JP2006105461A - Hot water supply device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a hot water supply device 11 for surely taking out hot water when the hot water whose temperature is a takeout temperature or higher required for supplying the hot water of set hot water supply temperature is stored in a hot water storage tank 21. <P>SOLUTION: An upper connection port 23 and an intermediate connection port 24 are provided in the hot water storage tank 21. A hot water supply selecting three-way valve 53 is provided for selectively taking hot water out of the upper connection port 23 or the intermediate connection port 24 of the hot water storage tank 21. When a difference between temperatures detected by thermistors 26a, 26b provided in the hot water storage tank 21 is within a preset value, the hot water is selectively taken out of the upper connection port 23. When the difference between the temperature detected by the thermistors 26a, 26b is the preset value or greater and the temperature detected at an intermediate portion by the thermistor 26b is higher than the takeout temperature, the hot water is selectively taken out of the intermediate connection port 24. When the difference between the temperatures detected by the thermistors 26a, 26b is the preset value or greater and the temperature detected at the intermediate portion by the thermistor 26b is not higher than the takeout temperature, the hot water is selectively taken out of the upper connection port 23. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a hot water supply apparatus that supplies hot water stored in a hot water storage tank.

  Conventionally, in a hot water supply device that takes in hot water boiled from the top of a hot water storage tank and takes out the hot water from the top of the hot water storage tank to supply hot water, a heat exchanger is placed in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, There is known a hot water supply device with a reheating function that circulates the hot and cold water in a heat exchanger and retreats the hot water in the bathtub by exchanging heat with the hot water stored in the upper part of the hot water storage tank.

  There is a heat pump unit using a refrigerant circuit as a boiling means for boiling hot water stored in a hot water storage tank. In this heat pump unit, at the time of boiling, the water in the lower part of the hot water tank is taken out from the lower part of the hot water tank and boiled through the heat exchanger of the heat pump unit, and the hot water is taken into the upper part of the hot water tank. Hot water is stored from the top of the hot water tank using the difference in specific gravity between water and water.

  In such a hot water supply device, when heat is exchanged with a heat exchanger, the temperature of the hot water in the vicinity of the heat exchanger decreases, and then when hot water boiled from the upper part of the hot water storage tank is taken in and stored, the temperature decreases. When medium / low temperature hot water (medium temperature hot water and low temperature hot water) is pushed from the middle part of the hot water storage tank to the lower part and then hot water is taken out from the upper part of the hot water storage tank, the medium / low temperature hot water rises again. When hot water boiled from the upper part of the hot water tank is taken in and stored without using the hot water, the medium and low temperature hot water is pushed again from the middle part of the hot water tank to the lower part. Medium and low temperature hot water remains without being used. If medium- and low-temperature hot water remains from the middle to the lower part of the hot water storage tank, not only the total heat stored in the hot water storage tank will be reduced, but the hot and cold water will be boiled by the heat pump unit. There is a problem that decreases.

  Therefore, in addition to the upper outlet provided at the upper part of the hot water storage tank, an intermediate outlet is provided below the outlet, so that the hot water in the hot water storage tank can be taken out from either the upper outlet or the intermediate outlet by a switching valve. There is a hot water supply device. And in this hot water supply device, first, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is taken out from the intermediate outlet, and at this time, if there is medium / low temperature hot water in the lower part from the intermediate part of the hot water storage tank, the medium / low temperature hot water is taken out and used. Thereafter, hot water in the hot water storage tank is taken out from the upper outlet (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Moreover, in addition to the upper outlet provided in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, an intermediate outlet is provided below the outlet so that hot water in the hot water storage tank can be mixed and taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet by a mixing valve. There is a hot water supply device. In this hot water supply device, the mixing ratio of hot water from the upper intake port and hot water from the intermediate intake port is adjusted to 65 ° C. with the thermowax of the mixing valve, so that the middle part of the hot water storage tank is lowered from the middle part to the lower part. When there is low temperature hot water, the low temperature hot water is taken out and used (for example, refer to Patent Document 2).
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2003-161518 (page 4-5, FIG. 1) JP2003-240342A (5th page, FIG. 4)

  By the way, in the hot water supply apparatus, the maximum temperature of the hot water supply that can be set by the remote controller is about 60 ° C. However, with the widespread use of automatic dishwashers, for example, high temperature hot water of 70 ° C. or 80 ° C. is increasing.

  However, in a hot water supply device in which hot water is first taken out from the intermediate outlet of the hot water storage tank, when intermediate / low temperature hot water is stored from the middle to the lower part of the hot water storage tank, Even if hot water is stored in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, there is a problem that the hot water cannot be taken out and supplied.

  Moreover, in the hot water supply device that mixes and removes the hot water from the upper outlet of the hot water storage tank and the hot water from the intermediate outlet, the temperature is adjusted to 65 ° C. with the thermowax of the mixing valve. When medium and low temperature hot water is stored from the bottom to the bottom, this medium and low temperature hot water is mixed with high temperature hot water, so even if high temperature hot water is stored in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, only the high temperature hot water cannot be taken out and supplied. is there.

  Thus, in any hot water supply apparatus, even if hot water is stored in the hot water storage tank, it may not be possible to cope with the removal of the hot water.

  The present invention has been made in view of such points, and when hot water having a temperature higher than the take-out temperature necessary for hot water supply at a hot water supply set temperature is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water is reliably removed. An object of the present invention is to provide a hot water supply device capable of performing the above.

  The hot water supply device according to claim 1 detects the temperature of the hot water storage tank provided with the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet lower than the upper outlet, and the temperature of the hot water above the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank. First temperature detection means, second temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of hot water below the intermediate take-out port in the hot water storage tank, and removal of hot water from the upper take-out port and the intermediate take-out port of the hot water storage tank According to the take-out switching means for switching hot water and the temperature detected by the first and second temperature detecting means and the temperature for taking out hot water from the hot water storage tank necessary for supplying hot water at the hot water set temperature. If the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is within a predetermined value, the take-out switching means is switched to take out hot water from the upper outlet, and the first and second temperature detecting means The difference in the detected temperature is If the temperature detected by the second temperature detecting means is higher than the take-out temperature and the temperature detected by the second temperature detecting means is higher, the hot water is taken out from the intermediate outlet, and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is greater than a predetermined value. And a control means for switching to taking out hot water from the upper outlet when the temperature detected by the second temperature detecting means is lower than the taking-out temperature.

  If the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detection means is within a predetermined value, the hot water is taken out from the upper outlet, and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detection means. Is higher than a predetermined value and the temperature detected by the second temperature detection means is higher than the extraction temperature, the hot water is taken out from the intermediate outlet, and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detection means is predetermined. If the temperature detected by the second temperature detection means is lower than the take-off temperature and lower than the take-out temperature, the hot water is higher than the take-out temperature necessary for supplying hot water at the hot water supply set temperature by switching to hot water take-out from the upper take-out port. When hot water is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water can be reliably removed.

  The hot water supply apparatus according to claim 2 detects the temperature of the hot water storage tank provided with the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet lower than the upper outlet, and the temperature of the hot water above the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank. First temperature detecting means, second temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of hot water below the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank, hot water extraction from the upper outlet of the hot water storage tank and upper outlet And a hot water storage tank required to supply hot water having a temperature detected by the first and second temperature detecting means and hot water set temperature. The take-out switching means is controlled in accordance with the hot water take-out temperature from the hot water, and if the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is within a predetermined value, the hot water is taken out from the upper take-out port. , First and second If the difference between the temperatures detected by the temperature detection means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value and the temperature of the hot water to be mixed and taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is higher than the take-out temperature, switching to the mixed take-out is performed, and the first and second temperature detecting means Control means for switching to hot water removal from the upper outlet when the difference in temperature detected in step S is equal to or greater than a predetermined value and the temperature at which the mixture is taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is lower than the extraction temperature. It is what.

  If the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detection means is within a predetermined value, the hot water is taken out from the upper outlet, and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detection means. Is higher than a predetermined value and the temperature of hot water mixed and taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is higher than the taking-out temperature, the mixture is taken out and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is larger than the predetermined value. If the temperature at which the mixture is taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is lower than the take-out temperature, the hot water at or above the take-off temperature necessary for supplying hot water at the set hot water temperature is switched by switching to the hot water take-out from the upper outlet. When hot water is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water can be taken out.

  A hot water supply apparatus according to claim 3 is provided with a plurality of hot water detection means for detecting hot water from a plurality of hot water supply points, wherein the hot water supply set temperatures can be individually set, respectively, in the hot water supply apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The means sets the extraction temperature corresponding to the hot water supply set temperature at the hot water supply location where the hot water detection means has detected the hot water, and controls the extraction switching means.

  And by setting the extraction temperature corresponding to the hot water supply set temperature of the hot water supply location where the hot water detection means has detected the hot water, and controlling the extraction switching means, the extraction switching means corresponding to the hot water supply set temperature that is actually going to be discharged Switch.

  The hot water supply apparatus according to claim 4 is the hot water supply apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control means sets an extraction temperature corresponding to the highest hot water supply set temperature when a plurality of hot water detection means detect hot water simultaneously. The take-out switching means is controlled.

  And when multiple hot water detection means detect hot water at the same time, by setting the extraction temperature corresponding to the highest hot water supply set temperature and controlling the extraction switching means, it also supports simultaneous hot water discharge from multiple hot water supply points It becomes possible.

  According to the hot water supply apparatus of claim 1, if the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is within a predetermined value, the hot water supply device is switched to take out hot water from the upper outlet, and the first and second If the difference between the temperatures detected by the temperature detection means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value and the temperature detected by the second temperature detection means is higher than the take-out temperature, the hot water is taken out from the intermediate outlet, and the first and second temperature detections are performed. If the difference in temperature detected by the means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value and the temperature detected by the second temperature detecting means is lower than the take-out temperature, hot water at the hot water supply set temperature is supplied by switching to hot water removal from the upper outlet. Therefore, when hot water having a temperature higher than the required removal temperature is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water can be reliably taken out.

  According to the hot water supply device of the second aspect, if the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is within a predetermined value, the hot water supply device is switched to take out hot water from the upper outlet, and the first and second If the difference between the temperatures detected by the temperature detection means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value and the temperature of the hot water to be mixed and taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is higher than the outlet temperature, the hot water is switched to the mixed outlet, and the first and second temperature detectors are used. If the difference between the detected temperatures is equal to or greater than the specified value and the temperature for mixing and taking out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is lower than the outlet temperature, hot water at the hot water supply set temperature is supplied by switching to hot water removal from the upper outlet. When hot water having a temperature higher than the required removal temperature is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water can be taken out.

  According to the hot water supply device according to claim 3, in addition to the effect of the hot water supply device according to claim 1 or 2, the hot water detection means sets the extraction temperature corresponding to the hot water supply temperature of the hot water supply location where the hot water detection has been detected, and is taken out. By controlling the switching means, the take-out switching means can be switched in accordance with the hot water supply set temperature that is actually going to be discharged.

  According to the hot water supply device of claim 4, in addition to the effect of the hot water supply device of claim 3, when a plurality of hot water detection means detect hot water simultaneously, the extraction temperature corresponding to the highest hot water supply set temperature is set. By controlling the take-out switching means, it is possible to handle simultaneous hot water from a plurality of hot water supply points.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram related to hot water supply of a hot water supply device, FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram related to boiling hot water storage of the hot water supply device, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the hot water supply device.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the hot water supply device 11 includes a main body unit 12 and a heat pump unit 13 as a boiling means, and an automatic hot water filling function for automatically filling the bathtub 14 and hot water filled in the bathtub 14. It has a chasing function for chasing.

  The main unit 12 has a hot water storage tank 21 for storing hot water. The hot water storage tank 21 has a water supply port 22 at the bottom, an upper connection port 23 at the top, an intermediate connection port 24 at the middle, and a water supply port at the bottom. Lower connection ports 25 are provided above 22. During boiling hot water storage, the water supply port 22 functions as an intake port, the upper connection port 23 functions as an upper intake port, the intermediate connection port 24 functions as an intermediate intake port, and the lower connection port 25 functions as a lower intake port. . On the other hand, when hot water is supplied, the upper connection port 23 functions as an upper outlet and the intermediate connection port 24 functions as an intermediate outlet.

  On the side of the hot water storage tank 21, hot water storage tanks are located at the height positions of 60L, 120L, 180L of hot water, for example, and from the lower side of the hot water storage tank 21, for example, at the height of 30L, 60L of hot water. Thermistors 26a to 26e for detecting the hot water temperature in 21 are arranged. The thermistor 26a functions as a first temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 higher than the intermediate connection port 24, and the thermistor 26b is a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot water at the height of the intermediate connection port 24. The thermistor 26c detects the temperature of the hot water at a height lower than the intermediate connection port 24.

  A water supply pipe 27 connected to a water supply source such as a water pipe is connected to the water supply port 22 of the hot water storage tank 21 via a pressure reducing valve 28, and an upper pipe 29 is connected to the upper connection port 23, and to the intermediate connection port 24. The intermediate pipe 30 is connected, and the lower pipe 31 is connected to the lower connection port 25.

  Further, between the hot water storage tank 21 and the heat pump unit 13, a boiling circulation path 35 of the circulation means 34 for circulating the lower water in the hot water storage tank 21 to the heat pump unit 13 is formed. This boiling circuit 35 is connected to the water supply port 22 of the hot water storage tank 21 so that the water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 21 enters the heat pump unit 13 and the hot water boiled by the heat pump unit 13 is discharged. A return pipe 37 that returns to the hot water storage tank 21, and a circulation pump 38 that circulates hot water through the return pipe 36 and the return pipe 37 are provided.

  Between the return pipe 37 and each of the pipes 29, 30, 31, hot water that has been boiled by the heat pump unit 13 and returns from the return pipe 37 to the hot water storage tank 21 is connected to any of the connection ports 23, 24, 25 of the hot water storage tank 21. An intake switching three-way valve 39 is provided as an intake switching means for switching to one. This inlet switching three-way valve 39 is connected to an inlet 39a to which a return pipe 37 is connected, an upper outlet 39b to which an upper pipe 29 is connected, an intermediate outlet 39c to which an intermediate pipe 30 is connected, and a lower pipe 31. The lower outlet 39d is configured such that any one of the outlets 39b to 39d is opened with respect to the inlet 39a and the rest is closed.

  The heat pump unit 13 includes a refrigerant circuit 42 filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit 42 includes a compressor 43, a heat exchanger 44 that functions as a condenser, an evaporator 45, and the like. During the operation, water circulating through the boiling circuit 35 is boiled through the heat exchanger 44. The compressor 43, the evaporator 45, and the like are disposed in an outdoor unit 46 that is different from the main unit, and the heat exchanger 44 and the like are disposed in the main unit 12.

  A refrigerant discharge temperature detection sensor 47 for detecting the refrigerant discharge temperature is provided on the discharge side of the compressor 43, a refrigerant condensation temperature detection sensor 48 for detecting the condensation temperature of the refrigerant is provided in the heat exchanger 44, and a water supply temperature is provided in the outgoing pipe 36. A feed water temperature sensor 49 for detecting the hot water temperature is provided, and a hot water temperature sensor 50 for detecting the hot water temperature is provided in the return pipe 37.

  Further, the upper pipe 29 and the intermediate pipe 30 are connected to a hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 as an extraction switching means for switching hot water from the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 of the hot water storage tank 21 to supply hot water. . This hot water switching three-way valve 53 has an upper inlet 53a to which the upper pipe 29 is connected, an intermediate inlet 53b to which the intermediate pipe 30 is connected, and an outlet 53c to which the hot water pipe 54 is connected. On the other hand, one of the inflow ports 53a and 53b is opened and the other is closed.

  The water supply pipe 27 and the hot water supply pipe 54 are connected to a hot water supply electric mixing valve 55 and a bath electric mixing valve 56, respectively. The electric mixing valve 55 for hot water supply and the electric mixing valve 56 for bath mix water from the water supply pipe 27 and hot water from the hot water supply pipe 54, for example, as a first temperature setting unit installed in a kitchen or the like. Hot water is supplied at a hot water supply set temperature set by the main remote controller 57 and a bathroom remote controller 58 as a second temperature setting unit installed in the bathroom. The hot water set temperature that can be set with the bathroom remote control 58 includes a hot water set temperature that is the temperature of hot water such as a shower, and a bath set temperature that is the temperature of hot water that fills the bathtub. The electric mixing valve 56 is controlled.

  A hot water supply pipe 59 for supplying hot water to the kitchen or the like from the electric mixing valve 55 for hot water supply is provided with a flow rate sensor 60 as hot water detection means for detecting the flow rate of hot water and a hot water supply temperature sensor 61 for detecting the temperature of the hot water. Yes. The hot water supply pipe 62 for supplying hot water from the electric mixing valve 56 for bath to the bathtub 14 has a hopper 64 having a flow rate sensor 63 as hot water detection means for detecting the flow rate of hot water, and a hot water supply temperature for detecting the temperature of the hot water. A sensor 65 is provided.

  Further, a heat exchanger 68 as a heat exchanging means is arranged in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 and between the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24, and the heat exchanger 68 and the bathtub 14 are connected to the circulation path 69. Are connected by a forward route 70 and a return route 71. A circulation pump 72 that circulates bathtub hot water is disposed in the forward path 70. A hot water supply pipe 62 is connected to the circulation path 69, and automatic hot water filling and automatic hot water for the bathtub 14 are possible.

  Further, FIG. 3 shows a control means 81 for controlling the hot water supply device 11, and this control means 81 includes a main remote controller 57, a bathroom remote controller 58, each thermistor 26a to 26e, a refrigerant discharge temperature detection sensor 47, a refrigerant condensation temperature detection sensor. 48, feed water temperature sensor 49, hot water temperature sensor 50, flow rate sensor 60, 63, hot water temperature sensor 61, 65, etc., input signals, circulation pump 38, compressor 43, intake switching three-way valve 39, hot water switching It controls a three-way valve 53, an electric mixing valve 55 for hot water supply, an electric mixing valve 56 for bath, a circulation pump 72, and the like.

  When the temperature of the hot water detected by the hot water temperature sensor 50 is equal to or higher than the boiling target temperature, the control means 81 switches to the upper connection port 23 with the intake switching three-way valve 39 and connects the hot water heated by the heat pump unit 13 to the upper connection. When the outlet temperature is lower than the boiling target temperature, the hot water heated by the heat pump unit 13 is switched to the intermediate connection port 24 by the intake switching three-way valve 39 when the hot water temperature is lower than the boiling target temperature. The heat pump unit is switched to the lower connection port 25 by the intake switching three-way valve 39 at the start of boiling by the heat pump unit 13 and at the resumption of boiling after defrosting of the outdoor unit 46. It has a function of allowing the lower connection port 25 to take in water whose temperature remains low even after passing through the 13 heat exchangers 44.

  When the temperature of the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 where the heat exchanger 68 is located is detected by the thermistor 26a and the temperature of the hot water in the bathtub 14 is lower than a preset heat exchange temperature, Based on the detection of the thermistors 26a to 26e, the upper connection port 23 of the hot water storage tank 21 based on the function of switching to the intermediate connection port 24 with the switching three-way valve 39 and causing the hot water heated by the heat pump unit 13 to be taken into the intermediate connection port 24 The hot water having the first set temperature is stored between the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 through the second connection port, and the second lower temperature than the first set temperature is set below the intermediate connection port 24 through the intermediate connection port 24. It has a function to store hot water at a set temperature.

  In addition, the control means 81 includes the temperature detected by each thermistor 26a, 26b and the hot water take-out temperature (hot water set temperature + α) required from the hot water storage tank 21 to supply hot water at the hot water set temperature (bath set temperature). The hot water switching three-way valve 53 is controlled accordingly, and if the difference between the temperatures detected by the thermistors 26a and 26b is within a predetermined value, the hot water is switched from the upper connection port 23 and detected by the thermistors 26a and 26b. If the temperature difference detected is greater than the specified value and the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b at the intermediate part is higher than the take-off temperature (hot water supply set temperature + α), switch to hot water removal from the intermediate connection port 24, and detect by each thermistor 26a, 26b If the temperature difference detected is not less than a predetermined value and the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b at the intermediate portion is lower than the take-off temperature (hot water supply set temperature + α), it has a function of switching to hot water take-out from the upper connection port 23.

  The control means 81 controls the hot-water supply switching three-way valve 53 by setting the take-off temperature (hot-water supply set temperature + α) corresponding to the hot-water supply set temperature at the hot-water supply location where the flow sensors 60 and 63 detect the hot water. When the flow sensors 60 and 63 detect hot water at the same time, they have a function of controlling the hot water switching three-way valve 53 by setting the take-off temperature (hot water set temperature + α) corresponding to the highest hot water set temperature. .

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  First, the hot water storage operation of the hot water storage tank 21 under the control of the control means 81 will be described.

  During operation of the compressor 43 of the heat pump unit 13, the circulation pump 38 is driven, and the water below the hot water tank 21 taken out from the water supply port 22 of the hot water tank 21 is boiled through the heat exchanger 44 of the heat pump unit 13 and taken out. Hot water is taken into the hot water storage tank 21 from any one of the upper connection port 23, the intermediate connection port 24, and the lower connection port 25 that are switched by the inlet switching three-way valve 39.

  The temperature of the hot water from the heat pump unit 13 is detected and monitored by the hot water temperature sensor 50. When the temperature of the hot water from the heat pump unit 13 is equal to or higher than the boiling target temperature of, for example, 90 ° C., the upper connection port is connected to the inlet switching three-way valve 39. The hot water boiled by the heat pump unit 13 is taken into the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 from the upper connection port 23, and the hot water is sequentially stored downward from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21. When the temperature of the hot water discharged from the heat pump unit 13 is equal to or higher than the boiling target temperature of, for example, 90 ° C., the temperature of the water stored in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 21 is as low as the water supply temperature. This is when the boiling efficiency (COP) of the heat pump unit 13 is increased in order to boil at 13.

  At the start of boiling by the heat pump unit 13, the temperature of the hot water coming out of the heat exchanger 44 is low because the compressor 43 starts to rise and is not stable and the temperature of the heat exchanger 44 is not high. Furthermore, at the time of resuming boiling after defrosting the evaporator 45 of the outdoor unit 46 of the heat pump unit 13, the compressor 43 was operated in a reverse cycle, so the water used for defrosting came out from the heat exchanger 44. Until the compressor 43 that has returned the cycle is stabilized, the temperature of the hot water from the heat exchanger 44 is low. If hot water or water having such a low temperature is taken into the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, the temperature of the hot water at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 is lowered.

  Therefore, when boiling is started by the heat pump unit 13 and when boiling is resumed after the defrosting of the outdoor unit 46, for example, the tapping temperature from the heat pump unit 13 is set to a predetermined temperature (water supply) based on detection for a certain time or tapping temperature sensor 50, for example. Switch to the lower connection port 25 with the intake switching three-way valve 39 until the temperature reaches a temperature lower than the target boiling temperature), and connect hot water or water with low temperature from the heat exchanger 44 of the heat pump unit 13 to the lower connection By incorporating it into the mouth 25, it is possible to prevent a drop in the temperature of the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21.

  If a certain time elapses or the temperature of the hot water from the heat pump unit 13 rises to a predetermined temperature or higher based on the detection by the hot water temperature sensor 50, the intake switching three-way valve 39 switches to the intermediate connection port 24, and the predetermined temperature or higher. The hot water boiled in is taken into the intermediate part of the hot water storage tank 21 through the intermediate connection port 24, and if the hot water temperature from the heat pump unit 13 reaches the boiling target temperature or higher, the upper connection is made with the intake switching three-way valve 39. Switching to the port 23, hot water heated to the boiling target temperature or higher is taken into the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 from the upper connection port 23.

  In addition, when the total amount of water in the hot water storage tank 21 is raised, the temperature of the water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 21 is low when the temperature of the water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 21 is nearly as high as the water supply temperature. Becomes warm water that is higher than the feed water temperature, and this warm water is taken out and boiled by the heat pump unit 13, so that the boiling efficiency of the heat pump unit 13 is reduced and the actual boiling temperature is set to 80 ° C., for example. For example, when the boiling point is lower than the boiling target temperature of 90 ° C., that is, lower than the temperature of the hot water stored in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, and the hot water having this lower temperature is taken into the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, The temperature of the hot water at the top of the will drop.

  Therefore, when the temperature of the hot water boiled by the heat pump unit 13 is lower than the target boiling temperature by, for example, about −10 ° C., the hot water boiled by the heat pump unit 13 is switched to the intermediate connection port 24 by the intake switching three-way valve 39. It can be taken into the intermediate part of the hot water storage tank 21 from the intermediate connection port 24, and the temperature drop of the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 can be prevented.

  The hot water storage temperature detected by the thermistor 26a at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 is compared with the hot water temperature detected by the hot water temperature sensor 50. When the hot water temperature is lower than the hot water temperature, an intermediate connection is made by the intake switching three-way valve 39. You may make it switch to the opening | mouth 24. FIG.

  In this way, hot water boiled in the heat pump unit 13 can be switched to any of the upper connection port 23, the intermediate connection port 24, and the lower connection port 25 of the hot water storage tank 21, so that the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 has You can store hot water as high as possible.

  Therefore, when the hot water in the bathtub 14 is replenished, heat can be exchanged with the hot water at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 through the heat exchanger 68, so that the reheating efficiency is good and the reheating time can be shortened.

  At the time of reheating, the temperature of the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 where the heat exchanger 68 is arranged is monitored by the thermistor 26a at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, and the temperature of the hot water is set to a preset heat exchange temperature (for example, The heat pump unit 13 is operated when the temperature is lower than the boiling target temperature) or when the efficiency is low due to reheating and the reheating efficiency is low. At this time, when the intake port switching three-way valve 39 is switched to the intermediate connection port 24, and hot water boiled by the heat pump unit 13 is taken into the intermediate portion of the hot water storage tank 21 from the intermediate connection port 24, and taken in from the upper connection port 23. As a result, the temperature of the hot water near the heat exchanger 68 can be raised more quickly, and the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchanger 68, that is, the reheating efficiency, can be quickly improved.

  When the amount of hot water used is small, such as in summer, it is common to lower the boiling temperature by the heat pump unit 13 and lower the hot water storage temperature in the hot water storage tank 21 for the purpose of energy saving. However, if the hot water temperature in the hot water storage tank 21 is lowered uniformly, the chasing ability decreases when chasing hot water in the bathtub 14, and it takes time to chase the chasing target temperature.

  Therefore, a first set temperature of, for example, 90 ° C. is provided between the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 through the upper connection port 23 of the hot water storage tank 21, that is, at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 where the heat exchanger 68 is disposed. On the other hand, hot water having a second set temperature lower than the first set temperature, for example, 50 ° C., is stored below the intermediate connection port 24 through the intermediate connection port 24. Thereby, while being able to ensure the heat exchange capability by the heat exchanger 68, the boiling efficiency of the hot water of the 2nd preset temperature can be improved, and it can respond to energy saving.

  Further, in recent trends, since automatic dishwashers have become widespread, there is an increasing demand for taking out hot water of about 70 ° C. or 80 ° C. from the hot water storage tank 21, but in this case, the hot water storage tank 21 The whole must be boiled to about 90 ° C., and even in a situation where the amount of hot water used is small, such as in summer, the boiling temperature by the heat pump unit 13 cannot be lowered for the purpose of energy saving.

  Therefore, hot water having a first set temperature of, for example, 90 ° C. is stored between the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 through the upper connection port 23 of the hot water storage tank 21, that is, in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21. Through the intermediate connection port 24, hot water having a second set temperature lower than the first set temperature, for example, 50 ° C., is stored below the intermediate connection port 24, thereby allowing the upper connection ports 23 to 80 of the hot water storage tank 21 to pass through. Hot water at about 0 ° C. can be supplied, and the boiling efficiency of hot water at the second set temperature can be improved, thereby saving energy. In this case, when hot water having a temperature of about 40 ° C. is supplied, the hot water is supplied from the intermediate connection port 24, and hot water of about 70 ° C. or 80 ° C. used in the automatic dishwasher is left on the hot water storage tank 21. it can.

  Next, the hot water supply operation from the hot water storage tank 21 will be described.

  When hot water is used in a shower in the kitchen or bathroom, the hot water is discharged from the hot water supply pipe 59, and the hot water supply electric mixing valve 55 mixes the hot water taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 and the water supplied from the water supply pipe 27 into the hot water supply set temperature. Supply hot water. At this time, the hot-water supply electric mixing valve 55 is controlled so as to have the set hot-water supply temperature while being in the priority state of the main remote controller 57 or the bathroom remote controller 58.

  When the bathtub 14 is filled or added, the hot water is discharged from the hot water supply pipe 62, and the hot water taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 by the electric mixing valve 56 for bath and the water supplied from the water supply pipe 27 are mixed to adjust the bath setting temperature. Hot water is supplied to bathtub 14. At this time, the electric mixing valve 56 for bath is controlled so as to have the bath set temperature set by the bathroom remote controller 58.

  Further, the control means 81 monitors the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 and the temperature difference between the upper thermistor 26a and the intermediate thermistor 26b based on the detection of the thermistors 26a to 26e of the hot water storage tank 21. Then, the temperature difference between the upper thermistor 26a and the intermediate thermistor 26b, the hot water set temperature set by the main remote controller 57 and the bathroom remote controller 58, the bath set temperature set by the bathroom remote controller 58, and detection by the flow sensors 60 and 63 The hot water switching three-way valve 53 is controlled according to the above.

  For example, if the temperature difference between the upper thermistor 26a and the intermediate thermistor 26b is within a predetermined value of 3 ° C., for example, after boiling the entire amount in the hot water storage tank 21, the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is connected to the upper connection port 23. Switch to removing hot water.

  In this state, when hot water is discharged from either one of the hot water supply pipes 59 and 62 or from both, hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 is discharged from the upper connection port 23 to the upper pipe 29, the hot water switching three-way valve 53, and the hot water supply pipe 54. The hot water supply electric mixing valve 55 and the electric mixing valve for bath 56 are taken out through the hot water supply electric mixing valve 55 and the electric mixing valve for hot water 56 to mix hot water with water and supply hot water at the hot water supply set temperature or bath set temperature. To do.

  Moreover, hot water is reduced due to the use of hot water from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, hot water moves to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, and hot water having a lower temperature than the hot water from the middle part of the hot water storage tank 21 to the lower side. , The temperature difference between the upper thermistor 26a and the intermediate thermistor 26b becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value of 3 ° C., for example.

  In this state, when the hot water is discharged from the hot water supply pipe 59, the flow rate sensor 60 detects the hot water discharged from the hot water supply pipe 59, so that the switching of the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the hot water supply set temperature. If the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the middle part is higher than the temperature taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 (hot water set temperature + α) required to supply hot water at the hot water set temperature, the hot water switching three-way valve 53 is connected to the intermediate connection port. Switch to removing hot water from 24. Further, when the hot water is discharged from the hot water supply pipe 62, the flow rate sensor 63 detects the hot water discharged from the hot water supply pipe 62, so that the switching of the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the bath set temperature. If the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the middle part is higher than the temperature taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 (bath set temperature + α) required to supply hot water at the bath set temperature, the hot water switching three-way valve 53 is connected to the intermediate connection port. Switch to removing hot water from 24. Note that + α for obtaining the extraction temperature when switching from the upper connection port 23 of the hot water storage tank 21 to the intermediate connection port 24 is different between when boiling and when boiling is stopped. The temperature is set to + 7.5 ° C. during the top stop, and + α during boiling when the hot water temperature is not stable is set to a value larger than + α during boiling stop where the hot water temperature is stable.

  When hot water is simultaneously discharged from both hot water supply pipes 59 and 62 and the flow rate sensors 60 and 63 detect simultaneously, switching of the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the higher temperature. For example, when the set temperature of the hot water supply in the kitchen is 35 ° C. and the set temperature of the hot water in the bathtub 14 is 42 ° C., if the hot water is used only in the kitchen, the hot water set temperature of 35 ° C. is the standard. As described above, the switching of the three-way valve 53 for hot water supply switching is determined. When hot water is used only for the hot water supply to the bathtub 14, the switching of the three-way valve 53 for hot water supply switching is determined based on the bath set temperature of 42 ° C. When hot water is used in the kitchen and the bathtub 14 at the same time, the switching of the hot water switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the higher temperature, that is, the bath setting temperature of 42 ° C.

  By switching the hot water switching three-way valve 53 to take out hot water from the intermediate connection port 24, the hot water in the intermediate portion of the hot water storage tank 21 is passed from the intermediate connection port 24 through the intermediate pipe 30, the hot water switching three-way valve 53 and the hot water supply pipe 54. Take out to the electric mixing valve 55 for hot water supply or the electric mixing valve 56 for bath, mix hot water with water with the electric mixing valve 55 for hot water supply or the electric mixing valve 56 for hot water to supply hot water at the hot water set temperature or bath set temperature .

  Therefore, high temperature hot water can be left in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21, and hot water of about 70 ° C. or 80 ° C. used in the automatic dishwasher can be secured. Therefore, when the hot water supply set temperature of about 70 ° C. or 80 ° C. used in the automatic dishwasher is set and the hot water pipe 59 is discharged to the automatic dishwasher, when the flow sensor 60 detects the hot water discharged from the hot water pipe 59, The hot water switching three-way valve 53 is switched to take out hot water from the upper connection port 23. That is, since the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the intermediate portion is lower than the temperature taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 (hot water set temperature + α) necessary for supplying hot water having a hot water set temperature of about 70 ° C. or 80 ° C. The switching three-way valve 53 is switched to take out hot water from the upper connection port 23. By switching the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 to take out hot water from the upper connection port 23, hot water at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 can be taken out from the upper connection port 23 and hot water can be supplied to the automatic dishwasher.

  Also, the use of hot water from the middle part of the hot water storage tank 21 reduces the hot water from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 21, and hot water is stored in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21. The hot water is cooler than the hot water. Also at this time, the temperature difference between the upper thermistor 26a and the intermediate thermistor 26b is, for example, 3 ° C. or more.

  In this state, when the hot water is discharged from the hot water supply pipe 59, the flow rate sensor 60 detects the hot water discharged from the hot water supply pipe 59, so that the switching of the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the hot water supply set temperature. The temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the middle is lower than the temperature taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 (hot water set temperature + α) required to supply hot water at the hot water set temperature, so the hot water switching three-way valve 53 is connected to the upper part. Switch to take out hot water from mouth 23. Further, when the hot water is discharged from the hot water supply pipe 62, the flow rate sensor 63 detects the hot water discharged from the hot water supply pipe 62, so that the switching of the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the bath set temperature. Since the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the middle is lower than the temperature taken out from the hot water storage tank 21 (bath set temperature + α), which is required to supply hot water at the bath set temperature, the hot water switching three-way valve 53 is connected to the top. Switch to take out hot water from mouth 23. When hot water is simultaneously discharged from both hot water supply pipes 59 and 62 and the flow rate sensors 60 and 63 detect simultaneously, switching of the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 is determined based on the higher temperature. Note that + α for obtaining the extraction temperature when switching from the intermediate connection port 24 of the hot water storage tank 21 to the upper connection port 23 is for determining the extraction temperature when switching from the upper connection port 23 of the hot water storage tank 21 to the intermediate connection port 24. Is set to + 5 ° C., for example, so as to use as much hot water as possible from the middle of the hot water storage tank 21 as much as possible.

  By switching the hot water supply switching three-way valve 53 to take out hot water from the upper connection port 23, hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 21 is supplied from the upper connection port 23 through the upper pipe 29, the hot water switching three-way valve 53 and the hot water supply pipe 54. The electric mixing valve 55 for bath and the electric mixing valve 56 for bath are taken out, and hot water and water are mixed by the electric mixing valve 55 for hot water supply and the electric mixing valve 56 for bath to supply hot water at a hot water supply set temperature or a bath set temperature.

  In this way, depending on the temperature detected by each thermistor 26a, 26b and the hot water take-off temperature (hot water set temperature + α) from the hot water storage tank 21 required to supply hot water at the hot water set temperature (bath set temperature). When the temperature difference detected by the thermistors 26a and 26b is within a predetermined value by controlling the hot water switching three-way valve 53, the hot water is switched to take out from the upper connection port 23, and the temperature detected by the thermistors 26a and 26b is changed. If the difference is equal to or greater than the specified value and the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the middle part is higher than the take-off temperature (hot water supply set temperature + α), switch to hot water removal from the intermediate connection port 24, and the temperature detected by each thermistor 26a, 26b. If the difference is equal to or greater than the predetermined value and the temperature detected by the thermistor 26b in the middle part is lower than the take-out temperature (hot water set temperature + α), hot water at the hot water set temperature is supplied by switching to hot water take-out from the upper connection port 23. Indispensable When hot water having a temperature higher than the required removal temperature is stored in the hot water storage tank 21, the hot water can be reliably removed.

  Each flow sensor 60, 63 sets the extraction temperature (hot water supply set temperature + α) corresponding to the hot water supply set temperature at the hot water supply location where the hot water is detected and controls the hot water switching three-way valve 53 to actually discharge hot water. The hot-water supply switching three-way valve 53 can be switched corresponding to the hot-water supply set temperature. Furthermore, when both the flow sensors 60 and 63 detect hot water at the same time, by setting the extraction temperature (hot water set temperature + α) corresponding to the highest hot water set temperature and controlling the hot water switching three-way valve 53, It can also handle simultaneous hot water from multiple hot water supply points.

  In order to preferentially use the middle hot water from the middle of the hot water storage tank 21, the hot water from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 21 is reduced as much as possible from the middle to the lower side of the hot water tank 21. The boiling efficiency (COP) by the heat pump unit 13 during boiling can be improved.

  Note that the hot water supply method is not limited to the case where hot water having a temperature higher than the extraction temperature (hot water supply set temperature + α) is taken out from any one of the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 and used. The hot water may be taken out from both the intermediate connection port 24 and the intermediate connection port 24 and used in a mixed manner.

  In this case, if the temperature difference detected by the thermistors 26a and 26b is within a predetermined value, the control means 81 switches to hot water removal from the upper connection port 23, and the temperature difference detected by the thermistors 26a and 26b If the temperature of the hot water to be mixed and taken out from the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 is higher than a predetermined value and higher than the take-out temperature (hot water set temperature + α), it is switched to mixing and the temperature difference detected by each thermistor 26a, 26b is If the temperature at which the mixture is taken out from the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 is lower than the predetermined value and the take-off temperature (hot water set temperature + α) is lower, the same effect can be obtained by switching to the removal of hot water from the upper connection port 23. can get.

  For example, the flow ratio for extracting hot water from the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 is 1: 2, the detection temperature of the upper thermistor 26a is 90 ° C., the detection temperature of the thermistor 26b in the middle is 30 ° C., and after mixing Assuming the flow rate per minute of 12 L, the temperature after mixing is {(90 ° C. × 4 L) + (30 ° C. × 8 L)} ÷ 12 = 60 ° C., and the hot water supply set temperature (bath set temperature) is 50 If it is below ℃, hot water can be taken out from both the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 and mixed and used. In addition, when the temperature after mixing becomes lower than the hot water supply set temperature, it may be switched to take out hot water only from the upper connection port 23.

  Thus, when hot water is taken out from the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24 of the hot water storage tank 21 and used for mixing, even if the temperature of the lower hot water from the intermediate portion of the hot water storage tank 21 is 30 ° C. Since the temperature after mixing is 60 ° C., even when the hot water supply set temperature is 42 ° C., hot water of 30 ° C. below from the intermediate portion of the hot water storage tank 21 can be used. Therefore, more hot water at the lower side can be used from the middle part of the hot water storage tank 21 than when hot water is taken out from any one of the upper connection port 23 and the intermediate connection port 24, and the heat pump unit 13 at the time of boiling is used. The boiling efficiency (COP) can be improved.

  The heat exchanging means is not limited to the heat exchanger 68 disposed inside the hot water storage tank 21, but an external heat exchanger is disposed outside the hot water storage tank 21, and the external heat exchanger has an upper part of the hot water storage tank 21. You may make it heat-exchange by circulating hot water. Moreover, the heat exchange means can be used not only for reheating the bathtub but also for heating such as floor heating.

  The hot water storage tank 21 has three upper connection ports 23, an intermediate connection port 24, and a lower connection port 25 as inlets for taking hot water from the heat pump unit 13 into the hot water storage tank 21. Only two ports 24 may be used. In this case, hot water or water having a low temperature from the heat pump unit 13 at the start of boiling by the heat pump unit 13 and at the time of resuming boiling after defrosting of the outdoor unit 46 is intermediately connected. It should be taken into mouth 24.

  Further, the boiling means is not limited to the heat pump unit 13, and a heater, a combustor, or the like may be used.

It is a block diagram regarding the hot water supply of the hot water supply apparatus which shows one embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram regarding the boiling hot water storage of a hot-water supply apparatus same as the above. It is a block diagram of a hot-water supply apparatus same as the above.

Explanation of symbols

11 Water heater
21 Hot water storage tank
23 Upper connection port as upper outlet
24 Intermediate connection port as intermediate outlet
26a Thermistor as the first temperature detection means
26b Thermistor as second temperature detection means
53 Three-way valve for hot water supply switching as a withdrawal switching means
60, 63 Flow sensor as hot water detection means
81 Control means

Claims (4)

A hot water storage tank provided with an upper outlet and an intermediate outlet below the upper outlet;
First temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of hot water above the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank;
Second temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of hot water below the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank;
An extraction switching means for switching hot water from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet of the hot water storage tank to supply hot water;
Controlling the take-out switching means according to the temperature detected by the first and second temperature detecting means and the take-out temperature of hot water from a hot water storage tank necessary for supplying hot water at a hot water set temperature; If the difference in temperature detected by the second temperature detection means is within a predetermined value, the hot water is taken out from the upper outlet, and the difference in temperature detected by the first and second temperature detection means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. If the temperature detected by the second temperature detecting means is higher than the take-out temperature, the hot water is taken out from the intermediate outlet, and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is not less than a predetermined value and is taken out. A hot water supply apparatus comprising: a control means for switching to hot water take-out from the upper outlet when the temperature detected by the second temperature detecting means is lower than the temperature. A hot water storage tank provided with an upper outlet and an intermediate outlet below the upper outlet;
First temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of hot water above the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank;
Second temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of hot water below the intermediate outlet in the hot water storage tank;
A take-off switching means for supplying hot water by switching between hot water take-out from the upper take-out port of the hot water storage tank and mixed hot take-out from the upper take-out port and the intermediate take-out port;
Controlling the take-out switching means according to the temperature detected by the first and second temperature detecting means and the take-out temperature of hot water from a hot water storage tank necessary for supplying hot water at a hot water set temperature; If the difference in temperature detected by the second temperature detection means is within a predetermined value, the hot water is taken out from the upper outlet, and the difference in temperature detected by the first and second temperature detection means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. If the temperature of the hot water to be mixed and taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is higher than the outlet temperature, the hot water is switched to the mixed outlet, and the difference between the temperatures detected by the first and second temperature detecting means is not less than a predetermined value and the outlet temperature. And a control means for switching to hot water removal from the upper outlet when the temperature at which the mixture is taken out from the upper outlet and the intermediate outlet is lower. A plurality of hot water detection means for detecting the hot water from a plurality of hot water supply points that can individually set the hot water supply set temperature,
The hot water supply apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control means controls the extraction switching means by setting an extraction temperature corresponding to the hot water supply set temperature of the hot water supply location where the hot water detection means has detected the hot water. 4. The hot water supply apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control means sets the extraction temperature corresponding to the highest hot water supply set temperature and controls the extraction switching means when a plurality of hot water detection means detect hot water simultaneously. .

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