Methods and apparatus for remotely monitoring and/or controlling a plumbing system

摘要

Methods and compositions for controlling and monitoring residential and commercial pumping systems. Preferably, the controlling and monitoring functions include a remotely located controller component capable of displaying alerts and/or from which a user may input commands regulating the functioning of the plumbing system. In particularly preferred examples, the plumbing system is an “on command” hot water system in which hot water availability, use and energy efficiencies and conservation are monitored and maximized.

主权项

1. In a structural on demand hot water system (HWS) comprising a hot water source, a hot water delivery line, a hot water return line, one or more sensors, and a hot water circulation pump, the improvement comprising:
a controller component remotely located from said HWS for coordinating water and energy use comprising: a microprocessor having a memory component, at least one input connector component for receiving sensor signals, and at least one output connector component for sending control signals, said remotely located controller component being structured to receive temperature data from a temperature sensor; detect a change in hot water line temperature (ΔT) at said sensor over a temperature gradient time period; produce a control signal if ΔT exceeds a predetermined amount; and export said control signal through one or more said output connector components to one or more HWS components;wherein the remotely located controller component receives signals from, and/or sends signals to, said one or more HWS components by at least one method selected from the group consisting of: wirelessly, via a digital wire or cable, and via a power line network.