Abstract: A divider plate having a strainer basket depending therefrom is positioned in a skimmer apparatus intermediate the skimming inlet and the lower end. A conduit passes through the basket and communicates with the drain inlet in the bottom of the skimmer which also includes an outlet from which water is drawn by the swimming pool pump. The conduit is aligned with a water passage in the divider plate. A coupling member affixed to the hose associated with vacuum cleaning equipment is passed through the water passage and engaged with the conduit. The coupling blocks water flow from the drain inlet and has an exit therethrough for movement of water from the hose to the outlet of the skimmer. Valve means are provided for selectively closing the water passage and for selectively retarding water flow from the drain inlet.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a means and method for treating roots about drain lines so that such roots do not plug or impede the flow of fluid through such drain lines, the means comprising a male fitting adpated for disposition in a female drain line cleanout structure and a chemicals container is suspended from the male fitting and adapted to hold crystalline or other suitable dissolvable chemicals such as copper sulphate or the like, and water inlet means is adapted to introduce water through the male fitting and into the chemicals container so that the water will flow through the crystals and overflow from an elevated outlet in the side of the container above an area into which water is introduced into the chemicals container; a vent means provides communication of the atmosphere with the interior of the water inlet tube and a connection means is provided for introducing water into the inlet tube at a level below the atmospheric vent.