Donald S Kuhnel

US Patent:

6080971, Jun 27, 2000

Filed:

Feb 1, 1999

Appl. No.:

9/241185

Inventors:

David Seitz - Conroe TX
Donald Kuhnel - Hobson TX

International Classification:

H05B 102

US Classification:

219483

Abstract:

An electrically powered water heater includes a plurality of heating elements for substantially instantaneous heating of fluid passing through the heater. A controller for powering the plurality of heating elements is responsive to a temperature sensor in fluid communication with the heated fluid. The temperature sensor activates each of the plurality of heating elements for a predetermined period of time that is preferably no more than 32 half cycles. The controller activates a second heating element after a delay of preferably no more than 8 half cycles after activating a first heating element. The predetermined period of time for activating each of the plurality of heating elements may be substantially equal, such that each heating element contributes substantially equally to the heating of fluid. In one embodiment, the heater housing is provided with a plurality of chambers, and a heating element is provided within each of the plurality of chambers.

US Patent:

58668802, Feb 2, 1999

Filed:

May 22, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/861766

Inventors:

David Seitz - Conroe TX
Donald Kuhnel - Hobson TX

International Classification:

H05B 102

US Classification:

219483

Abstract:

An electrically powered water heater includes a plurality of heating elements for substantially instantaneous heating of fluid passing through the heater. A controller for powering the plurality of heating elements is responsive to a temperature sensor in fluid communication with the heated fluid. The temperature sensor activates each of the plurality of heating elements for a predetermined period of time that is preferably no more than 32 half cycles. The controller activates a second heating element after a delay of preferably no more than 8 half cycles after activating a first heating element. The predetermined period of time for activating each of the plurality of heating elements may be substantially equal, such that each heating element contributes substantially equally to the heating of fluid. In one embodiment, the heater housing is provided with a plurality of chambers, and a heating element is provided within each of the plurality of chambers.