Apparatus and methods for monitoring water consumption and filter usage

摘要

Apparatus and methods for employing electrical properties of water to indicate the level of filtered water in a filtered water container are provided. The container is fitted with a hopper that holds unfiltered water. The hopper is fitted at its base with a removable and replaceable filter cartridge. Water is filtered by draining through the filter medium contained in the filter cartridge into the lower portion of the container. The water level in the filtered water container is monitored by means of one or more water level detector strips in the hopper or in the lower portion of the filtered water container. The detector strips are in electrical communication with a detection circuit and a control unit. The control unit uses the detection strips to monitor water level and uses such data to track filtered water consumption and to determine when the filter cartridge should be replaced.