Energy Saver Timed Control Valve

The Energy Saver Timed Control Valve is designed and intended to be installed in existing or new residential housing.  Its purpose is to limit the usage of water by controlling the time water is allowed to pass through the valve assembly.  For example, when installed in the "HOT" water inlet side of a typical shower or tub unit, the time "HOT" water is allowed to flow can be determined by the owner and can be changed as often as desired.  The control valve can also be installed on the cold water lines and the function will be the same.

Basic Description of Components

A) Hinged lid for access to key pad for programming
B) Molded internal ball valve
C) A molded plastic housing with pipe threads for installation
D) Drive motor
E) Flow switch
F) Removable lid (for access to components)
G) Electronic board
H) Battery (9 volt)

How the Timed Control Valve works

The user opens the shower, tub, or water valve downstream from the Energy Saver Control Valve.    As soon as water starts to flow, the flow switch (inside the valve) completes the electrical circuit to the timer.  The timer starts and continues to count upward as long as the water is flowing.  If the preset time is reached without the flow of the water being interrupted, the drive motor will close the valve.  When the valve is fully closed the flow stops.   The flow switch detects a "no-flow" condition and starts the timer counting backward toward "0". When "0" time is reached, the valve opens.  If the down stream water valve is still open, the process repeats.  If the downstream water valve is closed, the electronic valve opens and waits for a flow signal from the internal flow switch.

Other Features

The ball valve can be designed in such a way as to allow a small amount of water to pass even when the ball valve is closed.  This will allow the user to finish whatever he or she is doing that requires hot water.  However, this must be accomplished at extremely low flow rates if warm water is needed since hot water will be limited to a very low flow rate.

When the valve is in the dormant stage, the only power draw from the battery is for the clock.
An optional plug will be available allowing the owner to purchase and use an AC adapter to power the valve so battery replacement won't be necessary.

The keypad functions include reset, program time, start, and manual off/on positions.

Advantages of using the Timed Control Valve

No more (last in line) cold showers
Saves money on water heating cost - Conserves water
Relieves pressure on septic tanks