JP5329245B2 - Water heater - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To operate a heat pump unit with an optimum heating capacity according to an amount used of hot water at a hot water supply terminal. <P>SOLUTION: In this hot water supply device, the heat pump unit is operated by an rated operation (step S2) when the amount of remaining hot water in a hot water storage tank is reduced to a rated operation start remaining hot water amount or smaller. When the amount of remaining hot water is reduced to a powerful operation start remaining hot water amount (second remaining hot water amount ) after the start of the rated operation, the heat pump unit is operated by an powerful operation (step S5). When the amount of remaining hot water is recovered to a powerful operation termination remaining hot water amount (third remaining hot water amount), (step S6:Yes), the heat pump unit is returned to the rated operation (step S8). Here, the powerful operation of the heat pump unit is continued when the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank is not recovered to the powerful operation termination remaining hot water amount (third remaining hot water amount) even though the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal is terminated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a hot water supply apparatus including a hot water storage tank for storing hot water supplied to a hot water supply terminal.

  There has been known a hot water supply apparatus that uses hot midnight power with a low electricity bill to boil hot water stored in a hot water storage tank in the midnight time zone (see, for example, Patent Document 1). However, in a hot water supply apparatus equipped with a small hot water storage tank that is insufficient with only hot water used in the daytime when boiling hot water in the daytime, it is necessary to boil the hot water during the daytime hours when electricity costs are high. In the hot water supply apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, a time period (for example, from 23:00 to 7 o'clock) in which the entire amount boiling operation for boiling the entire amount of hot water stored in the tank is performed, and a time period in which the entire amount boiling operation is not performed. In a time zone in which a zone (for example, from 7 o'clock to 23 o'clock) is set and the full amount boiling operation is not performed, the hot water boiling operation is performed only when the remaining hot water amount in the tank reaches the startup remaining hot water amount. The heating capacity of the heating means when performing the hot water boiling operation is set to be larger as the amount of remaining hot water for starting is smaller.

JP 2007-218520 A

  And the hot-water supply apparatus disclosed by this patent document 1 sets the starting residual hot water amount in the time slot | zone when there is little usage-amount of hot water low, and makes it difficult to enter into a hot water boiling operation. However, once the remaining amount of hot water in the tank reaches the amount of remaining hot water and starts to run out of hot water, the remaining amount of hot water in the tank is reduced (the amount of remaining hot water is set low), so the heating capacity is low. It is necessary to boil hot water in a high state. For this reason, regardless of the amount of hot water used at the hot water supply terminal (even when hot water supply is completed in a short period of time), a state in which a boiling operation is performed with a high heating capacity occurs. It could not be said that the operation was carried out with the optimum heating capacity according to the amount of use.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides a hot water supply apparatus capable of operating a heating means with an optimal heating capacity according to the amount of hot water used in a hot water supply terminal. The purpose is to do.

In order to solve the above problems, a hot water supply apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a hot water storage tank for storing hot water supplied to a hot water supply terminal, heating means for supplying heated hot water to the hot water storage tank, A remaining hot water amount detecting means for detecting a remaining hot water amount; and a heating capacity determining means for determining a heating capacity of the heating means, wherein the heating capacity determining means reduces the remaining hot water amount of the hot water storage tank to a first remaining hot water amount. Sometimes the heating capacity of the heating means is determined as the first heating capacity, and then the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal is continued, so that the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is less than the first remaining hot water amount. After the heating capacity of the heating means is changed to the second heating capacity larger than the first heating capacity when the remaining hot water amount is reduced, and the heating capacity of the heating means is determined to be the second heating capacity When the hot water in the hot-water supply terminal is completed, only when the at hot water storage tank of the remaining hot water is the third remaining hot water than is the amount of hot water between the second remaining hot water and the first remaining hot water The heating means is made lower in heating capacity than the second heating capacity and heating is continued.

  In this hot water supply apparatus, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is first heated with the first heating capacity, and then the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is changed to the first hot water amount. When the amount of remaining hot water reaches 2, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated with the second heating capacity. That is, since hot water can be boiled with the optimum heating capacity according to the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank, it is possible to reduce the efficiency reduction of the heating means and the increase in the electricity bill.

  In this hot water supply apparatus, if the amount of remaining hot water that is likely to run out of hot water is not reduced simply by heating the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal with the first heating capacity, the efficiency of the heating means is reduced and the electricity cost is increased. The boiling operation can be terminated without operating with the second heating capacity that causes

  In this hot water supply device, the reason that the heating capacity of the heating means is reduced is that sufficient hot water (hot water exceeding the third remaining hot water amount) is secured in the hot water storage tank. Even when the hot water supply is stopped, the boiling operation can be continued and sufficient hot water can be secured in the hot water storage tank to prepare for the hot water supply.

  A hot water supply apparatus according to a second invention is the hot water supply apparatus according to the first invention, wherein the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank is heated when the heating capability of the heating means is determined to be the second heating capability. When the heating capacity of the means is determined to be the first heating capacity, the temperature is made lower than the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank.

  In this hot water supply apparatus, even if the heating capacity is increased, the occurrence of high pressure can be suppressed by lowering the hot water temperature.

  A hot water supply apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is the hot water supply apparatus according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, further comprising an operation time zone limiting means for setting a time zone during which the heating means can be operated.

  In this hot water supply device, it is possible to prevent noise such as operation noise of the hot water supply device from being generated in the set time zone.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  In the first invention, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, first, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated with the first heating capacity, and then the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is increased. When the second remaining hot water amount is reached, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated with the second heating capacity. That is, since hot water can be boiled with the optimum heating capacity according to the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank, it is possible to reduce the efficiency reduction of the heating means and the increase in the electricity bill.

  In the first aspect of the invention, if the amount of remaining hot water that is likely to run out of hot water is not reduced simply by heating the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal with the first heating capacity, the efficiency of the heating means may be reduced. The boiling operation can be terminated without operating with the second heating capacity that causes a rise in the cost.

  Further, in the first invention, the user does not get hot water by making the condition that lowers the heating ability of the heating means that sufficient hot water (hot water of the third remaining hot water amount) is secured in the hot water storage tank. Even when the hot water supply is stopped for the reason described above, the boiling operation can be continued and sufficient hot water can be secured in the hot water storage tank to prepare for the hot water supply.

  Moreover, in 2nd invention, even if it raises heating capability, it can suppress that a high voltage | pressure generate | occur | produces by lowering tapping temperature.

Moreover, in 3rd invention, it can prevent generating noises, such as a driving sound of a hot-water supply apparatus, in the set time slot | zone.
A hot water supply apparatus according to a first reference example includes a hot water storage tank for storing hot water supplied to a hot water supply terminal, a heating means for supplying heated hot water to the hot water storage tank, and a remaining hot water amount detection means for detecting the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank. And a heating capacity determining means for determining the heating capacity of the heating means, and the heating capacity determining means sets the heating capacity of the heating means to the first heating when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is reduced to the first remaining hot water amount. Then, the heating capacity of the heating means is changed to the second heating capacity according to the hot water supply load at the hot water supply terminal.
In this hot water supply apparatus, when the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, first, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated with the first heating capacity, and then, according to the hot water supply load at the hot water supply terminal. The water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated with the second heating capacity. That is, since the hot water can be boiled with the optimum heating capacity according to the hot water supply load in the hot water supply terminal, it is possible to reduce the efficiency reduction of the heating means and the increase in the electricity bill.
The hot water supply apparatus according to the second reference example is the hot water supply apparatus according to the first reference example, wherein the heating capacity determining means has the heating capacity of the heating means when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is reduced to the first remaining hot water volume. The first heating capacity is determined, and then the heating capacity of the heating means is changed to a second heating capacity larger than the first heating capacity when the hot water supply load at the hot water supply terminal increases.
In this hot water supply device, when the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is first heated with the first heating capacity, and then the hot water supply load at the hot water supply terminal increases. In such a case, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated with the second heating capacity. When the hot water supply load does not increase, it is predicted that a sufficient amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank can be secured simply by heating the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal with the first heating capacity. The boiling operation can be terminated without operating with the second heating capacity that causes a rise in the cost.
The hot water supply apparatus according to the third reference example further includes a discriminating means for discriminating the type of hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal in the hot water supply apparatus according to the first or second reference example, and the heating capacity determination means is configured to When the amount of hot water decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, the heating capability of the heating means is determined to be the first heating capability, and then the heating capability of the heating means is set to the second according to the type of hot water supply determined by the determination device. Change to the heating capacity.
In this hot water supply apparatus, since the amount of hot water used can be estimated according to the type of hot water supply, the heating means can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.
The hot water supply apparatus according to the fourth reference example further comprises a flow rate detection means for detecting the flow rate of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank to the hot water supply terminal in the hot water supply apparatus according to any of the first to third reference examples, The heating capacity determining means determines the heating capacity of the heating means as the first heating capacity when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is reduced to the first remaining hot water volume, and thereafter, according to the flow rate detected by the flow rate detecting means. The heating capability of the heating means is changed to the second heating capability.
In this hot water supply apparatus, the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank can be estimated based on the flow rate of hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal, so that the heating means can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.
The hot water supply apparatus according to the fifth reference example further includes a use amount detecting means for detecting the use amount of hot water per predetermined time at the hot water supply terminal in the hot water supply apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth reference examples, The heating capacity determining means determines the heating capacity of the heating means as the first heating capacity when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is reduced to the first remaining hot water volume, and thereafter, for a predetermined time detected by the usage amount detecting means. Depending on the amount of hot water used, the heating capacity of the heating means is changed to the second heating capacity.
In this hot water supply apparatus, since the rate of decrease in the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank can be determined based on the amount of hot water used per predetermined time, the heating means can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.
A hot water supply apparatus according to a sixth reference example is the hot water supply apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth inventions, further comprising temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank to the hot water supply terminal, The capacity determining means determines the heating capacity of the heating means as the first heating capacity when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is reduced to the first remaining hot water volume, and then, depending on the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means, The heating capability of the heating means is changed to the second heating capability.
In this hot water supply device, it is possible to estimate the amount of heat used at the hot water supply terminal and the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank by detecting the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal. It can be operated with heating capacity.
A hot water supply apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the hot water supply apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects of the present invention, further comprising a use heat quantity estimation means for estimating a heat quantity of hot water used at the hot water supply terminal, and a heating capacity determination means. Determines the heating capacity of the heating means as the first heating capacity when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is reduced to the first remaining hot water volume, and then the heating means according to the heat quantity estimated by the used heat quantity estimating means. The heating capacity is changed to the second heating capacity.
In this hot water supply apparatus, it is possible to estimate the amount of heat related to the remaining amount of hot water in the hot water storage tank by estimating the amount of heat of hot water used at the hot water supply terminal, so that the heating means can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity. it can.

1 is a piping system diagram of a hot water supply device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram of the hot-water supply apparatus shown in FIG. It is the time chart which showed the relationship between the amount of hot water of a hot water storage tank, rated operation, and the start of powerful operation. A remote control installed in the kitchen. A remote control installed in the bathroom. It is a flowchart which determines the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which determines the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus of a 1st reference example. It is a flowchart which determines the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus of a 2nd reference example. It is a flowchart which determines the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus of a 3rd reference example. It is a flowchart which determines the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus of a 4th reference example. It is a flowchart which determines the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus of a 5th reference example.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a hot water supply apparatus according to the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

(First embodiment)
[Configuration of water heater]
The hot water supply apparatus 1 is an apparatus that supplies hot water to a currant A, a shower B, and a bath C (hereinafter, the currant A, the shower B, and the bath C are collectively referred to as “hot water supply terminal” as appropriate), and is illustrated in FIG. Thus, the heat pump unit 1a, the hot water storage unit 1b, and the remote controllers 1c and 1d (see FIGS. 2, 4 and 5) are provided.

[Heat pump unit 1a]
The heat pump unit 1 a heats water supplied from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20 and supplies the heated hot water to the hot water storage tank 20. The heat pump unit 1 a includes a compressor 10, a water heat exchanger 11, an electric expansion valve 12, an air heat exchanger 13, and a fan 14. The compressor 10, the water heat exchanger 11, the electric expansion valve 12, the air heat exchanger 13, valves, and the like are annularly connected by a refrigerant pipe 15 to constitute a refrigerant circuit 16. A gas heat exchanger 17 for exchanging heat between the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant coming out of the water heat exchanger 11 and the cold and low-pressure refrigerant coming out of the air heat exchanger 13 is arranged on the refrigerant circuit 16. .

[Hot water storage unit 1b]
The hot water storage unit 1 b includes a hot water storage tank 20, a boiling circulation circuit 30, a hot water circulation circuit 40, a memory circulation circuit 50, hot water supply circuits 60 and 70, and a water supply circuit 80.

[Hot water storage tank 20]
The hot water storage tank 20 stores hot water boiled by the heat pump unit 1a. The hot water tank 20 is connected to the boiling circulation circuit 30, the hot water circulation circuit 40, the bath hot water supply circuit 60, the currant / shower hot water supply circuit 70, and the water supply circuit 80, and the hot water heated by the heat pump unit 1a. Is configured to be supplied to the boiling circulation circuit 30, the hot water circulation circuit 40, the bath hot water supply circuit 60, and the currant / shower hot water supply circuit 70. The water supplied from the water supply source S is supplied to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20 through the water supply circuit 80. The hot water storage tank 20 is provided with a plurality of remaining hot water amount thermistors 21 for detecting the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20. The plurality of remaining hot water amount thermistors 21 are respectively provided at different height positions of the hot water storage tank 20.

[Boiling circuit 30]
The boiling circulation circuit 30 is a circuit provided to circulate hot water between the hot water storage tank 20 and the heat pump unit 1a. On the circuit, the boiling pump 31 and the above-described water heat exchanger 11 are provided. And the boiling three-way valve 32 is arrange | positioned. One end of the boiling circulation circuit 30 is connected to the bottom of the hot water storage tank 20 so that low temperature water at the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20 can be discharged. The other end of the boiling circulation circuit 30 branches from the three-way valve 32, one of which is connected to the top of the hot water storage tank 20 and the other is connected to the bottom of the hot water storage tank 20. Thereby, when the hot water heated by the heat pump unit 1a is low temperature, it becomes possible to return the low temperature water to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20, and when the hot water heated by the heat pump unit 1a is high temperature. The hot water can be returned to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 20. In addition, the boiling circulation circuit 30 includes a water thermistor 18 that detects the temperature of water supplied to the heat pump unit 1a (hereinafter referred to as water temperature), and the temperature of water heated by the heat pump unit 1a (hereinafter referred to as water temperature). A hot water thermistor 19 for detecting the hot water temperature is provided.

[Hot water circulation circuit 40]
The hot water circulation circuit 40 is a circulation circuit provided to heat the water in the bath C circulating in the memory circulation circuit 50 described later. A memorial heat exchanger 41 and a heat exchanger pump 42 are disposed on this circuit. One end of the hot water circulation circuit 40 is connected to the top of the hot water storage tank 20 so that hot water at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 20 can be discharged. In addition, the other end of the hot water circulation circuit 40 is connected to the bottom of the hot water storage tank 20, and the low-temperature water heat-exchanged by the memory heat exchanger 41 can be returned to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20. Yes.

[Memorial circuit 50]
The memorial circuit 50 is a circulation circuit that circulates the hot water of the bath C, and the water of the bath C is heated by exchanging heat with the hot water circulating through the hot water circulation circuit 40 described above. On this circuit, the bath circulation pump 51 and the above-mentioned regenerative heat exchanger 41 are arranged. In addition, the memorial circuit 50 is provided with a bath thermistor 52 that detects the temperature of the hot water in the bath C (bath temperature), and a water level sensor 53 that detects the water level of the bath C (hereinafter referred to as the bath water level). ing.

[Bath hot water supply circuit 60]
The bath hot water supply circuit 60 is a circuit for supplying hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 20 to the bath C. On the circuit, a hot water mixing valve 61, a hot water solenoid valve 62, and a check valve are provided. 63, a hot water volume sensor 64, a check valve 65, and a hot water thermistor 66 are arranged. One end of the bath hot water supply circuit 60 is connected to the top of the hot water storage tank 20 so that hot water at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 20 can be discharged. The other end of the bath hot water supply circuit 60 is connected to the bath C. The hot water mixing valve 61 adjusts the temperature of the hot water supplied to the bath C by mixing the hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 20 and the water supplied from the water supply source S. The hot water sensor 64 is provided to detect the flow rate of hot water supplied to the bath C, and the hot water thermistor 66 is provided to detect the temperature of hot water supplied to the bath C. Yes.

[Karan / shower hot water supply circuit 70]
The currant / shower hot water supply circuit 70 is a circuit for supplying hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 20 to the currant A and the shower B. On the circuit, a hot water mixing valve 71, a hot water supply amount sensor 72, A hot water supply thermistor 73 is arranged. One end of the currant / shower hot water supply circuit 70 is connected to the top of the hot water storage tank 20 so that hot water at the top of the hot water storage tank 20 can be discharged. The other end of the currant / shower hot water supply circuit 70 is connected to the currant A and the shower B. The hot water supply mixing valve 71 adjusts the temperature of the hot water supplied to the currant A and the shower B by mixing the hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 20 and the water supplied from the water supply source S. The hot water supply amount sensor 72 is provided for detecting the flow rate of hot water supplied to the currant A and the shower B, and the hot water supply thermistor 73 is used for detecting the temperature of hot water supplied to the currant A and the shower B. Is provided.

[Water supply circuit 80]
The water supply circuit 80 is a circuit that supplies tap water supplied from the water supply source S to the hot water storage tank 20, the hot water mixing valve 61, and the hot water mixing valve 71. A strainer 81, a check valve 82, a water temperature thermistor 83, and a check valve 84 are disposed on the circuit from the water supply source S to the hot water storage tank 20 of the water supply circuit 80. The water temperature thermistor 83 is provided for detecting the temperature of tap water supplied from the water supply source S to the hot water storage tank 20.

[Control unit 90]
As shown in FIG. 2, the hot water supply apparatus 1 is provided with a control unit 90 configured by a microcomputer, a memory, and the like. The control unit 90 includes the above-described water thermistor 18, hot water thermistor 19, a plurality of remaining hot water thermistors 21, a hot water supply amount sensor 72, a hot water supply thermistor 73, a heat exchange circulation pump 42, a bath thermistor 52, a bath circulation pump 51, and a water level sensor 53. The hot water volume sensor 64, the hot water thermistor 66, the remote controllers 1c and 1d, and the like are communicably connected by wire or wirelessly. For example, the operation command of the hot water supply device 1 input to the remote controllers 1c and 1d by the user or the like is sent to the control unit 90, and the control unit 90 outputs a control signal to each component based on the operation command. Thus, the operation of the hot water supply apparatus 1 is controlled. The control unit 90 includes a hot water supply type determination unit 91, a flow rate detection unit 92, a use amount detection unit 93, a temperature detection unit 94, a use heat amount estimation unit 95, a remaining hot water amount detection unit 96, and a heating capacity determination unit. 97.

  The hot water supply type discriminating unit 91 discriminates the type of hot water supply by operating various thermistors and pumps provided in the hot water storage unit 1b or the remote controllers 1c and 1d. Specifically, the hot water supply type determination unit 91 determines that hot water is being supplied in the currant A or the shower B based on a signal transmitted from the hot water supply thermistor 73. Further, the hot water supply type determination unit 91 determines that hot water supply related to heat insulation or reheating is performed based on signals transmitted from the bath thermistor 52, the bath circulation pump 51, and the heat exchange circulation pump 42. It should be noted that the hot water supply type determination unit 91 can also determine that hot water supply related to reheating is being performed in the bath C by a “reheating command” transmitted in response to an operation of the remote controller 1d. In addition, the hot water supply type discriminating unit 91 performs hot water supply related to hot water in the bath C by a signal transmitted from the hot water thermistor 66 or a “hot water command” transmitted in response to an operation of the remote controllers 1c and 1d. It is determined.

  The flow rate detection unit 92 detects the flow rate (L / min) of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 20 to the hot water supply terminal (Kallang A, shower B, bath C). Specifically, the flow rate detection unit 92 detects the flow rate of hot water supplied to the currant A and the shower B based on the flow rate detected by the hot water supply amount sensor 72. The flow rate detection unit 92 detects the flow rate of hot water supplied to the bath C based on the flow rate detected by the hot water volume sensor 64. Note that the flow rate detected by the flow rate detection unit 92 is stored in the memory of the control unit 90.

  The usage amount detection unit 93 measures the usage amount of hot water per predetermined time at the hot water supply terminal (Karan A, shower B, bath C). That is, the usage amount detection unit 93 is based on a flow rate (flow rate detected by the hot water amount sensor 64 and / or a hot water supply amount sensor 72) sequentially stored in the memory of the control unit 90 (for example, 10 minutes), the amount of hot water used is measured. Specifically, the usage amount detection unit 93 measures the usage amount of hot water per predetermined time supplied to the currant A and the shower B based on the flow rate detected by the hot water supply amount sensor 72, Based on the flow rate detected by the sensor 64, the flow rate of hot water supplied to the bath C is measured, or on the basis of the total flow rate detected by the hot water supply water amount sensor 72 and the hot water supply water amount sensor 64, A, shower B, bath C), and the amount of hot water used per predetermined time is measured. Note that the amount of hot water used per predetermined time detected by the usage amount detector 93 is stored in the memory of the controller 90.

  The temperature detection unit 94 detects the temperature of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 20 to the hot water supply terminal (Karan A, shower B, bath C). Specifically, the temperature detector 94 detects the temperature of hot water supplied to the currant A and the shower B based on the temperature detected by the hot water supply thermistor 73. The temperature detector 94 detects the temperature of the hot water used for the hot water of the bath C based on the temperature detected by the hot water thermistor 66. Further, the temperature detection unit 94 detects the temperature of hot water stored in the bath C based on the temperature detected by the bath thermistor 52.

  The use heat quantity estimation unit 95 estimates the heat quantity of hot water used at a hot water supply terminal (Kallang A, shower B, bath C). Specifically, in the case of “hot water supply operation by shower B”, the heat consumption estimation unit 95 uses the hot water consumption predicted by the learning function (for example, shower duration: use of about 80 L in 7 to 8 minutes) Amount) and hot water temperature (for example, temperature calculated from past data), the amount of heat used is predicted. In addition, in the case of “hot water operation”, the use heat amount estimation unit 95 predicts the use heat amount from the bath set temperature set by the bath temperature setting button 113 of the remote controller 1d described later and the set water level of the hot water beam. . In addition, in the case of “reheating operation” and “heat retention operation”, the heat consumption estimation unit 95 uses a bath temperature set by the bath temperature setting button 113, a heat retention time, and a bath detected by the water level sensor 53. The amount of heat used is predicted from the water level of C.

  The remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 detects the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20. Specifically, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 detects the remaining hot water amount equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature based on the temperatures detected by the plurality of remaining hot water amount thermistors 21 provided at the respective height positions of the hot water storage tank 20.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the heating capacity determination unit 97 reduces the remaining hot water amount detected by the above-described remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 to the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). Sometimes, the control frequency of the compressor 10 is determined to be about 69 Hz, and the heat pump unit 1a is operated at the rated operation. Thereafter, when the remaining hot water amount detected by the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 decreases to a powerful operation starting remaining hot water amount (second remaining hot water amount) smaller than the rated operation starting remaining hot water amount, the heating capacity determining unit 97 The control frequency is determined to be about 110 Hz, and the heat pump unit 1a is operated in a powerful operation having a heating capacity larger than that of the rated operation.

  At this time, the heat pump unit 1a makes the hot water temperature when the powerful operation is performed lower than the hot water temperature when the heat pump unit 1a is performing the rated operation. Specifically, the heat pump unit 1a sets the hot water temperature when performing a powerful operation to approximately 65 ° C, sets the hot water temperature when performing a rated operation to approximately 85 ° C, and performs a boiling operation. It is carried out. That is, in the powerful operation of this embodiment, a large amount of hot water having a temperature lower than that during the rated operation is boiled.

  In the present embodiment, the heating capacity determination unit 97 operates after the heat pump unit 1a is operated in the powerful operation, and even when the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal is completed, the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation ( The rated operation is performed with the control frequency of the compressor 10 being about 69 Hz only when the amount is equal to or greater than the (third remaining hot water amount). Here, the amount of remaining hot water at the end of powerful operation is the amount of remaining hot water between the amount of remaining hot water at the rated operation start and the amount of remaining hot water at the start of powerful operation.

[Remote control 1c, 1d]
As shown in FIG. 4, the remote controller 1 c installed in the kitchen is provided to control hot water supply related to the currant A and the shower B. The remote controller 1c includes a display unit 100 that displays a set temperature of hot water supplied to the currant A and the shower B (hereinafter referred to as hot water supply temperature) and a remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20, and an operation unit 101 provided with various buttons. It has. The operation unit 101 is provided with a hot water supply temperature setting button 102 for setting hot water supply temperatures of the currant A and the shower B, a menu button 103 for changing various settings, and the like.

  The remote controller 1d installed in the bathroom is provided to control hot water supply related to the currant A, the shower B, and the bath C as shown in FIG. The remote controller 1d includes a display unit 110 that displays a hot water supply temperature, a bath set temperature, and a remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20, and an operation unit 111 provided with various buttons. The operation unit 111 includes a hot water supply temperature setting button 112 for setting hot water supply temperatures of the currant A and the shower B, a bath temperature setting button 113 for setting the bath set temperature, a menu button 114 for changing various settings, A hot water button 115 for hot water in the bath C, a reheating button 116 for boiling the hot water in the bath C to the temperature set by the bath temperature setting button 113, and the like are provided. The above-described “refreshing command” is transmitted to the control unit 90 when the reheating button 116 is pressed, and the “hot water command” is transmitted to the control unit 90 when the hot water button 115 is pressed. Is done.

  Further, the remote controllers 1c and 1d of the present embodiment can set a time zone during which the heat pump unit 1a can be operated. Therefore, the user can limit the time zone in which the powerful operation in which the operation sound of the compressor 10 is remarkable is performed by operating the remote controllers 1c and 1d.

[Operation of Hot Water Supply Device 1]
In this hot water supply apparatus 1, hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 20 is boiled in the midnight time zone where the electricity bill is inexpensive, and the hot water used in the daytime time zone is covered. However, when the amount of hot water used in one day cannot be covered by the capacity of the hot water storage tank 20 of the present embodiment, the boiling operation is appropriately performed even during daytime hours.

[Boiling operation]
When the amount of remaining hot water in the midnight time zone or the hot water storage tank 20 decreases, the heating operation is started by the heat pump unit 1a. In the boiling circulation circuit 30, the low-temperature water at the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20 is supplied to the water heat exchanger 11 of the heat pump unit 1a by driving the boiling pump 31, as shown in FIG. The water heated by heat exchange in the water heat exchanger 11 is stored in the hot water storage tank 20 via the three-way valve 32. At this time, when the temperature of the water toward the hot water storage tank 20 is lower than a predetermined temperature, such as when the heat pump unit 1a is driven, the temperature is returned to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20 and the temperature of the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 20 is the predetermined temperature. When the temperature is higher than the temperature, the hot water storage tank 20 is returned to the upper part. In this embodiment, in the rated operation, the boiling operation is controlled so that the tapping temperature is about 85 ° C., and in the powerful operation, the boiling temperature is controlled so that the tapping temperature is about 65 ° C. Operation is controlled.

[Hot water operation]
When hot water is supplied by Karan A or shower B, a hot water supply operation is started in which hot water stored in hot water storage tank 20 is supplied to Karan A or shower B. In the currant / shower hot water supply circuit 70, hot water discharged from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 20 is mixed with water supplied from a water supply source S by a hot water supply mixing valve 71 as shown in FIG. It is adjusted to the hot water temperature set by the hot water temperature setting button 102 and the hot water temperature setting button 112 of 1d. Then, the adjusted hot water is supplied to the currant A or the shower B.

[Hot water driving]
The hot water operation for hot water in the bath C is performed by pressing the hot water button 115 of the remote controllers 1c and 1d. In the hot water supply circuit 60, hot water discharged from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 20 is mixed with water supplied from a water supply source S by a hot water mixing valve 61 as shown in FIG. The temperature is adjusted to the bath set temperature set by the temperature setting button 113. The adjusted hot water is supplied to the bath C via the hot water solenoid valve 62.

[Fast driving]
The reheating operation for heating the hot water of the bath C is performed by pressing the reheating button 116 of the remote controller 1d. In this chasing operation, hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 20 is circulated in the hot water circulation circuit 40 and water in the bath C is circulated in the memorial circulation circuit 50. In the hot water circulation circuit 40, when the heat exchange circulation pump 42 is driven, hot water discharged from the upper portion of the hot water storage tank 20 is heated via the reheating heat exchanger 41 as shown in FIG. Return to the bottom of the. In the remedy circulation circuit 50, the water in the bath C is returned to the bath C through the remedy heat exchanger 41 by driving the bath circulation pump 51. At this time, the hot water circulating in the hot water circulation circuit 40 and the water in the bath C circulating in the additional circulation circuit 50 are heat-exchanged by the additional heat exchanger 41, whereby the bath C circulating in the hot water circulation circuit 40 is obtained. Of water is heated.

[Heat insulation operation]
When the hot water of the bath C is applied, the heat insulation operation is performed so that the temperature of the water of the bath C does not decrease until a predetermined time (for example, 2 hours) (hereinafter referred to as a heat insulation time) after the hot water is completed. Is done. In the operation of the heat insulation operation, hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 20 is circulated to the hot water circulation circuit 40 and water in the bath C is circulated to the memorial circulation circuit 50 as in the above-described reheating operation. In the hot water circulation circuit 40, when the heat exchange circulation pump 42 is driven, hot hot water discharged from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 20 is returned to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 20 via the memorial heat exchanger 41. In the remedy circulation circuit 50, the water in the bath C is returned to the bath C through the remedy heat exchanger 41 by driving the bath circulation pump 51. At this time, the heat of the hot water circulating in the hot water circulation circuit 40 and the water in the bath C circulating in the memorial circulation circuit 50 are exchanged by the memorial heat exchanger 41 so that the temperature of the water in the bath C does not decrease. Like that.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the method to determine the heating capability of the hot water supply apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment is demonstrated.

  First, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 of the control unit 90 determines the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 (step S1), and the remaining hot water amount decreases below the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). The heat pump unit 1a is started to operate at a rated operation (step S2). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount is larger than the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a is not started. Then, after starting the rated operation, the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is judged (step S3), and if the remaining hot water amount is reduced below the powerful operation starting remaining hot water amount (second remaining hot water amount), the current time is powerful. It is determined whether or not the operation belongs to a restricted time zone (step S4). When the current time belongs to a time zone in which the powerful operation is restricted (step S4: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (step S2).

  On the other hand, when the current time does not belong to the time zone in which the powerful operation is restricted (step S4: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a is started to operate in the powerful operation (step S5). Then, after the start of the powerful operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S6). (Step S6: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the powerful operation (Step S5). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (Step S6: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the powerful operation (Step S6). S7), returning to rated operation (step S8). Even if the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal has ended, in the present embodiment, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has not recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a. Continues powerful operation.

  Then, after the heat pump unit 1a resumes the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (for example, the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount)). In step S9), when the remaining hot water amount has not been recovered (step S9: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (step S2). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S9: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S10).

  On the other hand, after starting the rated operation, the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is determined (step S3), and if the remaining hot water amount has not decreased to the powerful operation starting remaining hot water amount (second remaining hot water amount), It is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S9). If the remaining hot water amount has not been recovered (step S9: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation ( Step S2). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S9: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S10).

[Features of the hot water supply apparatus of this embodiment]
The hot water supply apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has the following characteristics.

  In the hot water supply apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, first, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated in the rated operation, and then the remaining hot water tank 20 is left. When the amount of hot water reaches the second remaining hot water amount, the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is heated in a powerful operation. That is, since hot water can be boiled with the optimum heating capacity corresponding to the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank 20, it is possible to reduce the efficiency reduction of the heat pump unit 1a and the increase in electricity bill.

  Further, in the hot water supply apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is reduced to the second remaining hot water amount that is smaller than the first remaining hot water amount, the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a is changed to a powerful operation larger than the rated operation. Therefore, when the water supplied to the hot water supply terminal in the rated operation is not reduced to the amount of remaining hot water that is likely to run out of hot water, it is possible to reduce the efficiency of the heat pump unit 1a and increase the electricity cost. The boiling operation can be terminated without operating with a large and powerful operation.

  Further, in the hot water supply apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, after the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a is determined to be the powerful operation, even when the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal is completed, the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (first Only when the amount of remaining hot water is recovered to 3), the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a is made lower than that of the powerful operation, so that even when the user stops hot water supply because hot water does not come out, the boiling operation is continued. Thus, sufficient hot water can be secured in the hot water storage tank 20.

  Moreover, in the hot water supply apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the tapping temperature when the heating capability of the heat pump unit 1a is determined to be powerful operation is higher than the tapping temperature when the heating capability of the heat pump unit 1a is determined to be rated operation. By making it low, even if the heating capacity is increased, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of high pressure by lowering the hot water temperature.

  Further, in the hot water supply device 1 of the present embodiment, by operating the remote controls 1c and 1d, the time zone in which the powerful operation is performed is limited, so that noise such as the operation sound of the hot water supply device related to the powerful operation is set in the set time zone. It can be prevented from occurring.

(First Reference Example)
The hot water supply apparatus of the first reference example differs from the hot water supply apparatus of the first embodiment described above in the method of determining the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a. In addition, since the structure of the hot water supply apparatus of a 1st reference example is the structure similar to the hot water supply apparatus of 1st Embodiment, the same number is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The heating capacity determination unit 97 according to the hot water supply apparatus of the first reference example is configured to control the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a (the control frequency of the compressor 10) according to the type of hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal (Kallang A, shower B, bath C). ) Has been determined. Specifically, the heating capacity determination unit 97 causes the heat pump unit 1a to perform a rated operation when the remaining hot water amount detected by the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 decreases to the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). Thereafter, the heating capacity determination unit 97 determines the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a according to the type of hot water supply (shower, hot water, chasing, and heat retention) determined by the hot water supply type determination unit 91.

  Next, a method for determining the heating capacity of the hot water supply apparatus according to the first reference example will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 of the control unit 90 determines the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 (step S11), and the remaining hot water amount decreases below the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). The heat pump unit 1a is started to operate at a rated operation (step S12). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount is larger than the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a is not started.

  In the present embodiment, after the rated operation is started, it is determined whether the type of hot water supply is “hot water supply operation by shower B”, “hot water operation”, “reflecting operation”, or “heat insulation operation” (step S13). When the type of hot water supply is “hot water operation” or “reheating operation”, the heat pump unit 1a is started to operate in a powerful operation (step S14). Then, after the start of the powerful operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S15). (Step S15: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the powerful operation (Step S14). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S15: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the powerful operation (step S15). S16), returning to the rated operation (step S17).

  Then, after the heat pump unit 1a resumes the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S18). Step S18: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (Step S12). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S18: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S19).

  On the other hand, after starting the rated operation, the type of hot water supply is determined (step S13). It is determined whether or not it has recovered to (second remaining hot water amount) (step S18). If the remaining hot water amount has not been recovered (step S18: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (step). S12). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S18: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S19).

[Characteristics of hot water supply system of this reference example]
The hot water supply apparatus of this reference example has the following characteristics.

  In the hot water supply apparatus of this reference example, the amount of hot water used can be estimated to some extent depending on the type of hot water supply ("hot water supply operation with shower B", "hot water operation", "reflecting operation", "warming operation"). The heat pump unit 1a can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.

(Second reference example)
The hot water supply apparatus of the second reference example differs from the hot water supply apparatuses of the first and second embodiments described above in the method of determining the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a. In addition, since the structure of the hot water supply apparatus of a 2nd reference example is the structure similar to the hot water supply apparatus of 1st Embodiment, the same number is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The heating capacity determination unit 97 according to the hot water supply apparatus of the second reference example determines the heating capacity (control frequency of the compressor 10) of the heat pump unit 1a according to the flow rate detected by the flow rate detection unit 92. Specifically, the heating capacity determination unit 97 causes the heat pump unit 1a to perform a rated operation when the remaining hot water amount detected by the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 decreases to the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). Thereafter, the heating capacity determination unit 97 is configured to change the heat pump according to the flow rate (L / min) of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 20 to the hot water supply terminal (Kallang A, shower B, bath C) detected by the flow rate detection unit 92. The heating capacity of the unit 1a is determined.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 8, a method for determining the heating capacity of the hot water supply apparatus according to the second reference example will be described.

  First, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 of the control unit 90 determines the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 (step S21), and the remaining hot water amount decreases below the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). The heat pump unit 1a is started to operate at a rated operation (step S22). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount is larger than the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a is not started.

  In this reference example, after the rated operation starts, it is determined whether the flow rate detected by the flow rate detection unit 92 is equal to or higher than the powerful operation start flow rate (step S23). Starts operating the heat pump unit 1a in a powerful operation (step S24). Then, after the start of the powerful operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the powerful operation end remaining hot water amount (third remaining hot water amount) (step S25). (Step S25: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the powerful operation (Step S24). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S25: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the powerful operation (step S25). S26), returning to the rated operation (step S27).

  Then, after the heat pump unit 1a resumes the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S28). Step S28: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (step S22). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S28: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S29).

  On the other hand, after starting the rated operation, the flow rate is determined (step S23), and if the flow rate is less than the powerful operation start flow rate, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount. (Step S28) When the remaining hot water amount has not been recovered (Step S28: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (Step S22). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S28: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S29).

[Characteristics of hot water supply system of this reference example]
The hot water supply apparatus of this reference example has the following characteristics.

  In the hot water supply apparatus of this reference example, the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank 20 can be estimated based on the flow rate of hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal, so that the heat pump unit 1a can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.

(Third reference example)
The hot water supply apparatus of the third reference example is different from the hot water supply apparatuses of the first to third embodiments described above in the method of determining the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a. In addition, since the structure of the hot water supply apparatus of a 3rd reference example is the structure similar to the hot water supply apparatus of 1st Embodiment, the same number is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The heating capacity determination unit 97 according to the hot water supply apparatus of the third reference example is configured to control the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a (control of the compressor 10) according to the usage amount of hot water per predetermined time detected by the usage amount detection unit 93. Frequency). Specifically, the heating capacity determination unit 97 causes the heat pump unit 1a to perform a rated operation when the remaining hot water amount detected by the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 decreases to the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). Thereafter, the heating capacity determination unit 97 uses the amount of hot water used for a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) detected by the usage amount detection unit 93 (in other words, the amount of decrease in hot water in the hot water storage tank 20 per predetermined time). ), The heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a is determined.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a method for determining the heating capacity of the hot water supply apparatus according to the third reference example will be described.

  First, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 of the control unit 90 determines the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 (step S31), and the remaining hot water amount decreases below the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). The heat pump unit 1a is started to operate at rated operation (step S32). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount is larger than the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a is not started.

  And in this reference example, the usage amount of hot water per predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) detected by the usage amount detection unit 93 after the rated operation is started (here, the hot water supply amount sensor 72 and the hot water amount sensor 64). Whether or not the amount of hot water used per predetermined time supplied to the hot water supply terminal (Kallang A, Shower B, Bath C) calculated based on the sum of the flow rates detected by both is greater than or equal to the powerful operation start usage amount. Judgment is made (step S33), and when the flow rate is equal to or more than the usage amount for starting the powerful operation (when the remaining hot water amount is suddenly reduced in a short time), the heat pump unit 1a is started to operate in the powerful operation (step). S34). Then, after the start of the powerful operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S35). (Step S35: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the powerful operation (Step S34). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S35: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the powerful operation (step S35). S36), returning to the rated operation (step S37).

  Then, after the heat pump unit 1a resumes the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S38). Step S38: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (Step S32). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S38: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S39).

  On the other hand, after starting the rated operation, the amount of hot water used per predetermined time is judged (step S33), and if the amount used is less than the amount used for starting the powerful operation (if the amount of remaining hot water is gradually decreasing or remaining If the amount of hot water is recovered), it is determined whether or not the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank 20 has been recovered to a predetermined amount of remaining hot water (step S38). If the amount of remaining hot water has not been recovered (step S38). : No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (step S32). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S38: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S39).

[Characteristics of hot water supply system of this reference example]
The hot water supply apparatus of this reference example has the following characteristics.

  In the hot water supply apparatus of this reference example, the rate of decrease in the amount of hot water remaining in the hot water storage tank 20 can be found based on the amount of hot water used per predetermined time, so that the heat pump unit 1a can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.

(4th reference example)
The hot water supply apparatus of the fourth reference example is different from the hot water supply apparatuses of the first to fourth embodiments described above in the method of determining the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a. In addition, since the structure of the hot water supply apparatus of a 4th reference example is the structure similar to the hot water supply apparatus of 1st Embodiment, the same number is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The heating capacity determination unit 97 according to the hot water supply apparatus of the fourth reference example determines the heating capacity (control frequency of the compressor 10) of the heat pump unit 1a according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 94. Specifically, the heating capacity determination unit 97 causes the heat pump unit 1a to perform a rated operation when the remaining hot water amount detected by the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 decreases to the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). Thereafter, the heating capacity determination unit 97 determines the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a according to the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal (Karan A, shower B, bath C) detected by the temperature detection unit 94.

  Next, a method for determining the heating capacity of the hot water supply apparatus according to the fourth reference example will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 of the control unit 90 determines the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 (step S41), and the remaining hot water amount decreases below the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). The heat pump unit 1a is started to operate at a rated operation (step S42). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount is larger than the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a is not started.

  In this reference example, after the rated operation starts, it is determined whether or not the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal detected by the temperature detector 94 is equal to or higher than the powerful operation start temperature (step S43). When the temperature is equal to or higher than the powerful operation start temperature (when high-temperature hot water is supplied to the hot water supply terminal), the heat pump unit 1a is started to operate in the powerful operation (step S44). Then, after starting the powerful operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S45). (Step S45: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the powerful operation (Step S44). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (Step S45: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the powerful operation (Step S45). S46), returning to the rated operation (step S47).

  Then, after the heat pump unit 1a resumes the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S48). Step S48: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (Step S42). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S48: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S49).

  On the other hand, after starting the rated operation, the temperature of hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal is determined (step S43), and when the temperature is lower than the powerful operation start temperature (when hot water that is not hot is supplied to the hot water supply terminal). Determines whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S48), and if it has not recovered to the remaining hot water amount (step S48: No), the heat pump unit 1a is rated. The operation is continued (step S42). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S48: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S49).

[Characteristics of hot water supply system of this reference example]
The hot water supply apparatus of this reference example has the following characteristics.

  In the hot water supply apparatus of the present reference example, the amount of heat used in the hot water supply terminal and the amount of heat related to the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank 20 are estimated to some extent based on the temperature of hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal detected by the temperature detection unit 94. Therefore, the heat pump unit 1a can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.

(5th reference example)
The hot water supply apparatus of the fifth reference example is different from the hot water supply apparatuses of the first to fifth embodiments described above in the method of determining the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a. In addition, since the structure of the hot water supply apparatus of a 5th reference example is the structure similar to the hot water supply apparatus of 1st Embodiment, the same number is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The heating capacity determination unit 97 according to the hot water supply apparatus of the fifth reference example determines the heating capacity (control frequency of the compressor 10) of the heat pump unit 1a according to the heat amount estimated by the use heat amount estimation unit 95. . Specifically, the heating capacity determination unit 97 causes the heat pump unit 1a to perform a rated operation when the remaining hot water amount detected by the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 decreases to the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). Thereafter, the heating capacity determination unit 97 determines the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a according to the amount of heat of hot water used in the hot water supply terminal (Karan A, shower B, bath C) estimated by the use heat quantity estimation unit 95. .

  Next, with reference to FIG. 11, a method for determining the heating capacity of the hot water supply apparatus according to the fifth reference example will be described.

  First, the remaining hot water amount detection unit 96 of the control unit 90 determines the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 (step S51), and the remaining hot water amount decreases below the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount). The heat pump unit 1a is started to operate at rated operation (step S52). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount is larger than the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), the heat pump unit 1a is not started.

  In this reference example, after the rated operation is started, the use heat amount estimation unit 95 estimates the use heat amount (step S53), and determines whether the estimated value of the use heat amount is equal to or greater than the powerful operation start heat amount (step S54). .

  Here, details of the estimation of the amount of heat used by the amount of heat used estimation unit 95 will be described. When the type of hot water supply is “heat retention operation”, the heat consumption estimation unit 95 uses a heat retention time set in advance, a bath set temperature set by the bath temperature setting button 113, and a bath water level detected by the water level sensor 53. The bath temperature detected by the bath thermistor 52 is acquired. Then, the use heat quantity estimation unit 95 calculates an estimated value of the use heat quantity related to the “heat insulation operation” based on the heat insulation time, the bath set temperature, the bath water level, and the bath temperature.

  In addition, when the type of hot water supply is “reflecting operation”, the heat consumption estimation unit 95 uses the bath set temperature set by the bath temperature setting button 113, the bath water level detected by the water level sensor 53, and the bath thermistor. Each of the bath temperatures detected by 52 is acquired. Then, the use heat quantity estimation unit 95 calculates an estimated value of the use heat quantity related to the “reheating operation” based on the bath setting temperature, the bath water level, and the bath temperature.

  In addition, when the type of hot water supply is “hot water operation”, the used heat amount estimation unit 95 acquires the bath set temperature set by the bath temperature setting button 113 and the set water level of the hot water beam. Then, based on the bath set temperature and the set water level, the used heat amount estimating unit 95 calculates an estimated value of the used heat amount related to the “hot water operation”.

  In addition, when the type of hot water supply is “a hot water supply operation by Karan A and shower B”, the usage heat amount estimation unit 95 uses the hot water usage and the temperature related to the “hot water operation” predicted from the learning function. Calculate an estimate of the amount of heat.

  Then, when the estimated value of the amount of heat used is greater than or equal to the powerful operation start heat amount (when it is estimated that a large amount of heat is consumed by the hot water supply), the heat pump unit 1a is started to operate in the powerful operation (step S55). Then, after the start of the powerful operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S56). (Step S56: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the powerful operation (Step S55). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is recovered to the amount of remaining hot water at the end of the powerful operation (third remaining hot water amount) (step S56: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the powerful operation (step S56). S57), returning to the rated operation (step S58).

  Then, after the heat pump unit 1a resumes the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 has recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S59). Step S59: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (Step S52). On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S59: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S60).

  On the other hand, after starting the rated operation, it is determined whether or not the estimated value of the used heat amount is equal to or greater than the powerful operation start heat amount (step S54), and if the used heat amount is less than the powerful operation start heat amount, the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is determined. Is determined to have recovered to a predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S59), and when the remaining hot water amount has not been recovered (step S59: No), the heat pump unit 1a continues the rated operation (step S52). . On the other hand, when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is restored to the predetermined remaining hot water amount (step S59: Yes), the heat pump unit 1a ends the rated operation (step S60).

[Characteristics of hot water supply system of this reference example]
The hot water supply apparatus of this reference example has the following characteristics.

  In the hot water supply apparatus of the present reference example, the amount of heat related to the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank 20 can be estimated based on the amount of heat used at the hot water supply terminal estimated by the used heat amount estimation unit 95. Thereby, the heat pump unit 1a can be operated with an appropriate heating capacity.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described based on drawing, it should be thought that a specific structure is not limited to these embodiment. The scope of the present invention is shown not only by the above description of the embodiments but also by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for patent.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the rated operation is performed when the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 reaches the rated operation start remaining hot water amount (first remaining hot water amount), and then the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank 20 is determined as the powerful operation starting remaining hot water amount. Although the example which performs the powerful driving | operation whose heating capability is larger than a rated operation when reaching (2nd remaining hot water amount) was demonstrated, this invention is not restricted to this, After performing a rated operation, the remaining hot water amount of the hot water storage tank 20 When recovering, the heating capacity of the heat pump unit 1a may be made smaller than the rated operation.

  Further, in the above reference example, “amount of hot water used per predetermined time in a hot water supply terminal (curran A, shower B, bath C)” measured by the usage amount detector 93 is used as a flow rate sensor (hot water quantity sensor 64 or The example of calculating from the flow rate detected by the hot water supply amount sensor 72) has been described, but based on the amount of change per predetermined time of the remaining hot water amount of the hot water storage tank 20 detected by the plurality of remaining hot water amount thermistors 21, You may measure the usage-amount of the hot water supplied to A, shower B, bath C).

  If this invention is utilized, the hot water supply apparatus which can drive a heat pump unit with the optimal heating capability according to the usage-amount of the hot water in a hot water supply terminal can be obtained.

1 Hot-water supply device 1a Heat pump unit (heating means)
1b Hot water storage unit 1c, 1d Remote control (operating time zone limiting means)
18 Hot Water Thermistor 19 Hot Water Thermistor 20 Hot Water Storage Tank 21 Remaining Hot Water Thermistor 42 Heat Exchange Circulation Pump 51 Bath Circulation Pump 52 Bath Thermistor 53 Water Level Sensor 64 Hot Water Hot Water Sensor 66 Hot Water Hot Water Thermistor 72 Hot Water Water Sensor 73 Hot Water Thermistor 90 Control Unit Decision means)
91 Hot water supply type discriminating section (discriminating means)
92 Flow rate detector (flow rate detection means)
93 Usage detector (Usage detector)
94 Temperature detector (temperature detection means)
95 Use heat quantity estimation part (use heat quantity estimation means)
96 Remaining hot water detection unit (remaining hot water detection means)
97 Heating capacity determining unit (heating capacity determining means)
A Karan (hot water supply terminal)
B shower (hot water supply terminal)
C bath (hot water supply terminal)

Claims (3)

A hot water storage tank for storing hot water supplied to the hot water supply terminal,
Heating means for supplying heated hot water to the hot water storage tank;
A remaining hot water amount detecting means for detecting a remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank;
Heating capacity determining means for determining the heating capacity of the heating means,
The heating capacity determining means includes
When the amount of remaining hot water in the hot water storage tank decreases to the first remaining hot water amount, the heating capacity of the heating means is determined as the first heating capacity, and then the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal is continued, whereby the hot water storage tank When the remaining hot water amount is reduced to the second remaining hot water amount less than the first remaining hot water amount, the heating capacity of the heating means is changed to the second heating capacity larger than the first heating capacity,
After the heating capacity of the heating means is determined to be the second heating capacity, when the hot water supply at the hot water supply terminal is finished, the remaining hot water amount in the hot water storage tank is the first remaining hot water amount and the second remaining hot water amount. The hot water supply apparatus is characterized in that heating is continued with the heating means of the heating means lower than the second heating capacity only when the amount of remaining hot water is greater than or equal to the third remaining hot water amount.   When the heating capacity of the heating means is determined to be the second heating capacity, the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank is determined, and the heating capacity of the heating means is determined to be the first heating capacity. The hot water supply apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the temperature is lower than the temperature of the hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank. The hot water supply apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an operation time zone limiting unit that sets a time zone during which the heating unit can be operated.

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