Abstract: A lighted panel system for a tub wall comprising a light diffusing panel, a light source that illuminates the light diffusing panel, and a mounting structure that couples the light diffusing panel to the tub wall. The light diffusing panel comprises a formed transparent or translucent sheet to which the light source is mounted. The light source comprises a plurality of light emitting diode lamps mounted on a circuit board protected by a circular rubber boot that attaches to a rear surface of the light diffusing panel such that light rays are dispersed in a principally lateral direction, parallel to the wall of the tub. A plurality of the lighted panel systems are preferably installed side by side along the length of a tub wall at the water line, an arrangement that allows for continuous lighting coverage and creates a new ambient effect.

Abstract: A pool/spa skimmer includes a housing and a face plate opening into the housing. The face plate is dimensioned to allow water to flow in a vertical column between it and the housing. In one embodiment, a flexible weir gate is coupled to the face plate and flexes under draw of water by a pump to allow flow of water into the skimmer. The interior of the housing has a curved wall so that when a column of water passes the face plate into the housing, a whirlpool effect is realized.

Abstract: A pool/spa skimmer includes a housing, a face plate, and a flexible weir gate. The housing and plate are dimensioned to allow water to flow in a vertical column. The interior of the housing has a curved wall so that when a column of water passes through the open gate and into the housing, a whirlpool effect is realized. A vertical filter cartridge is mounted on a rotational bearing so that it can spin about its axis. The inlet of a pump is coupled to the cartridge via the bearing and is also coupled to a second water inlet via a vacuum operated valve. When the filter is clean, water is drawn through it and the filter spins about its axis due to the whirlpool effect. When the filter reaches a threshold dirt covering, water is no longer drawn through it and the vacuum operated valve.

Abstract: A pool/spa skimmer includes a housing, a face plate, and a flexible weir gate. The housing and plate are dimensioned to allow water to flow in a vertical column. The interior of the housing has a curved wall so that when a column of water passes through the open gate and into the housing, a whirlpool effect is realized. A vertical filter cartridge is mounted on a rotational bearing so that it can spin about its axis. The inlet of a pump is coupled to the cartridge via the bearing and is also coupled to a second water inlet via a vacuum operated valve. The outlet of the pump is also coupled to a water jet which is arranged to enhance the whirlpool effect.