Importance

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Abstract

A washing machine includes a tub having a water collecting well, a water suply conduit provided with a controllable valve for supplying water to the well during at least one water supply phase of the operation of the washing machine, and a circulation pump for circulating water collected in the well during at least a latter portion of the supply phase. A control system automatically controls operation of the valve and thereby the supply of water to establish a minimum water level within the well required for optimum operation of the circulation pump. The control system includes a control chamber and an overflow wall having a predetermined overflow level and communicating the well with the control chamber, such that when the level of water in the well reaches the overflow level the water overflows the overflow wall into the control chamber. A calibrated flow opening communicates the intake of the circulation pump with the control chamber, such that operation of the circulation pump draws water from the control chamber through the flow opening. A pressure switch is operatively connected to the valve and is responsive to the pressure within the control chamber to close the valve when the rate of water overflowing the overflow wall into the control chamber is at least equal to the rate of water flowing from the control chamber through the flow opening.

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First Claim