Patent Grant
11649650
The present disclosure relates to a compact universal gas pool heater and associated methods and, in particular, to a compact universal gas pool heater that has enhanced adaptability to various installation requirements, enhanced serviceability, and optimized heat transfer capabilities.
Swimming pools and spas use various types of heaters for heating the fluid being circulated in the pool or spa. For example, one common type of heater is a gas heater that often implements a water tube heat exchanger. The water tube heat exchanger is generally positioned proximate a source of heat, e.g., a burner, that is ignited by an igniter, which may be a hot-surface igniter, spark igniter, pilot igniter, or a combination thereof. In many gas heaters, the burner and igniter, along with a flame sensor, will be mounted to the same panel in order to maintain constant dimensional relationship between the igniter and the burner to ensure constant ignition of gas by the igniter. If these components were to be mounted on separate panels, then dimensional tolerances could potentially “stack up” and negatively affect the dimensional consistency. If this dimensional relationship were not maintained, then the potential exists for too much gas to be dissipated by the burner prior to ignition, which can result in a louder than normal ignition.
Furthermore, water tube heat exchangers generally include one or more tubes through which pool or spa water to be heated is circulated. The tubes are positioned such that hot gases generated by the source of heat pass across the tubes. The tubes absorb heat from the hot gases and transfer the heat to the fluid flowing therethrough. Metal fins can be secured to the exterior of the tubes to maximize the exterior surface area exposed to the hot gases and increase the efficiency of heat transfer. The heat exchanger can be positioned within a combustion chamber canister, which itself, and in combination with the heat exchanger, can be placed in a cabinet to prevent individuals from touching the hot canister and to protect the canister and heat exchanger from the elements. Gas heaters may also have electrical components that are powered by both high-voltage wiring and low-voltage wiring. These wires will generally have to be routed to the interior of the cabinet. Furthermore, gas heaters can also have a user interface that allows a user to control and program the gas heater. The user interface can be accessible from the exterior of the gas heater.
Gas heaters for swimming pools have particular installation requirements to which an installer must adhere, such as national, state, or local codes. Included in these requirements is that the gas heater cannot raise the temperature of nearby structures a certain number of degrees above the ambient temperature. To ensure that the gas heater does not increase the temperature of nearby structures, e.g., walls, fences, etc., too much, installers will space the gas heater away from such structures, thus providing a clearance between the gas heater and the structure. To determine the minimum allowable clearance for a particular heater, pool heater manufacturers will often test their gas heaters by measuring the temperature on nearby structures during use. Pool heaters typically have minimum clearances of 6-18 inches. In addition to maintaining a suitably low temperature on nearby structures, the clearance allows for a service technician to access the portion of the pool heater cabinet that faces the structure in order to repair the pool heater. However, the required clearance essentially results in an increase in the overall footprint of the pool heater since one must account for the required clearance. This is undesirable since space is at a premium when installing a pool heater. As such, it is not only desirable to reduce the minimum clearance, but also to construct pool heaters as small as possible so that they weigh less and fit into smaller spaces.
Furthermore, to provide adaptability to the various challenges that may be present in a pool heater installation site, prior art pool heaters generally allow an installer to configure the heat exchanger of the pool heater so that the water inlet and outlet is on one of two sides that are opposite one another (e.g., 180° apart). Additionally, prior art pool heaters allow the installer to rotate the entire cabinet top panel to two or three possible positions, which effectively moves the user interface panel to a more accessible/convenient location. However, each of these methods requires a significant amount of effort that involves removing entire panels and/or the heat exchanger, and reinstalling them in a different configuration, which is not only cumbersome but also time consuming.
Pool heater installers also have to tackle wiring issues that may arise. As referenced above, pool heaters require electrical power to operate, which will often be 120V or 240V AC delivered through high-voltage wiring, for example. In some cases, pool heaters will also be connected to a pool/spa automation system via low-voltage wiring. It is required by code that the high-voltage wiring be separated from the low-voltage wiring. Typically, to adhere to these requirements and codes, electrical wiring will be routed through a conduit, which requires the installer to install a conduit fitting into a hole that extends into the pool heater. Installation in this fashion can be difficult for installers since they will have to pull stiff wires through the conduit and fitting into a junction box.
In addition to the above, pool heater installers may remove an old pool heater and replace it with a new one for an existing swimming pool needing a new pool heater. In such circumstances, the installer may be motivated to install a new pool heater from the same manufacturer of the old pool heater being replaced, or in some instances the same exact model pool heater that was previously installed. This is typically because the replacement is most likely to fit in the available space, and have the same water connection position and fittings. However, this limits the number of options available and could influence the pool owner away from buying the pool heater they actually desire with the functionalities they need. On the other hand, if the pool owner were to opt for a different pool heater, then they may have to replace all of the water connections, which would result in increased costs.
Not only are installers faced with issues in connection with pool heaters, but technicians that service pool heaters also have their own troubles they deal with. While servicing a pool heater, a technician often has to access the pool heater components and electronics through the top panel. This generally involves removing the entire top panel completely. However, electrical wiring will often run from components of the pool heater to the user interface in the top panel, which means that when the top panel is removed for service it cannot be placed very far away. Thus leaving the technician looking for a place where they can temporarily store the top panel during service that is nearby, but not in the way.
One such component that a pool heater technician may have to replace is the solenoid gas valve that controls the flow of gas into the combustion chamber. In prior art pool heaters, the gas valve is often attached using threaded pipe fittings. However, this method of attachment makes replacement of the gas valve difficult, tedious, and time consuming.
Thus, a need exists for a gas heater that allows for enhanced adaptability to various installation requirements, enhanced serviceability, and optimized heat transfer capabilities. These and other needs are addressed by the compact universal gas pool heater and associated methods of the present disclosure.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, an exemplary gas heater is provided that includes a cabinet, a combustion chamber canister, an exhaust pipe, a heat exchanger, a burner, an igniter, and a water header manifold. The cabinet can include a first side panel, a second side panel, an exhaust side panel, a water header side panel, a bottom, and a top. The water header manifold can be positioned at the water header side panel and can be in fluidic communication with the heat exchanger such that it routes water through the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes at least one tube having a tube inlet and a tube outlet and can define a combustion chamber. The heat exchanger can be positioned within the combustion chamber canister and can be configured to extract heat from hot gases within the combustion chamber. In this regard, the burner can be positioned within the combustion chamber canister and the combustion chamber, and receive combustible gas from a combustion blower. The burner can dissipate the combustible gas, which can be ignited by the igniter. Gases can be discharged through the exhaust, which can be connected to the combustion chamber canister and extend through the exhaust side panel. The combustion chamber canister, the tube sheet, the heat exchanger, and the burner can be positioned within the cabinet such that the combustion chamber canister is spaced apart from the first side panel by a first gap having a first width, and is spaced apart from the second side panel by a second gap having a second width. The first and second gaps can be configured to minimize the transfer of heat from the combustion chamber canister to the first and second side panels, and prevent the first and second side panels from increasing in temperature more than a predetermined amount above the ambient temperature. The cabinet can be configured such that it can be installed with the first side panel or the second panel adjacent a structure with a clearance of six inches or less.
In some embodiments, the water header side panel and/or the exhaust side panel can include lower and upper vent openings. The lower and upper vent openings can circulate air through the first and second gaps, and lower the temperature in the cabinet. For example, the lower and upper vent openings can allow natural convection to circulate the air through the first and second gaps. The gas heater can be configured so that servicing can be performed through the top and water header side panel of the cabinet. The gas heater can also include insulation provided in the first and second gaps.
In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the cabinet of the gas heater can include a user interface module having a user interface, and the top can include a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a channel extending between the first and second lateral sides that the user interface module can be removably positioned within. The user interface module can be removed from the top and positioned within the channel in a first orientation where it is accessible by a user from the first side of the cabinet, and in a second orientation where it is accessible by a user from a second side of the cabinet.
In some aspects, the channel can include first and second engagement mechanisms, and the user interface module can include a user interface engagement mechanism configured to engage the first and second engagement mechanisms. The user interface engagement mechanism can engage the first engagement mechanism to position the user interface module in the first orientation, and can engage the second engagement mechanism to position the user interface module in the second orientation. The user interface module can be secured in the first and second orientations by a fastener that extends through the user interface module and engages the top panel. The channel can also include a central hub that extends from the channel and through which an electrical cable can extend from an interior of the cabinet to an exterior. The central hub can prevent water from entering the cabinet.
In some embodiments, the top can include at least one hook that is configured to engage one of the first and second side panels and secure the top panel to the first or second side panels. The top panel can be removed from the cabinet and secured to the first or second side panel by the hook.
In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the cabinet can include a dual junction box. The dual junction box can have an elongated body, a first cover, and a second cover. The elongated body can have a first side, a second side, and an interior wall positioned between the first and second sides. The first cover can engage the first side of the elongated body and form a first chamber. The second cover can engage the second side of the elongated body and form a second chamber. The first and second chambers can be electrically isolated from each other by the interior wall. A first wire port can be positioned within the first chamber and extend through the cabinet. The first wire port can be configured to have a first wire of a first voltage level extend therethrough from an interior of the cabinet to the first chamber. A second wire port can be positioned within the second chamber and extend through the cabinet. The second wire port can be configured to have a second wire of a second voltage level extend therethrough from an interior of the cabinet to the second chamber. A first opening can be formed between the first cover and the body which can provide access to the first chamber and can be configured to receive a first cable of the first voltage level to extend into the first chamber and be connected with the first wire. A second opening can be formed between the second cover and the body which can provide access to the second chamber an can be configured to allow a second cable of the second voltage level to extend into the second chamber and be connected with the second wire.
In some aspects, the first chamber can be a low-voltage chamber and the second chamber can be a high-voltage chamber. In additional aspects, the first wire can be a low-voltage wire, the first cable can be a low-voltage cable, the second wire can be a high-voltage wire, and the second cable can be a high-voltage cable.
In other aspects, the first cover and the first side of the elongated body can form a first opening, and the second cover and the second side of the elongated body can form a second opening. The first opening can be configured to receive and secure the first wire in place, and the second opening can be configured to receive and secure the second wire in place.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the gas heater can also include a gas valve having an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the gas valve can be connected to an outlet of a first component. The outlet of the gas valve can be connected to an inlet of a second component. The inlet of the gas valve can be secured to the outlet of the first component by a first quick disconnect fitting, while the outlet of the gas valve can be secured to the inlet of the second component by a second quick disconnect fitting. The first and second quick disconnect fittings can have a body, a first end, and a second end. The body can define first and second elongated slots that extend between the first and second ends. The first and second elongated slots can be configured to receive at least a portion of the gas valve inlet and at least a portion of the first component outlet. The first and second elongated slots can also be configured to receive at least a portion of the gas valve outlet and at least a portion of the second component inlet. In some embodiments, the inlet of the gas valve can include a piston-style connector that is received by the outlet of the first component, and the inlet of the second component can include a piston-style connected that is received by the outlet of the gas valve.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, an exemplary gas heater is provided that includes a cabinet, a combustion chamber canister, a tube sheet, a heat exchanger, a water header manifold, a combustion blower, a burner, an igniter, and a mount. The cabinet can include a first side panel, a second side panel, an exhaust side panel, a water header side panel, a bottom, and a top. The combustion chamber canister can have a top opening and an open end that is covered by the tube sheet which can be mounted to the combustion chamber canister. The heat exchanger, which includes at least one tube and can define a combustion chamber, can be positioned within the combustion chamber canister and configured to extract heat from hot gases within the combustion chamber. The water header manifold can be mounted to the tube sheet and can route water through the heat exchanger. The combustion blower discharges combustible gas through a pipe that extends from the combustion blower to a central opening in the tube sheet, thus providing the combustible gas to the burner that is mounted to the tube sheet opposite the pipe. The burner includes a positioning flange extending along a length thereof, and dissipates the combustible gas that it receives from the combustion blower via the pipe. The mount can include a body, a mounting flange surrounding the body, and igniter mount, and a spacing flange extending from the body. The mount can be mounted to the combustion chamber canister with a portion of the mount extending through the top opening of the combustion chamber canister and a gap being formed between the mounting flange and the combustion chamber canister. A gasket can be positioned in the gap between the mounting flange and the combustion chamber canister. The igniter can be mounted to the igniter mount, and can extend through the mount into the combustion chamber where it is positioned a first distance from the burner. The igniter is configured to ignite the gas mixture dissipated by the burner. When the mount is mounted to the combustion chamber canister, the spacing flange of the mount can engage the positioning flange of the burner to tie the burner and the mount together to maintain the first distance substantially constant. Additionally, engagement of the spacing flange with the mounting flange can allow the burner to move along its longitudinal axis, while preventing the burner from moving away from the mount and the igniter and alternating the first distance. The gasket can be configured to absorb an accumulation of tolerance variations of the gas heater and ensure that the spacing flange of the mount engages the positioning flange of the burner.
In some embodiments the gas heater can also include a flame sensor that is mounted to the mount. The flame sensor extends through the mount into the combustion chamber where it is positioned a second distance from the burner. Engagement of the spacing flange with the mounting flange can tie the burner and the mount together such that the second distance is substantially constant.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an adaptable water manifold for a pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes an inflow tube, an inlet, an outflow tube, and an outlet. The inflow tube is in fluidic communication with the inlet, and can be configured to engage and provide water to one or more heat exchanger tubes. The outflow tube is in fluidic communication with the outlet, and can be configured to engage and receive water from the one or more heat exchanger tubes. When the adaptable water manifold is mounted to the gas heater, the inlet is positioned at an inlet position, and the outlet is positioned at an outlet position. For example, the first position can include an inlet height, which can be the distance between the center of the inlet and the bottom of the gas heater, and the second position can include an outlet height, which can be the distance between the center of the outlet and the bottom of the gas heater. The inlet includes one or more inlet mounts, and is configured to have an inlet fitting connected thereto. The inlet fitting includes one or more inlet fitting mounts and an inlet fitting outlet in fluidic communication with an inlet fitting inlet configured to engage pre-existing piping. The inlet fitting can be connected to the inlet through engagement of the inlet fitting mounts with the inlet mounts such that the inlet fitting outlet is adjacent to and in fluidic communication with the inlet. The outlet includes one or more outlet mounts, and is configured to have an outlet fitting connected thereto. The outlet fitting includes one or more outlet fitting mounts and an outlet fitting inlet in fluidic communication with an outlet fitting outlet configured to engage pre-existing piping. The outlet fitting can be connected to the outlet through engagement of the outlet fitting mounts with the outlet mounts such that the outlet fitting inlet is adjacent to and in fluidic communication with the outlet. When the inlet fitting is connected to the inlet, the inlet fitting outlet is at the inlet position and the inlet fitting inlet is at an adjusted inlet position. When the outlet fitting is connected to the outlet, the outlet fitting inlet is at the outlet position and the outlet fitting outlet is at an adjusted outlet position. In some embodiments, the inlet fitting operatively changes the position of the inlet to the location of the inlet fitting inlet, and the outlet fitting operatively changes the position of the location of the outlet to the outlet fitting outlet. In other embodiments, the inlet fitting height can be different than the inlet height and the outlet fitting height can be different than the outlet height.
In some embodiments, the inlet fitting can have an inlet fitting body that extends between the inlet fitting inlet and the inlet fitting outlet that places them in fluidic communication, and the outlet fitting can have an outlet fitting body that extends between the outlet fitting inlet and the outlet fitting outlet that places them in fluid communication. In other embodiments, the inlet fitting inlet can include a connector and the outlet fitting outlet can include a connector. In still other embodiments, the inlet can include one or more mounting flanges, the outlet can include one or more mounting flanges, the inlet fitting can include one or more inlet mounts, and the outlet fitting can include one or more outlet mounts. The inlet mounts can be secured to the one or more mounting flanges of the inlet to mount the inlet fitting to the inlet. The outlet mounts can be secured to the one or more mounting flanges of the outlet to mount the outlet fitting to the outlet.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a heat exchanger for a swimming pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes one or more heat exchanger tubes, upper insulation, and lower insulation, which form a combustion chamber. The one or more heat exchanger tubes include an interior tube and a plurality of fins extending from the interior tube, which in some aspects can be welded to the tube or extruded from the tube. The interior tube include an inlet, an outlet, and a U-shaped body that extends from the inlet to the outlet. The upper insulation can be positioned on the top of the one or more heat exchanger tubes, and the lower insulation can be positioned on the bottom of the one or more heat exchanger tubes. The upper insulation and the lower insulation can reduce heat loss and direct hot gasses across the fins of the one or more heat exchanger tubes. The one or more heat exchanger tubes can be configured to be connected to a water header manifold that can route water through the interior tube. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger can include a plurality of heat exchanger tubes that are in a stacked arrangement.
In some embodiments, the plurality of fins can have one or more bent edges and a rounded edge. In such embodiments, the one or more bent edges can include four bent edges, and each of the four bent edges can comprise ⅙th of the circumference of the fin, and the one rounded edge can comprise ⅓rd of the circumference of the fin. The bent edges can form first, second, third, and fourth sides of the heat exchanger tube. According to other aspects, such a heat exchanger can include a plurality of heat exchanger tubes that are stacked with a first side of a first heat exchanger tube being adjacent a second side of a second heat exchanger tube.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a heat exchanger for a swimming pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes a plurality of tube-and-fin subassemblies. Each of the tube-and-fin subassemblies includes a first tube, a second tube, and a plurality of fins secured to the first and second tubes. The first tube can include a first leg, a second leg, and a curved portion extending between the first and second legs, while the second tube can include a third leg, a fourth leg, and a curved portion extending between the third and fourth legs. The fins can include a body having four holes extending therethrough. The holes can be surrounded by collars that assist in securing the fins to the first and second tubes. The first leg can extend through one of the four holes, the second leg can extend through the second of the four holes, the third leg can extend through the third of the four holes, and the fourth leg can extend through the fourth of the four holes. Each of the fins can also have a first sidewall and a second sidewall that are positioned on opposite sides of the body. Each of the fins can also include a plurality of flanges that form channels for hot gases to pass through. The flanges can be configured to slow down hot gases passing across the fins and direct the hot gases into the channels. The plurality of tube-and-fin subassemblies can be positioned adjacent to each other in a semi-circular configuration with the first sidewall of the first tube-and-fin subassembly fins abutting the second sidewall of the second tube-and-fin subassembly fins. The heat exchanger can also include a front manifold, a tube sheet, a first insulation, and a second insulation, which the first, second, third, and fourth legs extend through. The first insulation can be positioned adjacent an interior side of the front manifold, and the second insulation can be positioned adjacent an interior side of the tube sheet. The plurality of tube-and-fin subassemblies can be positioned with the plurality of fins thereof between the front manifold and the tube sheet.
In some embodiments, the heat exchanger can comprise a plurality of, e.g., five or more, tube-and-fin subassemblies that are positioned adjacent to each other in a semi-circular fashion. In such embodiments, the first sidewall of the fins can be at a first angle from a vertical axis and the second sidewall of the fin can be at a second angle from the vertical axis. The sum of the first and second angles can be equal to sixty degrees. In some embodiments, the sum of the first and second angles can be equal to three-hundred and sixty (360) divided by the number of tube-and-fin subassemblies required to form a complete circle.
In another embodiment, the fins can include one or more flow directors that are configured to enhance the heat transfer of the fins. The flow directors can be louvers, lances, bumps, holes, extrusions, embosses, or ribs.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a gas heater for a swimming pool or spa is provided that includes a cabinet that defines an interior, a combustion chamber, a heat exchanger, a burner, and a water header manifold. The heat exchanger can include at least one tube having a tube inlet and a tube outlet, and can be positioned at least partially within the combustion chamber. The heat exchanger can be configured to extract heat from hot gases in the combustion chamber. The burner can be positioned within the combustion chamber, and can receive combustible gas from a combustion blower. The burner can be configured to dissipate the combustible gas. The water header manifold can have an inlet in fluidic communication with the tube inlet and an outlet in fluidic communication with the tube outlet. The water header manifold can circulate water through the at least one tube of the heat exchanger. The combustion chamber, the heat exchanger, and the burner can be positioned within the interior of the cabinet with a first gap between a first side of the cabinet and the combustion chamber, and a second gap between a second side of the cabinet and the combustion chamber. The first gap reduces the amount of heat transferred from the combustion chamber to the first side of the cabinet, while the second gap reduces the amount of heat transferred from the combustion chamber to the second side of the cabinet.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a cabinet for a swimming pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes a main body, a top panel, and a user interface module. The main body can define an interior, while the top panel can be configured to be placed on the main body. The top panel can have a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a channel extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, a first engagement mechanism positioned at a first end of the channel, and a second engagement mechanism positioned at a second end of the channel. The user interface module can include an elongated body, a user interface, and a user interface engagement mechanism. The user interface module can be configured to be placed within the channel. Specifically, the user interface module can be positioned in the channel in a first orientation with the user interface engagement mechanism engaged with the first engagement mechanism and the user interface accessible by a user from a first side of the main body, and a second orientation with the user interface engagement mechanism engaged with the second engagement mechanism and the user interface accessible by a user from a second side of the main body opposite the first side of the main body.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a gas heater for a swimming pool or spa is provided that includes a main body, a top panel, a heater subassembly, a user interface module, and a control cable. The main body can define an interior, while the top panel can be configured to be placed on the main body. The top panel can have a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a channel extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, a first engagement mechanism positioned at a first end of the channel, and a second engagement mechanism positioned at a second end of the channel. The heater subassembly can be positioned within the interior of the main body, and can include a combustion chamber, a heat exchanger positioned at least partially within the combustion chamber, a burner, a printed circuit board including a controller, a water header manifold that can be configured to circulate water through the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger can be configured to extract heat from hot gases in the combustion chamber. The burner can receive combustible gas from a combustion blower and can be configured to dissipate the combustible gas into the combustion chamber. The user interface module can include an elongated body, a user interface, and a user interface engagement mechanism. The control cable can be electrically connected between the printed circuit board and the user interface controller. The user interface module can be configured to be placed within the channel. Specifically, the user interface module can be positioned in the channel in a first orientation with the user interface engagement mechanism engaged with the first engagement mechanism and the user interface accessible by a user from a first side of the main body, and a second orientation with the user interface engagement mechanism engaged with the second engagement mechanism and the user interface accessible by a user from a second side of the main body opposite the first side of the main body.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a gas heater for a swimming pool or spa is provided that includes a main body, a top panel having at least one hanging device, and a heater subassembly positioned within an interior of the main body. The top panel can be configured to be placed on the main body covering the interior, and can be removed from the main body and secured to a first side panel of the main body through engagement of the at least one hanging device with the first side panel to provide access to the heater subassembly contained within the interior of the main body.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a cabinet for a swimming pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes a main body defining an interior, a dual junction box positioned on a side panel of the main body, a first wire port, and a second wire port. The dual junction box can include a body, a first cover, and a second cover. The body can define a first chamber and a second chamber, where the first chamber is electrically isolated from the second chamber. The first cover can be configured to removably engage the body and cover the first chamber, while the second cover can be configured to removably engage the body and cover the second chamber. A first hole can extend through the body into the first chamber, and can be configured to receive a first electrical cable of a first voltage level. A second hole can extend through the body into the second chamber, and can be configured to receive a second electrical cable of a second voltage level that is greater than the first voltage level. In some embodiments, the first hole can include a first grommet positioned therein, and the second hole can include a second grommet positioned therein. The first wire port can extend through the side panel of the main body from the interior of the main body to the first chamber, and can be configured to have a first wire extend therethrough from the interior of the main body into the first chamber. The second wire port can extend through the side panel of the main body from the interior of the main body to the second chamber, and can be configured to have a second wire extend therethrough from the interior of the main body into the second chamber.
In some embodiments, the first cover can define a portion of the first chamber when removably engaged with the body, and/or the second cover can define a portion of the second chamber when removably engaged with the body. In other aspects, the body can include a first open side and a second open side such that the first chamber is accessible through the first open side and the second chamber is accessible through the second open side.
In other embodiments, the first and second covers can be configured to be removably secured to the main body. In such embodiments, the main body can include a first slot and a second slot, while the first cover can include a first protrusion and the second cover can include a second protrusion. The first slot can be configured to receive the first protrusion to removably secure the first cover to the main body, and the second slot can be configured to receive the second protrusion to removably secure the second cover to the main body.
In some embodiments, the first chamber can be a low-voltage chamber and the second chamber can be a high-voltage chamber. In other embodiments, the first wire can be a low-voltage wire, the first electrical cable can be a low-voltage cable, the second wire can be a high-voltage wire, and the second electrical cable can be a high-voltage cable.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a gas heater for a swimming pool or spa is provided that includes a main body defining an interior, a heater subassembly positioned within the interior of the main body, a dual junction box positioned on a side panel of the main body, a first wire port, and a second wire port. The heater subassembly can include one or more low-voltage components electrically connected with a low-voltage wire and one or more high-voltage components electrically connected with a high-voltage wire. The dual junction box can include a body, a first cover, and a second cover. The body can define a first chamber and a second chamber, where the first chamber is electrically isolated from the second chamber. The first cover can be configured to removably engage the body and cover the first chamber, while the second cover can be configured to removably engage the body and cover the second chamber. A first hole can extend through the body into the first chamber, and can be configured to receive a low-voltage electrical cable of a first voltage level. A second hole can extend through the body into the second chamber, and can be configured to receive a high-voltage electrical cable of a second voltage level that is greater than the first voltage level. In some embodiments, the first hole can include a first grommet positioned therein, and the second hole can include a second grommet positioned therein. The first wire port can extend through the side panel of the main body from the interior of the main body to the first chamber, and can be configured to have the low-voltage wire extend therethrough from the interior of the main body into the first chamber. The second wire port can extend through the side panel of the main body from the interior of the main body to the second chamber, and can be configured to have the high-voltage wire extend therethrough from the interior of the main body into the second chamber.
In some embodiments, the first cover can define a portion of the first chamber when removably engaged with the body, and/or the second cover can define a portion of the second chamber when removably engaged with the body. In other aspects, the body can include a first open side and a second open side such that the first chamber is accessible through the first open side and the second chamber is accessible through the second open side.
In other embodiments, the first and second covers can be configured to be removably secured to the main body. In such embodiments, the main body can include a first slot and a second slot, while the first cover can include a first protrusion and the second cover can include a second protrusion. The first slot can be configured to receive the first protrusion to removably secure the first cover to the main body, and the second slot can be configured to receive the second protrusion to removably secure the second cover to the main body.
In some embodiments, the first chamber can be a low-voltage chamber and the second chamber can be a high-voltage chamber.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a gas heater for a swimming pool or spa is provided that includes a cabinet defining an interior, a combustion chamber enclosure, a heat exchanger, a water header manifold, a burner, a combustion blower, and an igniter. The combustion chamber enclosure can include a top having a burner opening, and can define a combustion chamber cavity. The heat exchanger can include at least one tube having a tube inlet and a tube outlet, can be positioned at least partially within the combustion chamber cavity, and can be configured to extract heat from hot gases in the combustion chamber. The water header manifold can include an inlet in fluidic communication with the tube inlet and an outlet in fluidic communication with the tube outlet, and can circulate water through the at least one tube of the heat exchanger. In some embodiments, the inlet of the water header manifold can be configured to receive water to be heated from a pool or spa, and the outlet can be configured to provide heated water back to the pool or spa. The burner can include a gas opening and a discharge plate, and can be mounted to the combustion chamber enclosure adjacent the burner opening. The burner can be configured to dissipate combustible gas from the discharge plate into the combustion chamber cavity. In some embodiments, the discharge plate can be a mesh plate. The combustion blower can be mounted to the burner and can be configured to discharge combustible gas through the gas opening and into the burner. The igniter can be mounted to the burner and can extend into the combustion chamber cavity. The igniter can be positioned a first distance from the discharge plate and can be configured to ignite the combustible gas dissipated by the burner into the combustion chamber cavity. Because the igniter is engaged with the burner, the first distance can be maintained substantially constant.
In some embodiments, the burner can include a box-like body that extends into the combustion chamber cavity, and the discharge plate can be positioned at a bottom of the box-like body. In such embodiments, the heat exchange can define a combustion region and the burner can dissipate the combustion gas into the combustion region. In other such embodiments, the heat exchanger can be a semi-circular heat exchanger that defines a top gap, and the box-like body of the burner can be positioned at least partially in the top gap. The heat exchange can include front insulation and rear insulation, and the front insulation can include a cutout configured to receive the igniter. In still other such embodiments, the burner can include a top plate that includes a gas opening, and the combustion blower can be mounted to the top plate with an outlet of the combustion blower being positioned adjacent the gas opening.
In other embodiments, the gas heater can include a flame sensor that is mounted to the burner and extends into the combustion chamber cavity where it can be positioned a second distance from the discharge plate. Engagement of the flame sensor with the burner can maintain the second distance substantially constant.
In still other embodiments, the gas heater can include a tube sheet that has a first side and a second side, and the combustion chamber enclosure can include an open side. In such embodiments, the combustion chamber enclosure can be secured to the first side of the tube sheet with the tube sheet covering the open end of the combustion chamber enclosure, and the tube inlet and the tube outlet can extend through the tube sheet from the first side to the second side. Additionally, in such embodiments, the water header manifold can be mounted to the second side of the tube sheet, and may be accessible from a water header side of the cabinet.
In additional embodiments, the gas heater can include an exhaust pipe that extends from the combustion chamber enclosure, and which can be configured to receive exhaust fumes from the combustion chamber cavity and discharge the exhaust fumes from the gas heater. In such embodiments, the exhaust pipe can extend from the combustion chamber enclosure to an exhaust side of the cabinet.
In some embodiments, the igniter and/or the burner can be accessible through a top of the cabinet. In other embodiments, the gas heater can include a controller positioned within the cabinet, and the controller can be accessible through a top of the cabinet.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, an adaptable water manifold for a swimming pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes an inlet, an outlet, an inflow section, an outflow section, an inlet fitting, and an outlet fitting. The inlet can be positioned at an inlet position when the adaptable water manifold is mounted to the gas heater. The outlet can be positioned at an outlet position when the adaptable water manifold is mounted to the gas heater. The inflow section can be in fluidic communication with the inlet and can be configured to provide water to one or more heat exchanger tubes, while the outflow section can be in fluidic communication with the outlet and can be configured to receive water from one or more heat exchanger tubes. The inlet fitting can have an inlet fitting inlet in fluidic communication with an inlet fitting outlet. The inlet fitting can be connectable to the inlet with the inlet fitting outlet adjacent the inlet. The outlet fitting can have an outlet fitting inlet in fluidic communication with an outlet fitting outlet. The outlet fitting can be connectable to the outlet with the outlet fitting inlet adjacent the outlet. When the inlet fitting is connected to the inlet, the inlet fitting outlet is at the inlet position and the inlet fitting inlet is at an adjusted inlet position. When the outlet fitting is connected to the outlet, the outlet fitting inlet is at the outlet position and the outlet fitting outlet is at an adjusted outlet position. The adjusted inlet position can be associated with the inlet of a water manifold of a second heater that is different than the swimming pool or spa gas heater, while the adjusted outlet position can be associated with an outlet of the water manifold of the second heater that is different than the swimming pool or spa gas heater.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a heat exchanger for a swimming pool or spa gas heater is provided that includes a plurality of tube-and-fin subassemblies. Each of the plurality of tube-and-fin subassemblies can include a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a first plurality of fins, and a second plurality of fins. The first tube can extend through the first plurality of fins. The second tube can extend through the first plurality of fins and the second plurality of fins. The third tube can extend through the second plurality of fins. The first plurality of fins can be positioned adjacent the second plurality of fins, and the plurality of tube-and-fin subassemblies can be positioned in a semi-circular configuration.
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a water header manifold for a heat exchanger is provided that includes a main body, a circulation body, a first cartridge, and a second cartridge. The main body can include an inflow section and an outflow section. The inflow section can define an inflow chamber, and can include an inlet and a plurality of inlet ports in fluidic communication with the inflow chamber. The inlet can be configured to receive water to be heated from a pool or spa plumbing system, and the plurality of inlet ports can be configured to be placed in fluidic communication with a heat exchanger. The outflow section can define an outflow chamber, and can include an outlet and a plurality of outlet ports in fluidic communication with the outflow chamber. The outlet can be configured to provide heated water to the pool or spa plumbing system, and the plurality of outlet ports can be configured to be placed in fluidic communication with the heat exchanger. The circulation body can include a plurality of inlet ports, which can be configured to be placed in fluidic communication with the heat exchanger, and a plurality of outlet ports, which can be configured to be placed in fluidic communication with the heat exchanger. The first cartridge and the second cartridge can be positioned within the circulation body. The first cartridge, the second cartridge, and the circulation body can define a plurality of chambers, where each of the plurality of inlet ports can be configured to provide water to a heat exchanger tube from one of the plurality of chambers or the inflow chamber, and each of the plurality of outlet ports can be configured to receive water from a heat exchanger and discharge the received water into one of the plurality of chambers or the outflow chamber. Additionally, the plurality of chambers can direct water between the plurality of inlet ports and the plurality of outlet ports causing the water to circulate through an associated heat exchanger and from the inlet to the outlet.
Other objects and features will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed as an illustration only and not as a definition of the limits of the invention.
To assist those of skill in the art in making and using the disclosed compact universal gas pool heater and associated methods, reference is made to the accompanying figures, wherein:
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, exemplary compact universal gas pool heaters are provided that allow for increased functionality and serviceability, as well as enhanced adaptability of the compact universal gas pool heater to various installation requirements and locations.
With initial reference to
The exhaust vent 30 is generally positioned at, and extends outward from, an upper portion of the exhaust side panel 22. The exhaust vent 30 includes a body 38 having upper vents 40, and is configured to receive a portion of an exhaust pipe from the interior of the cabinet 12, allowing for exhaust fumes to exit the exhaust pipe and dissipate from the gas heater 10 through the top vents 40.
The dual junction box 28 includes an elongated body 42, a first cover 44, and a second cover 46. The elongated body 42 has a first open side 48 and a second open side 50 opposite the first open side 48. The first open side 48 includes a first notch 52 that extends inwardly towards the second open side 50, and the second open side 50 includes a second notch 54 that extends inwardly toward the first open side 48. Accordingly, the first and second notches 52, 54 are on opposite sides of the elongated body 42. The elongated body 42 also includes the gas pipe opening 32, through which a gas inlet pipe 56 extends from the interior of the cabinet 12 to the exterior. The first and second covers 44, 46 each, respectively, includes a body 58, 60 and a locking extension 62, 64 extending therefrom. The first cover 44 can be inserted into, or placed over, the first open side 48 of the elongated body 42 with the locking extension 62 adjacent to and cooperating with the first notch 52. Similarly, the second cover 46 can be inserted into, or placed over, the second open side 50 of the elongated body 42 with the locking extension 64 adjacent to and cooperating with the second notch 54. The locking extension 62 of the first cover 44 cooperates with the first notch 52 to form a first opening 66 into the dual junction box 28, while the locking extension 64 of the second cover 46 cooperates with the second notch 54 to form a second opening 68 into the dual junction box 28. The first and second openings 66, 68 allow for electrical cables to be inserted into the dual junction box 28 and connected with high-voltage and low-voltage electrical wires of the gas heater 10. The dual junction box 28 is discussed in greater detail in connection with
As shown in
The top panel 98 can include a top piping cover 104 and a second half 106 of the air inlet opening 76. The top piping cover 104 cooperates with the bottom piping cover 100 to form the piping cover 70, as shown in and described in connection with
As shown in
To secure the user interface module 16 to the top panel 14, a user first places the user interface engagement mechanism 138 into one of the engagement mechanisms 130a, 130b, e.g., the second engagement mechanism 130b, of the top panel 14 to prevent the user interface module 16 from longitudinal movement. The user then lowers the user interface module 16 into the central channel 112 so that the central hub 126 is inserted into the central recess 134 and the fastener hole 136 of the user interface module 16 is aligned with the fastener hole 132 of the top panel 14. At this point, the user interface module 16 is positioned between the first and second lateral sides 108, 110 of the top panel 14, which prevent the user interface module 16 from moving laterally. The user then inserts the fastener 142 into the fastener holes 132, 136 to fully secure the user interface module 16 to the top panel 14. Specifically, the fastener 142 prevents vertical and rotational movement of the user interface module 16. At this point, the user interface module 16 is in a first position. To change the orientation of the user interface module 16 to a second position, a user removes the fastener 142, lifts the user interface module 16 vertically off of the top panel 14, and rotates the user interface module 16 one-hundred and eighty (180) degrees about central axis A. The user then repeats the steps for securing the user interface module 16 to the top panel 14, but instead of placing the user interface engagement mechanism 138 in the second engagement mechanism 130b, the user interface engagement mechanism 138 is placed in the first engagement mechanism 130a. The user then lowers the user interface module 16 until it rests in the central channel 112, and inserts the fastener 142 into the fastener holes 132, 136 to fully secure the user interface module 16 to the top panel 14. Thus, the user interface module 16 can be placed in two different configurations that are one-hundred and eighty (180) degrees opposite of each other without requiring the entire top 14 to be removed and rotated. That is, in the first position, the user interface 122 of the user interface module 16 is easily accessible by a user standing at the first side panel 18 of the cabinet 12, while in the second position the user interface 122 of the user interface module 16 is easily accessible by a user standing at the second side panel 20 of the cabinet 12.
When the user interface module 16 is secured to the top panel 14, the top portion of the elongated body 118 lies flush with first and second lateral sides 108, 110 of the top panel 14. However, the fit between the user interface module 16 and the first and second lateral sides 108, 110 of the top 14 need not be a rain-proof seal, instead a small gap can be provided that allows for water, e.g., rain water, to flow around and below the user interface module 16, where it is channeled to the edges of the top panel 14 and runs off the gas heater 10. As discussed above, the central hub 126 prevents the ingress of water into the cabinet 12.
Turning now to
Turning to
The exhaust side panel 22 includes a first wire port 152, e.g., a low-voltage wire port, and a second wire port 154, e.g., a high-voltage wire port, that extend therethrough and into the interior of the cabinet 12. The low-voltage wire port 152 is generally positioned in the low-voltage chamber 148 such that low-voltage wires can extend into the low-voltage chamber 148 from the interior of the cabinet 12. The high-voltage wire port 154 is generally positioned in the high-voltage chamber 150 such that high-voltage wires can extend into the high-voltage chamber 150 from the interior of the cabinet 12. As shown in
Additionally, the exhaust side panel 22 can include first and second slots 158, 160 on opposite sides of the elongated body 42, while the first and second covers 44, 46 can have first and second locking protrusions 162, 164, respectively. The first and second locking protrusions 162, 164 are configured to be inserted into the first and second slots 158, 160 during installation of the first and second covers 44, 46, and prevent the first and second covers 44, 46 from being pulled away from the exhaust side panel 22 when installed.
As discussed above, when the first and second covers 44, 46 are inserted into, or placed over, the elongated body 42, the locking extension 62 of the first cover 44 cooperates with the first notch 52 of the elongated body 42 to form the first opening 66 (e.g., a low-voltage opening) that accesses the low-voltage chamber 148 of the dual junction box 28, while the locking extension 64 of the second cover 46 cooperates with the second notch 54 to form the second opening 68 (e.g., a high-voltage opening) that accesses the high-voltage chamber 150 of the dual junction box 28. The first opening 66 allows for low-voltage electrical cables external to the gas heater 10 to be inserted into the low-voltage chamber 148 of the dual junction box 28 and connected with low-voltage electrical wires internal to the gas heater 10. The second opening 68 allows for high-voltage electrical cables external to the gas heater 10 to be inserted into the high-voltage chamber 150 of the dual junction box 28 and connected with high-voltage electrical wires internal to the gas heater 10.
Turning now to
The gas valve 188 generally includes an inlet 202, a valve body 204, and an outlet 206. The inlet 202 of the gas valve 188 is connected with the gas inlet pipe 56, such that the gas inlet pipe 56 provides gas, e.g., propane or natural gas, to the inlet 202 and thus to the gas valve 188. The gas valve 188 functions to allow, restrict, and/or prevent the flow of gas from the inlet 202 to the outlet 206. The outlet 206 of the gas valve 188 is connected with, and provides gas to, the venturi throat 198, which is in turn connected to the air inlet pipe 86. The air inlet pipe 86 is connected to a blower inlet 210 of the combustion blower 80, and provides a mixture of air drawn from atmosphere and gas drawn from the venturi throat 198 to the combustion blower 80. The venturi throat 198 can be a single gas source venturi throat, or can be configured to switch between multiple gas sources, e.g., propane and natural gas, connected thereto, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018/0038592, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
The combustion blower 80 includes the blower inlet 208, a pump 210, a mixing chamber 212, and an outlet 214. As described above, the air inlet pipe 86 is connected to the blower inlet 208 adjacent the venturi throat 198, such that a mixture of air and gas is provided to the combustion blower 80 through the blower inlet 208. The blower inlet 208 is in fluidic communication with the mixing chamber 212 with the air and gas being provided to the mixing chamber 212. The pump 210 includes a pump impeller (not shown) driven by a motor 216. The pump impeller is housed within the mixing chamber 212 and rotationally driven by the motor 216. The pump 210 draws air and gas into the mixing chamber from the air inlet pipe 86 and the venturi throat 198, mixes the air and gas, and discharges the mixture through the outlet 214 and into the connected gas mixture pipe 82. The gas mixture pipe 82 is mounted to the tube sheet 91, and in fluidic communication with the burner 84, discussed in connection with
The inlet 202 of the gas valve 188 can be a piston-style connector 221 that has a cylindrical protrusion 220 including a circumferential recess 222, a radial o-ring 224 seated in the circumferential recess 222, and an annular flange 226. The gas inlet pipe 56 can have an outlet connector 228 that includes an annular flange 230. The outlet connector 228 of the gas inlet pipe 56 is sized and configured to receive the cylindrical protrusion 220 with the radial o-ring 224 being compressed between an inner wall of the outlet connector 228 and the circumferential recess 222. When the cylindrical protrusion 220 is fully inserted into the outlet connector 228, the annular flange 226 of the piston-style connector 221 will be adjacent the annular flange 230 of the outlet connector 228. The quick disconnect fitting 218 can be clipped over the annular flanges 226, 230 to secure the outlet connector 228 and the piston-style connector 221 together.
Similar to the gas valve inlet 202, the venturi throat 198 can have a piston-style inlet connector 240 that includes a cylindrical protrusion 242 including a circumferential recess 244, a radial o-ring 246 seated in the circumferential recess 244, and an annular flange 248. The outlet 206 of the gas valve 188 can have an outlet connector 250 that includes an annular flange 252. The outlet connector 250 of the gas valve 188 is sized and configured to receive the cylindrical protrusion 242 with the radial o-ring 246 being compressed between an inner wall of the outlet connector 250 and the circumferential recess 244. When the cylindrical protrusion 242 is fully inserted into the outlet connector 250, the annular flange 248 of the piston-style connector 240 will be adjacent the annular flange 252 of the outlet connector 250. The quick disconnect fitting 218 can then be clipped over the annular flanges 248, 252 such that at least a portion of the annular flanges 248, 252 extends into and through the slots 238. Due to the interlocked position of the annular flanges 248, 252 relative to the slots 238, the quick disconnect fitting 218 mechanically retains and prevents separation between the outlet connector 250 (e.g., the gas valve 204) and the piston-style connector 240 (e.g., the venturi throat 198).
Thus, in view of the above, quick disconnect fittings can be used for both inlet and outlet connections of a gas valve, e.g., between a gas valve and a gas inlet pipe as well as between a gas valve and a venturi throat. This quick disconnect fitting provides an efficient and easy-to-use mechanism for coupling and separating the components of the gas heater 10, and advantageously eliminates the potential problem of over-torqueing threads when creating a fluid-tight seal between the components of the assembly.
The tube sheet 91 is generally disc-shaped with a central body 264 surrounded by a radial flange 266. The central body 264 includes a central opening 268, a plurality of inflow tube openings 270, and a plurality of outflow tube openings 272, all of which extend through the central body 264 from an exterior side 274 to an interior side 276 thereof. The central opening 268 is configured to have the burner 84 and the gas mixture pipe 82 mounted adjacent thereto, with the burner 84 being mounted on the interior side 276 and the gas mixture pipe 82 being mounted on the exterior side 274. In this regard, the gas mixture pipe 82 is mounted at a first end to the outlet 214 of the combustion blower 80, and at a second end to the tube sheet 91 adjacent the central opening 268. Accordingly, the air/gas mixture that is pumped into the gas mixture pipe 82 by the combustion blower 80 flows through the gas mixture pipe 82, across the central opening 268 of the tube sheet 91, and into the burner 84.
The burner 84 includes a cylindrical body 278 having a plurality of radial openings 280, and a positioning flange 281 that extends radially from a top, e.g., the 12 o'clock position, of the cylindrical body 278 and extends along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body 278. The radial openings 280 allow the air/gas mixture provided to the burner 84 from the gas mixture pipe 82 to dissipate from the burner 84 so that it can be ignited by the igniter 194, which can be a hot-surface igniter, a spark igniter, a pilot igniter, or a combination thereof. While the positioning flange 281 is shown as extending along the length of the burner 84, it should be understood that it can be of a smaller length and only extend along a portion of the burner 84 length.
The tube sheet insulation 260 is generally disc shaped and dimensioned to cover the central body 264 of the tube sheet 91. The tube sheet insulation 260 includes a central opening 282, a plurality of inflow tube openings 284, and a plurality of outflow tube openings 286. The central opening 282 of the tube sheet insulation 260 is dimensioned and configured to receive the burner 84 such that the tube sheet insulation 260 can be slid over the burner 84 and abut the tube sheet 91, with the burner 84 being positioned within the central opening 282 of the tube sheet insulation 260. Additionally, the plurality of inflow tube openings 284 and the plurality of outflow tube openings 286 of the tube sheet insulation 260 are dimensioned and configured to align with the inflow tube openings 270 and the outflow tube openings 272 of the tube sheet 91 when the tube sheet insulation 260 is positioned adjacent the tube sheet 91. The tube sheet insulation 260 mitigates the dissipation of heat through the tube sheet 91, thus forcing heat generated by the gas heater 10 to be absorbed by the heat exchanger 254.
The heat exchanger 254 includes an array of heat exchanger tubes 288, e.g., seven heat exchanger tubes 288. The heat exchanger 254 is shown in greater detail in
The extruded fins 292 of the heat exchanger tubes 288, which are shown in greater detail in
As shown in
Turning back to
The mount 190 includes a mount body 316, a mounting flange 318 extending about the perimeter of the canister body 316, and a spacing flange 320. The canister body 316 includes a sensor mounting wall 322, a back wall 324, and first and second sidewalls 326, 328. The spacing flange 320 can be substantially V-shaped and can extend from the exterior of the sensor mounting wall 322 and/or the back wall 324. The sensor mounting wall 322 can have a flame sensor mount 330 and an igniter mount 332 (see
When the body 316 of the mount 190 is inserted into the top opening 334 of the combustion chamber canister 186 and the mount 190 is secured to the combustion chamber canister 186, the body 316 will be positioned within the cavity 308 of the upper heat exchanger insulation 256. In this position, the spacing flange 320, the flame sensor 192, and the igniter 194 will extend through the upper heat exchanger insulation 256 and into the combustion chamber 297. This is shown, for example, in
This dimensional consistency is achieved by mounting the igniter mount 332, the igniter 194, the flame sensor mount 330, and the flame sensor 192 to the mount 190, whose position is tied to the burner 84, which reduces the number of components that contribute to the “stack-up” of tolerances, as well as allowing the accumulation of tolerance variations to be absorbed by the gasket 336 placed in the gap between the mounting flange 318 of the mount 190 and the combustion chamber canister 186. That is, the present configuration allows the igniter mount 332 to “bottom out” on the positioning flange 281 through the spacing flange 320, which ties the igniter mount 332, and therefore placement of the igniter 194, to the burner 84. This limits the number of components that contribute to the stack-up of tolerances to, for example, the height of the positioning flange 281, the spacing flange 320, the mount 190, and the igniter 194, most of which can vary due to manufacturing. However, each of these tolerance variations is tied together and manifest at the gap between the mounting flange 318 of the mount 190 and the combustion chamber canister 186 where the gasket 336 is placed in order to absorb the tolerances. In furtherance of this, the gasket 336 is designed to be thick enough to absorb the accumulation of tolerance variations in all of the parts. By tying these tolerances together, and permitting the gasket 336 to absorb the accumulation of tolerance variations, the stack-up is essentially reduced to the depth of the igniter mount 332.
In contrast, if the igniter mount 332 was constructed to bottom-out at the connection to the combustion chamber, then it would not be tied to the burner 84 and additional components would contribute to the tolerance variations and overall “stack-up,” which would negatively affect the dimensional consistency between the igniter 194, the flame sensor 192, and the burner 84. In essence, this would result in the tolerance variations being comprised of all tolerance variations relating to the igniter mount 332 in addition to all tolerance variations relating to placement of the burner 84. However, tying the igniter mount 332 to the burner 84 mitigates this additive consequence.
Furthermore, by mounting the igniter mount 332, the igniter 194, the flame sensor mount 330, and the flame sensor 192 to the mount 190, which is a separate panel from where the burner 84 is mounted, the mount 190 can be placed at a top of the combustion chamber canister 186 so that it can be accessed and serviced from above, e.g., through the top panel 14. This results in an easier installation and replacement procedure for a servicing technician, while the spacing flange 320 and the positioning flange 281 reduces the dimensional variability.
Still further, by having the spacing flange 320 contact the positioning flange 281 of the burner 84, the heat exchanger 254 including mount 190 can be more easily replaced. Generally, these components are replaced by a technician operating in the blind (e.g., without being able to see where they are positioned). However, in the present aspect, the technician will be able to feel when the spacing flange 320 contacts the positioning flange 281, and will therefore know that the heat exchanger 254 including mount 190 are in the correct location.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the spacing flange 320 can be a cup, while the positioning flange 281 can be a pin. The cup and pin would function substantially the same as the spacing flange 320 and the positioning flange 281, respectively, in that they would engage each other to tie the igniter mount 330 to the burner 84. However, the pin and cup configuration would restrict movement of the burner 84 in three axes as opposed to two with the spacing flange 320 and the positioning flange 281.
As discussed above, by having the igniter 194 and flame sensor 330 mounted to the mount 190, which is mounted separately from the burner 84 and to a top of the combustion chamber canister 186, all of the electronics are accessible through the top of the gas heater 10 by removing the top panel 14. This is in contrast to prior art pool heaters that require a technician to go to multiple sides of the cabinet to service the electronics of the heater. Accordingly, all side panels of such prior art heaters must be accessible, and therefore must be spaced from any adjacent fences, walls of the house or equipment room, etc. In addition to requiring clearance for service, clearance is often needed to prevent the heater from raising the temperature of nearby walls too much. For example, pool heaters will often be spaced 6-18 inches from a nearby wall so as not to increase the temperature of the wall more than is permitted. Accordingly, these clearances serve two purposes: 1) to maintain a suitable low temperature of nearby walls, and 2) to allow a technician access to service the heater.
However, the gas heater 10 of the current disclosure allows the electronics and other components to be accessed through the top of the gas heater 10, and thus the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20 need not be accessible to a technician. Instead, only the top 12, the exhaust side panel 22, and the water header side panel 24 need to be accessible.
Returning to
As noted above, the inflow chamber 366 is in fluidic communication with the bypass chamber 370. The bypass chamber 370 is capable of being switched into and out of fluidic communication with the outflow chamber 368 by the service cartridge 358, which includes a pressure valve 372 that opens when the pressure in the bypass chamber 370 is above a predetermined value and closes when the pressure is below a predetermined value. When the pressure valve 372 is open, the inflow chamber 366 is in fluidic communication with the outflow chamber 368 by way of the bypass chamber 370, which allows a portion of the water to bypass the heat exchanger 254, resulting in a reduction in pressure in the system. The water header manifold 90, along with the bypass chamber 370, service cartridge housing 356, service cartridge 358, and associated functionality, can be in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 7,971,603, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
The first inlet fitting 378 can be secured to the inlet 346 of the water header manifold 90 by aligning the first inlet fitting mounts 384 with the inlet mounting flanges 374. A bolt or other fastening means can then be inserted through the first inlet fitting mounts 384 and the inlet mounting flanges 374 to secure the two together. A gasket can also be provided between the first inlet fitting 378 and the inlet 346 to help maintain pressure and prevent leakage. This places the inlet 346 in fluidic communication with the first inlet fitting inlet 382.
The first outlet fitting 380 can be secured to the outlet 350 of the water header manifold 90 by aligning the first outlet fitting mounts 388 with the outlet mounting flanges 376. A bolt or other fastening means can then be inserted through the first outlet fitting mounts 388 and the outlet mounting flanges 376 to secure the two together. A gasket can also be provided between the first outlet fitting 380 and the outlet 350 to help maintain pressure and prevent leakage. This places the outlet 350 in fluidic communication with the first outlet fitting outlet 386.
When the first inlet fitting 378 is connected to the inlet 346, the inlet fitting inlet 382 will be at an adjusted inlet position. In this regard, the first inlet fitting 378 will be positioned at a first inlet fitting height IFH1 that is the distance between the center of first inlet fitting inlet 382 and the bottom of the base 26. When the first outlet fitting 380 is connected to the outlet 350, the outlet fitting outlet 386 will be at an adjusted outlet position. In this regard, the first outlet fitting 380 will be positioned at a first outlet fitting height OM that is the distance between the center of first outlet fitting outlet 386 and the bottom of the base 26. The first inlet fitting height IFH1 is the effective height by which the inlet 346 of the water header manifold 90 can be connected to pre-existing pool plumbing and devices. The first outlet fitting height OM is the effective height by which the outlet 350 of the water header manifold 90 can be connected to pre-existing pool plumbing and devices. That is, when the proper inlet and outlet fittings are attached to the water header manifold 90, the first inlet fitting height IFH1 should match the height of the pre-existing water inlet plumbing (e.g., that was connected to the prior heater that the present gas heater 10 is replacing) and the first outlet fitting height OM should match the height of the pre-existing water outlet plumbing (e.g., that was connected to the prior heater that the present gas heater 10 is replacing). Accordingly, the pre-existing water inlet plumbing should align with the first inlet fitting inlet 382 such that it can be connected thereto with minimal modification, and the pre-existing water outlet plumbing should align with the first outlet fitting outlet 386 such that it can be connected thereto with minimal modification. This effectively changes the position of the inlet 346 and the outlet 350. In addition to the first inlet fitting inlet 382 and the first outlet fitting outlet 386 being placed in the proper position for connection, they will also have the same size and fitting type, e.g., connector type, as the prior heater.
Essentially, the first inlet fitting 378 adapts the water manifold header 90 inlet 346 to the inlet position of the prior heater that is being replaced, and the first outlet fitting 380 adapts the water manifold header 90 outlet 350 to the outlet position of the prior heater that is being replaced.
The second inlet fitting 390 can be secured to the inlet 346 of the water header manifold 90 by aligning the second inlet fitting mounts 400 with the inlet mounting flanges 374. A bolt or other fastening means can then be inserted through the second inlet fitting mounts 400 and the inlet mounting flanges 374 to secure the two together. A gasket can also be provided between the second inlet fitting 390 and the inlet 346 to help maintain pressure and prevent leakage. This places the inlet 346 in fluidic communication with the second inlet fitting inlet 394.
The second outlet fitting 392 can be secured to the outlet 350 of the water header manifold 90 by aligning the second outlet fitting mounts 408 with the outlet mounting flanges 376. A bolt or other fastening means can then be inserted through the second outlet fitting mounts 408 and the outlet mounting flanges 376 to secure the two together. A gasket can also be provided between the second outlet fitting 392 and the outlet 350 to help maintain pressure and prevent leakage. This places the outlet 350 in fluidic communication with the second outlet fitting outlet 402.
When the second inlet fitting 390 is connected to the inlet 346, the second inlet fitting inlet 394 will be at an adjusted inlet position while the second inlet fitting outlet 398 will be at the inlet position. In this regard, the second inlet fitting inlet 394 will be positioned at a second inlet fitting height IFH2 that is the distance between the center of the second inlet fitting inlet 394 and the bottom of the base 26, and the second inlet fitting outlet 398 will be at the inlet height HI. When the second outlet fitting 392 is connected to the outlet 350, the second outlet fitting outlet 402 will be at an adjusted outlet position while the second outlet fitting inlet 406 will be at the outlet position. In this regard, the second outlet fitting outlet 402 will be positioned at a second outlet fitting height OFH2 that is the distance between the center of second outlet fitting outlet 402 and the bottom of the base 26, and the second outlet fitting inlet 406 will be at the outlet height HO.
The second inlet fitting height IFH2 is the effective height by which the inlet 346 of the water header manifold 90 can be connected to pre-existing pool plumbing and devices. The second outlet fitting height OFH2 is the effective height by which the outlet 350 of the water header manifold 90 can be connected to pre-existing pool plumbing and devices. That is, when the second inlet fitting 390 and the second outlet fitting 293 are attached to the water header manifold 90, the second inlet fitting height IFH2 should match the height of the pre-existing water inlet plumbing (e.g., that was connected to the prior heater that the present gas heater 10 is replacing) and the second outlet fitting height OFH2 should match the height of the pre-existing water outlet plumbing (e.g., that was connected to the prior heater that the present gas heater 10 is replacing), so long as the second inlet fitting 390 and the second outlet fitting 293 are the proper fittings (e.g., adapters) that match the previous heater. Accordingly, the pre-existing water inlet plumbing should align with the second inlet fitting inlet 394 such that it can be connected thereto with minimal modification, and the pre-existing water outlet plumbing should align with the second outlet fitting outlet 402 such that it can be connected thereto with minimal modification. This effectively changes the position of the inlet 346 and the outlet 350. In addition to the second inlet fitting inlet 394 and the second outlet fitting outlet 402 being placed in the proper position for connection, they will also have the same size and fitting type, e.g., connector type, as the prior heater.
Essentially, the second inlet fitting 390 adapts the water manifold header 90 inlet 346 to the inlet position of the prior heater that is being replaced, and the second outlet fitting 392 adapts the water manifold header 90 outlet 350 to the outlet position of the prior heater that is being replaced.
Additionally, although the inlet height measurements HI, IFH1, IFH2 are described as a distance with respect to the bottom of the base 26, it should be understood that this is only an example and that the inlet height measurements HI, IFH1, IFH2 can be a distance with respect to any reference elevation point that is common to all inlet height measurements HI, IFH1, IFH2. Similarly, although the outlet height measurements HO, OFH1, OFH2 are described as a distance with respect to the bottom of the base 26, it should be understood that this is only an example and that the outlet height measurements HO, OFH1, OFH2 can be a distance with respect to any reference elevation point that is common to all outlet height measurements HO, OFH1, OFH2.
The interior side 424 of the second tube sheet 412 can be lined with a layer of insulation 442 through which the tubes 428 extend to reduce the temperature near a coupled water header manifold. The interior side 438 of the front manifold 436 can also be lined with a layer of insulation 444 that the tubes 428 extend through to prevent the escape of heat and hot gases. Additionally, a layer of combustion chamber insulation 446 fills a top gap in the semi-circular pattern of fins of the heat exchanger 410 which is provided between two of the tube-and-fin subassemblies 426 to allow for placement of the mount 190 and to permit the igniter 194 and flame sensor 192 to reach the burner 84. The combustion chamber insulation 446 prevents heat and hot gases from escaping through the top gap, thus increasing the efficiency of the heat exchanger 410. The tube-and-fin subassemblies 426 generally form ⅚th of a circle while the combustion chamber insulation 446 and mount 190 fill in the remaining ⅙th. Forming the tube-and-fin subassemblies 426 in a semi-circle eliminates the need for bottom insulation, and optimizes the transfer of heat in the smallest space possible.
The front manifold 436 can additionally include a plurality of radial extensions 447 that are configured to engage and rest on the interior of the combustion chamber canister 186 when the combustion chamber canister 186 is placed over the heat exchanger 410. Accordingly, the radial extensions 447 support the heat exchanger 410 within the combustion chamber canister 186. This eliminates the need for a separate support bracket.
Additionally, the fins 430 are designed so that two fins 430 can be positioned next to each other with the first sidewall 466 of one fin 430 abutting the second sidewall 468 of a second fin 430, allowing the fins 430 to be arranged in the semi-circle configuration shown in
Furthermore, the fins 430 are dimensioned and configured so that two or more fins 430 can be nested during manufacturing. In this regard, the first and second lower extensions 458, 460 are dimensioned and shaped so as to fit within the first and second upper gaps 454, 456, while the first and second upper extensions 450, 452 are dimensioned and shaped so as to fit within the first and second lower gaps 462, 464. This arrangement saves material during manufacturing of the fins 430.
The tube-and-fin subassemblies 426 can have advantages over tubes having extruded fins. Particularly, the tube-and-fin subassemblies 426 are more cost effective at least in part because the fins 430 can be manufactured from a lower-cost metal alloy than the tubes 428. For example, the tubes 428 can be made of a material that is more robust against damage from pool water, for example, cupronickel, stainless steel, or titanium, while the fins 430 can be made of a material that conducts heat well, but is not as robust though less expensive, for example, copper.
During operation, water is continuously routed through the tubes 428 between the open ends 432 by the water header manifold 90. While water is routed through the tubes 428, the burner 84 generates a flame from the gas mixture provided thereto. Hot gases generated by the flames then dissipate outward from the combustion chamber 297 and across the fins 430. As discussed above, the folded flanges 474 of the fins 430 trap the hot gases in contact with the fins 430 and force the hot gases to pass over the tubes 428 and out from the upper channels 476. The fins 430 capture heat and transfer it to the tubes 428, which themselves capture heat as well. The tubes 428 transfer the heat to the water flowing therethrough, which exits the tubes into the water header manifold 90 where it is rerouted back to the pool or spa.
The exhaust vent 530 is substantially similar to the exhaust vent 30, and is generally positioned at, and extends outward from, an upper portion of the exhaust side panel 522. The exhaust vent 530 includes a body 538 having upper vents 540, and is configured to receive a portion of an exhaust pipe from the interior of the cabinet 512, allowing for exhaust fumes to exit the exhaust pipe and dissipate from the gas heater 510 through the top vents 540.
The dual junction box 528 includes an elongated body 542, a first cover 544, and a second cover 546. The elongated body 542 has a first open side 548 (see, e.g.,
As shown in
According to aspects of the present disclosure, the orientation of the user interface module 516 on the top panel 514 can be reversed in order to suit different installation positions and requirements. As shown in
Additionally, the central channel 586 includes a plurality of declined surfaces 608 positioned between the perimeter wall 602 and the first and second lateral sides 582, 584. The declined surfaces 608 decline from a generally central portion of the central channel 586 to the outside of the central channel 586. The perimeter wall 602 prevents water, e.g., rain water, from flowing into the access window 600 and entering the cabinet 512, while the declined surfaces 608 direct water toward the perimeter of the top panel 514 to flow outward and off of the top panel 514, to prevent and/or inhibit pooling. Accordingly, the cabinet 512 is resistant to the entry of water, which it may be exposed to due to the gas heater 510 being located outdoors and in contact with the elements, such as rain and snow. The top panel 514 also includes first and second sets of engagement mechanisms 610, 612 (e.g., hooks) on opposite ends of the central channel 586, along with two fastener mounts 614. The engagement mechanisms 610, 612 and fastener mounts 614 are configured to assist with securing the user interface module 516 to the top panel 514. While reference is made herein to sets of engagement mechanisms 610, 612, it should be understood that a set could comprise a single engagement mechanism.
As shown in
To secure the user interface module 516 to the top panel 514, a user first engages the user interface engagement mechanisms 620 with one set of the engagement mechanisms 610, 612, e.g., the second set of engagement mechanisms 612, of the top panel 514. The user then lowers the user interface module 516 into the central channel 586 so that the fastener hole 618 of the user interface module 516 is aligned with the fastener mount 614 of the top panel 514 to prevent the user interface module 516 from longitudinal movement. At this point, the user interface module 516 is positioned between the first and second lateral sides 582, 584 of the top panel 514, which prevent the user interface module 516 from moving laterally. The user then inserts the fastener 624 into the fastener hole 618 and the fastener mount 614 to fully secure the user interface module 516 to the top panel 514. Specifically, the fastener 624 prevents vertical and rotational movement of the user interface module 516 as well as movement across the channel 586. At this point, the user interface module 516 is in a first position. To change the orientation of the user interface module 516 to a second position, a user removes the fastener 624, lifts the user interface module 516 vertically off of the top panel 514, and rotates the user interface module 516 one-hundred and eighty (180) degrees about central axis B. The user then repeats the steps for securing the user interface module 516 to the top panel 514, but instead of placing the user interface engagement mechanisms 620 in the second set of engagement mechanisms 612, the user interface engagement mechanisms 620 are engaged with the first set of engagement mechanisms 610. The user then lowers the user interface module 516 until it rests in the central channel 586, and inserts the fastener 624 into the fastener hole 618 and the fastener mount 614 to fully secure the user interface module 516 to the top panel 514. Thus, the user interface module 516 can be placed in two different configurations that are one-hundred and eighty (180) degrees opposite of each other without requiring the entire top panel 514 to be removed and rotated. That is, in the first position, the user interface 596 of the user interface module 516 is easily accessible by a user standing at the first side panel 518 of the cabinet 512, while in the second position the user interface 596 of the user interface module 516 is easily accessible by a user standing at the second side panel 520 of the cabinet 512.
When the user interface module 516 is secured to the top panel 514, the top portion of the elongated body 588 lies flush with first and second lateral sides 582, 584 of the top panel 514. However, the fit between the user interface module 516 and the first and second lateral sides 582, 584 of the top panel 514 need not be a rain-proof seal, instead a small gap can be provided that allows for water, e.g., rain water, to flow around and below the user interface module 516, where it is channeled to the edges of the top panel 514 and runs off the gas heater 510. As discussed above, the perimeter wall 602 and declined surfaces 608 prevent the ingress of water into the cabinet 612.
It should also be understood that the combustion blower 572 can be substantially similar in construction and functionality to the combustion blower 80 shown and described, for example, in
Turning to
The exhaust side panel 522 includes a first wire port 664, e.g., a low-voltage wire port, and a second wire port 666, e.g., a high-voltage wire port, that extend therethrough and into the interior of the cabinet 512. The low-voltage wire port 664 is generally positioned in the low-voltage chamber 660 such that low-voltage wires can extend into the low-voltage chamber 660 from the interior of the cabinet 512. The high-voltage wire port 666 is generally positioned in the high-voltage chamber 662 such that high-voltage wires can extend into the high-voltage chamber 662 from the interior of the cabinet 512. As shown in
Additionally, the first and second covers 544, 546 are configured to removably engage the exhaust side panel 522 through an engagement mechanism. Specifically, the exhaust side panel 522 can include first and second sets of slots 672, 674 on opposite sides of the elongated body 542, while the first and second covers 544, 546 can each have one or more locking protrusions 676, 678, respectively. The locking protrusions 676, 678 are configured to be inserted into the first and second sets of slots 672, 674 during installation of the first and second covers 544, 546, and prevent movement of the first and second covers 544, 546 when installed.
As discussed above, when the first and second covers 544, 546 are inserted into, or placed over, the elongated body 542, they respectively cover the first and second open sides 548, 550 of the elongated body 542, and isolate the low-voltage chamber 660 and the high-voltage chamber 662. The first hole 554 allows for low-voltage electrical cables external to the gas heater 510 to be inserted into the low-voltage chamber 660 of the dual junction box 528 and connected with low-voltage electrical wires internal to the gas heater 510. The second hole 556 allows for high-voltage electrical cables external to the gas heater 510 to be inserted into the high-voltage chamber 662 of the dual junction box 528 and connected with high-voltage electrical wires internal to the gas heater 510.
Turning now to
The tube sheet 576 can be square-shaped with a central body 704 surrounded by a perimeter flange 706. The central body 704 includes a plurality of tube openings 708 that extend through the central body 704 between an exterior side 710 to an interior side 712 thereof. The tube sheet insulation 698 is generally square-shaped and dimensioned to cover the central body 704 of the tube sheet 576. The tube sheet insulation 698 includes a plurality of tube openings 714, which are dimensioned and configured to align with the tube openings 708 of the tube sheet 576 when the tube sheet insulation 698 is positioned adjacent the tube sheet 576. The tube sheet insulation 698 mitigates the dissipation of heat through the tube sheet 576, thus forcing heat generated by the gas heater 510 to be absorbed by the third heat exchanger 696.
The third heat exchanger 696 can be similar in construction to the second heat exchanger 410 shown in, and described in connection with,
As previously noted, the interior side 712 of the tube sheet 576 can be lined with the tube sheet insulation 698 which includes a plurality of tube openings 714 that the tubes 718 can extend through. The tube sheet insulation 698 functions to reduce the temperature near the coupled water header manifold 574. The interior side 726 of the front manifold 702 can be lined with the front heat exchanger insulation 700, which includes a plurality of tube openings 730 that the tubes 718 extend through to prevent the escape of heat and hot gases. Forming the tube-and-fin subassemblies 716 in a semi-circle eliminates the need for bottom insulation, and optimizes the transfer of heat in the smallest space possible.
The front manifold 702 can additionally include a bottom extension 732 that is configured to engage and rest on the interior of the combustion chamber enclosure 636 when the combustion chamber enclosure 636 is placed over the heat exchanger 696. Accordingly, the bottom extension 732 supports the heat exchanger 696 within the combustion chamber enclosure 636. This eliminates the need for a separate support bracket.
Turning to
Additionally, the fins 720 are designed so that two fins 720 can be positioned next to each other with a first side 756 of one fin 720 abutting a second side 758 of a second fin 720, allowing the fins 720 to be arranged in the semi-circle configuration shown in
Furthermore, the fins 720 are dimensioned and configured so that two or more fins 720 can be nested during manufacturing. In this regard, the upper gap 742 can be dimensioned and shaped so as to fit into the lower extension 744, while the upper extensions 738, 740 can be dimensioned and shaped so as to fit into the first and second lower gaps 746, 748. This arrangement saves material during manufacturing of the fins 720.
The tube-and-fin subassemblies 716 can have advantages over tubes having extruded fins. Particularly, the tube-and-fin subassemblies 716 are more cost effective at least in part because the fins 720 can be manufactured from a lower-cost metal alloy than the tubes 718. For example, the tubes 718 can be made of a material that is more robust against damage from pool water, for example, cupronickel, stainless steel, or titanium, while the fins 720 can be made of a material that conducts heat well, but is not as robust though less expensive, for example, copper.
During operation, water is continuously routed through the tubes 718 between the open ends 722 by the second water header manifold 574. While water is routed through the tubes 718, the burner 634 generates a flame from the gas mixture provided thereto. Hot gases generated by the flames then dissipate outward across the fins 720. As discussed above, the folded flanges 752 of the fins 720 trap the hot gases in contact with the fins 720 and force the hot gases to pass over the tubes 718 and out from the upper channels 754. The fins 720 capture heat and transfer it to the tubes 718, which themselves capture heat as well. The tubes 718 transfer the heat to the water flowing therethrough, which exits the tubes into the second water header manifold 574 where it is ultimately rerouted back to the pool or spa.
Turning back to
The combustion chamber enclosure 636 can include a first sidewall 776a, a second sidewall 776b, a front 776c, a chamfered wall 776d, a top 776e, a bottom 776f, and a rear mounting flange 776g surrounding a rear opening 778. However, it should be understood that other configurations of the combustion chamber enclosure 636 are contemplated by the present enclosure. The top 776e can include a burner opening 780 surrounded by a gasket 782. The burner opening 780 is configured to receive a portion of the burner 634, 774, e.g., a portion of the lower discharge mesh plate 766 can extend through the burner opening 780 and into a combustion chamber cavity 784 defined by the combustion chamber enclosure 636. This configuration allows for the air/gas mixture dissipated by the lower discharge mesh plate 766 to dissipate into the combustion chamber cavity 784 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636 and be ignited by the igniter 638. The heat exchanger 696 can be positioned within the combustion chamber cavity 784 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636, while the tube sheet 576 can be secured to the rear mounting flange 776g to secure the heat exchanger 696 and the second water header manifold 574 to the combustion chamber enclosure 636 with the bottom extension 732 of the front manifold 702 resting on the bottom 776f and supporting the heat exchanger 696. The tube sheet 576 functions as the back of the combustion chamber enclosure 636 and seals the combustion chamber cavity 784. Additionally, the perimeter flange 772 of the burner's upper mounting plate 764 can rest on the gasket 782 and create a seal therewith to prevent any portion of the air/gas mixture from escaping the combustion chamber enclosure 636. The top 776e can also include a mounting section 786 adjacent the burner opening 780 which the igniter 638 and flame sensor 640 can be mounted to and extend into the combustion chamber cavity 784 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636. This is shown, for example, in
Moreover, as referenced above, the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640 can be mounted to the mounting section 786 adjacent the burner opening 780 so as to extend vertically into the combustion region 788 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636. The front heat exchanger insulation 700 can include first and second cutouts 792, 794 configured to receive the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640. When the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640 are mounted to the mounting section 786, and the burner 634 is mounted to the combustion chamber enclosure 636 adjacent the burner opening 780, the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640 will be at a pre-set desired distance from the lower discharge mesh plate 766 from which the air/gas mixture is dissipated. This distance is the desired distance to achieve efficient and safe ignition of the air/gas mixture dissipated from the burner 634. If the distance is too large then there may be an excessive explosion accompanied by a loud noise resulting from the ignition of accumulated gas, which is not desirable. Accordingly, it is desired to maintain the distance between the igniter 638 and the lower discharge mesh plate 766 as constant. This dimensional consistency is achieved by mounting both the igniter 638 (and the flame sensor 640) and the burner 634 to the top 776e of the combustion chamber enclosure 636, or by mounting both the igniter 638 (and the flame sensor 640) directly to the burner 634, which drastically reduces the number of components that contribute to the “stack-up” of tolerances. In essence, this reduces the tolerance stack to the hole through which the igniter 638 extends. Additionally, by mounting the igniter 638, the flame sensor 640, and the burner 634 to the top 776e of the combustion chamber enclosure 636, each of these components can be accessed and serviced from above, e.g., through the top panel 514 or through the access window 600 that extends through the top panel 514. This results in an easier installation and replacement procedure for a servicing technician.
Alternatively, the igniter 638 and/or the flame sensor 640 can be mounted to the tube sheet 576 at a position adjacent the burner 634 near the top of the tube sheet 576, e.g., at a position that is above the water manifold header 574 and between the water manifold header 574 and the top of the tube sheet 576. In such a configuration, the igniter 638 and/or the flame sensor 640 extends horizontally through the tube sheet 576 and the tube sheet insulation 698, and into the combustion region 788 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636 with the igniter 638 positioned adjacent the lower discharge mesh plate 766 of the burner 634. This configuration allows for reliable positioning of the igniter 638 with respect to the burner 634, and positions the igniter 638 perpendicular to the flow of gas, which exposes the igniter 638 to a greater surface area of gas and allows for more reliable ignition.
Returning to
The circulation body 798 includes a first arm 818, a second arm 820, a first cartridge 822, and a second cartridge 824. The first arm 818 defines a first inner cavity 826 and the second arm 820 defines a second inner cavity 828, such that the first cartridge 822 can be removably inserted into the first inner cavity 826 through a first top opening 830 in the first arm 818 and the second cartridge 824 can be removably inserted into the second inner cavity 828 through a second top opening 832 in the second arm 820. The first and second arms 818, 820 additionally include upper securing collars 834, 836 adjacent the first top opening 830 and the second top opening 832, respectively. The upper securing collars 834, 836 each includes a through-hole 838 that assists in securing the first and second cartridges 822, 824 within the first and second arms 818, 820. Specifically, when the first and second cartridges 822, 824 are removably placed within the first and second arms 818, 820, locking mechanisms 840 (e.g., locking rods) can be inserted through the through-holes 838 of the upper securing collars 834, 836 and placed within a channel 842 that extends across a top of each of the first and second cartridges 822, 824. The locking rods 840 can be secured in placed by a standard fastener or insert known in the art, e.g., a hairpin. This also aligns the cartridges 822, 824 within the first and second arms 818, 820. This configuration allows for the first and second cartridges 822, 824 to be removed from the circulation body 798 to be serviced, cleaned, replaced, etc. For example, if it is determined that the circulation body 798 is clogged, e.g., there is poor circulation through the heat exchanger 696, then a user can remove the cartridges 822, 824 and clean the circulation body 798 or the cartridges 822, 824 themselves.
The circulation body 798 additionally includes a plurality of inlet ports and outlet ports on a rear thereof. Specifically, the circulation body 798 includes the third inlet port 810c, the fourth inlet port 810d, the fifth inlet port 810e, the sixth inlet port 810f, the seventh inlet port 810g, the eighth inlet port 810h, the ninth inlet port 810i, the first outlet port 812a, the second outlet port 812b, the third outlet port 812c, the fourth outlet port 812d, the fifth outlet port 812e, the sixth outlet port 812f, and the seventh outlet port 812g. The fluid circuits between the inlet ports 810a-810i and the outlet ports 812a-812i is discussed in greater detail in connection with
The first and second cartridges 822, 824 are identical in construction such that they are interchangeable. The first and second cartridges 822, 824 include a body 844 that extends between a bottom plate 846 and a top cap 848. The body 844 includes a plurality of openings 850 extending therethrough that are configured to align with the third inlet ports 810c-810i and the outlet ports 812a-812g of the circulation body 798 when the first and second cartridges 822, 824 are inserted into the first and second arms 818, 820 of the circulation body 798, which allows for fluid to circulate into and out of the first and second inner cavities 826, 828 of the first and second arms 818, 820. The plurality of openings 850 are sized, shaped, and positioned so that the first and second cartridges 822, 824 can be placed in either of the first or second arms 818, 820. Additionally, the first and second cartridges 822, 824 each includes a horizontal divider 852 that is used to divide the first and second inner cavities 826, 828 of the first and second arms 818, 820 into chambers, as discussed in connection with
When the first and second cartridges 818, 820 are installed in the circulation body 798, the circulation body 798 is divided into five chambers 860, 862, 864, 866, 868. The first chamber 860 is defined between the top cap 848 of the first cartridge 818 and the horizontal divider 852 of the first cartridge 818, and is in fluid communication with the first outlet 812a and the third inlet 810c. The second chamber 862 is defined between the horizontal divider 852 of the first cartridge 818 and the bottom plate 846 of the first cartridge 818, and is in fluid communication with the second outlet 812b, third outlet 812c, fourth inlet 810d, and fifth inlet 810e. The second chamber 862 can be divided into first and second sections 862a, 862b by the vertical baffle 854 with the third outlet 812c and the fourth inlet 810d positioned in the first section 862a, and the fifth inlet 810e positioned in the second section 862b. By dividing the second chamber 862 into the two sections 862a, 862b the water flowing through the different water paths can be mixed, which normalizes the temperature between the tubes 718, e.g., prevents the outside tubes 718 from getting hotter than the inside tubes 718. The third chamber 864 is defined between the bottom plate 846 of the first cartridge 818 and the bottom plate 846 of the second cartridge 820, and is in fluid communication with the fourth outlet 812d and the sixth inlet 810f. The fourth chamber 866 is defined between the horizontal divider 852 of the second cartridge 820 and the bottom plate 846 of the second cartridge 820, and is in fluid communication with the fifth outlet 812e, sixth outlet 812f, seventh inlet 810g, and eight inlet 810h. The fourth chamber 866 can be divided into first and second sections 866a, 866b by the vertical baffle 854 with the fifth outlet 812e positioned in the first section 866a, and the sixth outlet 812f and the seventh inlet 810g positioned in the second section 862b. By dividing the fourth chamber 866 into the two sections 866a, 866b the water flowing through the different water paths can be mixed, which normalizes the temperature between the tubes 718, e.g., prevents the outside tubes 718 from getting hotter than the inside tubes 718.
It should be understood that the first inlet 810a is connected and in fluidic communication with the first outlet 812a by a tube 718, the second inlet 810b is connected and in fluidic communication with the second outlet 812b by a tube 718, the third inlet 810c is connected and in fluidic communication with the third outlet 812c by a tube 718, the fourth inlet 810d is connected and in fluidic communication with the fourth outlet 812d by a tube 718, the fifth inlet 810e is connected and in fluidic communication with the fifth outlet 812e by a tube 718, the sixth inlet 810f is connected and in fluidic communication with the sixth outlet 812f by a tube 718, the seventh inlet 810g is connected and in fluidic communication with the seventh outlet 812g by a tube 718, the eighth inlet 810h is connected and in fluidic communication with the eighth outlet 812h by a tube 718, and the ninth inlet 810i is connected and in fluidic communication with the ninth outlet 812i by a tube 718.
Accordingly, water flows through the water header manifold 574 in the following fluid circuit: fluid enters the water header manifold 574 through the inlet 802 and into the inflow chamber 856; from the inflow chamber 856 the fluid flows into the first inlet 810a and the second inlet 810a; the fluid that enters into the first inlet 810a flows through a tube 718 and exits from the first outlet 812a into the first chamber 860 while the fluid that enters into the second inlet 810b flows through a tube 718 and exits from the second outlet 812b in the second chamber 862; the fluid that exits from the first outlet 812a into the first chamber 860 next enters the third inlet 810c, flows through a tube 718, and exits from the third outlet 812c in the first section 862a of the second chamber 862; the fluid that enters the second chamber 862 from the second outlet 812b and the third outlet 812c mix and enter the fourth inlet 810d (in the first section 862a of the second chamber 862) and the fifth inlet 810e (in the second section 862b of the second chamber 862); the fluid that enters into the fourth inlet 810d flows through a tube 718 and exits from the fourth outlet 812d into the third chamber 864 while the fluid that enters into the fifth inlet 810e flows through a tube 718 and exits from the fifth outlet 812e into the first section 866a of the fourth chamber 866; the fluid that exits from the fourth outlet 812d into the third chamber 864 next enters into the sixth inlet 810f, flows through a tube 718, and exits from the sixth outlet 812f in the second section 866b of the fourth chamber 866; the fluid that enters the fourth chamber 866 from the fifth outlet 812e and the sixth outlet 812f mix and enter the seventh inlet 810g and the eight inlet 810h; the fluid that enters into the seventh inlet 810g flows through a tube 718 and exits from the seventh outlet 812g in the fifth chamber 868 while the fluid that enters into the eight inlet 810h flows through a tube 718 and exits from the eight outlet 812h into the outflow chamber 858; the fluid that exits the seventh outlet 812g into the fifth chamber 868 next enters the ninth inlet 810i, flows through a tube 718, and exits from the ninth outlet 812i into the outflow chamber 858; and the fluid that enters the outflow chamber 858 through the eighth outlet 812h and the ninth outlet 812i exits the water header manifold 574 through the outlet 806. As the water is circulated through the tubes 718 of the heat exchanger 696, and between the inlets 810a-i and outlets 812a-i, it is heated and recirculated to the pool or spa.
As referenced above,
The burner 774 includes a body 870, a top mounting plate 872, a gasket 874, and a perforated bottom plate 876. The top mounting plate 872 includes a central opening 878 and perimeter holes 880 that the igniter 638 and flame sensor 640 can extend through. The body 870 can be a rectangular-shaped box and can include an upper mounting flange 882 that assists with mounting the burner 774 to the top 776e of the combustion chamber enclosure 636. A plurality of holes 884 can be provided in the upper mounting flange 882 that the igniter 638 and flame sensor 640 can extend through.
The burner 774 can be mounted to the top 776e of the combustion chamber enclosure 636 with the body 870 extending through the burner opening 780 into the combustion chamber cavity 784 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636. Furthermore, when the burner 774 is mounted to the top 776e of the combustion chamber enclosure 636, the body 870 can be positioned within the top gap 760 of the heat exchanger 696 mounted within the combustion chamber enclosure 36. This can be seen, for example, in
When inserted through the holes 880, 884, the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640 extend vertically into the first and second cutouts 792, 794 of the front heat exchanger insulation 700 and into the combustion region 788 of the combustion chamber enclosure 636. When the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640 are mounted to the top mounting plate 872, and the burner 774 is mounted to the combustion chamber enclosure 636 within the burner opening 780, the igniter 638 and the flame sensor 640 will be at a pre-set desired distance from the perforated bottom plate 876 from which the air/gas mixture is dissipated. As previously discussed, this distance is the desired distance to achieve efficient and safe ignition of the air/gas mixture dissipated from the burner 774. Consistency of this spacing is achieved by mounting the igniter 638 (and the flame sensor 640) to the burner 774, and mounting both the igniter 638 and the burner 774 to the top 776e of the combustion chamber enclosure 636, which drastically reduces the number of components that contribute to the “stack-up” of tolerances. In essence, this reduces the tolerance stack to the holes 880, 884 through which the igniter 638 extends.
The third inlet fitting 888 includes a third inlet fitting inlet 892, a third inlet fitting body 894, a third inlet fitting outlet 896, and a third inlet fitting fastener 898. The third inlet fitting 888 forms a fluidic path between the third inlet fitting inlet 892, the third inlet fitting body 894, and the third inlet fitting outlet 896, such that fluid can flow into the third inlet fitting inlet 892, across the third inlet fitting body 888, and out of the third inlet fitting outlet 896. Additionally, the third inlet fitting inlet 892 can be threaded to allow for connection with a corresponding threaded fastener associated with pre-existing plumbing in order to connect the water manifold header 574 to the pre-existing plumbing. The third inlet fitting fastener 898 can be a threaded nut that can be captured/retained on the third inlet fitting 888 adjacent the third inlet fitting outlet 896. The third inlet fitting fastener 898 is configured to threadedly engage the threaded inlet 802 of the water manifold header 574 in order to secure the third inlet fitting 888 to the water manifold header 574. The third inlet fitting fastener 898 allows for increased positional freedom of the third inlet fitting inlet 892. Specifically, the third inlet fitting 888 can be secured to the threaded inlet 802 of the water header manifold 574 by aligning the third inlet fitting fastener 898 with the threaded inlet 802, partially tightening the third inlet fitting fastener 898 on the threaded inlet 802, rotating the third inlet fitting 888 to adjust the horizontal and vertical placement of the third inlet fitting inlet 892 to the desired position (e.g., to the second inlet fitting height IFH2 as shown in
The third outlet fitting 890 includes a third outlet fitting outlet 900, a third outlet fitting body 902, a third outlet fitting inlet 904, and a third outlet fitting fastener 906. The third outlet fitting 890 forms a fluidic path between the third outlet fitting inlet 904, the third outlet fitting body 902, and the third outlet fitting outlet 900, such that fluid can flow into the third outlet fitting inlet 904, across the third outlet fitting body 902, and out of the third outlet fitting outlet 900. Additionally, the third outlet fitting outlet 900 can be threaded to allow for connection with a corresponding threaded fastener associated with pre-existing plumbing in order to connect the water manifold header 574 to the pre-existing plumbing. The third outlet fitting fastener 906 can be a threaded nut that can be captured/retained on the third outlet fitting 890 adjacent the third outlet fitting inlet 904. The third outlet fitting fastener 906 is configured to threadedly engage the threaded outlet 806 of the water manifold header 574 in order to secure the third outlet fitting 890 to the water manifold header 574. The third outlet fitting fastener 906 allows for increased positional freedom of the third outlet fitting outlet 900. Specifically, the third outlet fitting 890 can be secured to the threaded outlet 806 of the water header manifold 574 by aligning the third outlet fitting fastener 906 with the threaded outlet 806, partially tightening the third outlet fitting fastener 906 on the threaded outlet 806, rotating the third outlet fitting 890 to adjust the horizontal and vertical placement of the third outlet fitting outlet 900 to the desired position (e.g., to the second outlet fitting height OFH2 as shown in
Accordingly, the third inlet fitting 888 can be secured to the water header manifold 574 to adjust the inlet height HI to the second inlet fitting height IFH2 in the same fashion as the second inlet fitting 390, and the third outlet fitting 890 can be secured to the water header manifold 574 to adjust the outlet height HO to the second outlet fitting height OFH2 in the same fashion as the second outlet fitting 392. It should also be understood that while reference is made herein to the second inlet fitting 390, the third inlet fitting 888, the second outlet fitting 392, and the third outlet fitting 890 adjusting inlet height and the outlet height to a new effective height, such functionality is capable of adjusting the overall effective position of the water header manifold inlet 346, 802 and water header manifold outlet 350, 806, including the horizontal/lateral position and depth thereof in addition to the vertical position. Such is shown, for example, in
While exemplary embodiments have been described herein, it is expressly noted that these embodiments should not be construed as limiting, but rather that additions and modifications to what is expressly described herein also are included within the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, it is to be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and can exist in various combinations and permutations, even if such combinations or permutations are not made express herein.
The present application is a continuation of, and claims the benefit of priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/522,362 filed on Jul. 25, 2019, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/703,270 filed on Jul. 25, 2018, the entire disclosures of which are both expressly incorporated by reference herein.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20220127870 A1 | Apr 2022 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62703270 | Jul 2018 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16522362 | Jul 2019 | US |
| Child | 17568554 | US |
