Abstract: Disclosed are pumps designed to make priming more efficient and therefore reduce priming time. The disclosed pumps include one or more deflection structures that prevent fluid moving through a diffuser of the pump from continuing in a circular path and instead divert the fluid in a different direction that leads directly to an outlet of the pump. This deflection reduces air bubble accumulation inside the pump while priming and makes it easier for air to escape through the pump outlet. Making it easier for air to escape the pump outlet ultimately allows air to escape the pump faster during priming, reducing back pressure caused by trapped air pockets inside the pump and improving priming performance.

Abstract: Disclosed are improved locking mechanisms for vessels, including both pressure and vacuum/suction vessels, used in swimming pool and spa equipment. These improved locking mechanisms provide a more robust, reliable seal between the lid and the body of the vessel, and include features that make moving the vessel between its sealed and unsealed positions easier. More specifically, the locking mechanisms include features that allow the lid to move into its sealed position when the locking ring is rotated relative to the vessel in a first direction, and that allow the lid to release from its sealed position and lift off the body when the locking ring is rotated relative to the vessel in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Abstract: Motor housings and shrouds are detailed. Inlets of the shrouds may be included on any or all portions of their peripheries (as well as on rears of shrouds if desired). Air hence need not necessarily be drawn wholly linearly into the shrouds, permitting the shrouds to abut, or at least be closely proximate, other objects without materially diminishing air flow into the shrouds. Moreover, plates within the shrouds may be positioned so as to create torturous paths through which the air must travel. Channeling air through these torturous paths helps reduce noise as the air moves to the fans.

Abstract: Disclosed are pumps designed to make priming more efficient and therefore reduce priming time. The disclosed pumps include one or more deflection structures that prevent fluid moving through a diffuser of the pump from continuing in a circular path and instead divert the fluid in a different direction that leads directly to an outlet of the pump. This deflection reduces air bubble accumulation inside the pump while priming and makes it easier for air to escape through the pump outlet. Making it easier for air to escape the pump outlet ultimately allows air to escape the pump faster during priming, reducing back pressure caused by trapped air pockets inside the pump and improving priming performance.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for connecting components are described. The components may be drive controls and motors of pumps of water-circulation systems needing to be connected both mechanically and electrically. The connectors may be robust and have alignment, sealing, and keying capabilities.

Abstract: Motor housings and shrouds are detailed. Inlets of the shrouds may be included on any or all portions of their peripheries (as well as on rears of shrouds if desired). Air hence need not necessarily be drawn wholly linearly into the shrouds, permitting the shrouds to abut, or at least be closely proximate, other objects without materially diminishing air flow into the shrouds. Moreover, plates within the shrouds may be positioned so as to create torturous paths through which the air must travel. Channeling air through these torturous paths helps reduce noise as the air moves to the fans.

Abstract: Pump designs are detailed. A pump may include a fan having one or more pass-through holes allowing ambient air to be drawn through a fan near a motor shaft bearing for cooling purposes. Alternatively or additionally, a pump may include modular stages to facilitate servicing and repair.