초록 ▼

A system is disclosed that advantageously monitors a status of a relief valve coupled to a water heater or other pressure vessel. By monitoring the relief valve, the system can limit the energy and water wasted resulting from the relief valve's failure. The system can have first and second sensors t

A system is disclosed that advantageously monitors a status of a relief valve coupled to a water heater or other pressure vessel. By monitoring the relief valve, the system can limit the energy and water wasted resulting from the relief valve's failure. The system can have first and second sensors that monitor a temperature and pressure within the relief valve, and a water flow from the relief valve, respectively. If the temperature or pressure within the relief valve exceeds predetermined thresholds, or a water flow from the relief valve continues for greater than a predetermined interval, the system can restrict a flow of gas, electric current, or water to the water heater.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A system that monitors a flow of water in a drain pipe that is coupled to a relief valve of a water heater, comprising:a first sensor that monitors a temperature or pressure of the water heater to produce a first signal;a second sensor that monitors the flow of water to the dr

What is claimed is: 1. A system that monitors a flow of water in a drain pipe that is coupled to a relief valve of a water heater, comprising:a first sensor that monitors a temperature or pressure of the water heater to produce a first signal;a second sensor that monitors the flow of water to the drain pipe to produce a second signal; anda controller that (1) receives the first and second signals, and (2) restricts (a) a flow of gas or (b) an electric current to the water heater as a first function of at least one of the first and second signals.