Hydroelectric devices principally for use in recirculating fluid systems of vessels such as swimming pools and spas

Abstract

Generators of hydroelectric energy are detailed. The generators are designed principally for use in connection with swimming pools and spas and may use the generated electricity to operate a valve, power a gas heater, or illuminate pool lights, in addition to any other appropriate uses for lower voltage electrical energy.

1 . A method of supplying electricity to a light system integral with a pool or spa fitting, comprising:
 (a) providing a generator system integral with a pool or spa fitting;   (b) causing water to circulate through the generator system via water from a pool or spa water return system, such that the water interacts with the generator system in order to generate electricity; and   (c) supplying at least some of the generated electricity to the light system integral with the pool or spa fitting in order to illuminate the light system.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the light system comprises one or more LED lights. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the light system is positioned in an extended portion of the fitting. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the fitting, the generator, and the light system are provided as a single integrated unit. 
     
     
         5 . A modified fitting for a pool or spa system, comprising:
 (a) a fitting face,   (b) an element extending from the fitting face comprising a generator positioned therein; and   (c) an electric component associated with the modified fitting.   
     
     
         6 . The fitting of  claim 5 , wherein the electric component is housed in the modified fitting. 
     
     
         7 . The fitting of  claim 5 , wherein the electric component is positioned in an extended portion of the fitting face. 
     
     
         8 . The fitting of  claim 5 , wherein the electric component comprises one or more LED lights. 
     
     
         9 . The fitting of  claim 5 , further comprising a threaded adapter configured to allow the modified fitting to be positioned within a threaded pool tube. 
     
     
         10 . A method of supplying electricity to a gas powered heater, comprising:
 (a) providing a generator system in-line with fluid tubing associated with the gas powered heater;   (b) causing water to circulate into and out of the generator system via the fluid tubing such that the water interacts with the generator in order to generate electricity; and   (c) supplying at least some of the generated electricity to the gas powered heater in order to ignite the heater.   
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein the gas powered heater is a pool heater is associated with a swimming pool, a hot tub or a spa. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein the fluid tubing is directed into the gas powered heater and wherein the generator system is positioned inside the gas powered heater. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein the generator system is positioned inside an element configured to be associated with the fluid tubing.