Abstract: A portable controller (110) for controlling the level of water in a swimming pool, including: a container (111) adapted to rest in a predetermined position adjacent the pool in which the water level is to be controlled, said container having a base (112) and one or more side walls (113, 114, 116, 117) extending upwardly from said base, an inlet in one of said one or more side walls for receiving water into the container and an outlet in or over at least one of said one or more side walls above said base for discharging water into the pool, said base and said one or more side walls at least in part defining a water storage chamber (124) below said outlet sized to weight said container to retain it in a predetermined position adjacent the pool when said chamber is full of water; an on/off valve (122) in fluid communication with said inlet for controlling flow of water into said container; and a float (132) operatively connected to said on/off valve and adapted to float in the pool when said container is in the

Abstract: The preferred embodiments relate to a system for replenishing water (e.g., due to evaporation, leakage, etc.) in a body of water (e.g., a pool, pond, etc.) via a discharge unit displaced from the body of water. The discharge unit is preferably laterally displaced. Preferably, a timer mechanism is provided to adjust the amount of water discharged into the body of water. In preferred embodiments, the discharge unit is configured in the shape of a natural object, such as a animal native to the locality (e.g., frog, turtle, rabbit, etc.), a non-native animal (e.g., a dolphin, whale, seal, bear, etc.), a natural or unnatural object or the like.

Abstract: A water level controller for a pool has a water level sensor immersed in the pool. A processor detects if the sensor senses low water sensed. A transmitter sends a radio frequency signal to a receiver if the processor detects the low water. The receiver turns on a valve to add water to the pool. The transmitter and processor are contained in waterproof housing that also contains a battery. A main power switch is located internally in the housing, and moves between on and off positions by inverting the housing. A wave filter timer within the processor turns on for a selected interval when the processor detects low water. The processor delays the transmitter from sending the signal until the end of the selected interval. Also the processor causes the transmitter to send the signal at the end of the selected interval only if the processor continuously detects low water during the selected interval.

Abstract: A skimmer protector having an integral blow tube is formed from two parts. First, a hollow, blow-molded body of resilient thermoplastic resin material having a cylindrical projection on one end with external screw threads for threading into the intake pipe of a swimming pool skimmer. Second, an open integral tube running from and through said screw threaded portion to an opening elsewhere on its blow-molded body. The cylindrical projection on the body of the device is intended and designed to be threaded into the intake pipe or other part of a pool skimmer. When connected thereto, the skimmer protector is positioned to absorb/buffer the forces exerted by the expansion of ice as it freezes within the walled regions of the skimmer. Welding the aforesaid integral tube to the body serves to create a hermetically sealed air space between the tube and the outer walls of the body. This hermetically sealed air space helps to resiliently stiffen the body of the skimmer protector.

Abstract: The preferred embodiments relate to a system for replenishing water (e.g., due to evaporation, leakage, etc.) in a body of water (e.g., a pool, pond, etc.) via a discharge unit displaced from the body of water. The discharge unit is preferably laterally displaced. Preferably, a timer mechanism is provided to adjust the amount of water discharged into the body of water. In preferred embodiments, the discharge unit is configured in the shape of a natural object, such as a animal native to the locality (e.g., frog, turtle, rabbit, etc.), a non-native animal (e.g., a dolphin, whale, seal, bear, etc.), a natural or unnatural object or the like.

Abstract: In a system and method for sensing and controlling the level of a fluid in a tank, the system includes a fluid inlet, for enabling the flow of fluid into the tank, and a controller, for controlling the flow of fluid through the fluid inlet. The system further includes a sensor, for sensing the level of the fluid in the tank, for activating the controller responsive thereto, and for directing the flow of fluid out of the tank. The system also includes a connector for connecting the sensor to the controller. The sensor comprises a siphon outlet tube, comprised of a conductive material, including a downwardly depending portion which includes a leading edge having a substantial surface area for contact by the fluid upon reaching a preset level in the tank.

Abstract: The invention pertains to the structure and a method of constructing of a swimming pool grating. The swimming pool has straight and curved edges and a gutter is constructed in the deck of the pool close to the edge including the curves. The grating is made of a multiple of grate bars which extend along the direction of the pool edge including the curves. The multiple grate bars are assembled in a longitudinal direction as well in a lateral direction according to the dimensions of the gutter. Once assembled into a grating in an elevated position, holes are drilled through all of the assembled grate bars in a lateral direction to the edge of the pool and rods are placed through the drilled holes and are fastened therein against any movement in any direction. Thereafter, the thus assembled grating is lowered into the gutter of the pool to be substantially flush with the surface of the pool deck and the level of the water in the pool.

Abstract: A cover means (2) is provided for an end of a conduit (9). The cover means comprises a front face (4) covering the conduit end and a back face (6) having attachment means (8) for attachment to the conduit (9). A plurality of apertures (10, 12, 14) pass between the front face (4) and back face (6) to allow the flow of a liquid to and/or from the conduit (9). The edges of the front face defining the entrances to the apertures (10, 12, 14) are non-planar. In addition to, or as an alternative to, the apertures (10, 12, 14) are formed such that the flow of liquid between the front and back faces is deflected so that the liquid follows at least two directions in passing between the front and back faces.

Abstract: A liquid level control system utilizes a sensor that is attached to a fixed support relative to a liquid container and transmits radio-frequency signals to a remotely located liquid supply system depending upon fluctuations in the liquid level. In the context of a swimming pool, the sensor housing is attached to a sidewall of the pool, at the desired water level. A sensor circuit located within the housing floats at the liquid level, and as changes occur, movement of the floating sensor results in the transmission of signals to either activate or deactivate a supply valve that supplies replacement water to the pool. A small opening located at an upper portion of the sensor housing cooperates with the floating sensor to dampen the motion of the sensor, providing a more accurate reading of the liquid level.

Abstract: A mechanical fluid controller incorporates a float assembly which is disposed within an auxiliary reservoir. An outlet of the auxiliary reservoir is coupled to a U-shaped conduit, which is in turn coupled to an inlet of a primary reservoir. At least one one-way check valve is disposed in the U-shaped conduit. The auxiliary reservoir also has an inlet that is coupled to a pressurized fluid source. The fluid level in the auxiliary reservoir is initially set approximately equal to the desired upper level of the fluid in the primary reservoir. As the fluid level in the primary reservoir drops, the auxiliary reservoir “sees” this as a drop in the hydrostatic pressure at the outlet side of the U-shaped tube, and fluid automatically flows through the tube into the primary reservoir.

Abstract: An automatic water level system having a pair of micro-switches nested within a substantially cylindrically shaped primary housing having a first and second end for electrical lead lines. The primary housing is disposed within a cavity of a substantially cylindrical, T-shaped secondary housing or baffle including a mounting assembly. Each electrical lead line is a water resistant control line, which extend from an end of the pair of micro-switches disposed within the primary housing to a remote control unit via the first and second ends. The control lines are optionally recessed within a cavity of the secondary housing for connection to a remote control unit, which activates a fluid supply valve and/or a drain valve. The secondary housing further includes a first and second cap having concentric apertures and the respective caps are removably secured to the housing.

Abstract: A water level adjustment device including a reservoir positioned within a hole formed adjacent to an in-ground swimming pool. The reservoir has an opening therein for coupling with a water supply line. An outlet pipe extends between the reservoir and the swimming pool. The outlet pipe is disposed below the water supply line. A water shut-off valve is coupled with the water supply line inwardly of the reservoir.

Abstract: A swimming pool aerator is designed with a base member secured to the end of a water return pipe above the water surface in the side of a pool or water feature basin. The base member carries a retractable spray nozzle, which normally is biased to retract into the wall of the pool through the base member. When water is applied to the supply line under pressure, an aerator nozzle is moved from a rest position to an extended position against the action of a biasing spring to spray water into the pool. When the pressure or supply is turned off, the aerator nozzle is retracted back into the base portion by the biasing spring to a position safely out of the way of swimmers or users of the pool.

Abstract: An improved filtering device for a swimming pool surge pit is provided. The filtering device includes a frame with first and second filter elements removably mounted in the frame such that water flows through both elements to remove debris before the water enters a water supply line leading to the main filtration system of the pool. The filter elements slide along guide tracks in the frame and are independently removable such that one filter element is always in place. Thus, the water in the surge pit is filtered 100% of the time before passage into the water supply line. The filter elements extend above the water level in the surge pit such that both floating and submerged debris are captured by the filter elements.

Abstract: An improved automatic fill valve assembly that is readily securable in a level position for installation and that has inlets adapted to accept either a toilet tank fill valve or a float type valve inside of the housing of the fill valve assembly. One improvement comprises a flange that defines at least one anchor point so that the entire assembly can be secured in place to an adjacent structure during installation. This arrangement advantageously holds the automatic fill valve assembly in a level position while workers pour cement around it. Another improvement comprises the provision of inlets that can be connected to a water source and are adapted to mount either a float valve assembly or a toilet tank fill valve inside of the fill valve assembly.

Abstract: A pool monitoring and control system is provided including a pool having a plurality of inputs and a plurality outputs. Also included is a pump for suctioning fluid from the outputs of the pool only during the activation thereof. A control assembly is connected between the pump and the pool. The control assembly includes at least one sensor adapted to generate an activation signal upon a parameter of the pool falling out of a predetermined range. Further, at least one dispenser is included for dispensing a parameter correction fluid upon the actuation thereof. In use, the control assembly, when the pump is activated, is adapted to actuate the dispenser if the activation signal is received.

Abstract: A system and method are set forth for decreasing the levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) in a swimming pool and for conserving water. An amount of water is drawn from the swimming pool water circulating system and delivered to a demand such as irrigation or used to supplement the potable water system. If evaporative coolers are present, their waste water discharge can likewise be conserved and used to fill a demand such as irrigation.

Abstract: A device for filling a swimming pool having a liner and a shell includes a water supply valve to control the flow of water into said swimming pool; a vacuum pump to evacuate air from the space between the liner and the shell as the swimming pool is being filled; a probe for generating a signal when the water in the pool reaches a predetermined height; and a controller responsive to the signal from the probe to shut off said water supply valve and the vacuum pump when water is detected by the probe. A current sensor monitors the current to the vacuum pump and shuts off the water supply valve when the vacuum pump ceases operation. A bypass switch allows the current sensor to be disabled.

Abstract: A sealing assembly is provided for a swimming pool skimmer. The sealing assembly includes a rigid frame-shaped face plate (12) with a central opening and having a sealing flange (18) around its outer periphery and further has a protruding section outwardly extending from one side thereof which also includes a peripheral sealing flange. A detachable cover (2) is also provided which is made from a flexible plastic material. The cover (2) has a flat central portion for closing off the opening in the skimmer plate and carries a peripheral lip for engaging the sealing flange around the face plate. The cover (2) also includes a protruding section which carries a peripheral lip which overlays the protruding section of the face plate and engages the peripheral sealing flange thereof.

Abstract: An automatic water regulator apparatus for automatically filling a swimming pool or comparable body of water when the water level is below a predetermined threshold. The water regulator apparatus can be added to any existing built in swimming pool equipped with a skimmer and a water fill line. The water regulator apparatus automatically senses the water level of the swimming pool, establishes if the level is within the allowable range, causes the pool water fill line to turn on if below the allowable range, and subsequently shuts off when the desired water level has been reached. The water regulator apparatus comprises a transmitter assembly and a receiver assembly. The transmitter assembly includes a water level detector which periodically automatically monitors the water level within the pool. If the water level is below a specified threshold, the transmitter assembly sends a radio transmission to be received by the receiver assembly.

Abstract: A versatile liquid level control apparatus that includes a horizontal base, a vertical support both of hollow construction to accept a ballast, and a stanchion with adjustment holes. Mounted to the stanchion is a liquid control valve assembly with a float arm and a float that responds to the liquid level in a reservoir. A conduit for liquid that is connected to a liquid supply source on one end and to the control valve on the other. The apparatus can be set on the deck of a reservoir with the vertical support, stanchion, control valve assembly which includes the float arm and float, in cantilever fashion over the reservoir. The apparatus can be used in above ground reservoirs by straddling the outside of the reservoir. The apparatus filled with ballast can be submerged and set on the steps, seat, or bottom of a pond and fill the reservoir in the submerged fashion.

Abstract: A method of operating a filter system of a swimming pool in proportion to the degree of contamination of the water in said pool by processing a signal representative of the number of persons within the pool and other values characteristic of the pool and the filter system to derive a signal for controlling the output of said filter system.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring and controlling the level of water in a swimming pool includes a vertically elongated vessel partially-buried below the pool water level at a location close to the return line from the filter to the pool inlet, a connector pipe extending from the vessel to the return line for allowing pool water at sub-level pressure to enter the vessel and rise to the pool water level, and a float-controlled valve supported within the vessel and detachably coupled with a pressure water supply and adapted to open as the float drops below a predetermined desired level and allow fresh water to flow into and out of the vessel through the connector pipe and return line and then into the pool for restoring the water in the pool to the predetermined desired level as determined by the position of the float on the water within the vessel being restored to a float position indicative of the predetermined desired level of water in the pool.

Abstract: A swimming pool control system automatically controls the daily maintenance functions of a swimming pool. The control system actively monitors system conditions, makes adjustments for abnormal conditions, and provides remote feedback of system problems during its daily cycle. In addition, the control system provides operator assisted manual override operation and control of additional auxiliary equipment. The system includes a novel filter valve, a novel water level system and a novel suction valve that can be run and monitored non-manually by a digital controller.

Abstract: A water level control device has connected tubular housings, one serving as a support for a hose connection and the other serving to house a float assembly for operation of a ball valve within the valve housing. An airtight float serves to raise the one extreme of a lever arm when buoyed by sufficient water level admitted through apertures in the float housing. The other extreme of the lever arm includes an upward projection that contacts a ball within the ball valve cavity urged against a lower valve seat by water pressure from a water hose. When the water level in the pool, and thus the float, is lowered, the one lever arm extreme will also be lowered raising the other extreme to cause the projection to lift the ball away from the valve seat and permit water from the hose to enter the pool. A water flooded ballast attached to the float provides a dampening effect so that the ballast and apertured float housing serve to dampen float motion due to surface waves.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a filter system of a swimming pool in proportion to the degree of contamination of the water in said pool by processing a signal representative of the number of persons within the pool and other values characteristic of the pool and the filter system to derive a signal for controlling the output of said filter system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control system adapted to control water flow in a swimming pool system including a swimming pool having a filter tank. The pool control system includes a control circuit for controlling at least a first pool water valve assembly and a second valve assembly so as to control water flow to the filter tank and from the filter tank to the swimming pool. The control circuit is adapted to maintain the water levels in the filter tank and swimming pool to within a prescribed water level. Each pool water valve assembly is preferably fitted with a potentiometer and air solenoid coupled to the control circuit for respectively determining the position of each respective water valve and controlling the position of each water valve. The system also features a central, programmable processing unit and apparatus for transmitting data between a remote location and the processing unit.

Abstract: A portable swimming pool water level maintenance device for releasible attachment to a swimming pool having a built-in skimmer. The device includes an upright conduit open at each end and having a conventional toilet ball cock valve and vertically slidable float assembly mounted therewithin. The water inlet of the valve is connectable to the water discharge end of a garden hose, fill water being supplied from the garden hose through the valve to raise the water level sufficiently for the float to close the valve. The conduit is held in upright orientation and vertical position by three spaced, parallel elongated horizontal support members and an elongated upright support member connected to the side of the conduit and arranged to releasibly engage against the deck, inside upper surface of the skimmer and the pool wall surface just below the skimmer.

Abstract: A cover for withstanding stormy weather and increasing solar heating of a body of water is disposed over the surface of the water. The cover is more transparent to visible radiation from the sun than to infrared radiation, and is anchored and sealed around its periphery over the surface of the body of water. Means are provided for reducing the pressure between the bottom of the cover and the top of the water to subatmospheric, and for flooding the top surface of the cover with a layer of water, and draining the layer of water from the top of the cover.

Abstract: A system for overflow protection for swimming pools and tanks that conserves water by taking excess water from the bottom of the tank including a weighted hose directed near the bottom of the tank and connected to the protector. The protector has inlet, outlet and vent passages, where the inlet is at an elevation below the surface of the pool and the nadir of the outlet passage is at the surface elevation of the pool and the vent is open. A hose connected to the outlet directs overflow away from the pool. Charging the weighted hose will cause fluid above the outlet elevation to discharge excess fluid. In an alternative embodiment a plug is inserted into the vent and charging the weighted hose will cause the pool to drain to the level of the end of the hose.

Abstract: A swimming pool has a recirculating pump and filter. A drain line from the high pressure side of the pump drains excess water through a hydraulically operated drain valve remote from the pool. A long narrow tube from the high pressure line drains into the pool at a float valve. When the level of water in the pool is too high, the float valve opens, and pressure in the tube drops. Pressure in the tube operates the drain valve, opening the drain valve when the level is high and the pressure is low, and closing the drain valve when the level is not high, the float valve is closed and the pressure is high. The invention may be alternatively practiced with a drain valve that is opened by a high control pressure using a float valve that closes when the pool level is high. A timer controlled valve in the tube prevents opening the drain valve during preselected times when the pool is occupied.

Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for cooking foods such as pasta. The apparatus includes a container which receives an amount of water to be heated. A cooking basket is partially submerged in the water inside the container. A drain pipe having a 90.degree. elbow is received in the container. Portions of the drain pipe extend through an opening in the side wall of the container so as to continuously drain water from the container. The drain pipe is rotatable so that the water drain rate may be varied. The drain pipe is held in position until it is rotated again.

Abstract: A valve apparatus is provided for regulating the water level in a swimming pool. The apparatus is mounted in a surge pit remote from the pool. The apparatus includes first and second valves movable between open and closed positions for controlling the introduction of water into the surge pit from the main drain line and from a fresh water supply line, respectively. The first and second valves are operatively interconnected and are moved between their open and closed positions by a float member in the surge pit. As the water level in the pool drops below an ideal level wherein a thin layer of water skims over the lip of the gutter system, less water is provided to the surge pit from the gutter drain line, such that the water level in the pit drops, and causing the float member to drop so as to open the first and second valves to allow more water into the surge pit from the main drain line of the pool and from the fresh water supply line.

Abstract: A system for automatically maintaining a desired water level in a swimming pool, includes a float chamber coupled in fluid communication with a suction tube that is coupled between the pool and a pool filter pump. A float carrying a magnetic element is disposed in the float chamber. A magnetic switch is located in a fixed position outside of the float chamber at a level corresponding to the desired water level. The magnetic switch assumes a first state if the pool water level is equal to or higher than the desired water level and assumes a second state if the pool water level is lower than the desired water level. A solenoid valve is connected between a pressurized water source and an intermediate portion of a return tube returning pumped water to the pool. A circuit is coupled to the valve and the magnetic switch to close the valve when the pump is operating, and open the valve when the pump is not running and the magnetic switch is in the second state.

Abstract: The water level of an above-ground swimming pool is maintained at a predetermined level by a small tank attached to the edge of the pool. The conduit is comprised of a Y-connection fitting having a stem and two arm portions. An eye is attached to the fitting by an eye housing and eye cap. A nut is provided for securing the fitting to a pool sidewall. The fitting contains radial apertures and longitudinal passageways which permit water to flow into, and out of, the pool simultaneously.

Abstract: An automatic sensor system for detecting and adjusting a level of contents held within a reservoir is disclosed. The system has a sensor probe having a probe housing with opposing ends, an interior cavity that opens through one housing end, and a constantly open air vent aperture piercing the housing proximate the other housing end, included within the housing are lower and upper level detection contacts that communicate information about the detected level to a circuit that signals for a contents delivery source to send additional contents when needed.

Abstract: A water level maintaining apparatus includes a main body element having an elongate shape and adapted to be supported by first and second support portions on the surface adjacent the edge of a swimming pool. An end portion of the main body element is supported in cantilever disposition inwardly of the edge or coping of the swimming pool above the water in the pool and a water level sensing device is mounted to the end portion. A conduit extends along the main body element and has an outlet end connected to a valve assembly and an inlet end connected to a water supply source. The water level sensing device includes a floatation element operable to float on the surface of the water and having a floatation arm connected to the valve assembly to selectively open and close the outlet end of the conduit to permit or prevent the flow of water from the conduit.

Abstract: A multi-gasket sealing assembly or mount is disclosed for improved mounting of a swimming pool water skimmer in an opening in a pool wall of the type having a metal wall portion and a flexible inner sheet liner. The water skimmer has a housing defining a water inlet chamber for intake of water and an annular chamber end portion which protrudes through the pool wall opening. The housing also has an outwardly projecting peripheral flange spaced from the chamber end portion, the flange being bolted to the metal wall portion. A continuous gasket is located around the chamber end portion. An annular face plate is connected to the chamber end portion to compress the gasket and also to press the pool liner against the metal wall portion to prevent water from getting behind the liner. Another gasket is compressed between the peripheral flange and the metal wall portion to seal against the ingress of sand and other particulate matter into the skimmer from behind the pool wall.

Abstract: The water level of an above-ground swimming pool is maintained at a predetermined level by a small tank attached to the edge of the pool. The tank bottom has an aperture for a conduit to the pool through the side wall thereof, whereby the level of the water in the tank is the same as the level of the water in the pool. The pressure sensor switch is designed to open when the water level in the pool falls below a predetermined amount, and to close when the water level is restored thereto. The pressure sensor switch is activated by the level of the water in the tank, but when open delivers water from the house line directly to the pool.

Abstract: Apparatus for automatically filling a pool or spa with water. The apparatus can be installed adjacent the pool or spa and includes a housing coupled to the preexisting water input of the pool or spa and such coupling is controlled by a float valve to either shut off or admit incoming water depending upon the level of the water in the pool or spa. The inlet pipe for water delivery to the pool enters the pool above or below water level.

Abstract: Apparatus comprising a base member fixed to a swimming pool wall in operative proximity to a skimmer inlet opening and having a permanent magnet plate embedded therein, and a bracket member having an iron plate embedded therein. An elongated deflector, carried by the bracket member, deflects and guides surface-water-borne dirt, leaves, pollen and other debris via circulating pool water into the skimmer inlet opening. The attractive force exerted by the permanent magnet plate towards the iron plate allows adjustable and fixed relative positioning, vertically, laterally and/or radially, of the bracket member with respect to the base member, and, hence, the deflector. The bracket member and deflector have cooperating means to allow lateral angular positioning of the deflector. Appropriate radial positioning of the deflector creates an inherent force component causing subsurface dirt, leaves, pollen and other debris to rise to the surface to be carried into the skimmer inlet opening.

Abstract: A winterizing kit for swimming pools and more specifically a winterizing faceplate kit for both inground and aboveground swimming pools to greatly reduce the efforts required in the preparation of a swimming pool for active use or for winterizing. A skimmer faceplate is installed on the wall of the swimming pool which provides for both the mounting of a skimmer and a winter cover when required with the present kit eliminating the necessity to drain and refill the pool each time the pool is opened in the spring or closed in the fall. The faceplate includes a gasket arrangement and other components including a faceplate, winterizing cover and necessary mounting bolts and screws to secure the components in position on the swimming pool.

Abstract: In a drainage system for maintaining a swimming pool cover drained of accumulated precipitation, a pump with its intake is disposed in a fluid trap defined by an upper surface of the swimming pool cover. A discharge port of the pump is disposed outside of the fluid trap. A sensor is disposed in a flow path of the pump for detecting the presence of fluid flow therethrough, while a clock unit is operatively connected to the pump for periodically operating the pump for a ten-second interval. A control circuit continues to operate the pump beyond the ten-second interval upon the detection by the sensor of fluid flow through the pump at the end of the ten-second interval. In that case, operation of the pump is terminated only upon a cease of fluid flow through the pump.

Abstract: A water level control apparatus for controlling the water level in swimming pools, and the like, has a water nozzle having a hose connector on one end and a water outlet on the other end. A valve is formed in the water nozzle for blocking the flow of water therethrough until the nozzle is bent by a predetermined distance. The water nozzle forms a portion of the valve formed therein. A weighted float is connected to the water nozzle and has a predetermined mass for applying a gravitational force to the water nozzle sufficient to actuate the valve formed in the nozzle to allow the flow of water therethrough. The weighted float also has a predetermined floatation to reduce the gravitational force applied to the nozzle when immersed in water to a predetermined level to thereby close the valve and stop the flow of water therethrough. The weighted float can be connected to the water nozzle with a flexible cord.

Abstract: A spa of the commercial variety improved by having a flow control system associated therewith that includes overflow chambers and tank capable of retaining or storing water displaced from the spa during the entry into the spa of one or more individuals in the use thereof. The overflow water, in being received in the overflow chamber and tank, does not spill over the top of the spa but is available or continued use in the spa through the return thereof to the spa by venturi nozzle means included in the normal water flow circulation means provided for the spa wherein water is drawn from the spa and passed through a filter for the cleaning thereof by a pump which then delivers the pumped and cleaned water to the spa through the venturi nozzle, with the outlet of the nozzle disposed adjacent the return delivery point of the water from the overflow chamber and tanks.

Abstract: An apparatus for disposing of waste liquid from an industrial cleaning system, which comprises a waste liquid holding tank designed to fit on a toilet, for receiving waste liquid and automatically emptying the waste liquid from the holding tank into the toilet when the holding tank is full.

Abstract: A control system for automatically maintaining a predetermined water level in a swimming pool includes a multi-contact water level sensor unit mounted on an exposed sidewall of the pool. The sensor unit is vertically adjustable within a stationary mounting bracket to enable user adjustment of a selected normal water level. A single sensing contact on the sensor unit senses the presence or absence of water at the selected normal level. A monitoring circuit associated with the sensor unit interrupts operation of the control system in the event that the sensor unit is disconnected. Additional water level sensing contacts open a dump valve to preclude overflow of the pool in the event of a high water condition, and interrupt operation of recirculation pump apparatus associated with the pool in the event of a low water level.

Abstract: A self-standing inflatable bath is provided which is constructed in a manner somewhat similar to the construction of an inflatable rubber raft, and which is intended to be placed on a solid surface, such as a patio, deck, and the like; or to be floated in a swimming pool, ocean, lake, or other body of water. The bath is filled with water, or water is circulated through the bath. Pressurized steam is introduced into the bath to inflate the bath and to heat the water in the bath. The steam also serves to create bubbles in the bath water for therapeutic effects. The bath may be used as a whirlpool bath for further therapeutic effects.

Abstract: An overflow valve system (10) comprises a tubular housing (12) having a J-shaped pipe fitting (14) mounted therein having an injection nozzle (24) at a first pipe-fitting end (26) located in a housing bore (40) of the tubular housing near the bottom thereof for injecting liquid axially upwardly in the housing bore and having a second pipe fitting-end (30) located outside of the tubulary-shaped housing (12). The injection nozzle has female threads therein for meshing with male threads of a toilet-flush ballcock (18), said threads meeting national standards for threads on ballcock shanks and nuts for water-closet bowls, tanks and urinals whereby a standard water-closet ballcock can be sealingly mounted in the overflow valve system by screwing it into the nozzle for controlling the flow of water through the pipe fitting into the bore.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically monitoring the level of water in a swimming pool, or the like, by monitoring the level of a float within a float chamber supported by water siphoned from the pool system, for detecting when the level of water has fallen a predetermined amount or distance below a predetermined desired level and for controlling the input of fresh water into the pool system in response to the detected level for restoring the water in the pool to the predetermined desired level as determined by the position of the float on the siphoned water within the float chamber being restored to a float position indicative of said predetermined desired level of water in the pool.