, water pump;

[0074] 6, flow meter;

[0075] 7, return water temperature probe;

[0076] 8, operation display; 81, preheating key;

[0077] 9, controller;

[0078] 101, first valve body; 102, second valve body; 103, screw; 104, second sealing member;

[0079] 200, water use point; 201, cold water interface; 202, hot water interface;

[0080] 300, hot water water path;

[0081] 400, return water water path;

[0082] 500, water supply pipeline. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] The following examples illustrate the present application but do not limit the present application. Modifications or equivalent replacements of the specific embodiments of the present application or partial technical features without departing from the spirit of the present application should be included in the scope of the technical solutions of the present application.

[0084] Example 1

[0085] Please refer to Figures 1-13 The present application provides a temperature control valve, which is installed in a circulating water pipeline of a water heater and located at a water using point 200, and comprises a valve body 1 and a temperature control stop valve 2. The valve body 1 is provided with a valve cavity 15, and a first part of the valve body 1 is provided with a hot water inlet 11 and a hot water outlet 12 which are in communication with the valve cavity 15. The hot water inlet 11 is in communication with the hot water outlet 12. A second part of the valve body 1 is provided with a cold water inlet 13 and a cold water outlet 14 which are in communication with the valve cavity 15. The cold water inlet 13 is in communication with the cold water outlet 14. The temperature control stop valve 2 is detachably installed in the valve cavity 15 and used for controlling the on-off between the hot water inlet 11 and the cold water inlet 13. When the water temperature in the valve cavity 15 is lower than a preset temperature T, the temperature control stop valve 2 opens the communication between the hot water inlet 11 and the cold water inlet 13. When the water temperature in the valve cavity 15 reaches a temperature above the preset temperature T, the temperature control stop valve 2 closes the communication between the hot water inlet 11 and the cold water inlet 13. Specifically, when the water heater is in a preheating process, if the hot water in the circulating water pipeline of the water heater reaches the preset temperature T and flows to the water using point 200, the temperature control stop valve 2 will close the communication between the hot water inlet 11 and the cold water inlet 13, thereby ending the preheating process and preventing the hot water from continuously flowing to the backwater pipeline 400 of the circulating water pipeline, so as to reduce the energy consumption of the water heater.

[0086] It should be noted that the temperature control valve in the present embodiment can be preferably applied to a water heater which uses a tap water pipeline as the backwater pipeline 400, thereby avoiding the problem that the backwater pipeline 400 is filled with hot water, so that when a user opens the cold water mode of the water using point 200, hot water flows out of the water using point 200, thereby causing damage to household appliances such as washing machines and water purifiers in the user's home.

[0087] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 comprises a housing 21, a plug 25 and a deformation module 23. The housing 21 is provided with a through hole 213, and a water channel 216 is formed in the side wall of the housing 21, so that the water in the valve cavity 15 can flow into the through hole 213 through the water channel 216. The housing 21 is provided with a water outlet 214 at one end close to the cold water inlet 13, and is detachably connected to the inner wall of the valve cavity 15. The plug 25 is arranged in the through hole 213, and the diameter of the plug 25 is greater than that of the water outlet 214. The deformation module 23 is arranged in the through hole 213, and one end of the deformation module 23 abuts against the end of the housing 21 away from the cold water inlet 13. The plug 25 is located between the deformation module 23 and the water outlet 214. When the water temperature in the water channel 216 is lower than the preset temperature T, the thickness of the deformation module 23 along the radial direction of the through hole 213 is L1, and the plug 25 is in a state of opening the water outlet 214, so that the water can flow in the direction indicated by the arrow B in Figure 2 and the direction indicated by the arrow A in Figure 6 . When the water temperature in the water channel 216 reaches the preset temperature T or above, the thickness of the deformation module 23 along the radial direction of the through hole 213 increases to L2, so as to press the plug 25 to move along the through hole 213 and block the water outlet 214, thereby controlling the on-off between the hot water inlet 11 and the cold water inlet 13.

[0088] Optionally, as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 , in some embodiments, the deformation module 23 comprises a gasket 232 and a bimetallic piece 231. The gasket 232 is arranged along the radial direction of the through hole 213, and the thickness of the middle part of the gasket 232 is smaller than that of the peripheral side. The two sides of the gasket 232 are provided with the bimetallic piece 231, and the bimetallic piece 231 comprises a first metal sheet 2311 and a second metal sheet 2312 arranged close to each other. The second metal sheet 2312 is arranged close to the gasket 232, and the thermal expansion coefficient of the second metal sheet 2312 is greater than that of the first metal sheet 2311. When the water temperature in the water channel 216 is lower than the preset temperature T, the middle parts of the two bimetallic pieces 231 bend towards each other and abut against the middle part of the gasket 232, and at this time, the maximum distance between the two bimetallic pieces 231 along the radial direction of the through hole 213 is L1. When the water temperature in the water channel 216 reaches the preset temperature T or above, the middle parts of the two bimetallic pieces 231 bend away from each other and are separated from the middle part of the gasket 232, and at this time, the maximum distance between the two bimetallic pieces 231 is L2, thereby realizing the control of the opening and closing states of the water outlet 214 by temperature. The gasket 232 can support the two bimetallic pieces 231.

[0089] Optionally, as shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, in some other embodiments, the thickness of the middle part of the gasket 232 may also be greater than the thickness of the periphery, which can also serve to support the two bimetallic pieces 231.

[0090] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, the deformation module 23 may optionally also include a gasket 232 and a bimetallic strip. The gasket 232 is bent from its periphery to its center along the radial direction of the through hole 213. A bimetallic strip 231 is disposed on one side of the concave surface of the gasket 232. The bimetallic strip 231 includes a first metal strip 2311 and a second metal strip 2312 that are fitted together. The second metal strip 2312 is disposed close to the gasket 232, and the coefficient of thermal expansion of the second metal strip 2312 is greater than that of the first metal strip 2311. When the water temperature in the water tank 216 is lower than the preset temperature T, the middle part of the bimetallic component 231 bends towards the middle part of the gasket 232 and fits against the middle part of the gasket 232. At this time, the maximum radial distance between the bimetallic component 231 and the gasket 232 along the through hole 213 is L1. When the water temperature in the water tank 216 reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the middle part of the bimetallic component 231 bends away from the middle part of the gasket 232 and separates from the middle part of the gasket 232. At this time, the maximum distance between the bimetallic component 231 and the gasket 232 is L2, thereby realizing the control of the opening and closing state of the water outlet 214 by temperature.

[0091] Optionally, multiple deformation modules 23 are provided so that the movement distance of the plug 25 within the through hole 213 can reach a preset length, and generate sufficient thrust on the plug 25 so that the plug 25 can stably seal the outlet 214 and prevent water from leaking out from the gap between the outlet 214 and the plug 25.

[0092] Optionally, a flange step 211 is provided at the end of the housing 21 away from the cold water inlet 13. When the temperature control shut-off valve 2 is installed in the valve cavity 15, the step surface of the flange step 211 abuts against the end of the valve body 1 away from the cold water inlet 13, thereby achieving the positioning function of the temperature control shut-off valve 2 during the process of installing the temperature control shut-off valve 2 into the valve cavity 15.

[0093] Optionally, the temperature control shut-off valve 2 also includes a slider 24, which is disposed within the through hole 213 and can slide relative to the through hole 213. The slider 24 is disposed between the deformation module 23 and the plug 25 and is connected to the plug 25. The slider 24 serves as a guide so that the plug 25 can always slide radially along the through hole 213 under the push of the deformation module 23, thereby ensuring the stability of the temperature control shut-off valve 2.

[0094] Optionally, the diameter of the sliding block 24 is 0.1-1mm smaller than the diameter of the through hole 213. Preferably, in this embodiment, the diameter of the sliding block 24 is 0.2mm smaller than the diameter of the through hole 213.

[0095] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 further comprises an elastic reset member 26, one end of the elastic reset member 26 is connected to the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13, and the other end is connected to the sliding block 24. When the water temperature in the water channel 216 is lower than the preset temperature T, the plug 25 is reset and the water outlet 214 is opened under the elastic force of the elastic reset member 26. By setting the elastic reset member 26, when the water temperature in the water channel 216 is lower than the preset temperature T, the plug 25 can be automatically reset, so that the water outlet 214 is in an open state, which is convenient for the water heater to perform the next round of preheating program.

[0096] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 comprises an adjusting screw 22, the adjusting screw 22 is arranged in the through hole 213 and located at the end of the deformation module 23 away from the cold water inlet 13, and the adjusting screw 22 is in threaded connection with the inner wall of the through hole 213.

[0097] Specifically, the adjusting screw 22 is provided with a first external thread, and the inner wall of the end of the through hole 213 away from the cold water inlet 13 is provided with a first internal thread 221 corresponding to the first external thread.

[0098] Optionally, the end of the adjusting screw 22 away from the cold water inlet 13 is further provided with an adjusting groove 222, so as to facilitate an operator to adjust the position of the adjusting screw 22 relative to the through hole 213 by using a screwdriver or the like tool.

[0099] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 further comprises a first sealing ring 27, the first sealing ring 27 is arranged between the screw and the inner wall of the through hole 213, and is used for sealing the gap between the screw and the through hole 213 to prevent water from overflowing from the gap between the screw and the through hole 213.

[0100] Optionally, the screw is further provided with a first groove 223, and the first sealing ring 27 is sleeved in the first groove 223 and protrudes from the outer side surface of the screw.

[0101] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 further comprises a second sealing ring 28, the second sealing ring 28 is arranged between the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15, and is used for sealing the gap between the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15 to prevent water from overflowing from the gap between the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15.

[0102] Specifically, the outer side of the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13 is provided with a second groove 217, and the second sealing ring 28 is sleeved in the second groove 217 and protrudes from the outer side surface of the shell 21.

[0103] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 further comprises a third sealing ring 29, which is arranged between the end of the shell 21 away from the cold water inlet 13 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15, for sealing the gap between the end of the shell 21 away from the cold water inlet 13 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15, preventing water from overflowing from the gap between the end of the shell 21 away from the cold water inlet 13 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15.

[0104] Optionally, the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13 is threadedly connected with the inner wall of the valve cavity 15, and the end of the shell 21 close to the cold water inlet 13 abuts against the inner wall of the valve cavity 15.

[0105] Specifically, the end of the shell 21 away from the cold water inlet 13 is provided with a second external thread 215, and the inner wall of the end of the valve cavity 15 away from the cold water inlet 13 is provided with a second internal thread 151 corresponding to the second external thread 215.

[0106] Optionally, the hot water inlet 11 and the hot water outlet 12 are arranged on the same straight line and perpendicularly to the shell 21, so that when the water outlet 214 is plugged by the plug 25, hot water can smoothly flow to the hot water outlet 12 through the hot water inlet 11 in the direction indicated by arrow C in FIG. 1C. The cold water inlet 13 and the cold water outlet 14 are arranged on the same straight line and perpendicularly to the shell 21, so that when the water outlet 214 is plugged by the plug 25, cold water can smoothly flow to the cold water outlet 14 through the cold water inlet 13 in the direction indicated by arrow D in FIG. 1D. Figure 11 Figure 11

[0107] Optionally, the temperature control stop valve 2 further comprises a one-way valve core 3, which is arranged in the valve cavity 15 and located on the side of the temperature control stop valve 2 close to the cold water inlet 13. Specifically, the one-way valve core 3 is communicatively connected with the controller 9 of the water heater, so that the water heater controls the one-way valve core 3 to open or close the water outlet 214 through programming. This is prior art, which will not be described here.

[0108] Embodiment Two

[0109] Please refer to Figures 14-17 ​​The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that the valve body 1 comprises a first valve body 101 and a second valve body 102 detachably connected with the first valve body 101, the hot water inlet 11 and the hot water outlet 12 are arranged on the first valve body 101, the cold water inlet 13 and the cold water outlet 14 are arranged on the second valve body 102, the end of the temperature control stop valve 2 away from the second valve body 102 abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body 102, and the end of the temperature control stop valve 2 close to the second valve body 102 abuts against the second valve body 102. In this embodiment, mainly, the setting of the adjusting screw 22 is cancelled. In the first embodiment, in order to ensure that water seeps out from the gap between the adjusting screw 22 and the through hole 213, a plurality of first sealing rings 27 need to be arranged, so that the water seepage effect can be effectively realized. In the second embodiment, the setting of the adjusting screw 22 is cancelled, so that the water seepage problem caused by the setting of the adjusting screw 22 is completely solved. Correspondingly, in order to facilitate the installation of the temperature control stop valve 2 and the one-way valve core 3 in the valve cavity 15, the valve body 1 is arranged in a detachable structure in this embodiment, that is, the valve body 1 comprises a first valve body 101 and a second valve body 102 detachably connected with the first valve body 101. When the temperature control stop valve 2 and the one-way valve core 3 need to be installed into the valve cavity 15, the first valve body 101 and the second valve body 102 are first detached, then the temperature control stop valve 2 and the one-way valve core 3 are sequentially installed into the valve cavity 15, then the first valve body 101 and the second valve body 102 are assembled together, so that the installation of the temperature control valve is completed.

[0110] Optionally, in this embodiment, the first valve body 101 and the second valve body 102 are detachably connected through a screw 103.

[0111] Optionally, the shell 21 comprises a first shell 2101 and a second shell 2102 connected with the first shell 2101, the end of the first shell 2101 away from the second shell 2102 abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body 101, the end of the second shell 2102 away from the first shell 2101 abuts against the second valve body 102, and the water passage groove 216 is arranged on the side wall of the first shell 2101. By arranging the shell 21 in a detachable structure, that is, the shell 21 comprises a first shell 2101 and a second shell 2102 connected with the first shell 2101, when the deformation module 23, the sliding block 24 and the plug 25 need to be installed into the through hole 213, the first shell 2101 and the second shell 2102 are first detached, then the deformation module 23, the sliding block 24 and the plug 25 are sequentially installed into the through hole 213, and then the first shell 2101 and the second shell 2102 are assembled together, so that the installation of the temperature control stop valve 2 is completed.

[0112] Optionally, a first sealing member 21032103 is arranged between the second housing 2102 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15 to seal the gap between the second housing 2102 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15, and a second sealing member 104 is arranged between the first valve body 101 and the second valve body 102 to seal the gap between the first valve body 101 and the second valve body 102. In this embodiment, only one sealing member is arranged between the second housing 2102 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 15 and between the first valve body 101 and the second valve body 102, respectively, to achieve the overall sealing effect of the temperature control valve, and the structure is simpler compared with the embodiment.

[0113] Optionally, the hot water inlet 11 and the hot water outlet 12 are arranged vertically, and the cold water inlet 13 and the cold water outlet 14 are arranged vertically, so as to facilitate the installation of the temperature control stop valve 2 and the one-way valve core 3 in the valve cavity 15.

[0114] Please refer to Figures 1-18 In another aspect, the present application provides a water heater comprising the temperature control valve, the temperature control valve is installed in the circulating water path of the water heater, the hot water outlet 12 is communicated with the hot water interface 202 of the water using point 200, and the cold water outlet 14 is communicated with the cold water interface 201 of the water using point 200.

[0115] Optionally, the circulating water path comprises a main water path 41, a backwater path 400 and a hot water path 300. The main water path 41 is arranged in the water heater body 4 of the water heater. One end of the backwater path 400 is communicated with the water supply pipeline 500 outside the water heater and the water inlet end 410 of the main water path 41, and the other end is communicated with the cold water inlet 13. One end of the hot water path 300 is communicated with the water outlet end 420 of the main water path 41, and the other end is communicated with the hot water inlet 11.

[0116] Optionally, the controller 9, the operation display 8, the water pump 5 and the flow meter 6 in communication connection with the controller 9 are further included, the water pump 5 and the flow meter 6 are both installed on the main water path 41, and the controller 9 and the operation display are both installed on the water heater body 4.

[0117] Optionally, the backwater temperature probe 7 in communication connection with the controller 9 is further included, the backwater temperature probe 7 is installed at the water inlet end 410 of the main water path 41 to detect the water temperature of the water inlet end 410.

[0118] Please refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19 In still another aspect, the present application provides a running method of the water heater, comprising the following steps:

[0119] S1: the water heater starts the preheating function;

[0120] S2: the water pump 5 of the water heater is started;

[0121] S3: determining whether the measured water flow is greater than the starting water flow, if yes, entering S4;

[0122] S4: starting the water heater, running the preheating mode, and detecting the circulation flow of the water heater in real time by the flow meter 6 of the water heater;

[0123] S4: determining whether the first preheating condition of the water heater is met, if yes, closing the water pump 5 and exiting the preheating program, if no, entering S5;

[0124] S5: determining whether the second preheating condition of the water heater is met, if yes, closing the water pump 5 and exiting the preheating program, if no, returning to S4.

[0125] By setting the judgment of the double preheating conditions, it is determined whether to close the water pump 5 and exit the preheating program, thereby ensuring the stability of the preheating program of the water heater during the running process.

[0126] Optionally, the first preheating condition is that the measured water flow is less than the starting water flow. Specifically, when the measured water flow is less than the starting water flow, it indicates that the water amount in the circulation water circuit of the water heater is reduced, i.e., the temperature control valve 2 is closed at this time, which indicates that the hot water reaching the preset temperature T has reached the water use point 200, and the preheating program is completed, at this time, the water pump 5 can be closed and the preheating program can be exited.

[0127] Optionally, after the water pump 5 is closed and the preheating program is exited in S4 and S5, the water heater is switched to the bathing standby mode.

[0128] Optionally, when the water heater is in the bathing standby mode, the user can start or close the preheating function through the preheating key 81 arranged on the operation display 8.

[0129] Optionally, in S3, if the measured water flow is less than or equal to the starting water flow, a fault alarm is issued to inform the user that the water heater has a problem.

[0130] Optionally, the second preheating condition can be that the return water temperature reaches the target preheating temperature, the outlet water temperature over-temperature protection, or the preheating time reaches the longest preheating time of the program, which is not limited here.

[0131] The above only describes some embodiments of the present application. Those skilled in the art can make several modifications and improvements without departing from the inventive concept, which are all within the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A temperature control valve, characterized in that, Installed in the circulating water circuit of the water heater and located at the point of use (200), the thermostatic valve includes: A valve body (1) is provided with a valve cavity (15). The first part of the valve body (1) is provided with a hot water inlet (11) and a hot water outlet (12) communicating with the valve cavity (15). The hot water inlet (11) and the hot water outlet (12) are connected. The second part of the valve body (1) is provided with a cold water inlet (13) and a cold water outlet (14) communicating with the valve cavity (15). The cold water inlet (13) and the cold water outlet (14) are connected. A temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) is detachably installed in the valve chamber (15) to control the connection between the hot water inlet (11) and the cold water inlet (13). When the water temperature in the valve chamber (15) is lower than a preset temperature T, the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) opens the connection between the hot water inlet (11) and the cold water inlet (13); when the water temperature in the valve chamber (15) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) closes the connection between the hot water inlet (11) and the cold water inlet (13). The temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) includes: The housing (21) has a through hole (213) inside. A water channel (216) is provided on the side wall of the housing (21). Water in the valve cavity (15) can flow into the through hole (213) through the water channel (216). A water outlet (214) is provided at the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13). The housing (21) is installed in the valve cavity (15) and is detachably connected to the inner wall of the valve cavity (15). A flange step (211) is also provided at the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13). When the temperature control shut-off valve (2) is installed in the valve cavity (15), the step surface of the flange step (211) abuts against the end of the valve body (1) away from the cold water inlet (13). A plug (25) is disposed inside the through hole (213), and the diameter of the plug (25) is larger than the diameter of the outlet (214); A deformation module (23) is disposed within the through hole (213). One end of the deformation module (23) abuts against the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13). The plug (25) is located between the deformation module (23) and the outlet (214). When the water temperature in the water channel (216) is lower than the preset temperature T, the thickness of the deformation module (23) along the radial direction of the through hole (213) is L1, and the plug (25) is in the state of opening the outlet (214). When the water temperature in the water channel (216) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the thickness of the deformation module (23) along the radial direction of the through hole (213) increases to L2, so as to squeeze the plug (25) to move along the through hole (213) and block the outlet (214). The deformation module (23) includes: The gasket (232) has a thickness at its center that is greater than or less than the thickness at its periphery along the radial direction of the through hole (213). Bimetallic component (231), wherein the bimetallic component (231) is provided on both sides of the gasket (232), the bimetallic component (231) includes a first metal sheet (2311) and a second metal sheet (2312) that are attached to each other, the second metal sheet (2312) is disposed close to the gasket (232), and the coefficient of thermal expansion of the second metal sheet (2312) is greater than the coefficient of thermal expansion of the first metal sheet (2311); When the water temperature in the water tank (216) is lower than the preset temperature T, the middle parts of the two bimetallic pieces (231) bend towards each other and fit together with the middle part of the gasket (232); when the water temperature in the water tank (216) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the middle parts of the two bimetallic pieces (231) bend towards each other and separate from the middle part of the gasket (232).

2. The temperature control valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple deformation modules (23) are provided.

3. The temperature control valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a slider (24), which is disposed in the through hole (213) and can slide relative to the through hole (213). The slider (24) is disposed between the deformation module (23) and the plug (25) and is connected to the plug (25).

4. The temperature control valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes an elastic reset member (26), one end of which is connected to the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13), and the other end is connected to the slider (24). When the water temperature in the water channel (216) is lower than the preset temperature T, the plug (25) is reset under the elastic force of the elastic reset member (26) and opens the water outlet (214).

5. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes an adjusting screw (22), which is disposed in the through hole (213) and located at the end of the deformation module (23) away from the cold water inlet (13). The adjusting screw (22) is threadedly connected to the inner wall of the through hole (213).

6. The temperature control valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a first sealing ring (27), which is disposed between the adjusting screw (22) and the inner wall of the through hole (213) to seal the gap between the adjusting screw (22) and the through hole (213).

7. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a second sealing ring (28), which is disposed between the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15) to seal the gap between the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15).

8. The temperature control valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a third sealing ring (29), which is disposed between the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15) to seal the gap between the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15).

9. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13) is threadedly connected to the inner wall of the valve cavity (15), and the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13) abuts against the inner wall of the valve cavity (15).

10. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The hot water inlet (11) and the hot water outlet (12) are located on the same straight line and are perpendicular to the housing (21), and the cold water inlet (13) and the cold water outlet (14) are located on the same straight line and are perpendicular to the housing (21).

11. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes a one-way valve core (3), which is disposed in the valve chamber (15) and located on the side of the temperature control shut-off valve (2) near the cold water inlet (13).

12. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The valve body (1) includes a first valve body (101) and a second valve body (102) detachably connected to the first valve body (101). The hot water inlet (11) and the hot water outlet (12) are both located on the first valve body (101), and the cold water inlet (13) and the cold water outlet (14) are both located on the second valve body (102). The end of the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) away from the second valve body (102) abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body (101), and the end of the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) near the second valve body (102) abuts against the second valve body (102).

13. The temperature control valve according to claim 12, characterized in that, The housing (21) includes a first housing (2101) and a second housing (2102) connected to the first housing (2101). The end of the first housing (2101) away from the second housing (2102) abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body (101), and the end of the second housing (2102) away from the first housing (2101) abuts against the second valve body (102). The water channel (216) is formed on the side wall of the first housing (2101).

14. The temperature control valve according to claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a first seal (2103) and a second seal (104). The first seal (2103) is disposed between the second housing (2102) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15) to seal the gap between the second housing (2102) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15). The second seal (104) is disposed between the first valve body (101) and the second valve body (102) to seal the gap between the first valve body (101) and the second valve body (102).

15. A temperature control valve, characterized in that, Installed in the circulating water circuit of the water heater and located at the point of use (200), the thermostatic valve includes: A valve body (1) is provided with a valve cavity (15). The first part of the valve body (1) is provided with a hot water inlet (11) and a hot water outlet (12) communicating with the valve cavity (15). The hot water inlet (11) and the hot water outlet (12) are connected. The second part of the valve body (1) is provided with a cold water inlet (13) and a cold water outlet (14) communicating with the valve cavity (15). The cold water inlet (13) and the cold water outlet (14) are connected. A temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) is detachably installed in the valve chamber (15) to control the connection between the hot water inlet (11) and the cold water inlet (13). When the water temperature in the valve chamber (15) is lower than a preset temperature T, the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) opens the connection between the hot water inlet (11) and the cold water inlet (13); when the water temperature in the valve chamber (15) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) closes the connection between the hot water inlet (11) and the cold water inlet (13). The temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) includes: The housing (21) has a through hole (213) inside. A water channel (216) is provided on the side wall of the housing (21). Water in the valve cavity (15) can flow into the through hole (213) through the water channel (216). A water outlet (214) is provided at the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13). The housing (21) is installed in the valve cavity (15) and is detachably connected to the inner wall of the valve cavity (15). A flange step (211) is also provided at the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13). When the temperature control shut-off valve (2) is installed in the valve cavity (15), the step surface of the flange step (211) abuts against the end of the valve body (1) away from the cold water inlet (13). A plug (25) is disposed inside the through hole (213), and the diameter of the plug (25) is larger than the diameter of the outlet (214); A deformation module (23) is disposed within the through hole (213). One end of the deformation module (23) abuts against the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13). The plug (25) is located between the deformation module (23) and the outlet (214). When the water temperature in the water channel (216) is lower than the preset temperature T, the thickness of the deformation module (23) along the radial direction of the through hole (213) is L1, and the plug (25) is in the state of opening the outlet (214). When the water temperature in the water channel (216) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the thickness of the deformation module (23) along the radial direction of the through hole (213) increases to L2, so as to squeeze the plug (25) to move along the through hole (213) and block the outlet (214). The deformation module (23) includes: Gasket (232), wherein the peripheral side to the center of the gasket (232) is bent along the radial direction of the through hole (213); A bimetallic component (231) is disposed on one side of the concave surface of the gasket (232). The bimetallic component (231) includes a first metal sheet (2311) and a second metal sheet (2312) that are fitted together. The second metal sheet (2312) is disposed close to the gasket (232). The coefficient of thermal expansion of the second metal sheet (2312) is greater than that of the first metal sheet (2311). When the water temperature in the water tank (216) is lower than the preset temperature T, the middle part of the bimetallic part (231) bends toward the middle part of the gasket (232) and fits into the middle part of the gasket (232); when the water temperature in the water tank (216) reaches or exceeds the preset temperature T, the middle part of the bimetallic part (231) bends away from the middle part of the gasket (232) and detaches from the middle part of the gasket (232).

16. The temperature control valve according to claim 15, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a slider (24), which is disposed in the through hole (213) and can slide relative to the through hole (213). The slider (24) is disposed between the deformation module (23) and the plug (25) and is connected to the plug (25).

17. The temperature control valve according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes an elastic reset member (26), one end of which is connected to the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13), and the other end is connected to the slider (24). When the water temperature in the water channel (216) is lower than the preset temperature T, the plug (25) is reset under the elastic force of the elastic reset member (26) and opens the water outlet (214).

18. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes an adjusting screw (22), which is disposed in the through hole (213) and located at the end of the deformation module (23) away from the cold water inlet (13). The adjusting screw (22) is threadedly connected to the inner wall of the through hole (213).

19. The temperature control valve according to claim 18, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a first sealing ring (27), which is disposed between the adjusting screw (22) and the inner wall of the through hole (213) to seal the gap between the adjusting screw (22) and the through hole (213).

20. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a second sealing ring (28), which is disposed between the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15) to seal the gap between the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15).

21. The temperature control valve according to claim 20, characterized in that, The temperature control shut-off valve (2) also includes a third sealing ring (29), which is disposed between the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15) to seal the gap between the end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15).

22. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The end of the housing (21) away from the cold water inlet (13) is threadedly connected to the inner wall of the valve cavity (15), and the end of the housing (21) near the cold water inlet (13) abuts against the inner wall of the valve cavity (15).

23. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The hot water inlet (11) and the hot water outlet (12) are located on the same straight line and are perpendicular to the housing (21), and the cold water inlet (13) and the cold water outlet (14) are located on the same straight line and are perpendicular to the housing (21).

24. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, It also includes a one-way valve core (3), which is disposed in the valve chamber (15) and located on the side of the temperature control shut-off valve (2) near the cold water inlet (13).

25. The temperature control valve according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The valve body (1) includes a first valve body (101) and a second valve body (102) detachably connected to the first valve body (101). The hot water inlet (11) and the hot water outlet (12) are both located on the first valve body (101), and the cold water inlet (13) and the cold water outlet (14) are both located on the second valve body (102). The end of the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) away from the second valve body (102) abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body (101), and the end of the temperature-controlled shut-off valve (2) near the second valve body (102) abuts against the second valve body (102).

26. The temperature control valve according to claim 25, characterized in that, The housing (21) includes a first housing (2101) and a second housing (2102) connected to the first housing (2101). The end of the first housing (2101) away from the second housing (2102) abuts against the inner wall of the first valve body (101), and the end of the second housing (2102) away from the first housing (2101) abuts against the second valve body (102). The water channel (216) is formed on the side wall of the first housing (2101).

27. The temperature control valve according to claim 26, characterized in that, It also includes a first seal (2103) and a second seal (104). The first seal (2103) is disposed between the second housing (2102) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15) to seal the gap between the second housing (2102) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (15). The second seal (104) is disposed between the first valve body (101) and the second valve body (102) to seal the gap between the first valve body (101) and the second valve body (102).

28. A water heater, characterized in that, The thermostatic valve includes any one of claims 1-27, wherein the thermostatic valve is installed in the circulating water circuit of the water heater, the hot water outlet (12) is connected to the hot water interface (202) of the water point (200), and the cold water outlet (14) is connected to the cold water interface (201) of the water point (200).

29. The water heater according to claim 28, characterized in that, The circulating water system includes: The main water circuit (41) is located in the water heater body (4) of the water heater; The return water path (400) is connected at one end to the water supply pipe (500) outside the water heater and the inlet (410) of the main water path (41), and at the other end to the cold water inlet (13). The hot water circuit (300) has one end connected to the outlet (420) of the main water circuit (41) and the other end connected to the hot water inlet (11).

30. A method for operating a water heater as described in claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: The water heater is activated with preheating function; S2: Turn on the water pump (5) of the water heater; S3: Determine if the measured water flow rate is greater than the start-up water flow rate. If so, proceed to S4. S4: The water heater is turned on and ignited, and operates in preheating mode. The flow meter (6) of the water heater detects the circulating flow of the water heater in real time. S4: Determine whether the first preheating condition of the water heater is met. If yes, turn off the water pump (5) and exit the preheating program. If no, proceed to S5. S5: Determine whether the second preheating condition of the water heater is met. If yes, turn off the water pump (5) and exit the preheating program. If no, return to S4.

31. The method for operating a water heater according to claim 30, characterized in that, The first preheating condition is that the measured water flow rate is less than the start-up water flow rate.

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