Abstract:
A method and apparatus for detecting water system leaks and preventing excessive water usage by water systems in residential and commercial buildings provides a processor-controller, a user interface for programming the processor-controller with preselected controller output criteria, and a water meter located in a water line within the building. The water meter provides a waterflow input signal to the processor-controller and closes a water line valve if the water usage calculated by the processor-controller satisfies the preselected controller output criteria. The present invention will activate a water-saving hot water for use in conjunction with a water heater in response to a user-entered occupancy schedule stored in the processor-controller. The present invention will monitor and contain water heater leaks and, in the event of substantial water leakage, will close valves in the water heater lines to prevent water losses into the building.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0002]    This invention relates to method and apparatus for detecting water system leaks and preventing excessive water usage and, more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a method for detecting and preventing water leaks in residential and commercial structures. The present invention provides an alert when a leak is detected and initiates corrective action. If the invention detects conditions suggesting a leak is likely, e.g., freezing outside temperatures, the present invention takes preventive action, as predetermined by the user, to prevent the leak from occurring (e.g., by opening a valve to maintain a minimum water flow or by actuating a switch to energize a pipe-heater). 
         [0003]    Water line breaks and water leaks, especially in an unoccupied or unattended building, result in damages to structures and personal property contained within the structures. Casualty insurance often covers losses resulting from water damage, and the cost of that coverage is built into insurance premiums charged by insurance companies. If the cost of coverage for water damage is excessive, some families may elect to exclude the coverage altogether. Property owners who have a mortgage will usually be required by the lender to insure against losses due to water damage, thereby increasing the mortgage payment and, in some cases, limiting home buyers&#39; choices. With respect to commercial structures such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities, an undetected water leak may produce a large quantity of water which washes undesirable—perhaps toxic—materials into public areas and sanitary sewers. 
         [0004]    2. Discussion 
         [0005]    Every building plumbed with running water will eventually have a leak or a break in the line resulting in excessive water usage, together with damage to personal property and, on many occasions, to the building itself. Plumbing problems may not surface when the buildings&#39; plumbing and fixtures are new. As buildings age, so do the plumbing pipes and fixtures. Even in relatively new buildings, water pipes in exterior walls are often exposed to freezing temperatures which can cause the exposed pipes to burst. Water heaters are especially prone to failures involving substantial water loss. 
         [0006]    Modern security systems utilize proximity switches, motion sensors, and glass breakage monitors. Fire safety systems utilize smoke alarms and ionization sensors. Double setback thermostats permit occupants to adjust heating and cooling fortimes when the building is occupied or unoccupied based on the occupants&#39; schedule. Yet nothing has been available to monitor water usage to detect leaks, line breaks, and equipment malfunctions which can lead to excessive water usage. 
         [0007]    In the United States and most developed countries, water consumption is diurnal, i.e., peak periods of water usage occur between about 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. and then again in the evening hours between about 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Most water usage is related to bathing activities and landscape irrigation. Outside of the peak use periods, most families do not use substantial amounts of water for drinking. Yet a break in a water line during off-peak hours discharges the same quantity of water as a water line break during peak usage periods. Moreover, breaks occurring during vacation periods, especially winter vacations periods, may go unnoticed until a vacationing family returns to a house severely damaged by water. 
         [0008]    What is needed is a method and apparatus which will monitorwater systems, detect leaks, and prevent excessive usage of water. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    A method and apparatus for detecting water system leaks and preventing excessive water usage measures water usage and closes a valve in the water supply line if the water usage exceeds preselected criteria. A water meter provides an input signal to a controller. Based on preselected usage criteria entered through a user interface, the controller closes a valve in the water supply line. The controller also receives inputs from temperature sensors, fire detection devices, carbon monoxide monitors, and provides appropriate outputs. 
         [0010]    An object of the present invention is to detect water leaks and initiate corrective action. 
         [0011]    Yet another object of the present invention is to monitor water systems and take action to prevent water leaks. 
         [0012]    Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following description of the preferred embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0013]      FIG. 1  is a diagram of piping in a residential or commercial building showing meters and controlled devices according to the present invention. 
           [0014]      FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a controller/processor according to the present invention showing input signals from meters shown in  FIG. 1  to a controller/processor and output signals from the controller/processor to the controlled devices shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0015]      FIG. 3  is a functional block diagram of the present invention. 
           [0016]      FIG. 4  is another piping diagram. 
           [0017]      FIG. 5  is a table listing conditions, inputs establishing the conditions, controller actions for the listed conditions, and device outputs associated with the listed conditions. 
           [0018]      FIG. 6  is a table listing additional conditions, inputs establishing the conditions, controller actions for the listed conditions, and device outputs associated with the listed conditions. 
           [0019]      FIG. 7  is a representation of an emergency breaker in a building&#39;s power supply line for use according to the present invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 8  is a representation of an emergency shutoff valve in a building&#39;s gas supply line for use according to the present invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 9  is a step-by-step description of the process by which the present invention detects and leak and responds to reduce the quantity of water lost as a result of the leak. 
           [0022]      FIG. 10  is an administrative interface flow diagram summary. 
           [0023]      FIG. 11  is a user interface flow diagram summary. 
           [0024]      FIG. 12  is an alert interface flow diagram summary. 
           [0025]      FIG. 13  shows a water saving hot water system for use according to the present invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 14  shows a hot water catchment for use according to the present invention. 
           [0027]      FIG. 15  shows another hot water catchment for use according to the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0028]    In the following description of the invention, like numerals and characters designate like elements throughout the figures of the drawings. 
         [0029]    Referring generally to the drawings and more particularly to  FIG. 1 , a piping diagram  20  of a residential or commercial building shows a main water meter  22  from which a water supply line  24  supplies water to the building. The main water meter  22  is connected to a water system main (not shown). A control valve  26 , controlled by an output signal  28  from a controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ) provides a main cutoff to the building water supply. A building water meter  30  provides an input signal  32  to the controller  160  indicating the flow of water to the building through the water supply line  24 . The water supply line  24  connects the water meter  30  to a header  34 , which, in turn supplies water to Zones  1 - 7  of the residential or commercial building. It will be understood by one skilled in the art that closure of the main cutoff valve  26  isolates the building from the main water supply. 
         [0030]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , a Zone  1  water line  36  supplies water, through a control valve  38  and a water meter  40  to Zone  1  (reference number  42 ) in the piping diagram  20 . The water meter  40  provides an input signal  44  to the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ), and the controller provides a corresponding output signal  46  to the control valve  38 . 
         [0031]    Referring still to  FIG. 1 , a Zones  2 - 3  water line  48  supplies water, through a control valve  50  and a water meter  52 , to a water heater  54 . From the water heater  54 , the water line  48  supplies cold water to Zones  2  and  3  (reference numbers  58 ,  60 , respectively). A hot water line  56  supplies hot water from the water heater  54  to Zones  2  and  3 . The water meter  52  provides an input signal  62  to the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ). The controller  160  provides an output signal  64  to the Zones  2 - 3  control valve  50  and an output signal  66  to the water heater  54 . 
         [0032]    Referring still to  FIG. 1  and particularly to the portions of the piping diagram  20  relating to Zones  1 - 3 , Zone  1  corresponds to an irrigation system, to exterior water faucets, or to a combination of an irrigation system and exterior water faucets. Zones  2  and  3  correspond generally to areas in residential or commercial building requiring hot water, such as laundry rooms, the kitchens, showers, and bathrooms. Excessive waterwill be consumed if an exterior faucet is left running or if the irrigation system is not turned off. Based on the input  44  from the water meter  40 , the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ) will produce an output  46  causing the Zone  1  control valve  38  to close, thereby limiting excessive water usage and damage resulting therefrom. Such an irrigation system normally discharges water to water beds and laws via a discharge  49 . 
         [0033]    Referring still to  FIG. 1  and particularly to the portions of the piping diagram  20  relating to Zones  1 - 3 , Zones  2 - 3  correspond to interior house piping wherein the water usage areas have been segregated into Zones  2  and  3  ( 58 ,  60 ). A single water heater  54  heats water for delivery to both Zones  2 , 3  via hot water line  56 . If the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ) determines water usage exceeds preselected criteria based on input from the water meter  52 , the controller  160  will generate a first output signal  64  causing the Zones  2 - 3  control valve  50  to close and a second output signal  66  to turn off the water heater  66 . The piping diagram  20  shows the water discharging from Zones  2 ,  3  via sanitary drains  68 ,  70 , respectively. 
         [0034]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , a Zones  4 - 5  water line  72  branches into water line  74  (supplying Zone  4 ) and water line  76  (supplying Zone  5 ). The Zone  4  water line  74  supplies water, through a control valve  78  and a water meter  80 , to a water heater  82 . From the water heater  82 , the water line  74  supplies cold water to Zone  4  (reference number  88 ), while a hot water line  86  supplies hot water from the water heater  82  to Zone  4 . The water meter  80  provides an input signal  90  to the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ). The controller  160  provides an output signal  92  to the Zone  4  control valve  78  and an output signal  94  to the water heater  82 . Used water is wasted from Zone  4  to a sanitary drain  96 . 
         [0035]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , the Zone  5  water line  76  supplies water, through a control valve  98  and a water meter  100 , to a water heater  102 . From the water heater  102 , the water line  76  supplies cold water to Zone  5  (reference number  108 ), while a hot water line  106  supplies hot water from the water heater  102  to Zone  4 . The water meter  100  provides an input signal  110  to the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ). The controller  160  provides an output signal  112  to the Zone  5  control valve  98  and an output signal  114  to the water heater  102 . Used water is wasted from Zone  5  to a sanitary drain  116 . 
         [0036]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that portions of the piping diagram  20  relating to Zones  4  and  5  involve multiple water heaters  82 ,  102 . A leak in Zone  4  resulting in closure of the Zone  4  control valve  98  would not affect either cold or hot water supplied to Zone  5 . In commercial buildings and large residences, this approach will place water heaters near the points of use. 
         [0037]    Referring still to  FIG. 1 , a Zones  6 - 7  water line  118  from the header  34  supplies water to a water heater  120 . The water line  118  also supplies cold water to Zone  7 . A hot water line  122  from the water heater  120  supplies hot water only, through a Zone  6  control valve  128  and a water meter  130  to Zone  6  (reference number  132 ). The water meter  130  provides an input signal  134  to the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ). The controller  160  provides an output signal  136  to the Zone  6  control valve  128  and an output signal  138  to the water heater  120 . Used water is wasted from Zone  6  to a sanitary drain  140 . The water line  118  supplies cold water only, through a Zone  7  control valve  148  and a Zone  7  water meter  150 , to Zone  7  (reference number  152 ). The water meter  150  provides an input signal  154  to the controller  160  (See  FIG. 2 ). The controller  160  provides an output signal  156  to the Zone  7  control valve  148 . Used water is wasted from Zone  7  to a sanitary drain  158 . 
         [0038]    Referring still to  FIG. 1 , and especially to the portions of the piping diagram  20  relating to Zones  6  and  7 , the segregation of hot and cold water into separate zones permits independent control of hot and cold water. 
         [0039]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a controller  160  receives inputs from the meters  30 ,  40 ,  52 ,  80 ,  100 ,  130 , and  150  shown in  FIG. 1 . For each input, the controller integrates the flow rate (from the meters) with respect to time and determines the water usage. If the water usage exceeds a preselected maximum for the designated zone, the controller generates an output. As used herein, the terms “controller,” “processor,” and “controller/processor” are used interchangeably to indicate a device which receives inputs from users, meters, and sensors, processes the inputs, and provides a predetermined output if preselected criteria are satisfied. 
         [0040]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a block diagram provides a concise summary of the functions of the present invention  20 . Meters and sensors  162  provide data-containing input signals to the controller/processor  160 . The controller/processor  160  receives instructional inputs from the user interface  164 . If the user has a security system, the controller/processor  160  can receive inputs from the security system controller  166 . The controller/processor  160  processes the inputs according to internal software and, if preselected criteria are satisfied, generates outputs to controlled devices  168 . 
         [0041]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the user interface  164  may be a keypad similar to keypads used in residential and commercial security alarm systems. In the alternative, the user interface  164  can be an appropriately configured computer. It will also be understood by one skilled in the art that the security system controller  166  and the controller/processor  160  of the present invention can be combined in an integrated controller/processor  170 . 
         [0042]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , another piping diagram includes all the elements of Zones  1 - 3  (See  FIG. 1 ), together with additional sensors providing input signals to the controller processor  160  and additional controlled devices receiving output signals from the controller-processor  160 . For purposes of illustration, the piping diagram shown in  FIG. 4  corresponds generally to a residence wherein Zone  1  piping supplies water to exterior faucets and an irrigation system. Zones  2  and  3  are within the building, and Zone  3  piping supplies water to a clothes washer located along an exterior wall in a laundry room. 
         [0043]    Referring still to  FIG. 4  and especially to the Zone  1  portion of  FIG. 4 , a pressure sensor  180  measures the pressure in the Zone  1  water line  36  and transmits a corresponding signal  181  to the controller-processor  160 . A temperature sensor  182  measures the temperature in the Zone  1  water line  36  and transmits a corresponding signal  183  to the controller-processor  160 . If the pressure in the Zone  1  water line  36  exceeds a predetermined acceptable line pressure, as entered by the user, the controller-processor  160  provides an output signal  184  to a pressure regulator  186 . In the alternative, the pressure regular valve  186  can be selected based on a fixed reduced pressure. If the temperature is less than a predetermined temperature as entered by the user, e.g., 34 degrees Fahrenheit, the controller-processor  160  provides an output signal  188  to a valve  190  located in a drip line  192 . A flow controller  194  located in the drip line  192  limits the flow to a water stream sufficient to avoid frozen water pipes. The drip line stream of water is discharged to a drain  196 . 
         [0044]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that external faucets and irrigation piping are especially susceptible to freezing. In the case of an unoccupied residence, the actuation of the valve  190  in the drip line  192  by the controller-processor  160  may be the only mechanism available to avoid frozen pipes. It will also be understood that heating tape can also be used to prevent frozen pipes, wherein the controller-processor  160  switches on electrical power to the heating tape when the temperature of the water line  36  approaches 32 degrees Fahrenheit. 
         [0045]    Still referring to  FIG. 4 , it will be further understood by one skilled in the art that opening the valve  190  in the drip line  192 , to discharge water from Zone  1  piping and thereby avoid frozen pipes, may be determined by the controller-processor  160  to indicate a water leak and result in closure of the Zone  1  water line valve  38 . To avoid this, the controller-processor  160  will be programmed to disable the leak detection function whenever the valve  190  in the drip line  192  is opened. It will be further understood by one skilled in the art that the placement of the temperature sensor  182  in the water line  36  is discretionary on the part of the user. Generally, most homeowners can identify the piping sections most likely to freeze. Placement of insulation around the temperature sensor  182  in a section of water line  36  most likely to freeze will help to avoid discharges of water through the drip line  192  resulting from transitory low temperatures. 
         [0046]    Referring again to  FIG. 4 , the Zone  2  piping is identical to the Zone  2  piping in  FIG. 1 , thereby illustrating the fact that some zones will require neither a temperature sensor (if the piping is not exposed to freezing temperatures) nor a pressure sensor (if the piping is, for example, the farthest point in the system from the water supply line  24 . In most cases, it is anticipated that a single pressure sensor placed in an appropriate location will protect the entire water system from piping failures due to excessive line pressure. 
         [0047]    Referring still to  FIG. 4  and especially to the Zone  3  piping, a clothes washer  198  is used to suggest piping near an exterior wall with a possibility of frozen pipes (and resulting leaks) during freezing conditions. A pressure sensor  200  provides an input signal  202  to the controller-processor  160 . If the pressure in the Zone  3  water line  48  exceeds a predetermined maximum line pressure, as entered by the user, the controller-processor  160  provides an output signal  184  to the pressure regulator  186 . A temperature sensor  204  measures the temperature in the Zone  3  water line  48  and transmits a corresponding signal  206  to the controller-processor  160 . If the temperature is less than a predetermined temperature as entered by the user, e.g., 34 degrees Fahrenheit, the controller-processor  160  provides an output signal  208  to a valve  210  located in a drip line  212 . A flow controller  214  located in the drip line  212  limits the flow to a water stream sufficient to avoid frozen water pipes. The drip line stream of water is discharged to a drain  216 . 
         [0048]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the automatic implementation of freeze-prevention measures, as described with respect to  FIG. 4 , conserves water by preventing frozen pipes. Similarly, the control of line pressure by the use of a pressure regulator conserves water by preventing failure of piping systems due to excessive line pressures. 
         [0049]    The controller-processor  160  can also be programmed with multiple set points with corresponding preventive and/or corrective action. As described with respect to  FIG. 4 , the controller-processor  160  will open the valve  190  in the drip line  192  if the temperature sensor  182  provides an input signal  183  to the controller-processor indicating that the temperature is near or below freezing. If the temperature sensor  182  indicates the temperature is approaching zero degrees, i.e., a severely cold temperature, the controller-processor can, if desired, close the control valve  26  in the building water supply line  24  in addition to opening the valve  190  in the drip line  192 . With drip lines open and water supply interrupted, the danger of frozen piping is further reduced. One of the inputs to the controller-processor provides an indication of whether the building is occupied or unoccupied. The occupied/unoccupied status could be entered through the user interface, or the occupied/unoccupied status could be obtained from an existing security system controller. If the building is unoccupied during severely cold weather, it may be desirable to both open the drip lines and also close the water valve  26  in the building water supply line  24 . 
         [0050]    Referring now to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the tables shown therein provide inputs, controller actions, and outputs corresponding to specific conditions. In  FIG. 5 , reference number  220  relates to a “freeze danger” condition as indicated by a temperature sensor (See  FIG. 4 ). The controller-processor  160  compares the temperature to a “freeze danger” set point entered by the user through the user interface  164  (See  FIG. 3 ). If the measured temperature is less than the “freeze danger” set point temperature, the controller sounds an alert and either opens a valve in a drip leg (See  FIG. 4 ) or switches power on to a heating tape attached to the freeze-prone pipe section. Reference number  222  relates to a “severe freeze danger” condition as indicated by a temperature sensor (See  FIG. 4 ). The controller-processor  160  compares the temperature to a “freeze danger” set point entered by the user through the user interface  164  (See  FIG. 3 ). If the measured temperature is less than the “freeze danger” set point temperature, the controller-processor  160  sounds an alert and either opens a valve in a drip leg (See  FIG. 4 ) or switches power on to a heating tape attached to the freeze-prone pipe section. In addition, the controller-processor  160  closes the valve  26  in the building water supply line  24 , but only after checking to determine whether user input shows the presence of a fire-prevention sprinkler system. If a sprinkler system is present, logic circuitry in the controller-processor  160  prevents closure of the valve  26  in the building water supply line  24 . 
         [0051]    Still referring to  FIG. 5 , reference number  224  relates to a “high water line pressure” condition as indicated by a pressure sensor (See  FIG. 4 ) in a selected water line location. The controller-processor  160  compares the measured pressure to a “high water line pressure” set point entered by the user through the user interface  164 . If the measured water line pressure equals or exceeds the high water line pressure set point, the controller-processor  160  sounds an alert and actuates the pressure regulator  186  in the building water supply line  24  (See  FIG. 4 ). If the measure water pressure qualifies as a persistent high water line pressure (reference number  226 ), the controller-processor sounds an alert and closes the valve  26  in the building water supply line  24  to protect building piping. The “persistent high pressure” set point combines a user-entered high pressure with a user-entered persistence time. Such a condition might suggest the pressure regulator  186  is not adequately protecting the piping from the danger of failure due to high water line pressure. 
         [0052]    Still referring to  FIG. 5 , reference numbers  228 ,  230  relate to the status of building as “occupied” or “unoccupied.” The occupation status of the building is derived from user-entered information, from an existing security alarm system, or from motion sensors providing input to the controller-processor  160 . The occupation status is especially important with respect to the present invention, which permits the user to enter a family profile matching the family&#39;s schedule of occupancy. If the building is occupied, a sound alert may be sufficient to notify occupants of a particular problem. If the building is unoccupied, however, something more may be required. The present invention also provides for entry of the number of persons occupying the house for each part of the day. 
         [0053]    Referring now to  FIG. 6  in conjunction with  FIGS. 7 and 8 , reference number  232  relates to a building status wherein a fire detection device  250  has detected a fire. The fire detection device  250  provides an input signal  252  to the controller-processor  160 . The controller-processor  160  then actuates a telephone dialer, if programmed to do so by the user. The controller-processor  160  also provides an output to an emergency gas shutoff valve  264  to isolate the building B from the gas supplied to the building B through a gas supply line  260  and a gas meter  262 . The controller-processor  150  also provides an output signal  254  to an emergency breaker  246  in the electrical power supply line  242 . 
         [0054]    Referring now to  FIG. 6  in conjunction with  FIG. 7 , a reference number  234  refers to a voltage sag condition as indicated by a line voltage monitor  256  (See  FIG. 7 ). The line voltage monitor  256  provides an input signal  258  to the controller-processor  160 , which then provides an output signal  254  to the emergency breaker  246 . 
         [0055]    Referring still to  FIG. 6 , a reference number  236  refers to a high radon level condition as indicated by a radon monitor. A reference number  238  refers to a high carbon monoxide level as indicated by a carbon monoxide monitor. In each case, the controller-processor  160  receives an input signal from the radon or carbon monoxide monitor and compares the level to a set point entered by the user. On high levels of carbon monoxide, the controller-processor  160  sounds an alert, closes the emergency gas shutoff valve  264  (See  FIG. 8 ), closes the valve  26  in the building water supply line  24  (unless the building B is equipped with a fire-suppression sprinkler system), and opens the emergency breaker  246  in the power supply line  242 . 
         [0056]    Still referring to  FIG. 6 , a reference number  240  relates to a “water leak” condition, as determined by the controller-processor  160  from an input from a water meter in a particular zone. The controller-processor  160  totals the amount of water used in a specified time period and compares the amount of water used to a predetermined maximum water usage. If the water usage exceeds the predetermined quantity, the controller-processor  160  provides an output to close a valve located in the zone wherein the leak is detected (See  FIGS. 1-3 ). The process by which the controller-processor  160  detects a leak is set forth in detail in  FIG. 9 . Continuous flow of water for a specified time will be deemed a leak at a time when user input to the controller-processor identifies the building occupation status as “unoccupied” or “sleeping.” 
         [0057]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , electrical power is supplied to a building B by an electrical power line  242  through a power meter  244 . A fire detection device  250  (e.g., smoke alarm, ionization monitor, or heat detector) in the building B provides an output signal  252  to the controller-processor  160  (See  FIG. 2 ) when a fire is detected in the building B. The controller-processor provides an output signal  254  to an emergency breaker  246  so the emergency breaker opens and thereby removes all electrical power from the building B in the event of fire. The emergency breaker  246  can be powered by supply side low voltage, by a battery, or by air pressure. An electric line voltage monitor  256  provides an input signal  258  to the controller-processor  160  in the event the line voltage drops below a predetermined value. The controller-processor  160  provides an output signal  254  to the emergency breaker  246 , which automatically opens and thereby protects electrical equipment in the building B from damage due to low voltage. 
         [0058]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , gas (natural gas or propane) is supplied to a building B by a gas supply line  260  through a gas meter  262 . A fire detection device  2266  (e.g., smoke alarm, ionization monitor, or heat detector) in the building B provides an output signal  268  to the controller-processor  160  (See  FIG. 2 ) when a fire is detected in the building B. The controller-processor provides an output signal  270  to an emergency gas shutoff valve  264 . The emergency gas shutoff valve  264  can be powered by supply side low voltage, by a battery, or by air pressure. 
         [0059]    Referring now to  FIG. 9  in conjunction with  FIG. 1 , the process  300  by which the present invention checks for leaks is detailed. In a first step ( 302 ), the controller-processor  160  cycles to the input signal  44  from the water meter  40  located in the first building zone water line  36 . In a second step ( 304 ), the controller-processor  160  then starts a water usage test timer utilizing an internal clock. The predetermined time period for the water usage test is selected based on (1) the anticipated water usage which would not be associated with a leak and (2) the anticipated water usage resulting from a leak. The anticipated water usage which would normally occur in the absence of a leak must take into consideration the occupancy status of the building and, if the building is occupied, the number of persons in the building. In addition, the anticipated water usage must take into account the time of day in light of the family profile. For two people working regular days and sleeping from about 11:00 p.m. until about 6:00 a.m., a water usage exceeding 10 gallons in 5 minutes during the sleeping period would normally be evidence of a leak. 
         [0060]    As used herein, a leak is defined as undesired water usage. The controller-processor  160  will thus deem water usage exceeding 10 gallons in a 5-minute period a leak, even if one of the occupants is unable to sleep and decides to wash clothes while simultaneously washing dishes. In those circumstances, the present invention will sound an alert and, if the building is occupied, the controller-processor  160  would not close a water valve in water line of the affected zone. The occupant would acknowledge the alarm and press an override key to prevent the controller-processor  160  from continuing to sound an alert. A defective fill mechanism in a commode might permit the commode fill line to run continuously for hours or even days. During the daytime hours with the building occupied, the amount of water usage deemed to be a leak would be significantly higher than 10 gallons over 5 minutes, so the running commode might not trigger a leak status with the controller-processor  160 . During the sleep period, however, 10 gallons flowing through the meter  40  in 5 minutes will trigger a “leak alert.” The entry of information through the user interface is described in  FIG. 10 . 
         [0061]    Still referring to  FIG. 9 , in step  306 , the controller-processor  160  determines the water flow from the selected zone&#39;s water meter during the test period. In step  308 , the controller-processor  160  calculates the total water used during the test period. In steps  310  and  312 , the controller-processor  160  looks up water usage leak criteria based on occupation status. In step  314 , the controller-processor compares actual water usage during the test period to water usage leak criteria. In step  316 , the controller-processor  160  sounds a leak alert if the actual water usage during the test period exceeds the water usage leak criteria. If the building is unoccupied, the controller-processor  160  will also close the valve  38  in the Zone  1  water line  36 , thereby effectively ending the loss of water due to the leak. As described in relation to  FIG. 10 , a reset feature allows the user to restore the zone having a leak to ready status through the user interface. 
         [0062]    Still referring to  FIG. 9 , in step  318 , the controller-processor  160  steps to the next building zone (combined Zones  1 - 2  in  FIG. 1 ) and, in step  320 , repeats steps  2 - 9  ( 304  through  318 ). When all building zones have been checked for leaks, the controller processor returns to the first building zone and begins the process of checking for leaks (step  322 ) once again. 
         [0063]    Referring now to  FIG. 10 , an administrative interface flow diagram summary  350  describes the steps performed by the administrator. The administrator can establish user passwords ( 352 ), establish user privileges ( 354 ), establish default inputs, set points, and controller-processor output criteria ( 356 ), obtain reports ( 358 ) and change the administrative password ( 36 ). To establish a user password ( 352 ), the administrator enters a user name ( 362 ), enters a user password ( 364 ), confirms the user password ( 366 ), and saves changes ( 368 ). The administrator then returns to the administrative interface ( 370 ). 
         [0064]    Still referring  FIG. 10 , to establish user privileges ( 354 ), the administrator selects a user ( 372 ), selects/deselects inputs, set points, and controller-processor output criteria which will be modifiable by the user ( 374 ), confirms the selected/deselected items ( 376 ) and saves changes ( 378 ). The administrator the returns to the administrative interface ( 380 ). To establish default inputs, set points, and controller-processor output criteria ( 356 ), the administrator selects an input, set point, or controller-processor output criteria to be modified ( 382 ), modifies the selected input, set point, or controller-processor output criteria ( 384 ), confirms the modification ( 386 ), and saves the changes ( 388 ). The administrator then returns to the administrative interface ( 390 ). 
         [0065]    Still referring to  FIG. 10 , to obtain reports ( 358 ), the administrator selects a report ( 392 ) and prints the selected report ( 394 ) via an RS-232 or other data communication port, which are known in the art. The administrator then returns to the administrative interface ( 396 ). 
         [0066]    It will be understood by on skilled in the art that the present invention&#39;s capacity to generate reports enables a homeowner or building superintendent to review water usage for the preceding day, week, month, or year—not just for the residential or commercial building as whole, but for any zone containing a water meter. In  FIG. 4 , for example, a report for the water usage as measured by the building supply line meter  30  will provide the total usage of water for Zones  1 - 3 . Data obtained from the Zone  1  water meter  40  and stored in the controller-processor permits the administrator to generate a water usage report for Zone  1 , and data obtained from the Zones  2 - 3  water meter  52  and stored in the controller-processor permits the administrator to generate a water usage report for combined Zones  2  and  3 . As indicated above, the piping diagram of  FIG. 4  might correspond to a residence wherein Zone  1  contains a landscaping irrigation system and exterior water faucets, while Zone  2  contains interior bathrooms and showers, and Zone  3  contains the kitchen water-using devices (e.g., a sink, a dishwasher, and an ice maker) together with the clothes washer  98  located in an adjacent laundry room. 
         [0067]    Referring to  FIG. 10  in conjunction with  FIG. 1 , it will understood by one skilled in the art that the present invention is especially suited for use in large homes and commercial buildings where a commode might continue to run continuously for days or weeks before the problem is discovered. 
         [0068]    Referring again to  FIG. 10 , to change the administrative password ( 360 ), the administrator enters a new administrative password ( 398 ), confirms the new administrative password ( 400 ), and saves the changes ( 402 ). The administrator then returns to the administrative interface ( 404 ). 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a user interface flow diagram summary  410  describes steps performed by a user. The user can modify inputs, set points, and controller-processor output criteria ( 412 ), establish a family profile ( 414 ), and obtain reports ( 416 ). To modify inputs, set points, and controller-processor output criteria ( 412 ), the user selects an assigned key ( 418 ), selects an input, set point, or controller-processor output criteria to be modified ( 420 ), modifies the selection ( 422 ), confirms the modification ( 424 ), and saves changes ( 426 ). The user then selects another user interface function or returns to the user interface ready state ( 428 ). 
         [0070]    Still referring to  FIG. 11 , to establish a family profile ( 414 ), the user selects an assigned key ( 430 ), selects a day of the week ( 432 ), selects a time of day ( 434 ), selects “occupied” status, “unoccupied” status, or “sleeping” status by selecting a corresponding key ( 436 ), and then selects another time of day ( 438 ). For the second time of day, the user selects “occupied” status, “unoccupied” status, or “sleeping” status by selecting a corresponding key ( 440 ), and then selects another time of day ( 442 ). For the third time of day, the user selects “occupied” status, “unoccupied” status, or “sleeping” status by selecting a corresponding key ( 444 ). The user then repeats steps  2 . 1 - 2 . 8  until all days of the week are accounted for ( 446 ) and saves the changes ( 448 ). The user then selects another user interface function or returns to the user interface ready state ( 450 ). 
         [0071]    Still referring to  FIG. 11 , to obtain reports ( 416 ), the user selects an assigned key ( 452 ), selects a report ( 454 ), and prints the selected report ( 456 ). The user then returns to the user interface ready state ( 458 ). 
         [0072]    Referring now to  FIG. 12 , an alert interface flow diagram summary  460  describes steps performed by a user in response to an alert. The user can acknowledge the alert and view the controller-processor output criteria on the user interface display ( 462 ), confirm acceptance of the controller-processor output by pressing an assigned acceptance confirmation key ( 464 ), or press an assigned override key to override the controller-processor output ( 466 ). To override the controller-processor output, the user first enters the user&#39;s password ( 468 ), confirms the override by pressing an assigned override confirmation key on the user interface ( 470 ), and then returns to the user interface ready state ( 472 ). 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIG. 13 , a water-saving hot water system  500  eliminates the common practice of running water to the sanitary drain until water from the hot water faucet advances from cold to warm to hot. A hot water supply line  502  carries hot water from a water heater WH to the suction side of a pump  504 . The pump  504  returns water through a return line  506  to the cold water supply line  508 . A check valve  510  forces the returned hot water to return to the water heater WH. Water from the hot water supply line  502  is fed through loops  512 ,  514 , and  516  (also sometimes to referred to as slipstreams  512 ,  514 , and  516 ) to thermostats  518 ,  520 , and  522 , respectively. Until the thermostats  518 ,  520 , and  522  heat up to a design opening temperature, e.g., 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit, the water flows along arrows  524 ,  526 ,  528  back to the hot water supply line  502 . Once the hot water reaches the design opening temperature, the thermostats  518 ,  520 ,  522  open to permit hot water to flow along arrows  530 ,  532 , and  534  to lavatories  536 ,  538 , and  540 , respectively. A user&#39;s opening of hot water faucets (not shown) at any of the lavatories  536 ,  538 ,  540  results in the closure of switches  542 ,  544 ,  546 , respectively, and energizes the electrical circuit powering the pump  504 . 
         [0074]    In operation, a user opens a faucet at one of the lavatories  536 ,  538 ,  540  and simultaneously actuates a corresponding switch  542 ,  544 , or  546 . The pump  504  begins to pump water through the hot water return line  506  back to the water heater WH, but no water will be delivered to the user because the thermostats  518 ,  520 ,  522  will not have heated to their design opening temperature. Only after the thermostat associated with the open faucet has reached its design opening temperature will water be discharged from the faucet. The water so discharged will be hot water, and no water has been discharged to drain while the hot water system  500  heats up. 
         [0075]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the thermostats  518 ,  520 , and  522  can be replaced by  3 -way valves which are opened when a corresponding temperature sensor (See the temperature sensors  182  and  204  in  FIG. 4 ) indicates the loops  512 ,  514 ,  516  have reached a preselected hot water operating temperature. 
         [0076]    Referring now to  FIG. 13  in conjunction with  FIGS. 2 and 11 , the controller-processor  160  of the present invention can be programmed to provide an output signal  548  to the pump  504  at a specific time of day, e.g., a few minutes before the family normally arises each morning, thereby providing virtually instant hot water for the family while avoiding running water down the drain. 
         [0077]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that actuation of the switches  542 ,  544 ,  546  can, in addition to starting up the pump  504 , open valves  550 ,  552 , and  554 , respectively, so hot water is circulated only to the loop associated with the actuated switch. 
         [0078]    Referring now to  FIG. 14 , a hot water catchment  600  is positioned beneath a water heater WH so that hot water leaking from the water heater WH is retained within the catchment  600 . A water level sensor  602  provides an input signal  604  to a controller-processor (such as the controller-processor  160  shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ). In response to the water level sensor input signal  604 , the controller-processor provides an output signal  606  to close a cold water supply line valve  608  and an output signal  610  to close a hot water line valve  612 . When the valves  608  and  612  are closed, very little additional water will flow into the catchment  600 . 
         [0079]    Still referring now to  FIG. 14 , a temperature pressure relief valve (TPR valve)  614  releases water (and thus relieves pressure) if either the temperature or pressure in the water heater tank gets too high. These valves are very important. Water heaters can become bombs if the pressure gets too high and these valves fail to work. Moreover, TPR valves should be tested from time to time to be sure they are working properly. A drain line  616  attached to the TPR valve  614  directs hot water to the catchment  600 . 
         [0080]    Referring now to  FIG. 15 , a hot water catchment  700  is positioned beneath a water heater WH so that hot water leaking from the water heater WH is retained within the catchment  700 . A water level sensor  702  provides an input signal  704  to a controller-processor (such as the controller-processor  160  shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ). In response to the water level sensor input signal  704 , the controller-processor provides an output signal  706  to close a cold water supply line valve  708  and an output signal  710  to close a hot water line valve  712 . When the valves  708  and  712  are closed, very little additional water will flow into the catchment  700 . A water trap  714  drains any water collected in the catchment  700  to sanitary drain. 
         [0081]    It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the catchment  700  of  FIG. 15  is best suited for new home construction because of the need for a conveniently located sanitary drain. The catchment  600  of  FIG. 14  is suitable for installation in conjunction with existing water heaters. 
         [0082]    It will be further understood by one skilled in the art that valves used herein may be either energized closed valves or energized open valves. If the valves  26 ,  38 ,  50 ,  78 ,  98 ,  128 , and  148  are energized closed valves, the output signals  28 ,  46 ,  64 ,  92 ,  112 ,  136 , and  156 , respectively, from the controller-processor  160  will supply power to the valves and cause the normally open valves to close. If, on the other hand, the valves  26 ,  38 ,  50 ,  78 ,  98 ,  128 , and  148  are energized open valves, the output signals  28 ,  46 ,  64 ,  92 ,  112 ,  136 , and  156 , respectively, from the controller-processor  160  will cause power to be removed from the valves and the valves will return to a normally closed position. 
         [0083]    In  FIG. 7 , the invention has been described in the context of a normally open emergency breaker  246  which is caused to break by the output signal  254  from the controller-processor  160 . The use of a normally closed emergency breaker would stay closed until power is withdrawn and would then break the circuit without application of external power. Similarly, the emergency shutoff valve  264  in  FIG. 8  is described as closing in response to the output signal  270  from the controller-processor  160 , but the emergency gas shutoff valve could just as easily be an energized open valve and close when power is withdrawn. Either normally closed valves and breakers or normally open valves and breakers are within the scope and spirit of the present invention. Normally open valves and breakers will close in response to an output signal from the controller-processor which causes the valves and breakers to be energized. Normally closed valves and breakers will open in response to an output signal from the controller-processor which causes the valves and breakers to be de-energized. 
         [0084]    The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.