Patent attributes
A solenoid valve, particularly for hot water, has a diaphragm that is disposed with no folds that accumulate air or vapor bubbles. The diaphragm extends in a smooth curve between its outer edge and its inner edge so that the bubbles are directed to the level where the mouth of the inlet conduit enters the valve chamber. Preferably the center axis of the valve chamber and a solenoid system is tipped back to form an obtuse angle with the center axis of the inlet conduit. In addition, the inlet conduit has a portion of the upper inside wall that slopes upwardly in the direction away form the valve chamber and toward the inlet. In this portion, a discharge channel, such as a groove, extends in the direction from the valve chamber to the inlet. The discharge channel helps direct accumulated air and vapor bubbles from the valve chamber out toward the inlet.