Patent ID: 7240501

Claim:
A system for reducing energy consumption by a heater on a refrigerator, the system comprising: a) a control unit comprising a computer processor; memory; a timer; and an analog-to-digital converter; b) a quick-disconnect power connector connecting the control unit to a power source; c) at least one sensor that senses condensation connected to the control unit; c) a programmer connected to the control unit, wherein the programmer further comprises: i. a computer processor; ii. a signal input/output; iii. a keyboard; and iv. a display, wherein the programmer sets at least one preset time in the control unit to turn off the heater and the control unit receives a signal from a sensor that overrides the preset time such that the heater is turned on; and e) a communications host connected to at least one control unit, wherein the communications host enables remote monitor and control of each control unit.