Abstract: An automatic washing machine with water level control and associated method. In one embodiment, the washing machine comprises a tub for receiving a load of clothes, a water level sensor taking water level measurements during a water fill stage, and a controller. The controller controls a water valve that introduces water into the washing machine. The controller comprises a timer, a memory and a microprocessor. The microprocessor accesses a signature fill rate of the washing machine when unloaded, receives water level measurements from the sensor during the fill stage, and determines a measured fill rate. The microprocessor compares the measured fill rate to the signature fill rate and shut off the water valve when the measured fill rate is substantially equal to the signature fill rate.

Abstract: A dishwasher comprising a heating element having a resistance adapted to change in response to the water temperature in the dishwasher, and a data processing unit coupled to the heating element for measuring the resistance of the heating element and determining the water temperature in the dishwasher using the resistance measurement.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the water level in a dishwasher. The apparatus comprises a heating element having a resistance adapted to change in response to a change in the water level of the dishwasher, and a data processing unit coupled to the heating element for measuring the resistance of the heating element, determining the water level based on the resistance of the heating element, and filling the dishwasher to a desired water level.