Abstract: A hot water delivery system includes a water heater, a mixing valve that is coupled to the output of the water heater, and a plurality of loads that are coupled to the output of the mixing valve. A load set point temperature of each load that is representative of a maximum temperature of the hot water that is to be delivered to the respective load is set by a user. Responsive to detecting the occurrence of an event associated with a load of the plurality of loads, a controller of the water heater controls the mixing valve to adjust the temperature of the hot water from the water heater to the load set point temperature associated with the load, provided the load set point temperature of the load is different from a water heater set point temperature at which the water heater maintains the hot water therein.

Abstract: A system, a method, and an apparatus for a temperature-adjusting adapter is described. The adapter includes first and second connectors coupled to first and second supply lines, wherein each of the first and second connector comprise an input, an output, and an adjustment port; a tube and an adjustment mechanism positioned between the adjustment ports of the first and second connectors, wherein the adjustment mechanism is movable between an open position and a closed position for selecting a temperature of a third fluid exiting the output port of the first or the second connector, wherein the third fluid is one of the first fluid, the second fluid, or a mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid, and wherein a mixing ratio of the mixture is based at least in part on the position of the adjustment mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention describes a novel outdoor enclosure for circulating pumps for outdoor tankless heaters, outdoor boilers and other outdoor applications. The enclosure includes a body and a cover with the body attaching to the circulator motor. When closed, the enclosure keeps rainfall and other contaminates from entering the wiring space within the enclosure and the circulator motor. The body of the enclosure has multiple ports for electrical wiring inputs for power and for controls connections which can be made with flexible cords and/or hardwires. The outdoor enclosure can be equipped with a terminal strip to simplify wiring and/or with a timer to control when the circulator operates. To avoid problems associated with freezing, the enclosure may include a thermal device that turns the circulator on if temperatures drop. To secure the cover to the body, fastener tabs are included that can accept a screw or lock.

Abstract: A heating system of a managed fluid system can include a heat exchanger and a first temperature sensor device that measures an inlet temperature of a fluid flowing into the heat exchanger. The heating system can also include a second temperature sensor device that measures an outlet temperature of the fluid flowing out of the heat exchanger. The heating system can further include a controller communicably coupled to the first temperature sensor device and the second temperature sensor device. The controller can receive inlet temperature measurements made by the first temperature sensor device and outlet temperature measurements made by the second temperature sensor device. The controller can also evaluate the inlet temperature measurements and the outlet temperature measurements using at least one lookup table and at least one algorithm. The controller can subsequently determine an input rate of fuel used to heat the fluid flowing through the heat exchanger.

Abstract: A smart electric heating device comprises a storage unit, a first heating unit, a second heating unit, a control unit and a first temperature sensing unit. With the first temperature sensing unit to obtain an ambient temperature, the control unit compares the ambient temperature with a maximum increased temperature and a set temperature for controlling the first heating unit and the second heating unit to actuate. In this way, each user can use hot water of sufficient temperature better.

Abstract: An instant hot water delivery system includes a thermal storage bin that receives hot water from a water heater via a hot water supply conduit and stores the hot water therein. The thermal storage bin is disposed adjacent a point of demand to deliver the hot water instantly to the point of demand responsive to a demand. The thermal storage bin is configured to retain a thermal energy of the hot water for a prolonged period using a phase change material. When the hot water stored in the thermal storage bin cools down below a threshold temperature, the cooled down hot water is recirculated to the water heater via a cold water supply conduit using a crossover valve. The recirculation is based on thermosiphon. Fresh hot water from the water heater replaces the cooled down hot water that is displaced from the thermal storage bin.

Abstract: A pump device is proposed for arrangement on a recirculation line of an industrial water system including a feed pump, a check valve and a bypass line for the check valve. The bypass line is arranged in parallel to the check valve and wherein a combination of the check valve and bypass line is arranged in series to the feed pump.

Abstract: A device for a sanitary facility, intended for rapidly delivering Domestic Hot Water (DHW) to the supply points without wasting energy. The device according to the invention transfers the DHW rapidly from the source to the user as soon as there is a need for it. The method, which prevents any recirculation, makes it possible, in particular, to save the large amount of energy that is systematically wasted each time the DHW is distributed between its source and the supply points. The device essentially consists of a motorised, relatively powerful pump (2) which channels the DHW from the source (1) and injects it into a pipe with a very small cross-section (3) that conveys the entire flow rate required by the user at a high velocity to the supply point (41). An adapted sensor (5) controls the switching on and off of the motor pump (2) upon each use and controls its flow rate on the basis of the requirements. A single device can be used for supplying multiple supply points.

Abstract: A hot water unit fluid supply control system comprises a switching device coupled to a hot water unit, a rainwater tank and a potable water source. The switching device is configured to selectively switch between a first state, which allows fluid communication between the hot water unit and the rainwater tank, and a second state, which allows fluid communication between the hot water unit and the potable water source. The hot water unit fluid supply control system comprises a control unit configured to: receive fluid characteristic information associated with fluid in the hot water unit from one or more sensors; activate or deactivate a pump of the rainwater tank based on a comparison of a fluid characteristic parameter of the fluid characteristic information with requirements of the hot water unit to thereby cause the switching device to assume the first or second state.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for detecting domestic hot water use by a sanitary fitting during an observation period by analysing data relative to volumes of water passing through a water meter, the method including: receiving a first item of data, noted V?1, representing the maximum volume of fluid measured over a predetermined period, preferably equal to 5 minutes; receiving a second item of data, noted V?2, representing the maximum volume of fluid measured by the meter during another predetermined period, preferably equal to 15 minutes; and detecting that domestic hot water has been used when V?1>15 litres and V?2?20 litres.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a tankless water heater and systems and methods of using the same. The tankless water heater embodiments of the present disclosure can be configured to have a plurality of independently operable heat exchangers that can be used individually or collectively, in any combination, to heat water based on the level of demand for hot water. Embodiments can be configured for randomly selecting which heat exchangers are used to heat the incoming water. Embodiments of the present disclosure can also be configured to flow water through heat exchangers that are not being used to heat water and direct such water to a recirculation loop.

Abstract: The present inventive concept relates to a method for adjusting a water temperature in a water recirculating device. The method comprises determining a first parameter associated with a first water path; determining a second parameter associated with a second water path; determining a setting of a mixing valve arrangement based on the first and second parameter; and adjusting a water temperature of water output by a water outlet based on the setting of the mixing valve arrangement. The invention also relates to a water recirculating device configured to adjust a water temperature of water output by a water outlet based on the setting of the mixing valve arrangement.

Abstract: A system and method for providing hot water to a point of use such as a shower. Waste warm water from said point of use passes through a heat exchanger, where it initially warms incoming mains water, typically to about 34° C. The initially warmed water is heated to its final temperature, typically about 42° C., in a smart boiler. The smart boiler, which typically has a volume of about 40 liters, comprises two chambers with a flexible barrier therebetween. Each chamber is separately heated as needed. Hot water is drawn from one of the two chambers; simultaneously, the other chamber fills with initially warmed water and is heated to its final temperature. When the volume of water in the chamber from which water is being drawn reaches a minimum, the system begins to fill that chamber and to draw water from the other one.

Abstract: A hot water supply system according to the present invention includes: a hot water supply unit configured to supply hot water; an opening and closing valve configured to connect a hot water supply pipe, which is configured to supply hot water to a user from the hot water supply unit, and a cold water supply pipe, which is configured to supply cold water introduced from a cold water inflow pipe to the user, to allow water to flow or configured to disconnect the hot water supply pipe from the cold water supply pipe to block the water from flowing; a circulation pump configured to circulate water supplied from the hot water supply unit through the hot water supply pipe, the opening and closing valve, the cold water supply pipe, and the hot water supply unit; and a control unit configured to, when a water-preheating signal of the user is input, open the opening and closing valve, and operate the circulation pump to preheat water which is to be supplied to the user.

Abstract: There is provided a water delivery system that includes, hot and cold water lines that are for feeding hot and cold water to respective hot and cold water fixtures, a water heater having a cold water input and a hot water output, a water circulator for pumping water from the hot water outlet to the hot water fixture, a bypass line that couples between the water circulator and the cold water input and at least a first check valve constructed and arranged in the bypass line for selectively directing hot pumped water via the water circulator to the cold water input to the water heater while preventing flow in an opposite direction toward the water circulator. A second check valve is disposed in the cold water line for selectively directing cold water from the cold water line to the cold water input to the water heater while preventing flow in an opposite direction toward the cold water line.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and managing water delivered to users hydraulically connected via a dedicated conduit loop to a water supply source and a water heating unit via a dedicated conduit loop, the system including a mixing valve(s) hydraulically connected to the dedicated conduit loop; a first set of sensing devices operatively coupled to an input and an output of the mixing valve, wherein each sensing device of the first set is adapted to generate and transmit sensed data signals; a recirculation pump hydraulically coupled to the dedicated conduit loop; a second set of sensing devices operatively coupled to selected portions of the dedicated conduit loop, wherein each sensing device of the second set is adapted to generate and transmit sensed data signals; a pressure regulating or balancing device(s) hydraulically coupled to the dedicated conduit loop; a data collection system for receiving and storing sensed data transmitted by the first set of sensing devices and/or the second set of sensing d

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing fluid such as water at a controlled temperature. In some embodiments, hot and cold fluid is provided to a thermostatically controlled mixing valve, which then provides fluid at a mixed temperature to a plumbing system. The thermostat provides a first loop for closed-loop control of fluid exit temperature, and preferably there is a second, electronically controlled closed loop for adjusting the temperature of fluid exiting the valve. In yet other embodiments the electronic control loop is fail-fixed, such that a loss of electrical communication to the actuator results in the actuator maintaining its last position. In yet other embodiments there is a system including a flow sensor and a recirculation pump such that the temperature of the fluid exiting the valve cannot be adjusted if there is insufficient flow, or if the pump is actuated.

Abstract: Smart hot water heater control can be improved by departing from the conventional approach of monitoring hot water demand at a single point (i.e., the water heater output). Instead, hot water demand is monitored at each location in the building where hot water is used. With this approach, the controller can provide hot water at a temperature suitable for the intended use, e.g., warm water for a bath or shower, and much hotter water for a dishwasher. This advantageously avoids inefficiency due to mixing hot and cold water at a tap to provide temperature control.

Abstract: The concepts relate to reducing energy loss associated with hot water systems. One example is manifest as a system with an automatic hot water recovery apparatus and selective hot water isolation devices. In one example a selective hot water isolation device is configured to be connected in fluid flowing relation with a first water line and a second water line and the selective hot water isolation device is configured to control water cross-over from the second water line into the first water line based upon water flow through the first water line.

Abstract: A water system and a method of its operation that eliminates water waste between the time hot water is demanded and hot water at the proper temperature is applied to a fixture. This water system uses a water drainage system that diverts water from the line feeding the fixture into a storage tank and then returns that drained water back into a water heater for re-heating. Pumps can be used to assist both drainage and returning the drained water. Once the hot water line is cleared of tepid or cold water the water system supplies hot water from the water heater to the fixture. A vacuum valve opens to enable draining of the water line.

Abstract: A device for controlling injection of chemical into a boiler and a chemical injection method can control an injection amount such that a chemical concentration is obtained as per a target even in a boiler feed-water facility where a flow rate of feed-water varies to a large extent in a short period. The device controls an amount discharged by a chemical injection pump in proportion to a flow rate measured by a flowmeter. An average chemical concentration in a feed-water is calculated from an amount of feed-water per predetermined period obtained by the flowmeter and a reduction in the amount of chemical in a tank per predetermined period obtained by a sensor. The chemical injection pump is controlled on the basis of the calculated average chemical concentration and a preset target chemical concentration of the feed-water so that the average chemical concentration is within the target chemical concentration range.

Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate to heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and water heating systems in relation to a building and residential automation system. Some embodiments of the systems and methods described herein relate to HVAC systems and water systems in relation to an integration of building or residential automation systems. Specifically, the disclosure relates to maintaining a desirable water temperature for a desirable time period. By reducing unnecessary heating of water, the systems disclosed herein may result in fewer wasted resources and a lower utility bill. In one embodiment, a method for security and/or automation systems may be disclosed. The method may comprise monitoring a status of a water heater and monitoring an occupancy status of a residence. The status of the water heater may adjust, automatically, based at least in part on the monitoring.

Abstract: A hot and cold water switching valve includes a valve body, a switching valve element, a switch valve element and a thermal sensing valve element, wherein the valve body has an inflow channel, a recovery channel and an outflow channel; one end of the three channels is communicated in the valve body; the switching valve element is provided in such a position where the three channels are communicated with each other and used for switching the outflow mode; the switch valve element is provided in the outflow channel and used for opening or closing the outflow, and the thermal sensing valve element is provided in the recovery channel and used for closing the channel when the water temperature is higher than the set temperature; and a sprinkler used for automatic outflow of cold water, comprising a sprinkler body and the above-mentioned hot and cold water switching valve.

Abstract: In one representative example, a water delivery apparatus includes a chassis and a water system supported on the chassis. The water system is substantially lead-free and adapted for use with potable water. The system includes a manifold adapted to convey and/or contain water in a substantially leak- proof manner. The manifold extends between an intake connection and a distal terminus valve. The system also includes first, second and third outlet legs and a pump adapted to induce water flow within the manifold principally from the intake connection to one or more of the outlet legs. The system also includes a pressure switch, an accumulator tank and a cycle to stop valve, all of which are operatively connected to the manifold.

Abstract: Disclosed is a two-way check/bypass valve assembly connected between the hot and cold-water standpipes under the sink that allows convective circulation of hot water from an existing water heater, through the existing hot water distribution pipes, through the valve assembly to the cold water standpipe, through the existing cold water standpipe and distribution pipes, and back into the water heater. The convective water flow is induced by the temperature difference between the hot water in the pipe rising above the water heater, and the slightly cooled, and denser, water flowing back down into the water heater. The valve will allow this low circulation water flow so long as both hot and cold faucets at the outlet are closed, and will prevent any cross flow between the hot and cold pipes under the sink when either the hot or cold faucet is opened.

Abstract: A hot-water supply system 1 comprises a temperature responsive valve 61 provided in a first bypass passage 60, an orifice 31 provided in a second bypass passage 30, a flow rate sensor 24 provided in a water supply passage 11 downstream from a connection point with the second bypass passage 30, a circulating pump 33 provided in the water supply passage 11 downstream from the connection point with the second bypass passage 30, and a controller 4. The controller 40 operates the circulating pump 33 and executes circulation heating operation for operating a burner to heat the hot water circulating through a circulation circuit 80, when a flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor 24 is equal to or more than a specified flow rate.

Abstract: A heat recovery apparatus recovers steam drain including at least one of steam used in a different device and drain where the steam used in the different device is condensed so as to recover heat contained in the steam drain. The heat recovery apparatus includes a pump, which circulates water accumulated in a tank through circulation pipes, an ejector, which is interposed in the circulation pipes and suctions the steam drain and mixes the steam drain with the circulating water so as to recover the steam drain, and a ball tap and a temperature controller, which perform temperature control of the water in the tank by replenishing the tank with tap water after a part of the water in the tank is discharged in the case where the water in the tank has reached a preliminarily set first temperature.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A device includes a first water heater, having a first water duct and a first heating member, and a second water heater, having a second water duct. The first water heater and the second water heater are in thermal connection with each other.

Abstract: A storage hot water supplying apparatus provides heated water to a load circuit through which users uses water, and includes a water storage tank which stores water and has outlets for water to be heated at different heights, and an outlet selecting unit to select, from among the outlets, an outlet to take out the water, based on a provision temperature which is a temperature of water to be provided from the water storage tank to the load circuit and temperatures of the water to be taken out through the outlets. A heating unit heats the water taken out through the selected outlet and to be returned to the water storage tank.

Abstract: A burner box includes a housing, a fuel tube and a porous heat dissipating surface. The housing is bounded by a sidewall and has a top and an opposite bottom that are each open so that the sidewall defines an open passage that allows unimpeded vertical airflow. The fuel tube extends into the passage and defines a plurality of spaced apart orifices that distribute fuel into the open passage. The fuel tube is at a distance from the top of the housing so that substantially all of the fuel is entrained by the combustion air before the fuel reaches the top. The heat dissipating surface is disposed across the top of the housing and supports a flame. The heat dissipating surface includes enough open area so that the fuel/air mixture passes through the porous heat dissipating surface unimpeded. The heat dissipating surface dissipates heat from the flame and prevents flashback.

Abstract: A hot water supply system includes a first tank for storing hot water for heating; a second tank for storing hot water to be supplied to a hot water tap; a heater circulation path for supplying the hot water of the first tank to a heater; a first path that includes a first heat transfer portion surrounding the exposed portion of the second tank to the inside of the first tank and that connects the first tank to a forward portion of the heater circulation path so that the hot water of the first tank can be supplied to the heater through the first heat transfer portion; and a second path that includes a second heat transfer portion disposed along the first heat transfer portion, and that allows heat exchange between the hot water of the second tank and the hot water flowing through the first heat transfer portion due to the flow, in the second heat transfer portion, of the hot water of the second tank.

Abstract: A hardware system that performs new energy- and water-saving, restorative tasks upon use is provided. In some aspects of the invention, energy-saving hot water recapturing techniques are provided. In a preferred embodiment, the system may push hot water back to a water tank, and halt such pushing after capturing all such hot water. In other aspects, specialized energy-saving pipes further assist the system, and a user's behavior may also assist the system in implementing additional energy and water-saving options and settings, including, but not limited to, a “Final Rinse” option and the timing of ending water service. In still other aspects, a user's ending use of water service a plumbing may also trigger an ending spray of handled parts of those fixtures and, optionally, a soap or antiseptic spray or other secretion. The same technology may be applied to other handles and fixtures, like door handles or elevator buttons.

Abstract: A water circulating system is for distributing instant hot water at a fixture that has respective hot and cold water inlets. The system includes hot and cold water piping, a pump constructed and arranged to pump water through said hot water piping. A by-pass device is provided at the sink area and connected directly between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. The by-pass device includes a pump for drawing hot water, a thermal switch, and a check valve. The pump, thermal switch, and check valve are constructed and arranged in series. A controller is connected to the pump so as to control the duty cycle of the pump so as to establish at least one of a selectable pump cycle time, and a selectable pump running time.

Abstract: An apparatus for heating water and steam, that has a first container with cold water and a second container with hot water, the two containers being in fluid communication via an intermediary pipe having a one-way valve to permit flow only from the first container to the second container. The first container has a water level monitor that controls when an input pipe allows water to refill the first container. The second container has a heat exchanger, a steam input pipe, a steam output pipe, and a heating element. The second container may be connected to a steam press, a boiler, and a washing machine.

Abstract: A dual chamber burner assembly is provided for use with a heater apparatus having dual combustion air premix blowers. The burner assembly includes first and second interior zones communicated with first and second foraminous outer wall portions. First and second fuel and air inlet passages are communicated with the first and second interior zones, respectively.

Abstract: A fluid system is provided comprising: a heater having an inlet and an outlet; a storage vessel; storage vessel heating means for heating the fluid in the storage vessel; a mixing valve having a first inlet for receiving fluid to be heated from a fluid supply, a second inlet for receiving fluid from the storage vessel, and an outlet for supplying fluid to the inlet of the heater; and a controller wherein the controller is arranged to monitor the heater's performance and to operate the mixing valve to blend the fluid from the fluid supply with fluid from the storage vessel, for example, when a demand on the heater exceeds a threshold value.

Abstract: A gas water heater includes a power burner, a flue tube, an exhaust plenum, and a draft hood. The flue tube includes a portion that describes at least a 360° loop. Products of combustion are forced through the flue tube under the influence of the power burner, and enter the exhaust plenum. In the exhaust plenum, the pressure of the products of combustion drops such that the products of combustion flow into the draft hood substantially entirely under the influence of natural convection. In one embodiment, the power burner fires down into the flue tube through a side wall of the water heater, the loop of the flue tube is near the bottom of the water heater, and the plenum is in the top of the water heater.

Abstract: A water heating apparatus uses a low range blower assembly and a high range blower assembly, each providing a variable flow of premixed fuel and air to a burner assembly. Appropriate choice of the operating ranges of the blower assemblies can provide a high turndown ratio approximately equal to the product of the turndown ratios of each of the individual blower assemblies. Turndown ratios as high as 25:1 are achievable.

Abstract: A pipe connecting structure of a water heater. Individual parts in the water heater are integrally coupled with a pipe body, which is injection-molded, provides paths of tap water and hot water, reduces the number of pipes connecting the individual parts, and simplifies the connection structure of the pipes. The pipe connecting structure of the water heater includes a tap water inlet pipe connected from a tap water inlet to a heat exchanger; a hot water supply pipe connected from the heat exchanger to a hot water outlet; a flow sensor for measuring the flow rate of the tap water introduced via the tap water inlet; and a flow control valve for controlling the flow rate of the hot water discharged via the hot water outlet. The pipe body connects and is integral with the tap water inlet, the tap water inlet pipe, the hot water supply pipe, and the hot water outlet.

Abstract: Heating systems including a boiler for heating a heating fluid, a plurality of heating accessories each requiring input of heat, piping connecting the boiler with the heating accessories, at least one of the heating accessories being placed in series relative to at least one other of the heating accessories, and a valve system including a variable speed pump and an associated control system for varying flow of the heating fluid from the boiler. Each heating accessory is configured such that heating fluid from the boiler delivered through the piping to each successive heating accessory provides heat to each heating accessory and the heating fluid is returned to the boiler at a sufficiently low temperature (e.g., no more than about 120° F.) so as to allow the returned heating fluid to be used to condense water out of flue gas generated by the boiler so as to maximize the efficiency of the boiler.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hot water supplying apparatus having an auxiliary heat exchanger. The hot water supplying apparatus comprises: a heat exchanger including an inlet pipe for introducing heating water into the heat exchanger, and first, second, and third heat exchanging pipes connected to the inlet pipe and sequentially arranged; and an auxiliary heat exchanging device installed at an inlet port of the heat exchanger through which the heating water is introduced, the auxiliary heat exchanging device including a first auxiliary heat exchanging pipe connecting the inlet pipe to the first heat exchanging pipe, a second auxiliary heat exchanging pipe connecting the second heat exchanging pipe to the third heat exchanging pipe, and heat transfer fins for transferring heat energy from the second auxiliary heat exchanging pipe to the first auxiliary heat exchanging pipe.

Abstract: A fluid isolation valve having a valve body with a first fluid flow port, a second fluid flow port and a fluid drain port with a valve in the fluid drain port. The valve body also defines a fluid flow channel, a drain flow channel and a valve portion, wherein the valve portion is disposed in the valve body to be communicated with the first fluid flow port, the second fluid flow port and the fluid drain port. A flow diversion device is also provided and is disposed within the valve portion. The flow diversion device is configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, such that when the flow diversion device is in the first configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the second fluid flow port. Consequently, when the flow diversion device is in the second configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the fluid drain port. The fluid flow can be decrease or stop by use of the valve within the fluid drain port.

Abstract: A boiler particularly for humidifiers, provided with a tank, supported by supporting elements, which have a filling and discharging orifice. A centrifugal discharge pump is supported by the supporting elements in a position that faces the orifice, so that the axis of its impeller substantially coincides with the axis of the orifice.

Abstract: A boiler and method of operating a boiler are disclosed. The boiler generally includes a housing defining an enclosed region and a plurality of heat exchange conduits at least partially positioned within the enclosed region of the housing and arranged into an interior column and an exterior column. A baffle is at least partially positioned within the enclosed region of the housing and positioned between the interior column and the exterior column of heat exchange conduits. The baffle and the housing together define a constricted region. The heat exchange conduits of the exterior column are positioned within the constricted region. The constricted region defines a path for directing the flow of products of combustion adjacent the heat exchange conduits of the exterior column thereby facilitating the exchange of heat between the products of combustion and water within the heat exchange conduit of the exterior column.

Abstract: A valve assembly is provided having two valve sections, each having a tubular passageway portion and when joined together, defining a ball cavity in communication with the tubular passageways. One of the body sections is provided with an inlet/outlet in communication with the ball cavity as well as a spindle flange. An elongate spindle extends through the spindle flange projecting into the ball cavity region to rotate a spherical ball element between an open and a bypass position. The ball valve has a primary elongate passage which interconnects the two tubular passage portions in the valve body sections when the ball valve is in the open position. When the ball valve is rotated to the bypass position, the tubular passage portion of one of the ball body sections is sealed closed while the other tubular passage portion communicates with an internal bypass port within the ball valve which in turn, communicates with the auxiliary inlet/outlet.

Abstract: A fluid isolation valve having a valve body with a first fluid flow port, a second fluid flow port and a fluid drain port with a valve in the fluid drain port. The valve body also defines a fluid flow channel, a drain flow channel and a valve portion, wherein the valve portion is disposed in the valve body to be communicated with the first fluid flow port, the second fluid flow port and the fluid drain port. A flow diversion device is also provided and is disposed within the valve portion. The flow diversion device is configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, such that when the flow diversion device is in the first configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the second fluid flow port. Consequently, when the flow diversion device is in the second configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the fluid drain port. The fluid flow can be decrease or stop by use of the valve within the fluid drain port.

Abstract: A fluid isolation valve having a valve body with a first fluid flow port, a second fluid flow port and a fluid drain port with a valve in the fluid drain port. The valve body also defines a fluid flow channel, a drain flow channel and a valve portion, wherein the valve portion is disposed in the valve body to be communicated with the first fluid flow port, the second fluid flow port and the fluid drain port. A flow diversion device is also provided and is disposed within the valve portion. The flow diversion device is configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, such that when the flow diversion device is in the first configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the second fluid flow port. Consequently, when the flow diversion device is in the second configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the fluid drain port. The fluid flow can be decrease or stop by use of the valve within the fluid drain port.

Abstract: A kit, device and method for improving the hot water supply performance of a water heater are provided. The device comprises a fitting, a conduit, and a mixing device. The fitting includes an inlet port configured for coupling with a cold water supply line, an outlet port configured for releasably coupling with a cold water inlet port of the water heater, and a bypass port configured for diverting a portion of the cold water from the cold water supply line. The conduit includes an inlet port configured for coupling with the bypass port of the fitting and an outlet port. The mixing device includes a mixing port for coupling with the outlet port of the conduit, an inlet port for releasably coupling with a hot water outlet port of a water heater, and an outlet port for coupling with a hot water supply line.

Abstract: A water heater (10) including a tank (12) adapted for mounting with its longitudinal axis substantially vertical and a duct (32) adapted for mounting with its longitudinal axis substantially vertical. The duct (32) is positioned within the tank (12) and extends through at least most of the height of the tank (12). The duct (32) defines a first volume (34) within the duct interior and a second volume (36) between the duct exterior and the tank interior. The first volume (34) being smaller than the second volume (36). The duct (32) has at least one upper opening (38) at or near the top of the duct (32) and at least one lower opening (40) at or near the bottom of the duct (32). The heater (10) also has a heating element (44) within, or forming all or part of, the duct (32). The element (44) extends at least substantially through the upper half of the duct (32). The heater (10) also has an inlet (24) at or near the bottom of the tank (12) and an outlet (22) at or near the top of the tank (12).