| 摘要 |
The invention relates to a compact, portable multiple service apparatus and method for purifying and disinfecting water from potable or non-potable water sources and dispensing ice, room temperature water, cold water, and hot water made from the purified/disinfected water in this apparatus. This apparatus is equipped to receive input water from either a direct connection to a tap water system (in home or office), or other source of water (such as a well, stream or lake), or by a bottled reservoir containing water. The apparatus employs a particulate filter, an ultraviolet water germicidal treatment unit, and a carbon-type filter (or the like). A chiller unit is used for cooling the water and storing the cooled, purified water. A heater unit is used for heating the water. A freezer unit is employed for making ice cubes from the purified water. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the air from the freezer unit is diverted to the chiller unit to chill the purified water. The apparatus of this invention is also equipped with a sensor to detect a failure of the ultraviolet water treatment unit so that in the event of a failure of the ultraviolet unit, the apparatus prevents additional introduction of input water into the system.
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