Abstract: A high performance thermoelectric system is taught which is capable of rapidly cooling a thermal load with a thermoelectric module. A thermal ballast is in simultaneous thermal communication with both the thermoelectric module and the thermal load, and compensates for the difference between the characteristics of the thermoelectric module and the demands of the thermal load, allowing a thermoelectric module to handle significantly larger thermal loads than would normally be possible, albeit for a reduced period of time. Also taught is a means to implement a demand cooler for drinking water. Also taught is a means to implement a high performance cooler for removable fluid containers, adaptable to the rapid cooling of wine bottles and the like.

Abstract: A pressure actuated fill tube for toilet tanks is taught which is capable of reducing the flow of water into the toilet tank to a minimum rate when a shower or other water use appliance is running, substantially reducing the likelihood of a shower scalding incident if someone flushes the toilet while someone else is in the shower, and allowing the toilet tank to fill over time. Also taught is a means to implement the required pressure sensitive valve as an integral part of the pressure actuated fill tube for toilet tanks. Also taught is a pressure actuated fill system for toilet tanks that is configured with the pressure sensitive valve located inside the toilet tank.