Passive water heater anode rod depletion sensor algorithm

摘要

The present subject matter relates to methodologies and algorithms for providing anode rod depletion detection and warnings thereof to consumers. Consumers general are not concerned with monitoring consumption of protective anode rods incorporated within water heaters, The present subject matter provides automatic monitoring of anode rod depletion and provides the consumer with notification of rod depletion beyond a predetermined amount by one or more of optical, audible, or electronic devices. Aspects of the algorithm include handling of start-up conditions, service board replacement conditions, and properly defining the anode rod depletion threshold. Additional algorithm aspects include considerations for taking into consideration power outage conditions and accurately estimating galvanic current.

主权项

1. A method for alerting a consumer of water heater anode rod depletion, comprising:
initializing anode current readings and time readings to correspond to a current anode rod current and time reading when operating power is first applied to the water heater at initial installation and anode depletion; initializing a value of total anode rod depletion to zero; and initializing a weight threshold of the full weight of the anode rod to a first predetermined percentage for use in calculating anode rod depletion; periodically measuring anode rod current flow; obtaining a time reading at the time of current measurement; calculating anode rod depletion based on the measured anode rod current and the time difference between the current measurement and a most recent previous measurement; and activating an alarm if anode rod depletion exceeds a predetermined amount.