Patent Publication Number: US-2004055969-A1

Title: Water treatment system and method

Description:
BACKGROUND  
       [0001] 1. Field of Invention  
       [0002] The present invention generally relates to treatment of water, and more particularly, to a system and method to purify, clarify, and/or stabilize water, such as for swimming pool, spa, hot-tub, or other circulating water systems.  
       [0003] 2. Related Art  
       [0004] Safe and clean water is important in municipal, industrial, and recreational applications. Particularly in applications where water is intended for human contact or consumption, the water must be treated so that it is pleasant in terms of taste, color, turbidity, odor, and pH, and also environmentally safe and effectively free of pathogens and chemicals that can cause illness.  
       [0005] Water treatment usually entails chemical activity in four areas: 1) balance; 2) oxidation; 3) algaecidation; and 4) disinfection. Balance requires that the pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness of the water be kept within specified ranges to ensure non-corrosive water as well as the efficiency of other pool chemicals. Oxidation requires that the organic matter in the pool be thoroughly oxidized to maintain clarity and help in proper disinfection. Algaecidation requires that algae be effectively controlled to ensure clear and odor-free water. Finally, disinfection requires low or non-existent levels of harmful bacteria in the water.  
       [0006] Conventional methods use different chemicals to control these different areas of water treatment. Typically, the chemicals are added to the water separately as part of an overall water maintenance or purification program. The water is monitored on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis, and when a particular treatment parameter is not acceptable or in compliance with regulatory levels, the appropriate amount of the necessary chemical is added. Often, treatment of one water quality parameter causes another water quality parameter to change. Conventional treatment, therefore, employs a continuous balancing process of monitoring water quality parameters and dosing with various chemicals to create and to maintain the appropriate water quality.  
       [0007] A minimum disinfectant level must be maintained in order to meet requirements such as residential pool and spa sanitation requirements. Chlorine, bromine, and ozone are well-known disinfectants used to treat water but chlorine is disfavored because the chemical tends to have a detrimental effect on water balance, cause eye irritation, and have an odor. Furthermore, in many cases, chlorine does not provide enough oxidation or algae control, thus requiring shock treatment of the water and supplemental algaecides, resulting in multiple treatment procedures. Thus, an all-in-one system and method that simply and comprehensively treats a body of water is desirable.  
       [0008] Ozone dissolved in water advantageously degenerates or causes lysis of cell walls of bacteria, viruses, protozoan organisms, algae and other microbiota, thereby serving as a very effective disinfectant. Furthermore, water having dissolved ozone gas therein has other benefits. For example, ozone rapidly reacts with metal ions (e.g., iron and manganese) within the water, forming precipitants which may be removed through filtration, thereby effectively “softening” the water.  
       [0009] In order for ozone gas to have a purifying effect upon the water, such gas must be dissolved into the water. Dissolution of ozone gas into the water occurs at the spherical surface tension boundaries between the gas and the water over time.  
       [0010] One problem with indoor pools, spas, hot tubs, jetted bathing facilities and other similar immersion facilities that utilize ozone for sanitization purposes is outgassing of the undissolved ozone into the area surrounding the facility. Strict rules have been enacted that require that outgassing of ozone from such a facility not exceed 0.1 ppm. Thus, it is desirable that little or no ozone be allowed to escape during a water treatment process.  
       [0011] Therefore, what is needed is a water treatment system and method that comprehensively treats a body of water by balancing, oxidizing, disinfecting, and controlling algae in an efficient and simple manner with minimal or no venting of ozone to the ambient atmosphere.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0012] The present invention provides a system and method for comprehensively treating a body of water simply and efficiently.  
       [0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, a water treatment system comprises an ozone generator adapted to generate ozone, a mixer, coupled to the ozone generator, adapted to mix the ozone with water to form a mixture, and a separator, coupled to the ozone generator and the mixer, adapted to separate the undissolved ozone from the water and return the undissolved ozone to the ozone generator.  
       [0014] In another embodiment of the present invention, a water treatment system comprises ozone generating means for producing ozone, mixing means for mixing ozone with water, the mixing means being coupled to the ozone generating means, and separating means for separating ozone from the water to return the separated ozone to the ozone generating means, the separating means being coupled to the ozone generating means and the mixing means.  
       [0015] In another embodiment, a water treatment system comprises a mixing apparatus capable of receiving ozone gas, a chemical composition, and water to be treated to form a mixture, a separation apparatus operably coupled to the mixing apparatus to separate undissolved ozone gas from the mixture, the undissolved ozone gas being recirculated, and a pump to pull and discharge water mixed with or to be mixed with the ozone gas and the chemical composition.  
       [0016] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a water treatment method comprises generating ozone gas, dispensing a chemical composition, mixing the generated ozone gas and the dispensed chemical composition with water to form a mixture, separating undissolved ozone gas from the mixture, and recirculating the undissolved ozone gas to prevent ozone venting.  
       [0017] Advantageously, the present invention allows for comprehensive and efficient treatment of contaminated water by balancing, oxidizing, disinfecting, and controlling for algae with minimal or no venting of ozone.  
       [0018] This invention will be more fully understood in light of the following detailed description taken together with the accompanying drawings. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims, which are incorporated into this section by reference.  
     
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS  
     [0019]FIG. 1 shows an illustration of the outer components of one example of a water treatment system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  
     [0020]FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram of a water treatment system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
     [0021]FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram of a water treatment system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
     [0022] FIGS.  4 A- 4 E show different perspective views of a dispenser housing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  
     [0023] FIGS.  5 A- 5 C illustrate an example of an indicator system and related circuitry in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  
     [0024] FIGS.  6 A- 6 B show different perspective views of a dispenser cartridge in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
    
    
     [0025] Use of the same reference symbols in different figures indicates similar or identical items. It is also noted that the figures are not drawn to scale.  
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
     [0026]FIG. 1 illustrates a water treatment system  100  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a portion of water treatment system  100  may be, but not necessarily, constructed with or housed within a casing  110 , with access thereto provided by making one or more sidewalls removable. Such a casing  110 , for example, may be rectangular or square, as seen from a side, and relatively narrow in width so as to be conveniently mountable within a spa or hot tub enclosure. In one example, casing  110  has a width of about 12 inches, a height of about 18 inches, and a depth of about 9 inches. Casing  110  may be made of a durable, rigid, and/or water-resistant material, such as a rust-resistant metal or a hard plastic, but any applicable material may be used to make the compartment in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0027] Water lines  120  extend out of casing  110  and operably connect to a body of water (not shown) so as to allow water to enter and exit treatment system  100 . Water lines  120  may comprise PVC piping, ¾ inch barbed fittings, and/or hosing in one example, but any applicable material and structure that allows the transfer of water may be used to operably connect to a body of water in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0028] As further shown in FIG. 1, a chemical dispenser apparatus  140  may be a separate assembly from that portion of water treatment system  100  housed within casing  110 . In one example, chemical dispenser apparatus  140  includes a dispenser housing  142  that receives a dispenser cartridge  144 , which holds a chemical composition to treat the water. Chemical dispenser apparatus  140  is operably connected to the portion of water treatment system  100  enclosed in casing  110  via chemical feed lines  130 . Chemical feed lines  130  may comprise ¼ inch flexible polymer tubing in one example. In other embodiments, chemical dispenser apparatus  140  may be operably configured into casing  110  with appropriate connections to the rest of the system and appropriate access to dispenser apparatus  140  such that treatment system  100  is fully housed in a single enclosure.  
     [0029]FIGS. 2 and 3 show flow diagrams of two exemplary embodiments of water treatment system  100  (FIG. 1). As shown in FIG. 2, system  200  includes a mixing apparatus  201  (enclosed by dashed lines) which receives ozone gas from an ozone generator  202 , a chemical composition from chemical dispenser apparatus  228 , and water to be treated from a body of water  270 . Because the ozone is in the form of a gas and the chemical composition is in the form of a solid, both need to be dissolved in the water for treatment to take place. In one example, mixing apparatus  201  may include a venturi  220 , a T-valve  210 , or a mixing line  222 , individually or in different combinations. However, the invention is not limited to the aforementioned components and any mixing apparatus may be used that can receive and mix together solution and gaseous materials in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0030] One particular body of water  270  may be hot-tub water, but the present invention is not limited to such an example and may include swimming pool water, whirlpool water, fountain water, or any other body of water that is desired to be treated. The ozone gas, chemical composition, and water are mixed together prior to the mixture being circulated back to body of water  270 .  
     [0031] Ozone which is used to treat the water from body of water  270  is generated by ozone generator  202 . Ozone generators may comprise a cylindrical chamber through which atmospheric air containing diatomic oxygen is pumped or drawn, optionally by using an air compressor or similar device. Radiation from a lamp emits intense ultraviolet light at wavelengths that excite the diatomic oxygen within the chamber. As a result of such molecular excitation, a fraction of the diatomic oxygen within the chamber is split, producing free atoms of oxygen. The extremely high chemical reactivity of free oxygen atoms within the chamber causes them to rapidly react with the remaining intact oxygen, forming ozone gas (O 3 ).  
     [0032] Another commonly known method of producing ozone gas within a chamber is to install closely spaced electrodes therein and to apply a sufficiently high electrical potential between the electrodes to produce electric discharge arcing (e.g., corona discharge). Diatomic oxygen molecules in close proximity with such electrical arcing similarly degrade into free oxygen atoms, which quickly react with diatomic oxygen to form ozone.  
     [0033] Thus, ozone generator  202  may include an ultraviolet light ozone generator, a corona discharge ozone generator, or any applicable ozone generator in accordance with the present invention. In accordance with the present invention, water is treated in a highly concentrated environment of ozone for effective water treatment. In one example, ozone generator  202  produces between about 500 ppm and about 600 ppm of ozone to treat between about 450 gallons and about 550 gallons of water. An air flow of between about 1 cubic foot per hour and about 5 cubic feet per hour may be used through a cross-section between about 2 inches and about 3 inches in diameter with power input between about 300 milliamperes and about 600 milliamperes. Advantageously, an ozone sensor  215  may be used in conjunction with ozone generator  202  to gauge that a sufficient amount of ozone is being produced by ozone generator  202  for maximum and efficient treatment of water within required guidelines. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that different amounts of ozone will need to be generated to treat different sizes of bodies of water.  
     [0034] The chemical composition which eventually mixes with ozone and water may be used to balance, oxidize, disinfect, or control algae in the water. Exemplary chemical compositions, which may be used in accordance with the present invention, are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,698, issued Sep. 19, 2000, and in related U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,821, issued Nov. 21, 2000, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.  
     [0035] An example of a chemical composition which is disclosed in these patents include a buffer compound having an acidic component and a basic component, the acidic and basic components being present in amounts such that the molar ratio of the acidic component to the basic component yields a buffer compound whose pH in solution corresponds to the predetermined pH of the water to be treated, a biocide compound present in an amount sufficient to inactivate the microorganisms in the water to be treated, and an oxidizer/clarifier compound present in an amount sufficient to oxidize the biocide precursor completely. The acidic component includes, but is not limited to, sodium bisulfate. The basic component includes, but is not limited to, sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate. In one example, the molar ratio of sodium bisulfate to sodium bicarbonate is between about 0.26 to about 0.14, corresponding to buffer compound pH in solution from about 6.8 to about 7.2. The biocide compound includes, but is not limited to, ammonium chloride, ammonium bromide, or sodium bromide. The oxidizer/clarifier compound includes, but is not limited to, a peroxide, alkali metal perborate, or alkali metal persulfate. The chemical composition may also include an algaecide, a chelating agent, therapeutic minerals, stain and scale inhibitors, a calcium releasing compound, or a sequestering agent, individually or in any combination. In the alternative, a chemical composition may exclude the oxidizer/clarifier compound. It is noted that the chemical composition is not limited to the aforementioned examples but may include a variety of chemical compositions that can be used to balance, oxidize, disinfect, or control algae in the water.  
     [0036] Referring again to FIG. 2, venturi  220  draws ozone-enriched air from ozone generator  202  through line  253  and valves  214 ,  216 , and  218 , in one example. In one example, valve  214  is rated at 6 pounds per square inch (psi), and valves  216  and  218  are floaters and/or diaphragms.  
     [0037] An applicable venturi  220  which may be used is a multi-port venturi with a water inlet and outlet through which a flow of motive fluid is pumped or drawn. The motive fluid is channeled through a short tube with a constriction in the middle, which causes an abrupt decrease in fluid pressure and a corresponding vacuum. The resulting suction draws ozone-enriched air from the ozone generator into the stream of motive fluid through injection ports and helps to efficiently mix ozone with the motive fluid. The water from body of water  270  is pulled or drawn through venturi  220  as the motive fluid. One example of a venturi  220 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, is a Mazzei™ Injector Model No. 684, available from Mazzei Injector Corporation, Bakersfield, Calif. The mixture of water and ozone then enters T-valve  210 .  
     [0038] T-valve  210  receives the chemical composition in water from chemical dispenser apparatus  228  via line  255 . The chemical composition solution is drawn into T-valve  210  by water flow from line  256 . In one example, T-valve  210 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, may be simple three-way piping. In a further example, chemical dispenser apparatus  228  holds about 115 grams of chemical composition, and about 0.2 gallons per minute of chemical composition solution is received by T-valve  210  for treating a body of water of about 500 gallons. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that different amounts of chemical composition will need to be used to treat different sizes of bodies of water. Advantageously, a configuration of T-valve  210  receiving the chemical composition and the water/chemical composition mixture moving through T-valve  210  as the motive fluid enhances mixing of chemical composition, ozone, air, and water to be treated.  
     [0039] The mixture of ozone, air, water, and chemical composition moves from T-valve  210  and through mixing line  222 . Mixing line  222  allows for a sufficient length of time to achieve maximum diffusion and reaction of ozone and chemical composition into and with the water. In order for ozone dispersion to occur within mixing line  222 , mixing line  222  must have a sufficient length, i.e., an ozone contact length. For example, the contact length of the tube may typically be between about 4 feet and about 8 feet and the tube diameter may typically be between about ½ inch and about 1 inch. The length may vary depending upon variables such as rate of flow within the tube, size of the tube diameter, turbulence, and water temperature. Sharp turns within the tube or turbulence-inducing baffles or screens installed within the mixing line may serve the function of breaking larger ozone-carrying bubbles into smaller bubbles, increasing the overall surface areas of the bubbles, increasing the rate the ozone dissolves into the water, and increasing the rate the chemical composition mixes with the water. In one example, mixing line  222  is a tube about 4½ feet long, having a diameter of about ¾ inch at the beginning of the line and about 1 inch at the end of the line, and containing five counter-current streams. It is noted that mixing line  222  may have various counter-current streams, optional static mixers or baffles, and need not have a uniform diameter.  
     [0040] After the water is treated in such an environment of high ozone and chemical composition concentrations, the treated water and excess ozone which did not dissolve moves to a separation apparatus  226  so that gas phase and liquid phase materials may be separated. An example of a separation apparatus that may be used is a bubble separator device commonly comprising a hollow cylinder having an upper liquid input port  223 , a lower liquid output port  227 , and an upper gas vent  225 . The bubble separator device reduces the velocities of currents of liquid within the bubble separator to a rate slow enough to allow bubbles of gas to rise to the top of the bubble separator. The bubbles then emit through the gas vent in the ceiling of the bubble separator, rather than continuing to flow downstream through the liquid output. Preferably, the output flow of the bubble separator is adjusted to prevent over filling. Also preferably, a float valve or solenoid-controlled valve  224  is installed with the gas vent to assure that water will not escape from the system through the vent. One example of a separation apparatus  226 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, is piping of about 3 inches in diameter.  
     [0041] Ozone gas and air from separation apparatus  226  are recirculated back to ozone generator  202 . Gas is released from separation apparatus  226  along line  267  through valve  224 . As previously noted, valve  224  prevents moisture from entering line  267 . In one embodiment, balance valve apparatus  206  balances the optimal amount of air required by ozone generator  202  by allowing air into the system automatically prior to recirculated gas entering ozone generator  202 .  
     [0042] In one example, when pump  236  is in operation and regular flow of liquids and gas is occurring, valve  208  allows air into the system, utilizing pressure differentials across the check valves and liquid-to-gas ratios in the lines, to make up for air that may be consumed during the ozone generation process. In one example, valve  208  is rated at 8 psi.  
     [0043] In one example, when pump  236  is not in operation and the system is idle, such as when chemical dispenser apparatus  228  is opened to replenish chemical composition, valve  204  may release traces of gas from line  267  as the system resets. In one example, valve  204  is rated at ½ psi. In another embodiment, valve  224  and balance valve apparatus  206  may be combined into a single float valve apparatus (not shown) along line  267  and line  251  to prevent moisture from entering ozone generator  202  and to automatically balance the air. Advantageously, recirculation of the undissolved ozone gas from separation apparatus  226  allows for high concentrations of ozone to be more efficiently generated and used in the water treatment system.  
     [0044] A mixture of ozone and air, either balanced or not through balance valve apparatus  206 , is then recirculated into ozone generator  202  through line  251 . From there, the cycle begins again to produce ozone to be injected or drawn into venturi  220  through line  253 . By utilizing such a recirculation system and method, ozone venting into ambient atmosphere is prevented or minimized and ozone is efficiently generated and utilized.  
     [0045] Water treated with dissolved ozone and chemical composition is pulled by pump  236  from separation apparatus  226  through line  259 . Thus, the mixing of contaminated water with ozone and chemical composition is performed on the suction side of pump  236 . Advantageously, because the treated water is pulled by pump  236  from separation apparatus  226 , spitting of the mixture is prevented, thereby not wasting any treated water and keeping ozone generator  202  dry. One example of a pump  236 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, is a circulating pump, Model No. SM-909-NTW-26 ¾″, available from Laing Thermotech, Inc., San Diego, Calif.  
     [0046] Treated water is then discharged from pump  236  along (i.e., through) line  261  and may be routed directly to body of water  270  (e.g., a swimming pool, a whirlpool, or hot tub). Alternatively, a portion of treated water emitting from line  261  may be split to chemical dispenser apparatus  228  to create a feedback loop for enhanced water treatment. As shown in FIG. 2, an amount of treated water is split at T-valve  232  and sent through check valve  230  and line  265  to chemical dispenser apparatus  228  in order to transport chemical composition to T-valve  210  to begin the treatment cycle again. The rest of the treated water is sent through flowswitch valve  234  and back to body of water  270  through line  263 . In one example, about 0.2 gallons per minute of treated water is sent through check valve  230  and to chemical dispenser apparatus  228  and about 4.3 gallons per minute of treated water is sent back to body of water  270 .  
     [0047] Advantageously, flowswitch  234  and check valve  230  work in conjunction with the rest of the system to automatically control for idling of the system and replacement of chemical composition. During normal operation, in one example, line  261  has a line pressure of about 1½ pounds while check valve  230  requires about 6 pounds of pressure to open. Check valve  230  is balanced with the rest of the system, including separation apparatus  226  that is pulling vacuum of about 15 inches of mercury, to release about 0.2 gallons per minute of treated water to chemical dispenser apparatus  228 . If the chemical composition needs to be replenished, a consumer may open an access door to chemical dispenser apparatus  228 . Upon such opening of the access, the system is flooded with air. Consequently, check valve  230  will quickly close when vacuum is broken by opening of the access door, but check valve  212 , which is a ½ pound valve in one example, will remain open to quickly drain chemical dispenser  228  of any fluid since separation apparatus  226  is pulling vacuum of about 15 inches of mercury in one example. Pump  236  will cavitate upon suctioning of air and flowswitch  234 , which is operably connected to pump  236 , will place pump  236  in an idle mode to automatically reprime the pump. The water flow through treatment system  200  will be stopped until chemical composition is replenished and the access to chemical dispenser  228  is closed, at which time flowswitch  234  will automatically engage pump  236  to start the system flow again.  
     [0048] It is noted that flowswitch  234  may be replaced by other electronic devices, such as vacuum switches, that can detect when the pump is operating in a cavitated mode to automatically reprime the pump. Advantageously, a consumer need not manually turn the system on or off but may simply open an access to chemical dispenser  228  for replenishing of chemical composition. In one example, chemical composition may be replaced on a time basis (e.g., once per week) or by measurement of chemical composition levels in the water.  
     [0049]FIG. 3 illustrates a water treatment system  300  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, similar apparatus are used in different configurations as compared to the previous embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2. Similar chemical compositions may also be mixed with ozone and water to balance, oxidize, disinfect, or control algae in the water, as previously noted. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that different amounts of chemical composition will need to be used to treat different sizes of bodies of water.  
     [0050] As shown in FIG. 3, water to be treated is pulled from body of water  270  by pump  336  through line  371  and an optional safety valve  316 . One example of pump  336 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, is a circulating pump, Model No. SM-1212-NTW-36 ¾″, available from Laing Thermotech, Inc., San Diego, Calif. Safety valve  316  allows the suction of pump  336  to be bypassed, for example, in order to free any lodged material or person from the suction of pump  336 .  
     [0051] In this embodiment, a mixing apparatus  301  (enclosed by dashed lines) includes a multi-port venturi  320  and a mixing line  322 , but as noted previously, may include any applicable mixing device or devices individually or in combination in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0052] Venturi  320  receives ozone generated from an ozone generator  302  through a line  353  and valve  310 , chemical composition from a chemical dispenser  328  through a line  367  and valve  312 , and water to be treated through a line  355 .  
     [0053] As previously noted, ozone generator  302  may include an ultraviolet light ozone generator, a corona discharge ozone generator, or any applicable ozone generator in accordance with the present invention. In one example, ozone generator  302  produces between about 500 ppm and about 600 ppm of ozone to treat between about 450 gallons and about 550 gallons of water. An air flow of between about 1 cubic foot per hour and about 5 cubic feet per hour may be used through a cross-section between about 2 inches and about 3 inches in diameter with power input between about 300 milliamperes and about 600 milliamperes. Advantageously, an ozone sensor  315  may be used in conjunction with ozone generator  302  to gauge that a sufficient amount of ozone is being produced by ozone generator  302  for maximum and efficient treatment of water within required guidelines. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that different amounts of ozone will need to be generated to treat different sizes of bodies of water.  
     [0054] Referring again to FIG. 3, venturi  320  draws ozone-enriched air from ozone generator  302  through line  353  and through valve  310 . Unlike the first embodiment, however, chemical composition from chemical dispenser  328  is also drawn into venturi  320  through line  367  and through valve  312 . Because liquid and gas are both being injected into venturi  320 , valves  312  and  310  are used to balance pressures and control flow of such liquid and gas into venturi  320 . In one example, valve  310  is rated at 1 psi and valve  312  is rated at ½ psi. An applicable venturi  320  which may be used is a multi-port venturi with a water inlet and outlet through which a flow of water is pumped. Use of a venturi allows the kinetic energy of water being pumped to create a venturi effect and draw ozone-enriched air and chemical composition into the stream of water through injection ports. Water from body of water  270  is pumped along lines  371  and  355  for pumping through venturi  320 . One example of a venturi  320 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, is a Mazzei™ Injector Model No. 684, available from Mazzei Injector Corporation, Bakersfield, Calif.  
     [0055] The mixture of ozone, air, chemical composition, and water is sent from venturi  320  and through mixing line  322  to dissolve ozone in the water and to thoroughly treat the water with chemical composition. As previously noted, mixing line  322  allows for a sufficient length of time to achieve maximum diffusion of ozone and chemical composition into the water. In order for ozone dispersion to occur within mixing line  322 , mixing line  322  must have a sufficient length, i.e., an ozone contact length. The contact length of the tube may typically be between about 4 feet and about 8 feet. In one example, mixing line  322  is a tube about 4½ feet long, having a diameter of about ¾ inch at the beginning of the line and about 1 inch at the end of the line, and containing five counter-current streams. It is noted that mixing line  322  may have various counter-current streams, optional static mixers or baffles, and need not have a uniform diameter.  
     [0056] After the water is treated in such an environment of high ozone and chemical composition concentrations, the treated water and excess ozone which did not dissolve moves to a separation apparatus  326  so that gas phase and liquid phase materials may be separated. An example of a separation apparatus that may be used is a bubble separator device commonly comprising a hollow cylinder having an upper liquid input port  323 , a lower liquid output port  327 , and an upper gas vent  325 . The bubble separator device reduces the velocities of currents of liquid within the bubble separator to a rate slow enough to allow bubbles of gas to rise to the top of the bubble separator. The bubbles then emit through the gas vent in the ceiling of the bubble separator, rather than continuing to flow downstream through the liquid output. Preferably, the output flow of the bubble separator is adjusted to prevent over filling. Also preferably, a float valve or solenoid-controlled valve  324  is installed with the gas vent to assure that water will not escape from the system through the vent. One example of a separation apparatus  326 , with no intent to limit the invention thereby, is piping of about 3 inches in diameter.  
     [0057] Excess ozone which did not dissolve in the water is sent through valve  324  and along line  359  to T-valve  308 . Moisture is recirculated back to venturi  320  through line  363  and valve  306 . In one example, valve  306  is rated at 3 inches of water. Gas from T-valve  308  is sent along line  361  to chemical dispenser  328 , which contains an air reservoir  329  in this embodiment. Air reservoir  329  includes a desiccant or dry filter in one example. Remaining ozone and air from T-valve  308 , and any makeup air from air reservoir  329 , are then sent through line  351  back to ozone generator  302  for recirculation.  
     [0058] Treated water is discharged from separation apparatus  326  through line  369  and may be routed directly to body of water  270  (e.g., a swimming pool, a whirlpool, a water tank or reservoir, or a hot tub). In addition, a portion of treated water may be split to chemical dispenser apparatus  328  to create a feedback loop for enhanced water treatment. As shown in FIG. 3, an amount of treated water is split and sent through valve  318  and line  365  to chemical dispenser apparatus  328  in order to transport chemical composition to venturi  320  along line  367  to begin the treatment cycle again. In one example, about 0.2 gallons per minute of treated water is sent through check valve  318  and to chemical dispenser apparatus  328  and about 4.3 gallons per minute of treated water is sent back to body of water  270  through line  369 . In one example, valve  318  is rated at 2 psi.  
     [0059] It is noted that in this embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, mixing of ozone, chemical composition, and water to be treated occur on the discharge side of pump  336 . It is further noted that lines carrying liquid or gas in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 are made of materials so as to be free of leaks and corrosion, such as PVC piping and/or polymer flexible tubing. However, the lines may be made of any applicable material and flexibility desired. Furthermore, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that ratings of valves in both embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 may vary depending upon factors such as the size of the body of water to be treated and the pump motor used.  
     [0060] In accordance with the present invention, water from a variety of sources may be treated comprehensively by one system to balance, oxidize, disinfect, and control algae in water with minimal or no venting of ozone. In one example, pH is maintained between about 7.2 and about 7.6, alkalinity is maintained between about 80 and about 120, and bromine residue is kept at about 3 ppm. Furthermore, water treatment system  100  may treat water, for example, at about 4 gallons per minute at an operating pressure of about 8 psi. However, these parameters can be varied as desired and are dependent upon the desired application.  
     [0061] FIGS.  4 A- 4 E illustrate different views of a dispenser housing  400 , which is an exemplary embodiment of dispenser housing  142  (FIG. 1) of chemical dispenser apparatus  140  (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, dispenser housing  400  may include ports  410  (FIGS. 4A &amp; 4B) to connect to chemical feed lines  130  (FIG. 1).  
     [0062]FIGS. 4B, 4C, and  4 E show an opening  420  leading to a cavity  425  that can receive a dispenser cartridge  600  (FIGS. 6A &amp; 6B). In one embodiment, a sharp protrusion  470  (FIG. 4E) lies at the bottom of cavity  425  for penetrating through a membrane over an opening  620  (FIGS. 6A &amp; 6B) of dispenser cartridge  600  (FIGS. 6A &amp; 6B) as dispenser cartridge  600  is being inserted into dispenser housing  400 . This penetration allows the chemical composition within cartridge  600  to be exposed to water. Also included along the sides of cavity  425  are optional ridges  480  (FIG. 4E) that mate with optional grooves  610  (FIG. 6A) of dispenser cartridge  600 .  
     [0063] Sliding section  440  is used to slide over a top portion  450  of flap  430  (i.e., the access door) after flap  430  is placed in a closed position to lock-in dispenser cartridge  600  (FIGS. 6A &amp; 6B) after dispenser cartridge  600  has been fully placed inside cavity  425 . Closed dispenser housing  400  is shown in FIG. 4D. Sliding section  440  also includes edge protrusions  442  (FIGS. 4B &amp; 4C) that help open flap  430  once closed. Edge protrusions  442  force flap  430  away from opening  420  by contacting tabs  432  as sliding section  440  is pushed upwards and thus help to break the seal between flap  430  and opening  420  caused by suction from the water treatment system during operation. A gasket  452  also helps to seal flap  430  over opening  420  to prevent leakage.  
     [0064] As further shown in FIGS.  4 B- 4 E, dispenser housing  400  may include openings  460  for an LED system to indicate operation of different functions of the water treatment system, such as for example, the operation of a flowswitch or pump, ozone generator or ozone sensor, and chemical dispenser. A simple circuit may be used to operate the LED system as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.  
     [0065] FIGS.  5 A- 5 C illustrate an example of an indicator system, an indicator circuit, and an operational flowchart, respectively, which can be used in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5A shows an LED system  500  that can be used to indicate operation of the chemical dispenser, pump, and ozone generator. Red and green LEDs  510  indicate whether the chemical composition needs to be replaced (e.g., a lit red LED indicating replacement is required). Operation of LEDs  510  may be based upon a clock signal for replacement on a time basis or a signal from a sensor that measures chemical composition levels in the water being treated. Red and green LEDs  520  indicate water flow through the water treatment system (e.g., a lit red LED indicating water flow has stopped). Operation of LEDs  520  may be based upon a signal from a flowswitch operably connected to the pump or a signal from the pump itself. Red and green LEDs  530  indicate that the ozone generator is functioning properly (e.g., a lit red LED indicating a malfunction). Operation of LEDs  530  may be based upon a signal from an ozone generator or ozone sensor for detecting that a sufficient amount of ozone is being generated to meet required guidelines.  
     [0066]FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an indicator circuit  550  for LED system  500  (FIG. 5A). Section  552  supplies regulated power (i.e., direct current supply voltages) to indicator circuit  550 . Section  554  is used to indicate pump operation, with a green LED  522  being illuminated when the pump is operating and a red LED  524  being illuminated when the pump is idle. Section  556  is used to indicate proper ozone generation by the ozone generator, with a green LED  532  being illuminated when a proper current is detected from the ozone generator lamp and a red LED  534  being illuminated when an improper current is detected from the ozone generator lamp. It is noted that a signal from an ozone sensor detecting amounts of ozone from the ozone generator could also be used to operate LEDs  530 . Section  558  is used as a clock/reset mechanism to indicate chemical composition change based upon time, with a green LED  512  being illuminated for a seven day cycle and a red LED  514  being illuminated after a seven day time frame. A signal from a door switch  559  may also be used to reset the LED system clock upon an opening of the dispenser housing access door (indicating chemical composition replacement). It is noted that different time frames or a signal from a chemical composition sensor in the water could also be used to operate LEDs  510 . Processor  560  is used to process the signals from sections  554 ,  556 ,  558 , and door switch  559  in order to operate LEDs  510 ,  520 , and  530 .  
     [0067]FIG. 5C illustrates one example of an operational flowchart for the indicator circuit illustrated in FIG. 5B. A flowchart  570  shows the operational flow of the indicator system-when initial power is applied. A path  572  shows the operational flow of the ozone indicator LEDs, a path  574  shows the operational flow of the water flow indicator LEDs, and a path  576  shows the operational flow of the chemical composition indicator LEDs.  
     [0068] A flowchart  580  shows the operational flow of the indicator system during normal operation when the chemical dispenser housing is opened and closed to replace the chemical dispenser cartridge. Path  582  shows the operational flow of the water flow indicator LEDs and path  584  shows the operational flow of the chemical composition indicator LEDs.  
     [0069]FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate different perspective views of one exemplary embodiment of dispenser cartridge  144  (FIG. 1), which holds the chemical composition that is used to treat water through the system. In one example, dispenser cartridge  600  is capable of being inserted into dispenser housing  400  (FIGS.  4 A- 4 E) through opening  420  (FIGS.  4 B, 4 C,&amp; 4 E). In one embodiment, as previously noted, dispenser cartridge  600  may include optional grooves  610  to align cartridge  600  into dispenser housing  400  (FIGS.  4 A- 4 E). Alternatively, grooves along dispenser cartridge  600  and ridges along the sides of cavity  425  (FIGS.  4 B, 4 C,&amp; 4 E) can be switched such that dispenser cartridge  600  includes ridges and cavity  425  includes mating grooves. In one embodiment, as previously noted, chemical composition contained within cartridge  600  is exposed to water by a sharp protrusion  470  (FIG. 4E) within dispenser housing  400  (FIGS.  4 A- 4 E) which penetrates through opening  620  upon insertion of dispenser cartridge  600  into dispenser housing  400  (FIGS.  4 A- 4 E).  
     [0070] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are merely meant to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes and modifications may be made without departing from this invention in its broader aspects. Therefore, the appended claims encompass all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of this invention.