Abstract: A filling adapter for conveying liquid from a first liquid container to a second liquid container is provided. The filling adapter includes an adapter body having a top end and an opposite button end, the top end adapted for fitting an opening in the first liquid container, the bottom end adapted for fitting an opening in the second liquid container, and an open path in the adapter body from the top end to the bottom end for communicating liquid from the opening in the first liquid container to the opening in the second liquid container.

Abstract: A device for evacuating a container is disclosed. The device includes a housing, a pump for moving air, a nozzle for placing within the container, an air conduit operatively connecting the nozzle and the pump. A system includes a reusable plastic bag having at least one reusable mounted seal and methods for using a device for air evacuation with a plastic bag are disclosed.

Abstract: Heat sealing of a manual closure bag is provided. A compact rotary heat sealing device may be used. The compact rotary heat sealing device includes a slot or other opening for accepting a bag. Rotatable members are positioned along the slot to assist in feeding the bag through the device. A heating element provides for heat sealing the bag. A method of evacuating air from a container includes providing a device comprising a housing and a nozzle having a first end attached to the housing and a second end extending from the housing for placing within the container without requiring the container to come in contact with the housing, inserting the nozzle into the container, evacuating air from the container, sealing the container with a first reusable manual seal, and heat sealing the container.

Abstract: A device for evacuating a container is disclosed. The device includes a housing, a pump for moving air, a nozzle for placing within the container, an air conduit operatively connecting the nozzle and the pump. A system includes a reusable plastic bag having at least one reusable mounted seal and methods for using a device for air evacuation with a plastic bag are disclosed.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser includes a body having an inner cavity for containing liquid, and an aperture providing access to the inner cavity. A push pump is fitted within the aperture. At least one height adjustable mount is connected to the body for releasably attaching the body to a surface. Preferably the body is conformingly shaped. An adapter can connect the liquid dispenser to a liquid container for filling the liquid dispenser.

Abstract: A device for evacuating a container is disclosed. The device includes a nozzle for placing within the container, a first air conduit operatively connecting the nozzle and a separation chamber, a second air conduit operatively connecting the separation chamber and a pump. A system that includes a reusable plastic bag and methods for using a device for air evacuation, and a plastic bag are disclosed.

Abstract: A smart thermostat having a transceiver for two-way communication with an energy provider. The smart thermostat includes a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature, a user interface for displaying and receiving information to and from a user, a port connecting to a cooling or heating device, a processor, and the transceiver. The transceiver receives a current energy price from an energy provider. The user interface receives temperature setpoints and associated acceptable energy costs. The processor issues a control signal to the cooling or heating device to operate when the temperature is different than the temperature setpoint and the acceptable energy cost is not greater than the current price of energy. The transceiver transmits information for the control signal, temperature setpoints and associated costs to the energy provider.