Abstract: A temperature control system and method for regulating the temperature of an external device or load is provided which maintains the actual ambient temperature of the external device at a desired set point temperature. The temperature control system includes a solid state temperature sensing device for sensing the actual temperature of the external device, and generating a sensor output voltage proportional to the actual temperature. An adjustable voltage dividing circuit generates a temperature compensated set point voltage proportional to the desired temperature. A fixed voltage dividing circuit generates a reference voltage having a predetermined magnitude. A first comparator compares the set point voltage to the sensor output voltage, and generates an output signal indicating whether the sensor output voltage is maintained at the set point voltage. A second comparator detects whether the external device is maintained in an "off" or "on" state by comparing the set point voltage to the reference voltage.

Abstract: A combination beverage brewer with cold water supply is embodied within a housing, to furnish a beverage brewing segment, at one or more locations within a housing, and a water chilling or cooling supply disposed in association therewith, to supply cold water as required. The beverage brewer incorporates a hot water tank, a heating element therein, which hot water is delivered to a spray head for deposit onto a basket of grounds for brewing of a beverage. In addition, hot water may be tapped from the tank and delivered to a faucet for direct dispensing. The cold water segment of the apparatus includes a cold water tank, a cooling rod therein, cooling module for operating as a heat pump for extracting warmth from the water to heat it, and delivery of the extracted heat to a heat sink, for dissipation.