SPA filtration system

Abstract

A spa filtration system includes a filter manifold, one or more flat filters, and a cartridge filter. The filter manifold can be configured to receive the flat filters and the cartridge filter. The spa filtration system can also include a skimming bucket with floating weir gates to filter large debris. The filter manifold can be configured house the flat filters in a first portion and the cartridge filter in a second portion positioned laterally outward from the first portion. The spa filtration system is configured to filter water in the spa while the spa is in use and while the spa is not in use.

Description

SPA FILTRATION SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 550761, entitled “SPA FILTRATION SYSTEM” and filed on February 7, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to water filtration, particularly in spa environments.BACKGROUND

[0003] Water filtering is an important function of spas. Adequate filtering can prevent the spread of germs, bacteria, and / or pests and ensure users can safely enjoy a spa session or therapy. Spa filtration systems are located within the body of a spa and the spa filtration systems are often large. This takes up space that could otherwise be used to increase the volume of the spa or decreased the footprint of the spa. Thus, it is important to design a compact spa filtration system that takes up as little space as possible. If filter elements are not installed properly or an incorrect filter is used in a filtration system, the water in a spa will not be filtered properly and can spread germs and bacteria. Thus, it is also important to ensure the filtering system is set up properly.SUMMARY

[0004] There is provided with some aspects of the present disclosure a filter assembly for a spa. The filter assembly can include a filter manifold configured to receive water and allow the water to flow toward a lower side of the filter manifold, the filter manifold configured to receive at least one flat filter and at least one cartridge filter and allow at least a portion of the water to flow through both the at least one flat filter and the at least one cartridge filter.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a filter assembly, wherein the filter manifold is configured to receive the water from a front side of the filter manifold.

[0006] In some aspects, the lower side of the filter manifold can include a plurality of filter outlets. Each outlet can correspond to a different pump. The filter assembly can include one or more flat filters positioned within the filter manifold. The filter assembly can also include one or more cartridge filters positioned within the filter manifold. In some cases, the filter assembly can include a filter skimming bucket on an upper side of the filter manifold. In some aspects, the filter skimming bucket can include a weir gate. The weir gate can pivot along an axis extending from a front side of the filter assembly toward a rear side of the filter assembly.

[0007] In some cases, each of the one or more cartridge filters can be cylindrical. Each of the at least one flat filter can be a pleated filter. The filter manifold can be configured such that water flows through at least one flat filter prior to flowing through the at least one cartridge filter. In some cases, the filter manifold can include a first portion and a second portion.

[0008] In some aspects, the at least one cartridge filter can include a locking cap having one or more locking tabs. The second portion of the filter manifold can include one or more slots configured to receive and secure the one or more locking tabs.

[0009] In some cases, the at least one cartridge filter can be removably positioned inside the second portion of the filter manifold. In some aspects, the at least one flat filter can include a first flat filter removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold, and / or a second flat filter removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold. The first flat filter and the second flat filter can be separated by a gap when the first flat filter and the second flat filter are positioned inside the filter manifold. In some cases, the first flat filter can include a first cast frame including handles. The second flat filter can include a second cast frame including handles. In some aspects, the first flat filter can be sealed to an internal edge of the first cast frame.

[0010] The filter assembly can include a filter skimming bucket removably attached to the filter manifold. The filter skimming bucket can include one or more weir gates; one or more inlets; one or more handles; and / or a bottom portion having a plurality of slots anda plurality of holes. In some cases, the filter manifold can include a groove. The filter skimming bucket can include one or more snap fit tabs configured to snap into the groove of the filter manifold to secure the filter skimming bucket to the filter manifold. In some aspects, the plurality of slots of the filter skimming bucket can be configured to receive the handles of the first cast frame and / or the handles of the second cast frame.

[0011] An upper edge of each one of the one or more weir gates can be configured to float with a level of water. In some cases, the filter assembly can include a skimming basket removably positioned inside the filter skimming bucket. The skimming basket can include a bottom portion having a plurality of holes. In some aspects, the plurality of holes of the skimming basket, the plurality of slots of the filter skimming bucket, and / or the plurality of holes of the filter skimming bucket, can be in fluid communication with the filter manifold.

[0012] The filter assembly can include a filter screen. The filter screen can be removably coupled to the filter skimming bucket. In some cases, the filter screen can include one or more locking tabs configured to couple the filter screen to the filter skimming bucket; a mesh screen; one or more ribs configured to be positioned inside the filter manifold when the filter screen is coupled to the filter skimming bucket and the filter skimming bucket is attached to the filter manifold; and a plurality of openings configured to be in fluid communication with the filter manifold. In some aspects, the mesh screen can include a filter rating ranging from between about 50 microns to about 150 microns.

[0013] The filter assembly can include one or more cartridge holders removably coupled to the filter manifold and configured to receive one or more cartridges. In some cases, the filter manifold can be removably coupled to a spa via one or more filter fittings and one or more fitting grommets. The filter manifold can be fluid communication with at least one of a jet pump and a circulation pump via one or more outlets positioned on a bottom portion of the filter manifold. In some aspects, the at least one cartridge filter can include a spun bond filter.

[0014] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a filter assembly for a spa. The filter assembly can include a skimming bucket including: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; and a weir gate positioned within the inlet; and a filter manifold coupled with the skimming bucket, the filter manifold configured to receive at least one filter for filtering water flowing from the skimming bucket to a water circulation system.

[0015] In some aspects, the filter assembly can include one or more flat filters removably coupled to the filter manifold. The filter assembly can include a cartridge filter positioned laterally outward of the one or more flat filters. In some cases, the filter manifold can include a plurality of outlets. Each of the plurality of outlets can correspond to a different pump. In some aspects, the weir gate can be pivotably connected to the housing. The skimming bucket can include a pair of floating weir gates. In some aspects, the skimming bucket can be integrated with the filter manifold. The skimming bucket can be removably coupled to the filter manifold.

[0016] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a filter assembly for a spa. The filter assembly can include a filter manifold including a first portion configured to receive a flat filter and a second portion configured to receive a cartridge filter laterally outward of the flat filter.

[0017] In some aspects, the filter manifold can be configured to allow water to flow into the filter manifold toward a plurality of outlets on a lower side of the filter manifold. The filter assembly can include a flat filter configured to be positioned in the first portion of the filter manifold and a cartridge filter configured to be positioned in the second portion of the filter manifold. In some cases, the cartridge filter can be configured to engage the filter manifold via a twist lock. In some aspects, the filter manifold can be configured to allow water to flow through the flat filter and toward a plurality of outlets on a lower side of the filter manifold. The filter manifold can be configured to allow at least a portion of the water to flow through the cartridge filter. The filter assembly can include a holder for a sanitizing cartridge. In some aspects, the filter manifold further can include a flow path from the first portion into the second portion.

[0018] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a filtration system for a spa. The filtration system can include a filter manifold configured to receive water; one or more flat filters removably positioned inside the filter manifold; a cartridge filter removably positioned inside the filter manifold; and a filter screen removably positioned on a top portion of the one or more flat filters; wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow at least a portion of the water to flow through at least one of the one or more flat filters, the cartridge filter, or the filter screen, before the water flows out of the filter manifold via one or more outlets.

[0019] In some aspects, the filter manifold can include a first portion and a second portion. The one or more flat filters can be removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold. In some cases, the cartridge filter can be removably positioned inside the second portion of the filter manifold. In some aspects, each of the one or more flat filters can include a cast frame including handles.

[0020] In some cases, each of the one or more flat filters can be sealed to an internal edge of the cast frame. In some aspects, the filtration system can include a filter skimming bucket removably positioned on a top portion of the filter manifold. The filter skimming bucket can include one or more weir gates; one or more inlets; one or more handles; and / or a bottom portion having a plurality of slots and a plurality of holes. In some cases, the plurality of slots of the filter skimming bucket can be configured to receive a handle of the one or more flat filters. In some aspects, an upper edge of each of the one or more weir gates can be configured to float with a level of the water.

[0021] The filtration system can include a skimming basket removably positioned inside the filter skimming bucket. The skimming basket can include a bottom portion having a plurality of holes. In some cases, the filter manifold can include a groove, and the filter skimming bucket can include one or more snap fit tabs configured to snap into the groove of the filter manifold to secure the filter skimming bucket to the filter manifold.

[0022] In some aspects, the filter screen can include one or more locking tabs configured to couple the filter screen to the filter skimming bucket, a mesh screen, one or more ribs, the one or more ribs configured to be positioned between the one or more flat filters when the filter screen is secured to the filter skimming bucket and the filter skimming bucket is attached to the filter manifold, and a plurality of openings configured to be in fluid communication with the filter manifold.

[0023] The filtration system can include one or more cartridge holders removably coupled to the filter manifold and configured to receive one or more cartridges. In some cases, the one or more flat filters can be separated by a gap when the one or more flat filters are positioned inside the filter manifold. In some aspects, the cartridge filter can include a locking cap having one or more locking tabs. The filter manifold can include one or more slots configured to receive and secure the one or more locking tabs. The filter manifold can be removably coupled to a spa via one or more filter fittings and one or more fitting grommets.In some cases, the filter manifold can be in fluid communication with at least one of a jet pump and a circulation pump via the one or more outlets. The one or more outlets can be positioned on a bottom portion of the filter manifold. In some aspects, the cartridge filter can include a pleated filter. The cartridge filter can include a spun bond filter.

[0024] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a filtration system for a spa. The filtration system can include a filter manifold configured to receive water; one or more flat filters removably positioned inside the filter manifold; and a filter screen removably positioned inside the filter manifold and between the one or more flat filters; wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow at least a portion of the water to flow through at least one of the one or more flat filters and the filter screen before the water flows out of the filter manifold via one or more outlets.

[0025] In some aspects, each of the one or more flat filters can include a cast frame including handles. Each of the one or more flat filters can be sealed to an internal edge of the cast frame. In some cases, the filtrations system can include a filter skimming bucket removably positioned on a top portion of the filter manifold. In some aspects, the filter skimming bucket can include one or more weir gates; one or more inlets; one or more handles; and / or a bottom portion having a plurality of slots and a plurality of holes. The plurality of slots of the filter skimming bucket can be configured to receive a handle of the one or more flat filters. In some cases, an upper edge of each of the one or more weir gates can be configured to float with a level of the water.

[0026] In some aspects, the filtration system can include a skimming basket removably positioned inside the filter skimming bucket. The skimming basket can include a bottom portion having a plurality of holes. In some cases, the filter manifold can include a groove. The filter skimming bucket can include one or more snap fit tabs configured to snap into the groove of the filter manifold to secure the filter skimming bucket to the filter manifold.

[0027] In some cases, the filter screen can include one or more locking tabs configured to couple the filter screen to the filter skimming bucket, a mesh screen, one or more ribs, the one or more ribs configured to be positioned between the one or more flat filters when the filter screen is secured to the filter skimming bucket and the filter skimming bucket is attached to the filter manifold, and a plurality of openings configured to be in fluid communication with the filter manifold.

[0028] The filtration system can include one or more cartridge holders removably coupled to the filter manifold and configured to receive one or more cartridges. In some cases, the one or more flat filters can be separated by a gap when the one or more flat filters are positioned inside the filter manifold. In some aspects, the filter manifold can be removably coupled to a spa via one or more filter fittings and one or more fitting grommets. The filter manifold can be in fluid communication with at least one of a jet pump and a circulation pump via the one or more outlets. The one or more outlets are positioned on a bottom portion of the filter manifold.

[0029] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a filter assembly for a spa. The filter assembly can include a cast frame configured to be positioned inside a filter manifold and including, at least one handle positioned on a top portion of the cast frame and configured to be received by a filter skimming assembly; one or more ribs positioned on the top portion of the cast frame and configured to abut a lower portion of the filter skimming assembly, and one or more supports positioned on a bottom portion of the cast frame and configured to face a corresponding support from a second cast frame; and a filter positioned inside the cast frame; wherein, when the cast frame is positioned inside the filter manifold, the filter is configured to filter water as the water flows through the filter and into the filter manifold.

[0030] In some aspects, the cast frame can include a rectangular shape. The cast frame can include a urethane material. In some cases, the one or more ribs can be connected to the at least one handle. In some aspects, the one or more ribs and the one or more supports can be perpendicular to each other. The filter can be sealed to an internal edge of the cast frame. In some cases, the cast frame can include a tapered profile. In some aspects, a thickness of the cast frame decreases from the top portion of the cast frame to the bottom portion of the cast frame. The filter can include a pleated filter. In some cases, when the cast frame is positioned inside the filter manifold, an outer edge of the cast frame can be configured to form a seal with an interior edge of the filter manifold.

[0031] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a spa filtration system. The spa filtration system can include a filter manifold configured to receive water and including a first portion and a second portion; a first flat filter removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold, wherein the first flat filterincludes a first cast frame including handles; a second flat filter removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold; wherein the second flat filter includes a second cast frame including handles; a cartridge filter positioned inside the second portion of the filter manifold; a filter skimming bucket removably attached to the filter manifold and including, one or more weir gates, one or more inlets, one or more handles, and a bottom portion having a plurality of slots and a plurality of holes; a skimming basket removably positioned inside the filter skimming bucket and including a bottom portion having a plurality of holes; one or more cartridge holders removably coupled to the filter manifold and configured to receive one or more cartridges; and a filter screen removably coupled to the filter skimming bucket, the filter screen including, one or more locking tabs configured to couple the filter screen to the filter skimming bucket, a mesh screen, one or more ribs, the one or more ribs configured to be positioned between the first flat filter and the second flat filter when the filter screen is coupled to the filter skimming bucket and the filter skimming bucket is attached to the filter manifold, and a plurality of openings configured to be in fluid communication with the filter manifold; wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow at least a portion of the water to flow through at least one of the first flat filter, the second flat filter, the cartridge filter, and the filter screen, before the water flows out of the filter manifold via one or more outlets.

[0032] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a filtration system for a spa. The filtration system can include a filter manifold configured to receive water; a first flat filter removably positioned inside the filter manifold, wherein the first flat filter includes a first cast frame including handles; a second flat filter removably positioned inside the filter manifold; wherein the second flat filter includes a second cast frame including handles; a filter skimming bucket removably attached to the filter manifold and including, one or more weir gates, one or more inlets, one or more handles, and a bottom portion having a plurality of slots and a plurality of holes; a skimming basket removably positioned inside the filter skimming bucket and including a bottom portion having a plurality of holes; one or more cartridge holders removably coupled to the filter manifold and configured to receive one or more cartridges; and a filter screen removably coupled to the filter skimming bucket, the filter screen including, one or more locking tabs configured to couple the filter screen to the filter skimming bucket, a mesh screen, one or more ribs, the one or more ribs configured to be positioned between the first flat filter and the second flat filter when thefilter screen is coupled to the filter skimming bucket and the filter skimming bucket is attached to the filter manifold, and a plurality of openings configured to be in fluid communication with the filter manifold; wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow at least a portion of the water to flow through at least one of the first flat filter and the second flat filter before the water flows out of the filter manifold via one or more outlets. 93. 94.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be re-used to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments described herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 1A shows a flowchart of a spa filtration system.

[0035] FIG. IB shows a spa with a spa filtration system.

[0036] FIG. 1C shows the spa of FIG. IB with the spa filtration system covered by a filter shield.

[0037] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of a spa filtration system.

[0038] FIG. 2B shows an exploded view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG.2A.

[0039] FIG. 3 shows a top-section view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 2A.

[0040] FIG. 4A shows a bottom perspective view of a twist lock mechanism for a cartridge filter.

[0041] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the top of the twist lock mechanism shown in FIG. 4A.

[0042] FIG. 4C shows another perspective view of the top of the twist lock mechanism shown in FIG. 4 A.

[0043] FIG. 4D shows another perspective view of the top of the twist lock mechanism shown in FIG. 4A.

[0044] FIGS. 5 A and 5B show an example of a flat filter for a spa filtration system.

[0045] FIGS. 5C-5E show examples of cartridge filters for a spa filtration system.

[0046] FIG. 6A shows a section view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG.2A.

[0047] FIG. 6B shows a detailed view of the spa fdtration system shown in FIG.2A.

[0048] FIG. 7A shows a perspective view of a filter manifold.

[0049] FIG. 7B shows a section view of a filter manifold.

[0050] FIG. 8A shows a perspective view of a filter skimming basket.

[0051] FIGS. 8B-8D show a filter skimming basket.

[0052] FIGS. 8E and 8F show a detailed view of a spa filtration system.

[0053] FIGS. 9A and 9B show an example of a fluid flow path through a spa filtration system.

[0054] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of another spa filtration system.

[0055] FIG. 11 shows a section view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 10.

[0056] FIG. 12 shows another perspective view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 10.

[0057] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of yet another spa filtration system.

[0058] FIG. 14 shows a top-section view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 13.

[0059] FIG. 15 shows a section view of the embodiment of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 13.

[0060] FIG. 16A shows a perspective view of another spa filtration system.

[0061] FIG. 16B shows an exploded view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 16A.

[0062] FIG. 17A shows a section view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 16 A.

[0063] FIG. 17B shows a detailed view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG. 16 A.

[0064] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a filter manifold.

[0065] FIGS. 19A and 19B show an example of a fluid flow path through a spa filtration system.

[0066] FIG. 20A shows an exploded view of another spa filtration system.

[0067] FIGS. 20B shows a perspective view of a filter screen for a spa filtration system.

[0068] FIG. 20C shows a botom view of the filter screen shown in FIG. 20B.

[0069] FIG. 20D shows a detailed view of the spa filtration system shown in FIG.20A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] FIG. 1A illustrates a system for filtering the water in a spa from the spa basin toward the water circulation system. Advantageously, the filtration systems described herein may filter water flowing toward multiple, or even all the water pumps, for example both the circulation and jet pumps. The filtration system may accommodate multiple filters, sometimes multiple types of filters, in a compact configuration. The multiple types of filters may differ in shape, construction, particle size filtration, etc. The filtration system may provide additional filtration for water flowing toward the circulation pump compared to jet pumps. The filtration system may be combined with a skimming bucket. One or more of these advantages may be provided with a single filter assembly configured to be removably installed in the spa.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 1A, the spa filtration system 100 can include one or more inlets 124. Water can be pulled through the one or more inlets 124 and into one or more filter assemblies. The one or more filter assemblies can include one or more flat filters 130 (e.g., one flat filter, two flat filters, or more). The one or more inlets 124 may be in one or more different regions of the spa filtration system 100. As illustrated in one or more examples below, water can be pulled through a top region, front region, and / or side regions of the spa filtration system 100. For example, water may be pulled in through a filter skimming bucket 120 and / or the one or more flat filters 130. The water passing through the flat filter 130 may flow into a filter manifold 110 housing the flat filter 130. Optionally, a portion of water may bypass the flat filter 130 by passing through a filter skimming bucket 120 and flowing directly into the upper side of the filter manifold 110. When a circulation pump 170 is running, the system can pull water from the filter manifold 110, through a cartridge filter 150, and out of a circulation fluid outlet 160. When one or more jet pumps 180 are running, the system can pull water from the filter manifold 110, out through an active-use outlet 140. When the one or more jet pumps 180 are running, some water from the filter manifold 110 may bypass the cartridge filter 150. It should be understood that any feature, structure, or step disclosed herein can be replaced with or combined with any other feature, structure, or step disclosed herein, or omitted.

[0072] Each flat filter 130 can have a depth from about .5 inches to about 3 inches. For example, the depth of the flat filter 130 can be from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, from about 1.2 inches to about 2 inches, from about 1.4 inches to about 1.8 inches and / or from about 1.5 inches to about 1.7 inches.

[0073] As shown in FIG. IB, the spa filtration system 100 can be removably secured to a spa 101. The spa filtration system 100 can be positioned within a compartment 103 of the spa 101. The compartment 103 can be positioned adjacent to a front portion 101a of the spa 101 (e.g., on the same side as the control panel). This can allow access to the compartment 103 and / or the spa filtration system 100 from the font portion 101a of the spa. This can beneficially allow for convenient installation and / or replacement of the spa filtration system 100 and / or its components (e.g., flat filters, cartridge filters, filter skimming bucket, and / or skimming basket 126). In some cases, the compartment 103 can be covered by a filter shield 105, as shown in FIG. 1C. The filter shield 105 can include one or more inlets 105a. The one or more inlets 105a can allow water into the compartment 103 for filtering by the spa filtration system 100.

[0074] The spa filtration system 100 can have a size and / or shape to allow the spa filtration system 100 to fit in the compartment 103. For example, the spa filtration system 100 can have a depth D, as shown in FIG. 2A, from about 2.5 inches to about 7.5 inches. For example, the depth of the spa filtration system can be from about 3 inches to about 7 inches, from about 4 inches to about 6 inches, from about 4.2 inches to about 5.5 inches and / or from about 4.5 inches to about 5 inches. The size and shape of the spa filtration system 100 can allow the spa 101 to accommodate an extra seat 107.

[0075] The spa filtration system 100 can be removably secured to a spa 101 via one or more nuts, filter fittings, and / or grommets. For example, each outlet of the spa filtration system 100, which are further described herein, can be in fluid communication with one or more filter fittings 102 and / or filter fitting grommets 104. In some cases, the one or more filter fittings 102 and / or filter fitting grommets 104 can be removably attached to the spa. To secure the spa filtration system 100 to the one or more filter fittings 102 and / or filter fitting grommets 104, the outlets of the spa filtration system 100 can be positioned over the one or more filter fittings 102 so that the one or more filter fittings 102 extend at least partially within the filter manifold 110. One or more filter fitting nuts 106 can be secured to a threaded portion of theone or more filter fittings 102 extending through the outlets and inside the filter manifold 1 10. The spa filtration system 100 can be detached from a spa by removing the one or more filter fitting nuts 106 and removing the spa filtration system 100. This can beneficially allow for replacement and / or service of the spa filtration system 100 without tools and / or without having to modify the spa.

[0076] Although certain examples are described herein with respect to a flat filter and a cartridge filter, the filtration systems are not limited to this configuration. For example, the filtration system can include a filter manifold configured to receive a first type of filter and a second type of filter. The first type of filter and the second type of filter may be different in shape, size, construction, and / or micron rating. For example, the first type of filter can filter larger particle sizes and the second type of filter can filter for smaller particle sizes. The filter manifold can be constructed to allow water to flow through both the first type of filter and the second type of filter before flowing toward the circulation pump. Viewed another way, only water flowing toward the circulation pump flows through both types of filters. The filter manifold can be constructed such that a majority or all water flowing to the jet pumps only flows through the first type of filter. Viewed another way, water flowing to the jet pumps may bypass the second type of filter.

[0077] The filters may be arranged to decrease the overall footprint of the filtration system. For example, the first type of filter and the second type of filter may be arranged side- by-side in a lateral direction to decrease the depth or thickness of the filtration system, where water is drawn into the filtration system in a front-to-rear direction. Water may be directed toward the lower side of the filtration system to the pumps. Optionally, the filtration system may provide a third type of filtration by combination of a skimming bucket integrated or coupled with the filter manifold. The skimming bucket itself may provide multiple levels of filtration when combined with one or more weir gates.

[0078] FIGS. 2A-4D and 6A-7B show an example of the spa filtration system 100. As seen in FIG. 2A, the spa filtration system 100 has a filter manifold 110 housing and / or directing flow through one or more filters. The spa filtration system may include a filter skimming bucket 120. The filter skimming bucket 120 can be positioned over the filter manifold 110 on an upper side of the filter manifold 110, allowing water to be drawn in through the upper side of the filter manifold 110 when the pumps are in use. The filter skimming bucket120 can be integral to the filter manifold 110 or can be a separate component removably coupled to the filter manifold 110.

[0079] In some cases, the filter skimming bucket 120 can include handles 121. The handles 121 can allow the filter skimming bucket 120 to be removed from the filter manifold 110 by pulling the filter skimming bucket 120 away from the filter manifold 110. The filter skimming bucket 120 can include one or more snap fit tabs 123. The one or more snap fit tabs 123 can allow the filter skimming bucket 120 to be secured to the filter manifold 110 by snapping into a corresponding groove 111 of the filter manifold 110, as shown in FIG. 6B.

[0080] The filter skimming bucket 120 can provide one or more inlets 124. As shown in FIG. 2A, the filter skimming bucket 120 has two inlets 124 positioned on lateral sides of the filter skimming bucket 120. In other embodiments the inlets 124 can be positioned on the front and rear surfaces of the filter skimming bucket 120. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 124 to the filter skimming bucket 120. Water can flow through the inlets 124 of the filter skimming bucket 120 toward a lower side of the filter manifold 110.

[0081] The spa filtration system 100 can have one or more inlets 124 that allow for flow directly into the one or more flat filters 130, for example through a front side and / or a rear side of the spa filtration system 100. When viewed from a top side, the filter manifold 110 can be symmetrical as seen in FIG. 3. The filter manifold 110 can be configured to receive the one or more flat filters 130. When positioned inside the filter manifold 110, the one or more flat filters 130 can be separated by a gap 185. The gap 185 can measure from about .1 inches to about 2 inches. For example, the gap 185 between the flat filters can be between about .2 inches to about 1.4 inches, from about .3 inches to about 1.3 inches, from about .4 inches to about 1.2 inches, and / or from about .5 inches to about 1 inch. As illustrated, two flat filters 130 are slidably positioned within the first portion 112 of the filter manifold 110. The arrangement of the flat filters 130 in the filter manifold 110 is best illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In other embodiments at least one (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or more) flat filters 130 can be positioned within the first portion 112 of the filter manifold 110. The filter manifold 110 can include one or more alignment features, for example fins 118 shown in Fig. 7A and / or tracks for receiving the flat filter. As illustrated, the alignment features are located on a lower wall of the filter manifold 110, but may be located on one or more sidewalls of the filter manifold 110. The fins 118 assure that the flat filters 130 can only be installed in the correct orientation. In some cases,the filter manifold 1 10 can include one or more windows 113. The one or more windows 1 13 can be covered by the one or more flat filters 130 when the one or more flat filters 130 are positioned inside the filter manifold 110.

[0082] In some embodiments, the filter skimming bucket 120 must be removed from the filter manifold 110 to allow for removal of the flat filters 130. As seen in FIG. 6B, the filter skimming bucket 120 can mechanically connect to the filter manifold 110, for example with a snap fit 134. The snap fit 134 can beneficially lock the flat filters 130 in place. The bottom wall of the filter skimming bucket 120 can have interfacing features configured to interlock with interfacing features on the filter manifold 110. The interfacing features can extend along one or more long edges of the filter skimming bucket 120 and / or filter manifold 110. In other configurations, the filter skimming bucket 120 may connect to the filter manifold 110 with a press fit or other mechanical connection.

[0083] The filter manifold 110 can include a second portion 114 configured to receive one or more cartridge filters 150. As illustrated, the second portion 114 is positioned laterally outward of the first portion 112 of the filter manifold 110. The cartridge filter 150 can be a cylindrical filter. In other embodiments, the cartridge filter 150 can have other shapes such as a triangular prism or any other polygonal prism. The filter manifold 110 can include a third portion which houses a second cartridge filter 150. The filter manifold can have a flow path 116 allowing water to flow from the first portion 112 to the second portion 114.

[0084] The filter manifold 110 can have one or more active-use outlets 140, for example two active-use outlets. As illustrated, the one or more active-use outlets 140 can be positioned on a lower side of the spa filtration system 100, for example under the flat filter 130. In other embodiments at least one (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or more) active-use outlets 140 may be positioned under the flat filter 130. The active-use outlets 140 connect to a plurality of jet pumps 180 to pull water from the inlets 124 into the filter manifold 110 and through the flat filters 130. The filter manifold 110 can have a circulation outlet 160 on a same side as the active-use outlets 140, for example positioned under the cartridge filter 150. In other embodiments, at least one (e.g. 1, 2, or more) circulation outlets 160 may be positioned under the flat filter 130. The circulation outlet 160 can connect to a circulation pump 170 to pull water from the inlets 124 into the filter manifold 110, then through the cartridge filter 150, and out of the circulation outlet 160. Most of the water that flows through the filter manifold 110passes through the inlet 124 into the flat filter 130 prior to passing through the cartridge filter 150. As illustrated, each outlet is positioned on a lower side of the filter manifold 110. Each outlet can correspond to a different pump. Specifically, each circulation pump 170 can have a corresponding circulation outlet 160 and each jet pump 180 can have a corresponding activeuse outlet 140. The filter manifold 110 can include one or more cartridge holders 190. The cartridge holders 190 can receive and secure one or more cartridges 192. The cartridges 192 can include mineral cartridges and / or chlorine cartridges. The cartridges 192 an be positioned on a side of the filter manifold 110 opposite from the second portion 114 of the filter manifold 110. In some cases, the filter manifold 110 can include two cartridge holders 190 arranged in a vertical arrangement.

[0085] As seen in FIGS. 4A-4D, the cartridge filter 150 can be coupled to the filter manifold 110, for example with a twist lock. This twist lock may be used for any of the embodiments shown herewith. The cartridge filter 150 can slide into the filter manifold 110. One end of the cartridge filter 150 can have a keyed feature, for example a locking cap 154. The other end of the cartridge filter can have a handle 152 (see FIG. 2A). The handle 152 can facilitate and twisting motion and beneficially allows for quick replacement of the cartridge. The locking cap 154 can secure the cartridge filter 150 into the filter manifold 110 by engaging with the filter manifold 110. The cartridge filter 150 can be configured to allow the filter 150 to only be installed in the correct orientation and secured in place.

[0086] As seen in FIG. 4D, the handle 152 can then be twisted to secure the cartridge filter 150 in a locked position. Advantageously, the cartridge filter 150 must be fully seated in the filter manifold 110 before the cartridge filter 150 can be secured in the locked position. In some cases, a locking cap 154 of the cartridge filter 150 can include one or more locking tabs 156. The one or more locking tabs 156 can facilitate attachment of the cartridge filter 150 to the filter skimming bucket 120. For example, the filter skimming bucket 120 and / or the filter manifold 110 can include one or more slots 158 configured to receive the one or more locking tabs 156 of the cartridge filter 150. To secure the cartridge filter 150 to the filter skimming bucket 120, the one or more locking tabs 156 can be aligned with the one or more slots 158 and inserted therethrough. With the one or more locking tabs 156 positioned past the one or more slots 158, the cartridge filter 150 can be rotated so that the one or more locking tabs 156 are not aligned with the one or more slots 158 thereby preventing the cartridgefilter 150 to be removed from the filter skimming bucket 120. The one or more slots 1 8 can be a component of the filter skimming bucket 120 or the filter manifold 110. In some embodiments, the cartridge filter 150 can rotate at least about 45 degrees for example about 90 degrees. In some cases, the cartridge filter 150 can rotate less than about 45 degrees, for example about 30 degrees. The locking cap 154 of the cartridge filter 150 can be unique to the type of cartridge filter 150 which the spa filtration system 100 is designed to use. The locking cap 154 can beneficially assure that the proper cartridge filter 150 is used in the spa filtration system 100.

[0087] Although the handle 152, the locking cap 154, and / or the locking tabs 156 may be illustrated with a particular profile, these features may take on any other shape or profile. The orientation, number, location, number of sides, edges, and / or comers, size, and / or dimensions (e.g., length, width, and / or height), of the handle 152, the locking cap 154, and / or the locking tabs 156 may be different than those illustrated in the figures herein. Further, the functionality of the handle 152, the locking cap 154, and / or the locking tabs 156 is not tied to the embodiment of the handle 152, the locking cap 154, and / or the locking tabs 156 shown and described herein.

[0088] FIG. 5A shows an example of a flat filter 130. The flat filter 130 can include a cast frame 132. The cast frame 132 can include a cast urethane frame. In some cases, the cast frame 132 can include a rectangular shape. The flat filter 130 can be sealed to the cast frame 132. This can prevent water from flowing into the filter manifold 110 through one or more gaps between the edges of the flat filter 130 and the cast frame 132, which can beneficially prevent unfiltered water from flowing into the filter manifold 110. The cast frame 132 can also beneficially provide structure to the flat filter 130. This can beneficially help the flat filter 130 maintain its form even when pressure (e.g., from the one or more jet pumps and / or the circulation pumps) is applied. The cast frame 132 can include a tapered profile. For example, a thickness of the cast frame 132 can decrease from top to bottom or vice versa. The tapered profile of the cast frame 132 can allow for easy installation of the flat filter 130 to the filter manifold 110 and / or allow the cast frame 132 to wedge itself into the filter manifold 110. This can beneficially allow for a better seal between the cast frame 132 and the filter manifold 110. Although the cast frame 132 may be illustrated with a particular profile, these features may take on any other shape or profile. The orientation, number, location, number of sides, edges,and / or corners, size, and / or dimensions e.g., length, width, and / or height), of the cast frame 132 may be different than those illustrated in the figures herein. Further, the functionality of the cast frame 132 is not tied to the embodiment of the cast frame 132 shown and described herein.

[0089] In some cases, the cast frame 132 can include one or more handles 132a. The one or more handles 132a can facilitate installation and / or removal of the flat filter 130 to / from the filter manifold 110. For example, the one or more handles 132a can be used to lift the flat filter 130. As further described in relation to FIG. 8D, the one or more handles 132a can also facilitate alignment of the filter skimming bucket 120 with the one or more flat filters 130. In some cases, the cast frame 132 can also include one or more ribs 132b. The one or more ribs 132b can be positioned on a top portion of the cast frame 132. For example, the one or more ribs 132b can be positioned adjacent to the handles 132a. In some cases, the one or more ribs can be connected to the handle 132a. The ribs 132b can provide support to the cast frame 132 which can decrease bending of the flat filter 130 and / or the cast frame 132 when removing a flat filter 130 saturated with water. The one or more ribs 132b can also enhance sealing between the cast frame 132 and the filter skimming bucket 120, as shown in FIG. 8E, to reduce and / or avoid water bypass. Although the handle(s) 132a and rib(s) 132b may be illustrated with a particular profile, these features may take on any other shape or profile. The orientation, number, location, number of sides, edges, and / or comers, size, and / or dimensions (e.g., length, width, and / or height), of the handle(s) 132a and rib(s) 132b may be different than those illustrated in the figures herein. Further, the functionality of the handle(s) 132a and / or rib(s) 132b is not tied to the embodiment of the handle(s) 132a and / or rib(s) 132b shown and described herein.

[0090] The cast frame 132 can also include one or more supports 132c. The one or more supports 132c can be positioned on a bottom portion of the cast frame 132. The cast frame 132 can include one or more supports 132c on one side of the cast frame 132 and / or on both sides of the cast frame 132. The one or more supports 132c can include protrusions extending away from the cast frame 132. The one or more ribs 132b and the one or more supports 132c can extend away from the cast frame 132 such that the one or more ribs 132b and the one or more supports 132c are perpendicular to each other. In some cases, the cast frame 132 can include a single support 132c. The cast frame 132 can include two or moresupports 132c e.g., two, three, four, five, six, etc ). Two or more flat filters 130 can be positioned inside the filter manifold 110 so that the one or more supports 132c face each other. For example, as shown in FIG. 8F, when two flat filters 130 are secured inside the filter manifold 110, the supports 132c can face each other. The one or more supports 132c can prevent improper installation of the flat filters 130 to the filter manifold 110 and / or support the cast frame 132 of each flat filter 130 against each other. The one or more supports 132c can also help separate the flat filters 130 from each other to allow filtered water to flow between the flat filters 130. Although the one or more supports 132c may be illustrated with a particular profile, these features may take on any other shape or profile. The orientation, number, location, number of sides, edges, and / or corners, size, and / or dimensions (e.g., length, width, and / or height), of the one or more supports 132c may be different than those illustrated in the figures herein. Further, the functionality of the one or more supports 132c is not tied to the embodiment of the one or more supports 132c shown and described herein.

[0091] When installed to the filter manifold 110, the cast frame 132 of each flat filter 130 can create a friction fit with the filter manifold 110. The friction fit between the cast frame 132 and the filter manifold 110 can prevent water from flowing into the filter manifold 110 through one or more gaps between the edges of the cast frame 132 and the filter manifold 110, which can beneficially prevent unfiltered water from flowing into the filter manifold 110.

[0092] FIGS. 5C-5E show examples of cartridge filters for a spa filtration system. The cartridge filter 150a and / or the cartridge filter 150b can be used with the spa filtration system 100. The cartridge filter 150a can include a pleated filter. Pleated filters can be made from pleated cloth or paper. The pleated cloth or paper can be pleated or folded in a series of small pleats. The pleats can increase the filter's surface area and capture more particles. The cartridge filter 150a can include a handle 152a to facilitate attachment of the cartridge filter 150a to the filter skimming bucket 120. The cartridge filter 150b can include a spun bond filter. Spun bond filters can be made from fibers that are spun together to create a nonwoven fabric. The cartridge filter 150b can include a handle 152b to facilitate attachment of the cartridge filter 150b to the filter skimming bucket 120. In some cases, pleated filters can allow for higher flow rates than spun bond filters. Spun bond filters, however, can allow for higher filtration rates than pleated filters. Although the handle 152a may be illustrated with a particular profile, these features may take on any other shape or profile. The orientation, number, location,number of sides, edges, and / or corners, size, and / or dimensions (e.g., length, width, and / or height), of the handle 152a may be different than those illustrated in the figures herein. Further, the functionality of the handle 152a is not tied to the embodiment of the handle 152a shown and described herein.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 5E, a cartridge filter 150c can include a removable cap 151c, a top cap 152c, a bottom cap 153c, and / or a gasket 154c. The top cap 152c and the bottom cap 153 can be secured to the cartridge filter 150c. In some cases, the removable cap 151c can be removably secured to the top cap 152c. The removable cap 151c can be detached from the top cap 152c to gain access to a portion inside the cartridge filter 150c. The portion inside the cartridge filter 150c can store an additive cartridge, such as a mineral cartridge. The top cap 152c can include one or more locking tabs 156c that can secure the cartridge filter 150c to a filter manifold, such as the filter manifold 110. In some cases, the gasket 154c can include a foam gasket. The gasket 154c can provide a seal between the cartridge filter 150c and the filter manifold 110. This can beneficially prevent water leakages as the water flows through the cartridge filter 150c and out of the spa filtration system 100 via the circulation fluid outlet 160.

[0094] The cartridge filter 150c can include a dual stage melt blown cartridge filter to filter small particles. The cartridge filter 150 can filter particle sizes from about 1 micron to about 60 micron (e.g., 2 microns, 5 microns, 10 microns, 15 microns, 20 microns, 25 microns, etc ). In some cases, or more outer layers of the cartridge filter 150 can filter particle sizes from about 2 microns to about 60 microns (e.g., 5 microns, 10 microns, 15 microns, 20 microns, 25 microns, 50 microns, etc.). Further, one or more inner layers of the cartridge filter 150c can filter particle sizes from about 1 micron to about 10 micron (e.g., 1 micron, 2 micron, 5 micron, 8 micron, etc.).

[0095] Although the removable cap 151c, the top cap 152c, and / or the bottom cap 153c may be illustrated with a particular profile, these features may take on any other shape or profile. The orientation, number, location, number of sides, edges, and / or comers, size, and / or dimensions (e.g., length, width, and / or height), of the removable cap 151c, the top cap 152c, and / or the bottom cap 153c may be different than those illustrated in the figures herein. Further, the functionality of the removable cap 151c, the top cap 152c, and / or the bottom cap 153c isnot tied to the embodiment of the removable cap 151c, the top cap 152c, and / or the bottom cap 153c shown and described herein.

[0096] In operation, the circulation pump 170 may run for longer periods of time compared to thejet pumps 180. For example, the circulation pump 170 may run at least 8 hours a day, for example approximately 8-24 hours a day. The circulation pump 170 may run while the spa is in use and while the spa is not in use. In other embodiments, the circulation pump 170 can run for less than 8 hours per day. The jet pumps 180 may run only when the spa is in use or around 20 minutes per day. In other embodiments, thejet pumps 180 can run whenever a user turns on the jet pumps 180. The circulation pump 170 can move a larger volume of water in the course of a day than the jet pumps 180 because the circulation pump may run continuously or for a pre-scheduled fdtration cycle and is the primary filtration method for the spa while the jet pumps 180 may run for a shorter time period. The circulation pump 170 can have a lower flow rate than the jet pumps 180. In some embodiments the flow rate of the circulation pump 170 is less than or equal to 75 gallons per minute, for example less than 50 gallons per minute, or less than 30 gallons per minute. In some embodiments the flow rate of thejet flow pumps 180 are greater than 30 gallons per minute, for example at least 50 gallons per minute or at least 75 gallons per minute. When thejet pumps 180 and the circulation pump 170 are running, at least 180 gallons of water can be filtered per minute. In some embodiments, when thejet pumps 180 and the circulation pump 170 are running, at least 150 gallons of water can be filtered per minute. When only the circulation pump is running, at least 30 gallons of water are filtered per minute. In some embodiments, when only the circulation pump is running, less than 30 gallons of water are filtered per minute. The circulation pump 170 can consume less energy than thejet pumps 180.

[0097] The cartridge filter 150 and the flat filter 130 can have a different construction and / or filter for different particle sizes. The cartridge filter 150 can be a melt blown cartridge filter to filter small particles. The cartridge filter 150 can filter for particle sizes less than or equal to 10 microns or less than or equal to 5 microns. The flat filter 130 can be a pleated filter. The flat filter can be at least a 75 SF pleated filter to filter larger particles. The flat filter 130 allows for a higher flow rate than the cartridge filter 150. The flat filter 130 allowing a higher flow rate advantageously allows for more water to be filtered more quickly when the spa is in use and thejet pumps 180 are running.

[0098] As best seen in FIG. 6A, which shows a front-section view of the first embodiment, the filter skimming bucket 120 can have one or more inlets 124, for example two inlets 124. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 124 to the filter skimming bucket 120. Disposed within each of these inlets 124, is a weir gate 122. The weir gates 122 can be pivotally connected to the filter skimming bucket 120. The weir gates 122 pivot along an axis extending from a front side of the filter manifold 110 toward a rear side of the filter manifold 110. Additionally, or alternatively, the weir gates 122 can also connect to the filter skimming bucket 120 to allow vertical motion as well as rotational motion. The upper edge of each weir gate 122 can float on the surface of the water and pivots inwards which allows large debris to enter the filter skimming bucket 120. As illustrated, the weir gates 122 can work as a pair to remove large debris from the spa. The pivotal connection of the weir gates 122 may not allow the weir gates 122 to pivot outward past vertical. This traps any large debris in the skimming bucket.

[0099] The filter skimming bucket 120 can have a skimming basket 126 disposed within it. The skimming basket 126 can sink in water and be captured on all sides by the filter skimming bucket 120. The skimming basket is shown in detail in FIG. 8A. The skimming basket 126 can be slidably removable from the filter skimming bucket 120 to remove large debris trapped in the filter skimming bucket 120. The skimming basket 126 can have bottom portion that allows water to flow through an outlet 128 at the bottom of the filter skimming bucket 120. The outlet 128 allows water to pass into the filter manifold 110. The bottom portion of the skimming basket 126 can be mesh, grated, a combination of both, or another arrangement that will stop large debris from entering the filter manifold 110 while allowing water to pass through the bottom of the skimming basket 126. The mesh bottom portion can advantageously capture and strain out skimmed debris. Water is pulled through the inlets 124 of the filter skimming bucket 120 by the circulation pump 170 and the jet pumps 180.

[0100] FIGS. 8B-8D show an example of a filter skimming bucket for a spa filtration system. As shown in FIG. 8B, and as previously described herein, the skimming basket 126 can be removed from the filter skimming bucket 120. The skimming basket 126 can include a plurality of holes 126a, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C. The plurality of holes 126a can be positioned on a bottom portion of the skimming basket 126. The plurality of holes 126a can beneficially allow water to flow through an into the filter manifold 110 but preventdebris from entering the filter manifold 1 10, which could clog and / damage the spa filtration system 100.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 8D, a bottom portion of the filter skimming bucket 120 can include one or more slots 120a. The one or more slots 120a can facilitate attachment of the filter skimming bucket 120 to the filter manifold 110. For example, the one or more slots 120a can be sized and / or shaped to receive one or more handles 132a of the flat filter 130. When the one or more flat filters 130 are positioned inside the filter manifold 110, the one or more slots 120a can be positioned over the one or more slots 120a so that at least a portion of the handles 132a extend through the one or more slots 120a. During installation, this can facilitate alignment of the filter skimming bucket 120 with the one or more flat filters 130. In some cases, the one or more slots 120a can include a symmetric pattern to allow the filter skimming bucket 120 to be installed onto the filter manifold 110 regardless of the orientation of the filter skimming bucket 120.

[0102] A bottom portion of the filter skimming bucket 120 can include a plurality of holes 120b. The plurality of holes 120b can allow water to flow from the filter skimming bucket 120 into the filter manifold 110 or vice versa.

[0103] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate an example of a flow pattern through the spa filtration system 100. As previously described, any debris in the water can be captured by the filter skimming bucket 120. Further, when the one or jet pumps and / or circulation pumps are activated, water can be pushed through the one or more flat filters 130 and into the filter manifold 110. Some of the water can also be pushed through the cartridge filter 150. For example, water can be filtered by the cartridge filter 150 after being filtered by at least one of the flat filters 130 and / or after entering the filter manifold 110 via the filter skimming bucket 120. As water flows though the one or more flat filters 130 and / or the cartridge filter 150, debris, dirt, and / or other particles can be trapped by the one or more flat filters 130 and / or the cartridge filter 150. The filtered water can exit the spa filtration system 100 through the activeuse outlets 140 and / or the circulation fluid outlet 160.

[0104] The flow pattern through the filtration system 100 can also ensure that all water flowing into and through the filter manifold 110 is filtered by at least one flat filter 130, the cartridge filter 150, and / or a filter screen (e. ., filter screen 595 which is described in relation to FIGS. 20A-20D). Further, each of the flat filters 130, the cartridge filter 150, and / orthe filter screen, can filter water regardless of which pump (e.g., jet pumps and / or circulation pump) is activated. For example, activating the jet pumps only may cause water to be pushed through the one or more flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen into the filter manifold 110 where the water can also be pushed through the cartridge filter 150. Similarly, activating the circulation pump only may cause water to be pushed through the one or more flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen into the filter manifold 110 where the water can also be pushed through the cartridge filter 150. Allowing the water to be filtered by the flat filters 130, the cartridge filter 150, and / or the filter screen, can allow the flat filters 130, the cartridge filter 150, and / or the filter screen to wear out more evenly. This can beneficially prevent one of the flat filters 130, the cartridge filter 150, and / or the filter screen to wear out faster than the others when, for example, one of the jet pumps and / or the circulation pump is used more frequently and / or for longer periods of time than the other of the jet pumps and / or the circulation pump.

[0105] FIGS. 10-12 show an example of the spa filtration system 200. The spa filtration system 200 resembles or is identical to the spa filtration system 100 discussed above in many respects. Accordingly, numerals used to identify features of the spa filtration system 100 are incremented by a factor of one hundred (100) to identify like features of the spa filtration system 200. This numbering convention generally applies to the remainder of the figures. Any component or step disclosed in any embodiment in this specification can be used in other embodiments.

[0106] The spa filtration system 200 can have a depth from about 2.5 inches to about 7.5 inches. For example, the depth of the spa filtration system 200 can be from about 3 inches to about 7 inches, from about 4 inches to about 6 inches, from about 4.2 inches to about 5.5 inches and / or from about 4.5 inches to about 5 inches.

[0107] As seen in FIG. 10, the spa filtration system 200 can have a filter manifold 210 housing or directing flow to one or more filters. The spa filtration system may include a filter skimming bucket 220. The filter skimming bucket 220 can be positioned over the filter manifold 210 on an upper side of the filter manifold 210 allowing water to be drawn in through the upper side of the filter manifold 210, in use. The filter skimming bucket 220 can be integral to the filter manifold 210 or can be a separate component removably coupled to the filter manifold 210.

[0108] The filter skimming bucket 220 can provide one or more inlets 224. As shown in FIG. 10, the filter skimming bucket 220 has two inlets 224 positioned on lateral sides of the filter skimming bucket 220. In other embodiments, the inlets 224 can be positioned on the front and rear surfaces of the skimming bucket 220. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 224 to the filter skimming bucket 220. Water can flow through the inlets 224 of the skimming bucket 220 toward a lower side of the filter manifold 210. The filter skimming bucket 220 can include any of the features of the filter skimming buckets described herein.

[0109] The spa filtration system 200 can have one or more inlets 224 that allow for flow directly into one or more flat filters 230, for example through a front side and / or a rear side of the spa filtration system 200. FIGS. 10 and 12 shows an example of the filter manifold 210 only allowing water to flow directly into one flat filter 230 from one direction, for example the front side. The filter manifold 210 can be configured to receive the one or more flat filters 230. As illustrated, only one flat filter 230 is slidably positioned within the first portion 212 of the filter manifold 210 on the front side of the filter manifold 210. The filter manifold 210 may include a rear wall. In other embodiments at least one (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or more) flat filters 230 can be positioned within the first portion 212 of the filter manifold 210. In some embodiments, the filter skimming bucket 220 must be removed from the filter manifold 210 to allow for removal of the flat filters 230.

[0110] Each flat filter 230 can have a depth from about .5 inches to about 3 inches. For example, the depth of the flat filter 230 can be from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, from about 1.2 inches to about 2 inches, from about 1.4 inches to about 1.8 inches and / or from about 1.5 inches to about 1.7 inches.[OlH] The filter manifold 210 can include a second portion 214 configured to receive one or more cartridge filters 250. As illustrated, the second portion 214 is positioned laterally outward of the first portion 212 of the filter manifold 210 and only receives one cartridge filter 250. The cartridge filter 250 can be a cylindrical filter. In other embodiments, the cartridge filter 250 can have other shapes such as a triangular prism or any other polygonal prism. As shown in FIG. 11, the filter manifold can have a flow path 216 allowing water to flow from the first portion 212 to the second portion 214.

[0112] The filter manifold 210 can have one or more active-use outlets 240, for example two active-use outlets. As illustrated, the one or more active-use outlets 240 can bepositioned on a lower side of the spa fdtration system 200, for example under the flat filter 230. In other embodiments at least one (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or more) active-use outlets 240 may be positioned under the flat filter 230. The active-use outlets 240 connect to a plurality of jet pumps 180 to pull water from the inlets 224 into the filter manifold 210 and through the flat filter 230. The filter manifold 210 can have a circulation outlet 260 on a same side as the activeuse outlets 240, for example positioned under the cartridge filter 250. In other embodiments, at least one (e.g. 1, 2, or more) circulation outlets 260 may be positioned under the flat filter 230. The circulation outlet 260 can connect to a circulation pump 170 to pull water from the inlets 224 into the filter manifold 210, then through the cartridge filter 250, and out of the circulation outlet 260. Most of the water that flows through the filter manifold 210 passes through the inlet 224 into the flat filter 230 prior to passing through the cartridge filter 250. As illustrated, each outlet is positioned on a lower side of the filter manifold 210. Each outlet can correspond to a different pump. Specifically, each circulation pump 170 can have a corresponding circulation outlet 260 and each jet pump 180 can have a corresponding activeuse outlet 240.

[0113] The filter manifold 210 may be configured to receive one or more holders 290 for sanitizer cartridges which can be positioned on a side of the filter manifold 210 opposite from the second portion 214 of the filter manifold 210. For example, the filter manifold 210 may be configured to receive two holders 290 arranged in a vertical arrangement.

[0114] FIGS. 13-15 show an example of the spa filtration system 300. As seen in FIG. 13, the spa filtration system 300 can have a filter manifold 310 housing or directing flow through one or more filters. The spa filtration system 300 may include a filter skimming bucket 320. The filter skimming bucket 320 can be positioned over the filter manifold 310 on an upper side of the filter manifold 310 allowing water to be drawn in through the upper side of the filter manifold 310, in use. The filter skimming bucket 320 can be integral to the filter manifold 310 or can be a separate component removably coupled to the filter manifold 310.

[0115] The spa filtration system 300 can have a depth from about 2.5 inches to about 7.5 inches. For example, the depth of the spa filtration system 300 can be from about 3 inches to about 7 inches, from about 4 inches to about 6 inches, from about 4.2 inches to about 5.5 inches and / or from about 4.5 inches to about 5 inches.

[0116] The filter skimming bucket 320 can provide one or more inlets 324. As shown in FIG. 13, the filter skimming bucket 320 has two inlets 224 positioned on lateral sides of the filter skimming bucket 320. In other embodiments, the inlets 324 can be positioned on the front and rear surfaces of the skimming bucket 320. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 324 to the filter skimming bucket 320. Water can flow through the inlets 324 of the skimming bucket 320 toward a lower side of the filter manifold 310.

[0117] The spa filtration system 300 can have one or more inlets 324 that allow for flow directly into one or more flat filters 330, for example through a front side and / or a rear side of the spa filtration system 300. When viewed from a top side, the filter manifold 310 can be symmetrical about an axis extending through lateral sides of the filter manifold 310, as seen in FIG. 14. The filter manifold 310 can be configured to receive the one or more flat filters 330. As illustrated, two flat filters 330 are slidably positioned within the first portion 312 of the filter manifold 310. The two flat filters 330 may be spaced apart from each other in the front to rear direction with a first flat filter on a front side of the filter manifold 310 and a second flat filter on a rear side of the filter manifold. In other embodiments at least one (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or more) flat filters 330 can be positioned within the first portion 312 of the filter manifold 310. In some embodiments, the filter skimming bucket 320 must be removed from the filter manifold 310 to allow for removal of the flat filters 330.

[0118] Each flat filter 330 can have a depth from about .5 inches to about 3 inches. For example, the depth of the flat filter 330 can be from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, from about 1.2 inches to about 2 inches, from about 1.4 inches to about 1.8 inches and / or from about 1.5 inches to about 1.7 inches.

[0119] The first portion 312 can be configured to receive one or more cartridge filters 350. As illustrated in FIG. 14, two cartridge filters 350 are positioned between the flat filters 330 in the front-to-rear direction within the filter manifold 310. The cartridge filters 350 can be cylindrical filters. In other embodiments, the cartridge filters 350 can have other shapes such as a triangular prism or any other polygonal prism. The filter manifold can have a flow path 316 allowing water to flow from the flat filters 330 to the cartridge filters 350.

[0120] The filter manifold 310 can have one or more active-use outlets 340, for example two active-use outlets 340. As illustrated, the one or more active-use outlets 340 can be positioned on a lower side of the spa filtration system 300, for example under and betweenthe flat filters 330. Tn other embodiments at least one (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or more) active-use outlets 340 may be positioned under and between the flat filters 330. The active-use outlets 340 connect to a plurality of j et pumps 180 to pull water from the inlets 324 into the filter manifold 310 and through the flat filters 330. The filter manifold 310 can have one or more circulation outlets 360 on a same side as the active-use outlets 340, for example positioned under the cartridge filters 350. As illustrated in FIG. 14 there can be one circulation outlet 360 positioned under two cartridge filters 350. The circulation outlet 360 can be positioned between the activeuse outlets 340. In other embodiments, at least one (e.g. 1, 2, or more) circulation outlets 360 may be positioned under the cartridge filter 350. The circulation outlets 360 can connect to a circulation pump 170 to pull water from the inlets 324 into the filter manifold 310, then through the cartridge filter 350, and out of the circulation outlet 360. Most of the water that flows through the filter manifold 310 passes through the inlet 324 into the flat filter 330 prior to passing through the cartridge filter 350. As illustrated, each outlet is positioned on a lower side of the filter manifold 310. Each outlet can correspond to a different pump. Specifically, each circulation pump 170 can have a corresponding circulation outlet 360 and each jet pump 180 can have a corresponding active-use outlet 340.

[0121] The filter manifold 310 may be configured to receive one or more holders 390 for sanitizer cartridges, which can be positioned on a lateral side of the filter manifold 310. For example, the filter manifold 310 may be configured to receive two holders 390 arranged in a vertical arrangement.

[0122] As best seen in FIG. 15, which shows a front-section view of the first embodiment, the filter skimming bucket 320 can have one or more inlets 324, for example two inlets 324. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 324 to the filter skimming bucket. Disposed within each of these inlets 324, is a weir gate 322. As illustrated, the weir gates 322 can work as a pair to remove large debris from the spa. The weir gates 322 can connect to the filter skimming bucket 320 to allow vertical motion. The upper edge of each weir gate 322 can float on the surface of the water. Water and debris are pulled over the weir gate 322 by the pumps which allows the large debris to enter the skimming bucket 320. Once in the bucket 320, the weir gates 322 floating on the water surface stop the large debris from exiting the bucket 320. As illustrated, the weir gates 322 include a lip 332 on the floating edge which allows for large debris to push the weir gate 322 down as debris enters the bucket 320. The lip332 can be shaped so that debris pushes the weir gate 322 up if debris floats against the weir gate from inside the bucket 320. As illustrated, the lip 332 can be a hooked shape where the hook curves in towards the bucket 320. The lip 332 may have other shapes such a chamfer or fillet on the corner of the external face of the weir gate 322 or an angular bend in the upper portion of the weir gate 322 which curves in towards the bucket 320. This can trap large debris in the skimming bucket 320. The filter skimming bucket 320 can have a skimming basket 326 disposed within it. The skimming basket 326 can be slidably removable from the skimming bucket 320 to remove large debris trapped in the skimming bucket 320. The skimming basket 326 can have bottom portion that allows water to flow through an outlet 328 at the bottom of the filter skimming bucket 320. The outlet 328 allows water to pass into the filter manifold 310. The bottom portion of the filter skimming basket 326 can be mesh, grated, or another arrangement that will stop large debris from entering the filter manifold 310 while allowing water to pass through the bottom of the skimming basket 326. Water is pulled through the inlets 324 of the filter skimming bucket 320 by the circulation pump 170 and the jet pumps 180.

[0123] FIGS. 16A-19B show an example of a spa filtration system 400. The spa filtration system 400 can include a filter manifold 410. The manifold 410 can direct flow through one or more filters. The spa filtration system 400 can include a filter skimming bucket 420. The filter skimming bucket 420 can be positioned over the filter manifold 410. In use, the skimming bucket 420 can allow water to be drawn in through an upper side of the filter manifold 410. The filter skimming bucket 420 can be integral to the filter manifold 410 or can be a separate component removably coupled to the filter manifold 410.

[0124] The spa filtration system 400 can have a depth from about 2.5 inches to about 7.5 inches. For example, the depth of the spa filtration system 400 can be from about 3 inches to about 7 inches, from about 4 inches to about 6 inches, from about 4.2 inches to about 5.5 inches and / or from about 4.5 inches to about 5 inches.

[0125] The spa filtration system 400 can be removably secured to a spa via one or more nuts, filter fittings, and / or grommets. For example, each outlet of the spa filtration system 400, which are further described herein, can be in fluid communication with one or more filter fittings 402 and / or filter fitting grommets 404. In some cases, the one or more filter fittings 402 and / or filter fitting grommets 404 can be removably attached to the spa. To secure the spafiltration system 400 to the one or more filter fittings 402 and / or filter fitting grommets 404, the outlets of the spa filtration system 400 can be positioned over the one or more filter fittings 402 so that the one or more filter fittings 402 extend at least partially within the filter manifold 410. One or more filter fitting nuts 406 can be secured to a threaded portion of the filter fittings 402 extending through the outlets and inside the filter manifold 410. The spa filtration system 400 can be detached from a spa by removing the one or more filter fitting nuts 406 and removing the spa filtration system 400. This can beneficially allow for replacement and / or service of the spa filtration system 400 without tools and / or without having to modify the spa.

[0126] The filter skimming bucket 420 can provide one or more inlets 424 and / or one or more weir gates 422. As shown in FIG. 17A, the filter skimming bucket 420 can have two inlets 424 positioned on lateral sides of the filter skimming bucket 420. In some cases, the inlets 424 can be positioned on the front and / or rear surfaces of the skimming bucket 420. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 424 to the filter skimming bucket 420. Water can flow through the inlets 424 of the skimming bucket 420 toward the filter manifold 410 and / or the filters in the filter manifold 410.

[0127] The one or more inlets 424 can allow for flow directly into one or more flat filters 430, for example through a front side and / or a rear side of the spa filtration system 400. When observed from the top, the filter manifold 410 can be symmetrical about an axis extending through lateral sides of the filter manifold 410, as seen in FIG. 19B. The filter manifold 410 can receive the one or more flat filters 430. As illustrated, two flat filters 430 are slidably positioned within the filter manifold 310. The two flat filters 430 can be spaced apart from each other in the front to rear direction. For example, a first flat filter can be positioned on a front side of the filter manifold 410 and a second flat filter can be positioned on a rear side of the filter manifold, with a gap 385 between the first flat filter and the second flat filter. The gap 385 can measure from about .1 inches to about 2 inches. For example, the gap 385 between the flat filters can be between about .2 inches to about 1.4 inches, from about .3 inches to about 1.3 inches, from about .4 inches to about 1.2 inches, and / or from about .5 inches to about 1 inch. In some cases, at least one (e. , 1, 2, 3, or more) flat filters 430 can be positioned within the filter manifold 410. In some embodiments, the filter skimming bucket 420 can be removed from the filter manifold 410 to allow for removal of the flat filters 430.

[0128] Each flat filter 430 can have a depth from about .5 inches to about 3 inches. For example, the depth of the flat filter 430 can be from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, from about 1.2 inches to about 2 inches, from about 1.4 inches to about 1.8 inches and / or from about 1.5 inches to about 1.7 inches.

[0129] The filter manifold 410 can have one or more active-use outlets 440 (also referred herein to as outlets), for example two active-use outlets 440. When the spa filtration system 400 is secured to a spa, the active-use outlets 440 can extend though the one or more filter fittings 402, filter fitting grommets 404, and / or filter fitting nuts 406. The one or more active-use outlets 440 can be positioned on a lower side of the spa filtration system 400, for example under and between the flat filters 430. In other embodiments at least one (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or more) active-use outlets 440 may be positioned under and between the flat filters 430. The active-use outlets 440 can be in fluid communication with one or more jet pumps and / or one or more circulation pumps, to pull water into the filter manifold 410 and through the flat filters 430. Each active-use outlet 440 can correspond to a different pump. For example, one of the active-use outlets 440 can be in fluid communication with a jet pump and another one of the active-use outlets 440 can be in fluid communication with a circulation pump. As illustrated, each active-use outlet 440 can be positioned on a lower side of the filter manifold 410.

[0130] The filter manifold 410 can include a cartridge holder 490. The cartridge holder 490 can receive and secure one or more cartridges 492. The cartridges 492 can include mineral cartridges and / or chlorine cartridges. The one or more holders 490 can be positioned on a lateral side of the filter manifold 410. For example, the filter manifold 410 can receive two holders 490 arranged in a vertical arrangement.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 17A, which shows a front-section view of the spa filtration system 400, the filter skimming bucket 420 can have one or more inlets 424, for example two inlets 424. In other embodiments, there can be a single inlet 424 or more than two inlets 424. Disposed within each of these inlets 424, is a weir gate 422. The weir gates 422 facilitate removal of large debris from the spa. The weir gates 422 can be pivotably attached to the filter skimming bucket 420 to allow vertical motion. For instance, the upper edge of each weir gate 422 can float on the surface of the water. Water and debris are pulled over the weir gate 422 by the one or more pumps which can allow debris to enter the skimming bucket 420.Once in the skimming bucket 420, the upper edge of weir gates 422 can float on the water surface to stop debris from exiting the bucket 420.

[0132] The weir gates 422 can include a lip 432 on the floating edge. The lip 432 can allow the debris to push the weir gate 422 down as debris enters the skimming bucket 420. The lip 432 can be shaped so that debris pushes the weir gate 422 up if debris floats against a weir gate 422 from inside the skimming bucket 420. In some cases, the lip 432 can include a hooked shape where the hook curves towards the bucket 420. The lip 432 may have other shapes such a chamfer or fillet on the comer of the external face of the weir gate 422 or an angular bend in the upper portion of the weir gate 422 which can curve in towards the skimming bucket 420. Each lip 432 can trap debris in the skimming bucket 420.

[0133] The filter skimming bucket 420 can include a skimming basket 426 disposed within the filter skimming bucket 420. The skimming basket 426 can be slidably removable from the skimming bucket 420 to remove debris trapped in the skimming bucket 420. The skimming basket 426 can have bottom portion that allows water to flow into the filter manifold 410. The bottom portion of the filter skimming basket 426 can be mesh, grated, and / or include another arrangement that can stop debris from entering the filter manifold 410 but allow water to pass through the bottom of the skimming basket 426. For example, a bottom portion of the skimming basket can include a plurality of holes to allow water to flow into the filter manifold 410. The filter skimming basket 426 can be similar or identical to the skimming basket described in relation to FIGS. 8B-8D.

[0134] FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate an example of a flow pattern through the spa filtration system 400. As previously described, any debris in the water can be captured by the filter skimming bucket 420. Further, when the one or jet pumps and / or circulation pumps are activated, water can be pushed through the one or more flat filters 430 and into the filter manifold 410. As water flows though the one or more flat filters 430, debris, dirt, and / or other particles can be trapped by the one or more flat filters 430. The filtered water can exit the spa filtration system 400 through the active-use outlets 440.

[0135] The flow pattern through the filtration system 400 can also ensure that all water flowing into and through the filter manifold 110 is filtered by at least one flat filter 130 and / or a filter screen (c. ., filter screen 595 which is described in relation to FIGS. 20A-20D). Further, each of the flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen, can filter water regardless of whichpump (e.g., jet pump and / or circulation pump) is activated. For example, activating only the jet pump may cause water to be pushed through the one or more flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen into the filter manifold 110. Similarly, activating only the circulation pump may cause water to be pushed through the one or more flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen into the filter manifold 110. Allowing the water to be filtered by the flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen, can allow the flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen to wear out more evenly. This can beneficially prevent one of the flat filters 130 and / or the filter screen to wear out faster than the other when, for example, the jet pump and / or the circulation pump is used more frequently and / or for longer periods of time than the other of the jet pump and / or the circulation pump.

[0136] FIG. 20A shows an example of a spa filtration system 500. The spa filtration system 500 can be similar or identical to the spa filtration system 100. For instance, the spa filtration system 500 can include a filter manifold 510. The filter manifold 510 can house and / or direct flow through one or more filters. For example, the filter manifold 510 can house and / or direct flow through one or more flat filters 530 and / or one or more cartridge filters 550. The spa filtration system 500 can include a filter skimming bucket 520. The filter skimming bucket 520 can be positioned over the filter manifold 510 on an upper side of the filter manifold 510. The filter skimming bucket 520 can allow water to be drawn in through the upper side of the filter manifold 510 when the pumps are in use. The filter skimming bucket 520 can be integral to the filter manifold 510 or can be a separate component removably coupled to the filter manifold 510. The spa filtration system 500 can also include a skimming basket 526.

[0137] Each flat filter 530 can have a depth from about .5 inches to about 3 inches. For example, the depth of the flat filter 530 can be from about 1 inch to about 2.5 inches, from about 1.2 inches to about 2 inches, from about 1.4 inches to about 1.8 inches and / or from about1.5 inches to about 1.7 inches.

[0138] The spa filtration system 500 can have a depth from about 2.5 inches to about 7.5 inches. For example, the depth of the spa filtration system 500 can be from about 3 inches to about 7 inches, from about 4 inches to about 6 inches, from about 4.2 inches to about5.5 inches and / or from about 4.5 inches to about 5 inches.

[0139] Any of the spa filtration systems described herein can include a filter screen. For example, as shown in FIG. 20D, the spa filtration system 500 can include a filter screen 595 positioned inside the filter manifold 510. In some cases, the filter screen 595 can beremovably attached to the filter skimming bucket 120. The filter screen 595 can be positioned between two flat filters 530. The filter screen 595 can include one or more locking tabs 595a. The one or more locking tabs 595a can facilitate attachment of the filter screen 595 to a bottom portion of the filter skimming bucket 520, as shown in FIG. 20D. The filter screen 595 can be detached from the filter skimming bucket 520 for replacement and / or cleaning.

[0140] In some cases, the filter screen 595 can include a mesh screen 595b. The mesh screen 595b can include a nylon mesh. The mesh screen 595b can include a filter rating ranging from about 50 microns to about 150 microns. For example, from about 60 microns to about 140 microns, from about 70 microns to about 130 microns, from about 80 microns to about 120 microns, from about 90 microns to about 110 microns, and / or from about 95 microns to about 105 microns. In some cases, the mesh screen 595b can include a filter rating of about 100 microns. The mesh screen 595b can filter finer debris from the filter skimming bucket 520 before the debris reaches the filter manifold 510. The mesh screen 595b can also restrict flow at higher flow rates for more controlled skimming.

[0141] The filter screen 595 can include one or more ribs 595c. The one or more ribs 595c can be positioned on a bottom portion of the filter screen 595. As shown in FIG. 20D, when the filter screen is secured to the filter skimming bucket 520 and the filter skimming bucket 520 is mounted to the filter manifold, the ribs 595c can be positioned between two flat filters 530. The ribs 595c can support the top of the flat filters 530 from loading under pressure. Further, the ribs 595c can create a seal between the cast frame 532 of the flat filters 530 and the flat screen 595 to direct water flow through the filter screen 595 and / or reduce leakage around the flat filters 530. A plurality of openings 595d of the filter screen 595 can allow water flowthrough the filter screen 595 into the filter manifold 510. The filter screen 595 can regulate the flow of water though the gap between the flat filters 530. This can beneficially prevent water overflow through the gap between the flat filters 530 and allow most water to be filtered flowing through the flat filters 530 before flowing into the filter manifold 510.

[0142] Although certain embodiments are described herein with respect to spas, the filtration system may be applied to bathtubs, pools, showers, or any other water environment.

[0143] For expository purposes, the term “horizontal” as used herein is defined as a plane parallel to the plane or surface of the floor of the area in which the device being described is used or the method being described is performed, regardless of its orientation. Theterm “floor” can be interchanged with the term “ground.” The term “vertical” refers to a direction perpendicular to the horizontal as just defined. Terms such as “above,” “below,” “bottom,” “top,” “side,” “front,” “rear,” “lateral,” “higher,” “lower,” “upper,” “over,” and “under,” are defined with respect to the horizontal plane, in use.

[0144] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0145] Although certain embodiments and examples have been described herein, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that many aspects of the delivery systems shown and described in the present disclosure may be differently combined and / or modified to form still further embodiments or acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. A wide variety of designs and approaches are possible. No feature, structure, or step disclosed herein is essential or indispensable.

[0146] For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0147] Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope of any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and / or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the present disclosure. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. Further, the actions of the disclosed processes and methods may be modified in any manner, including by reordering actions and / or inserting additional actions and / or deleting actions. It is intended, therefore, thatthe specification and examples be considered as illustrative only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the claims and their full scope of equivalents.

[0148] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that some embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or states. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, blocks, and / or states are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or states are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

[0149] The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlap, sub-ranges, and combinations thereof. Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” “between,” and the like includes the number recited.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A filter assembly for a spa, the filter assembly comprising: a filter manifold configured to receive water and allow the water to flow toward a lower side of the filter manifold, the filter manifold configured to receive at least one flat filter and at least one cartridge filter and allow at least a portion of the water to flow through both the at least one flat filter and the at least one cartridge filter.

2. The filter assembly of Claim 1, wherein the filter manifold is configured to receive the water from a front side of the filter manifold.

3. The filter assembly of Claim 1, wherein the lower side of the filter manifold comprises a plurality of filter outlets, each outlet corresponding to a different pump.

4. The filter assembly of Claim 1, further comprising: one or more flat filters positioned within the filter manifold; and one or more cartridge filters positioned within the filter manifold.

5. The filter assembly of Claim 1, further comprising a filter skimming bucket on an upper side of the filter manifold.

6. The filter assembly of Claim 5, wherein the filter skimming bucket further comprises a weir gate.

7. The filter assembly of Claim 6, wherein the weir gate is configured to pivot along an axis extending from a front side of the filter assembly toward a rear side of the filter assembly.

8. The filter assembly of Claim 4, wherein each of the one or more cartridge filters is cylindrical.

9. The filter assembly according to Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 wherein each of the at least one flat filter is a pleated filter.

10. The filter assembly according to Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, wherein the filter manifold is configured such that water flows through at least one flat filter prior to flowing through the at least one cartridge filter.

11. The filter assembly according to Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, wherein the filter manifold comprises a first portion and a second portion.

12. The filter assembly of Claim 11, wherein the at least one cartridge filter comprises a locking cap having one or more locking tabs, and wherein the second portion of the filtermanifold comprises one or more slots configured to receive and secure the one or more locking tabs.

13. The filter assembly of Claim 11, wherein the at least one cartridge filter is removably positioned inside the second portion of the filter manifold.

14. The filter assembly of Claim 11, wherein the at least one flat filter comprises: a first flat filter removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold; and a second flat filter removably positioned inside the first portion of the filter manifold.

15. The filter assembly of Claim 14, wherein the first flat filter and the second flat filter are separated by a gap when the first flat filter and the second flat filter are positioned inside the filter manifold.

16. The filter assembly of Claim 14, wherein the first flat filter comprises a first cast frame comprising handles; and wherein the second flat filter comprises a second cast frame comprising handles.

17. The filter assembly of Claim 16, wherein the first flat filter is sealed to an internal edge of the first cast frame.

18. The filter assembly of Claim 16, further comprising a filter skimming bucket removably attached to the filter manifold and comprising: one or more weir gates; one or more inlets; one or more handles; and a bottom portion having a plurality of slots and a plurality of holes.

19. The filter assembly of Claim 18, wherein the filter manifold comprises a groove, and wherein the filter skimming bucket comprises one or more snap fit tabs configured to snap into the groove of the filter manifold to secure the filter skimming bucket to the filter manifold.

20. The filter assembly of Claim 18, wherein the plurality of slots of the filter skimming bucket are configured to receive the handles of the first cast frame and the handles of the second cast frame.

21. The filter assembly of Claim 18, wherein an upper edge of each of the one or more weir gates is configured to float with a level of water.

22. The filter assembly of Claim 18, further comprising a skimming basket removably positioned inside the filter skimming bucket and comprising a bottom portion having a plurality of holes.

23. The filter assembly of Claim 22, wherein the plurality of holes of the skimming basket, the plurality of slots of the filter skimming bucket, and the plurality of holes of the filter skimming bucket, are in fluid communication with the filter manifold.

24. The filter assembly of Claim 22, further comprising a filter screen removably coupled to the filter skimming bucket.

25. The filter assembly of Claim 24, wherein the filter screen comprises: one or more locking tabs configured to couple the filter screen to the filter skimming bucket; a mesh screen; one or more ribs configured to be positioned inside the filter manifold when the filter screen is coupled to the filter skimming bucket and the filter skimming bucket is attached to the filter manifold; and a plurality of openings configured to be in fluid communication with the filter manifold.

26. The filter assembly of Claim 25, wherein the mesh screen comprises a filter rating ranging from between about 50 microns to about 150 microns.

27. The filter assembly of Claim 11, further comprising one or more cartridge holders removably coupled to the filter manifold and configured to receive one or more cartridges.

28. The filter assembly of Claim 11, wherein the filter manifold is removably coupled to a spa via one or more filter fittings and one or more fitting grommets.

29. The filter assembly according to Claim 11, wherein the filter manifold is in fluid communication with at least one of a jet pump and a circulation pump via one or more outlets positioned on a bottom portion of the filter manifold.

30. The filter assembly according to Claim 11, wherein the at least one cartridge filter comprises a spun bond filter.

31. A filter assembly for a spa, the filter assembly comprising: a skimming bucket comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; anda weir gate positioned within the inlet; and a filter manifold coupled with the skimming bucket, the filter manifold configured to receive at least one filter for filtering water flowing from the skimming bucket to a water circulation system.

32. The filter assembly of Claim 31, further comprising one or more flat filters removably coupled to the filter manifold.

33. The filter assembly of Claim 32, further comprising a cartridge filter positioned laterally outward of the one or more flat filters.

34. The filter assembly according to Claims 31, 32, or 33, wherein the filter manifold comprises a plurality of outlets, each of the plurality of outlets corresponding to a different pump.

35. The filter assembly of Claim 34, wherein the weir gate is pivotably connected to the housing.

36. The filter assembly of Claim 34, wherein the skimming bucket comprises a pair of floating weir gates.

37. The filter assembly according of Claim 34, wherein the skimming bucket is integrated with the filter manifold.

38. The filter assembly according of Claim 34, wherein the skimming bucket is removably coupled to the filter manifold.

39. A filter assembly for a spa, the filter assembly comprising: a filter manifold comprising a first portion configured to receive a flat filter and a second portion configured to receive a cartridge filter laterally outward of the flat filter.

40. The filter assembly of Claim 39, wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow water to flow into the filter manifold toward a plurality of outlets on a lower side of the filter manifold.

41. The filter assembly of Claim 39, further comprising a flat filter configured to be positioned in the first portion of the filter manifold and a cartridge filter configured to be positioned in the second portion of the filter manifold.

42. The filter assembly according to Claims 39, 40, or 41, wherein the cartridge filter is configured to engage the filter manifold via a twist lock.

43. The filter assembly of Claim 42, wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow water to flow through the flat filter and toward a plurality of outlets on a lower side of the filter manifold, wherein the filter manifold is configured to allow at least a portion of the water to flow through the cartridge filter.

44. The filter assembly of Claim 42, further comprising a holder for a sanitizing cartridge.

45. The filter assembly of Claim 42, wherein the filter manifold further comprises a flow path from the first portion into the second portion.

46. A filter assembly for a spa, the filter assembly comprising: a cast frame configured to be positioned inside a filter manifold and comprising, at least one handle positioned on a top portion of the cast frame and configured to be received by a filter skimming assembly; one or more ribs positioned on the top portion of the cast frame and configured to abut a lower portion of the filter skimming assembly, and one or more supports positioned on a bottom portion of the cast frame and configured to face a corresponding support from a second cast frame; and a filter positioned inside the cast frame; wherein, when the cast frame is positioned inside the filter manifold, the filter is configured to filter water as the water flows through the filter and into the filter manifold.

47. The filter assembly of Claim 46, wherein the cast frame comprises a rectangular shape.

48. The filter assembly of Claim 46, wherein the cast frame comprises a urethane material.

49. The filter assembly of Claim 46, wherein the one or more ribs are connected to the at least one handle.

50. The filter assembly of Claim 46, wherein the one or more ribs and the one or more supports are perpendicular to each other.

51. The filter assembly of Claim 46, wherein the filter is sealed to an internal edge of the cast frame.

52. The filter assembly according to Claims 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, or 51, wherein the cast frame comprises a tapered profile.

53. The filter assembly of Claim 52, wherein a thickness of the cast frame decreases from the top portion of the cast frame to the bottom portion of the cast frame.

54. The filter assembly of Claim 52, wherein the filter comprises a pleated filter.

55. The filter assembly of Claim 52, wherein, when the cast frame is positioned inside the filter manifold, an outer edge of the cast frame is configured to form a seal with an interior edge of the filter manifold.

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