Patent Publication Number: US-2021176829-A1

Title: Household appliance with immersible heater

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to and the benefit of European Patent Application Serial No. 192138436, filed Dec. 5, 2019, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This description relates to a household appliance, and more specifically to a household appliance with an immersible heater. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Household appliances perform a variety of cycles of operation on various articles. In one form or another, most household appliances have a treating chamber holding an article that is treated according to a cycle of operation. For example, laundry treating appliance, such as clothes washers/dryers, have a treating chamber in which an article, such as a laundry item, is placed for a washing, refreshing, de-wrinkle, drying, or other cycle of operation. Dish treating appliances, such as dishwashers, have a treating chamber in which a dish is placed for washing, sanitizing, or other cycle of operation. Refrigerators having a treating chamber, such as a cooler or freezer, in which articles are cooled or frozen, respectively. Cooking appliances, such as ovens and microwaves, have a treating chamber in which articles, such as food items, are heated or cooked. These examples are merely illustrative. Such household appliances can have a controller that implements a number of user-selectable, pre-programmed cycles of operation having one or more operating parameters. The user can select the desired cycle of operation. 
     Such household appliances include a structure, such as a tub, that can have an access opening and which at least partially defines the treating chamber into which items or articles can be placed to undergo a washing or treating cycle of operation. A closure, such as a door assembly, is provided to selectively open or close the access opening to allow or prevent user access to the treating chamber. 
     In appliances that use water or other liquids as part of or as a byproduct of the cycle of operation, a sump can be provided with or fluidly coupled to the tub and can have a heater or heating element to heat liquid present within the sump. The heaters can be located external to the sump and indirectly heat the liquid in the sump by heating the sump. The heaters located within the sump are immersible and directly heat the surrounding water or liquid. Immersible heaters, since they are exposed to the water/liquid, are subjected to harsher conditions than the external heaters. For example, immersible heaters are subject to calcium buildup, which depending on the hardness of the water/liquid, can quickly build up on the heater and just as quickly degrade the efficiency of the heater. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
     An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a household appliance comprising a treating chamber, a liquid sump, a liquid circuit fluidly coupling the liquid sump and the treating chamber, and an immersible laminate heater, located within the liquid sump. The laminate heater may have a pair of electrodes providing for the supplying of electricity to the immersible laminate heater. The laminate heater may have a laminate structure comprising an electrically non-conductive first layer, a thermoresistive nano-coating layer provided on the first layer and electrically connected to the pair of electrodes, and an electrically non-conductive second layer, overlying the nano-coating layer, and coupled with the first layer to encase the nano-coating layer, wherein at least one of the first layer and the second layer is thermally conductive. As used herein, “thermoresistive” means capable of resistive heating, where the process of passing an electric current through a material produces heat. 
     Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an immersible resistive heating element with a pair of electrodes comprising a laminate structure of a first layer having a thermal conductivity λ of at least 0.2-1 W/m K and an electrical conductivity σ of less than 5×10 2 -5×10 7  S/m, a thermoresistive carbon nano-coating layer provided on the first layer and electrically connected to the pair of electrodes, and a second layer, overlying the nano-coating layer, and coupled with the first layer to encase and form a waterproof barrier about the nano-coating layer, and having a thermal conductivity λ of at least 0.2-1 W/m K and an electrical conductivity σ of less than 5×10 2 -5×10 7  S/m. 
     Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element, the method comprising applying a coating of electrically resistive material to a first electrical insulating layer, and applying a second electrical insulating layer over the electrically resistive material to encase the electrically resistive material in a waterproof barrier. 
     One example of a practical implementation of the above aspects is the combination of carbon nanotubes with a ceramic aluminum-based composite matrix, which demonstrates improved heat dissipation and improved bonding to surfaces. The carbon nanotubes can further increase the toughness and reduce the brittleness of the ceramic matrix. Along with exceptional flex and strength properties, the proposed technology offers enhanced resistance to static and dynamic corrosion, improved efficacy and reduced consumption of electric power. The carbon nanotube materials also demonstrate remarkable improvements in the generation of heat and rapid transfer of the heat to the surrounding water in the immersible heater environment. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic representation of a household appliance including a treating chamber and an immersible heater. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of the immersible heater of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic diagram illustrating the forming of the immersible heater of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic diagram showing the immersible heater of  FIG. 1  in the environment of a vertical axis washer. 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic diagram showing the immersible heater of  FIG. 1  in the environment of a horizontal axis washer. 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic diagram showing the immersible heater of  FIG. 1  in the environment of a dishwasher. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a schematic representation of a household appliance  100  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The household appliance  100  can be any suitable household appliance, including, but not limited to, a dish treating appliance, a dishwasher having varying widths, sizes, and capacities, a stand-alone dishwasher, a multi-tub-type dishwasher, a drawer-type dishwasher, a sink-type dishwasher, a laundry treating appliance, a clothes washing machine, a clothes dryer, a combination washing machine and dryer, a dispensing dryer, a tumbling or stationary refreshing/revitalizing machine, an extractor, a non-aqueous washing apparatus, a clothes refresher, a revitalizing machine, etc. All of these examples of household appliances can receive one or more items in a treating chamber and then perform a cycle of operation on the article. The cycle of operation can include, by way of non-limiting example, cooking, heating, cooling, freezing, clothes washing, clothes drying, clothes treating, dish drying, dish washing, or dish treating. As used in this description, the term “items” is intended to be generic to any item, single or plural, that can be treated in the household appliance  100 , including, without limitation, dishes, plates, pots, bowls, pans, glassware, silverware, other utensils, laundry items, clothes, bedding, towels, and food items. 
     The household appliance  100  includes a cabinet  10  with an interior  11 , in which is provided a tub  12  that at least partially defines a treating chamber  16 , with an access opening  17 . A liquid sump  14  is fluidly coupled with the tub  12  and can be at least partially formed by the tub  12 , or alternatively can be provided adjacent to or otherwise fluidly coupled with the tub  12 . Alternatively, the liquid sump  14  can be a separate module that is coupled to the tub  12 . 
     The household appliance  100  further includes a household water supply circuit in the form of a water supply line  20  and a water inlet valve  21 , which controls the flow of water through the water supply line  20 . The water supply line  20  can be fluidly coupled to a household water supply, thus, with the operation of the water inlet valve  21 , water from the household water supply can be supplied to the treating chamber  16 . 
     A liquid circuit  22  fluidly connects the liquid sump  14  to at least one of the treating chamber  16  or tub  12 . A valve or a recirculation system pump  23  can control the flow of liquid through the liquid circuit  22 . The liquid circuit  22  distributes or recirculates liquid from the liquid sump  14  to at least one of the treating chamber  16  or tub  12 . 
     An immersible laminate heater  90  can be included for heating the liquid in the liquid sump  14 . By way of non-limiting example, the immersible laminate heater  90  can be provided within or adjacent the treating chamber  16  or within or adjacent the liquid sump  14 . The immersible laminate heater  90  need only be located such that it is at least partially immersed in the liquid present within at least one of the treating chamber  16  or the liquid sump  14 . As illustrated, the immersible laminate heater  90  extends into and overlies at least a portion of the liquid sump  14 , but does not lie on a surface of the liquid sump  14 . However, it is contemplated that the immersible laminate heater  90  can reside adjacent to or rest on a portion of the liquid sump  14 . 
     To implement the cycles of operation, a controller  18  can also be included in the household appliance  100  that operably couples with and controls the various components of household appliance  100  including the water inlet valve  21 , the recirculation system pump  23 , and the immersible laminate heater  90 , The controller  18  can be located within the cabinet as illustrated, or it can alternatively be located within a closure, such as a door, of the appliance. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 2 , the immersible laminate heater  90  has a laminate structure that includes at least a first layer  120 , a thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  arranged on one side of the first layer  120 , a second layer  130  overlying the other side of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and contacting the first layer  120  to encase the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 . A pair of electrodes  140  extend between the first layer  120  and second layer  130  and are at least partially covered by the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 . The pair of electrodes  140  are positioned such that they are spaced from one another and the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is arranged to intervene between the pair of electrodes  140  and is in electrical connection with the pair of electrodes  140 . Electrical connectors  150  extend from the pair of electrodes  140  to connect and electrically couple the controller  18  with the pair of electrodes  140 . 
     A support layer  180  can be provided as a structural support of the first layer  120 , with a thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , and second layer  130 . In some contemplated applications, the first layer  120  can reside on a portion of the liquid sump or tub, reducing or eliminating the need for a support layer. An optional third layer  190  can cover or encapsulate the support layer  180 . If the support layer  180  is not used, then the third layer  190  can still be used and would cover or encapsulate the first layer  120 . However, in some implementations, especially in the absence of the support layer  180 , the third layer  190  would be redundant and not necessary. It is contemplated that the support layer  180  is most likely to be used when the immersible laminate heater is cantilevered relative to the tub or liquid sump as compared to resting on a portion of the tub or liquid sump. 
     The support layer  180  comprises a rigid material, such as steel, or a combination of any suitable rigid materials such that the support layer  180  can provide rigidity and structure to the immersible laminate heater  90 , and specifically such that the first layer  120  is structurally supported by the support layer  180 . The support layer  180  is provided on the opposite side of the first layer  120  than the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , such that the first layer  120  provides a barrier between the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the support layer  180 . 
     The third layer  190  is provided on and overlies the support layer  180 , such that the first layer  120  and the third layer  190  are provided on opposite sides or surfaces of the support layer  180 . In one example, though the support layer  180  is provided between the first layer  120  and the third layer  190 , the third layer  190  is at least partially in direct contact with the first layer  120 , such as along an edge or an outer portion of the first layer  120 , encasing and providing a waterproof barrier about the support layer  180 . 
     The first layer  120  and the second layer  130  together are coupled to enclose or encase the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the pair of electrodes  140  and to form a waterproof barrier about the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the pair of electrodes  140 . The first layer  120  and the second layer  130  encase the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  such that, when the immersible laminate heater  90  lies on the liquid sump  14  the encasing first layer  120  and second layer  130  can be substantially surrounded by wash water or liquid during the cycle of operation. In one example, the immersible laminate heater  90  comprises the support layer  180 , the first layer  120 , the second layer  130  and the third layer  190  encase the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the pair of electrodes  140 , and the immersible laminate heater  90  extends into the liquid sump  14 . 
     The first layer  120 , the second layer  130 , and third layer  190  each comprise a liquid-impermeable material, which is also an electrically non-conductive or electrically resistive material. At least one of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  comprises a material that is also thermally conductive. In one example, both the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  comprise a material that is liquid-impermeable, electrically non-conductive and thermally conductive. When it is desired for the first layer  120  and second layer  130  to be thermally conductive, the thermal conductivity λ of each of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  is at least 0.2-1 W/m K. When it is desired for the first layer  120  and second layer  130  to be electrically non-conductive, the electrical conductivity σ of each of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  is less than 5×10 2 -5×10 7  S/m. 
     The first layer  120 , the second layer  130  and the third layer  190  can be formed of any suitable material or combination of materials that fall within these ranges. By way of non-limiting example, the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  comprise a polyimide film. The first layer  120  and the second layer  130  can comprise the same material, though it will also be understood that the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  can comprise different materials from one another. The third layer  190  comprises a thermally conductive, electrically non-conductive material similar to or the same as the material in the first layer  120  and the second layer  130 . In one example, the first layer  120 , the second layer  130 , and the third layer  190  can all be formed of the same material as one another. In one example, the first layer  120 , the second layer  130 , the support layer  180  and the third layer  190  are thermally conductive. 
     The thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  generates heat when current is passed through it. The thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  comprises a conductive material that is electrically resistive, such as carbon nanotubes, as well as other materials including, but not limited to, aluminum nanoparticles, ceramics, and fillers. 
     The pair of electrodes  140  comprise an electrically conducting material or combination of materials with an electrical conductivity σ of greater than 5×10 7  S/m, such as copper or silver. Like the pair of electrodes  140 , the electrical connectors  150  can also comprise an electrically conducting material or combination of materials with an electrical conductivity σ of greater than 5×10 7  S/m, such as copper. However, it will be understood that, since the electrical connectors  150  may extend through and protrude from the second layer  130  and into the liquid sump  14 , the electrical connectors  150  include an electrically insulating component, such as a coating or protective layer, to prevent the electrically conducting material from contacting the liquid in the liquid sump  14 . The electrical connectors  150  in electrical contact with the pair of electrodes  140  are operably coupled with the controller  18  such that the controller  18  can selectively energize or provide electricity to the electrical connectors  150  to operate the immersible laminate heater  90  to generate heat. In one example, the electrical connectors  150  can be coupled to the controller  18  via an intermediate power source not shown. The immersible laminate heater  90  is designed to operate with an alternating current electrical supply, for example a 30 A, 120 V, 230 V, 240 V supply, such that the heater generates 1700 Watts or greater. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 3 , the layered laminate structure of the immersible laminate heater  90  provides for easy assembly and forming of the resistive immersible laminate heater  90  according to a method  200 . When the support layer  180  is to be included, at  210 , the assembly of the immersible laminate heater  90  begins with the assembly of the support layer  180  and the third layer  190  with the first layer  120 , which can occur prior to the application of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 . By way of non-limiting example, the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  can be coated onto the at least one of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130 , though it will be understood that any suitable method of application can be used, other non-limiting examples of which can include laminating, spray coating, dip coating, or simply layering. Alternatively or additionally, the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  can be applied onto the pair of electrodes  140 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the third layer  190  is applied to the support layer  180  at  210  by any suitable method of application, non-limiting examples of which can include laminating, spray coating, dip coating, or simply layering. At  220 , the coupled support layer  180  and third layer  190  are brought into contact with the first layer  120  so as to encase the support layer  180  in a waterproof barrier. If inclusion of the support layer  180  and the third layer  190  are not desired, steps  210  and  220  can be omitted, such that the assembly of the immersible laminate heater  90  begins at  230 . At  230 , the pair of electrodes  140  are placed on the first layer  120 . In the case that the support layer  180  has already been provided, the pair of electrodes  140  are applied to the opposite side of the first layer  120  from the support layer  180 . At  240 , the electrically non-conductive thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is applied onto the first layer  120  and onto the pair of electrodes  140  so as to be in electrical contact with the pair of electrodes  140 . The procedure at  240  can be performed any variety of ways known to those skilled in the art, non-limiting examples of which include spraying, painting, dipping, or sputtering. At  250 , the electrical connectors  150  can be attached to the pair of electrodes  140 , though it will be understood that the electrical connectors  150  can instead be attached to the pair of electrodes  140  at  230 , prior to the addition of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  to the electrodes  140 . Alternatively, the addition of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  to the first layer  120  can occur prior to the placement of the pair of electrodes  140  on the first layer  120 , such that the pair of electrodes  140  would then be located between the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the third layer  130 , rather than between the first layer  120  and the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  as would result from 240. In either case, the placement of the pair of electrodes  140  and the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  are both completed prior to the addition of the second layer  130 . At  260 , the second layer  130  is applied over the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the pair of electrodes  140 , and also contacts the first layer  120 . The arrangement of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  encloses the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and the pair of electrodes  140  in a waterproof barrier. 
     The thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  can be provided directly onto at least one of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130 , though it will be understood that the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  could be provided indirectly on the at least one of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130 , such as by having an intervening layer or other components provided between the first layer  120  or the second layer  130  and the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 . In one example, the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is provided on only one side of the first layer  120 . 
     Turning now to the operation of the immersible laminate heater  90 , the controller  18  of the household appliance  100  can cause the pair of electrodes  140  connected to the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  to be energized. By way of example, the controller  18  can energize the power source not shown that is operably coupled to the pair of electrodes  140 , in order to cause the pair of electrodes  140  to, in turn, be energized to resistively heat the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  to which the pair of electrodes  140  is electrically and thermally coupled. As electrical current is provided to the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  from the pair of electrodes  140  by the controller  18  or the power source, heat is generated by the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  and provided outwardly through the thermally conductive first layer  120  and thermally conductive second layer  130 , and in some cases through the support layer  180  and third layer  190 . Energy efficient performance of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  can be achieved to raise the temperature of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  in such a way that highly uniform surface heating through the resistive heating capabilities of the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  can be realized while requiring relatively less usage of electrical power as compared to conventional coil heating elements. 
     When the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is energized to be resistively heated in this manner, the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  allow thermal transfer, transmitting, or transmission of the heat outwardly from the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  towards the washing liquid. Since the first layer  120 , second layer  130 , and third layer  190  are thermally transmissive and liquid-impermeable, and the support layer  180  is thermally transmissive, the first layer  120 , second layer  130 , support layer  180 , and third layer  190  are configured to thermally transfer or transmit heat, the heat provided from the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  can accordingly be transmitted outwardly from the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  through the thermally transmissive and liquid-impermeable barrier formed by the first layer  120 , second layer  130 , and third layer  190  to the surrounding medium such as washing liquid. In this manner, the immersible laminate heater  90  is configured to resistively heat the liquid in the household appliance  100  by providing heat to the liquid in which the immersible laminate heater  90  is submerged or partially submerged. Further, the first layer  120 , second layer  130 , and third layer  190  are liquid impermeable and encase the immersible laminate heater  90  to protect the immersible laminate heater  90  from corrosion. 
     The immersible laminate heater  90  can be used to heat liquid in household appliances such as laundry treatment appliances and dishwashers. An immersible laminate heater  390  is shown in the environment of a vertical axis washer  300  in  FIG. 4  which has components analogous to those described in  FIG. 1 , where the corresponding part numbers have increased by 300. The vertical axis washer  300  includes a door  301 , a cabinet  310  with an interior  311 , in which is provided a tub  312  that at least partially defines a treating chamber  316 . A liquid sump  314  is fluidly coupled with the tub  312  and can be at least partially formed by the tub  312 , or alternatively can be provided adjacent to or otherwise fluidly coupled with the tub  312 . Alternatively, the liquid sump  314  can be a separate module that is coupled to the tub  312 . The vertical axis washer  300  can further include an agitator  313 , a drive shaft  315 , and a motor  317 . 
     The vertical axis washer  300  further includes a household water supply circuit in the form of a water supply line  320  and a water inlet valve  321 , which controls the flow of water through the water supply line  320 . The water supply line  320  can be fluidly coupled to a household water supply, thus, with the operation of the water inlet valve  321 , water from the household water supply can be supplied to the treating chamber  316 . 
     A liquid circuit  322  fluidly connects the liquid sump  314  to at least one of the treating chamber  316  or tub  312 . A valve or a recirculation system pump  323  can control the flow of liquid through the liquid circuit  322 . The liquid circuit  322  distributes or recirculates liquid from the liquid sump  314  to at least one of the treating chamber  316  or tub  312 . 
     An immersible laminate heater  390  can be included for heating the liquid in the liquid sump  314 . By way of non-limiting example, the immersible laminate heater  390  can be provided within or adjacent the treating chamber  316  or within or adjacent the liquid sump  314 . The immersible laminate heater  390  need only be located such that it is at least partially immersed in the liquid present within at least one of the treating chamber  316  or the liquid sump  314 . As illustrated, the immersible laminate heater  390  extends into and overlies at least a portion of the liquid sump  314 , but does not lie on a surface of the liquid sump  314 . However, it is contemplated that the immersible laminate heater  390  can reside adjacent to or rest on a portion of the liquid sump  314 . The immersible laminate heater  390  can lie on the liquid sump or protrude into the liquid sump to heat the wash water that recirculates during operation. 
     To implement the cycles of operation, a controller  318  can also be included in the vertical axis washer  300  that operably couples with and controls the various components of the vertical axis washer  300  including the water inlet valve  321 , the recirculation system pump  323 , and the immersible laminate heater  390 , The controller  318  can be located within the cabinet as illustrated, or it can alternatively be located within a closure, such as a door, of the vertical axis washer  300 . 
       FIG. 5 . illustrates an immersible laminate heater  490  in the environment of a horizontal axis washer  400 . The horizontal axis washer  400  includes a cabinet  410 , a drum  412  that at least partially defines a treating chamber  416 , a liquid sump  414 , and other components analogous to those shown in  FIG. 1 , where the corresponding part numbers have increased by 400. The immersible laminate heater  490  can lie on the liquid sump or protrude into the liquid sump to heat the wash water that recirculates during operation. A liquid sump  414  is fluidly coupled with the drum  412  and can be at least partially formed by the drum  412 , or alternatively can be provided adjacent to or otherwise fluidly coupled with the drum  412 . Alternatively, the liquid sump  414  can be a separate module that is coupled to the drum  412 . 
     The horizontal axis washer  400  further includes a household water supply circuit in the form of a water supply line  420  and a water inlet valve  421 , which controls the flow of water through the water supply line  420 . The water supply line  420  can be fluidly coupled to a household water supply, thus, with the operation of the water inlet valve  421 , water from the household water supply can be supplied to the treating chamber  416 . 
     A liquid circuit  422  fluidly connects the liquid sump  414  to at least one of the treating chamber  416  or drum  412 . A valve or a recirculation system pump  423  can control the flow of liquid through the liquid circuit  422 . The liquid circuit  422  distributes or recirculates liquid from the liquid sump  414  to at least one of the treating chamber  416  or drum  412 . 
     An immersible laminate heater  490  can be included for heating the liquid in the liquid sump  414 . By way of non-limiting example, the immersible laminate heater  490  can be provided within or adjacent the treating chamber  416  or within or adjacent the liquid sump  414 . The immersible laminate heater  490  need only be located such that it is at least partially immersed in the liquid present within at least one of the treating chamber  416  or the liquid sump  414 . As illustrated, the immersible laminate heater  490  extends into and overlies at least a portion of the liquid sump  414 , but does not lie on a surface of the liquid sump  414 . However, it is contemplated that the immersible laminate heater  490  can reside adjacent to or rest on a portion of the liquid sump  414 . 
     To implement the cycles of operation, a controller  418  can also be included in the horizontal axis washer  400  that operably couples with and controls the various components of horizontal axis washer  400  including the water inlet valve  421 , the recirculation system pump  423 , and the immersible laminate heater  490 , The controller  418  can be located within the cabinet as illustrated, or it can alternatively be located within a closure, such as a door, of the horizontal axis washer  400 . 
       FIG. 6 . illustrates an immersible laminate heater  590  in the environment of a dishwasher  500 . The dishwasher  500  includes components analogous to those shown in  FIG. 1 , where the corresponding part numbers have increased by 500. The dishwasher  500  includes a cabinet  510  with a tub  512  that at least partially defines a treating chamber  516 . A liquid sump  514  is fluidly coupled with the tub  512  and can be at least partially formed by the tub  512 , or alternatively can be provided adjacent to or otherwise fluidly coupled with the tub  512 . Alternatively, the liquid sump  514  can be a separate module that is coupled to the tub  512 . 
     The dishwasher  500  further includes a household water supply circuit in the form of a water supply line  520  and a water inlet valve  521 , which controls the flow of water through the water supply line  520 . The water supply line  520  can be fluidly coupled to a household water supply, thus, with the operation of the water inlet valve  521 , water from the household water supply can be supplied to the treating chamber  516 . 
     A liquid circuit  522  fluidly connects the liquid sump  514  to at least one of the treating chamber  516  or tub  512 . At least one valve  525  and a recirculation system pump  523  can control the flow of liquid through the liquid circuit  522 . The liquid circuit  522  distributes or recirculates liquid from the liquid sump  514  to at least one of the treating chamber  516  or tub  512 . 
     An immersible laminate heater  590  can be included for heating the liquid in the liquid sump  514 . By way of non-limiting example, the immersible laminate heater  590  can be provided within or adjacent the treating chamber  516  or within or adjacent the liquid sump  514 . The immersible laminate heater  590  need only be located such that it is at least partially immersed in the liquid present within at least one of the treating chamber  516  or the liquid sump  514 . As illustrated, the immersible laminate heater  590  extends into and overlies at least a portion of the liquid sump  514 , but does not lie on a surface of the liquid sump  514 . However, it is contemplated that the immersible laminate heater  590  can reside adjacent to or rest on a portion of the liquid sump  514 . 
     To implement the cycles of operation, a controller  518  can also be included in the dishwasher  500  that operably couples with and controls the various components of dishwasher  500  the water inlet valve  521 , the recirculation system pump  523 , and the immersible laminate heater  590 , The controller  518  can be located within the cabinet as illustrated, or it can alternatively be located within a closure, such as a door, of the dishwasher  500 . 
     The dishwasher  500  further includes item holders  526  and spray arms  527  that are connected to the liquid circuit  522 . The immersible laminate heater  590  can lie on the liquid sump  514  or protrude into the liquid sump  514  to heat the wash water that recirculates during operation. 
     The aspects described herein can be used to provide an immersible laminate heater for a household appliance that is adapted for immersion in water, as well as thermoresistive heating. Having a layered structure can result in efficient heating of the water and stability of the heating element. By placing the nano-coating between thermally conductive and electrically insulating layers, the durability and efficiency of the heater can be improved. A support layer further increases the stability and rigidity of the heater and thereby improves the performance and durability of the heater. 
     It will also be understood that various changes and/or modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. By way of non-limiting example, although the present disclosure is described for use with a household appliance provided as a horizontal axis laundry treating appliance, it will be recognized that the immersible heater can be employed with various contexts, including vertical axis laundry treating appliances and/or use with other types of household appliances in which liquid is heated during a cycle of operation, such as dishwashers and dish treating appliances. 
     To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various aspects can be used in combination with each other as desired. That one feature is not illustrated in all of the aspects is not meant to be construed that it cannot be, but is done for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different aspects can be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects are expressly described. Combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered by this disclosure. Further aspects of the invention are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses, and in addition to the concepts covered by the below claims, the following concepts can also provide the basis for claims in any possible combinations: 
     1. A household appliance  100  comprising: a treating chamber  16 , a liquid sump  14 , a liquid circuit  22  fluidly coupling the liquid sump  14  and the treating chamber  16 , and an immersible laminate heater  90 , located within the liquid sump  14 , and having a pair of electrodes  140  and a laminate structure comprising: an electrically non-conductive first layer  120 , a thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  provided on the first layer  120  and electrically connected to the pair of electrodes  140 , and an electrically non-conductive second layer  130 , overlying the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , and coupled with the first layer  120  to encase the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , wherein at least one of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  is thermally conductive. 
     2. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein both the first layer  120  and the second layer  130  are thermally conductive. 
     3. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the thermal conductivity λ of the first layer  120  and of the second layer  130  is at least 0.2-1 W/m K. 
     4. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the electrically non-conductive first layer  120  has an electrical conductivity σ of less than 5×10 2 -5×10 7  S/m. 
     5. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the pair of electrodes  140  extends between the first layer  120  and the second layer  130 . 
     6. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is applied to the pair of electrodes  140  and at least one of the first layer  120  and the second layer  130 . 
     7. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein neither the first layer  120  nor the second layer  130  lie on the liquid sump  14 . 
     8. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the immersible laminate heater  90  extends into and overlies a portion of the liquid sump  14 . 
     9. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the laminate structure further comprises a support layer  180  on an opposite side of the first layer  120  than the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 . 
     10. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses further comprising an electrically non-conductive third layer  190  overlying the support layer  180  and coupled to the first layer  120 . 
     11. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the first layer  120 , the second layer  130 , and the third layer  190  are the same material. 
     12. The household appliance  100  of any of the preceding clauses wherein the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is a carbon nanotube coating. 
     13. An immersible resistive heating element with a pair of electrodes  140  comprising a laminate structure of: a first layer  120  having a thermal conductivity λ of at least 0.2-1 W/m K and an electrical conductivity σ of less than 5×10 2 -5×10 7  S/m, a thermoresistive carbon nano-coating layer  110  provided on the first layer  120  and electrically connected to the pair of electrodes  140 , and a second layer  130 , overlying the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , and coupled with the first layer  120  to encase and form a waterproof barrier about the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , and having a thermal conductivity λ of at least 0.2-1 W/m K and an electrical conductivity σ of less than 5×10 2 -5×10 7  S/m. 
     14. The immersible resistive heating element of any of the preceding clauses wherein the laminate structure further comprises a support layer  180  on an opposite side of the first layer  120  than the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110 , and optionally further comprising an electrically non-conductive third layer  190  overlying the support layer  180  and coupled to the first layer  120  to encase the support layer  180  and form a waterproof barrier. 
     15. The immersible resistive heating element of any of the preceding clauses wherein the pair of electrodes  140  extend between the first layer  120  and second layer  130 , and optionally further wherein the thermoresistive nano-coating layer  110  is applied to the pair of electrodes  140  and at least one of the first layer  120  or the second layer  130 . 
     16. A method of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element  100 , the method comprising: applying a coating of electrically resistive material  110  to a first electrical insulating layer  120 , and applying a second electrical insulating layer  130  over the electrically resistive material  110  to encase the electrically resistive material  110  in a waterproof barrier. 
     17. The method of any of the preceding clauses further comprising placing a pair of pair of electrodes between the first and second layers prior to the applying of the second layer. 
     18. The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein the placing the pair of electrodes  140  occurs prior to applying the coating of electrically resistive material  110 . 
     19. The method of any of the preceding clauses further comprising supporting the first layer  120  with a support layer. 
     20. The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein supporting the first layer  120  occurs prior to the applying the coating of electrically resistive material. 
     21. The method of any of the preceding clauses further comprising applying a third electrically insulating layer  190  over the support layer  180  to encase the support layer  180  in a waterproof barrier. 
     22. A method of any of the preceding clauses of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element, the method comprising applying a coating of electrically resistive material to a first electrical insulating layer, and applying a second electrical insulating layer over the electrically resistive material to encase the electrically resistive material in a waterproof barrier. 
     23. A method of any of the preceding clauses of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element further comprising placing a pair of electrodes between the first and second layers prior to the applying of the second layer. 
     24. A method of any of the preceding clauses of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element wherein the placing the pair of electrodes occurs prior to applying the coating of electrically resistive material. 
     25. A method of any of the preceding clauses of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element further comprising supporting the first layer with a support layer. 
     26. A method of any of the preceding clauses of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element wherein supporting the first layer occurs prior to the applying the coating of electrically resistive material. 
     27. A method of any of the preceding clauses of forming an immersible laminate resistive heating element further comprising applying a third electrically insulating layer over the support layer to encase the support layer in a waterproof barrier. 
     This written description uses examples to disclose aspects of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice aspects of the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. While aspects of the disclosure have been specifically described in connection with certain specific details thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation. Reasonable variation and modification are possible within the scope of the forgoing disclosure and drawings without departing from the spirit of the disclosure, which is defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the aspects of the present disclosure are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise.