Abstract:
The present invention relates to systems for improving the range of pool skimmers. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a weir that is located in the basin of a swimming pool, moves in response to changing water levels in the pool and feeds water from the basin to a skimmer located in a sidewall of the swimming pool. In other embodiments, the present invention provides a deflector that is adjacent to a pool sidewall and extends above the skimmer opening, and includes an opening for feeding water to the skimmer opening. The present disclosure also provides for systems having combinations of such features. Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the apparatuses are relatively cheap to manufacture, safe, conserve water and chemical use, and allow for an aesthetically pleasing full pool.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    Technical Field 
         [0002]    The present invention relates to systems for improving the operation of pool skimmers, particularly those used in outdoor swimming pools, and methods of using the same. 
         [0003]    Background of the Invention 
         [0004]    With reference to  FIGS. 1-3 , in the prior art, it is known to remove debris in swimming pools  110  through the use of skimmers  100 . As known to those of ordinary skill, swimming pools  110  generally consist of a basin (or swimming area)  121 , the perimeter of which is defined by a plurality of sidewalls  120  and the bottom of which is defined by a floor  122 . The floor  122  usually includes a bottom drain  101 . 
         [0005]    Skimmers  100  generally include a rectangular skimmer opening  135  located in a sidewall  120  of the swimming pool  110 , a moveable skimmer weir  170  located inside the skimmer  100  that pivots on a hinge  155  within the skimmer  100  and moves in response to changes in the water levels of the swimming pool  110  and a rectangular skimmer faceplate  145 . The faceplate  145  surrounds the skimmer opening  135 , has a thickness  148  of about 1-3 inches and is secured to the pool sidewall  120  via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws)  146  inserted through fastener apertures  147 . Some pools, particularly many concrete and gunite pools, lack a faceplate  145  surrounding the skimmer opening  135 . The skimmer weir  170  pivots between a vertical position (shown in phantom line  170 A in  FIG. 2 ) in which the skimmer weir  170  is generally parallel to the sidewall  120  (and perpendicular to the ground) and prevents large debris from flowing through the skimmer  100  (more precisely, beyond the skimmer weir  170 ) and a horizontal position (shown in phantom line  170 B in  FIG. 2 ) in which the skimmer weir  170  is generally perpendicular to the sidewall  120  (and parallel to the ground) and allows large debris to flow through the skimmer  100  until the debris reaches a filter or debris basket  160 . The passageway or throat through which water flows through the skimmer  100  is denoted by numeral  196  and the top of the throat is denoted by  197 . As known to the those of ordinary skill, the skimmer weir  170  of a conventional skimmer  100  often occupies a position between its two end pivot points (i.e., between the vertical  170 A and horizontal  170 B positions), as shown in  FIG. 2 . Water enters the skimmer  100  through the opening  135 , flows through throat  196  and over the skimmer weir  170 , and through a filter or debris basket  160 , which collects debris. Optionally, the top of the throat  197  includes a downwardly extending flange  198 , which prevents the skimmer weir  170  from rotating beyond the vertical  170 A. Ultimately, the filtered water exits the skimmer  100  through drain/exit aperture  199  is then pumped back into the basin  121  of the swimming pool  110  through water jets  165  located in the pool sidewalls  120 . Pools may include a series of pumps  190 , valves  192  and  194  and pipes  180 ,  181 ,  182  and  193 . Typically the water jets  165  create a counter-clockwise or clockwise  183  circulation in the basin  121  of the pool  110 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . Pools  110  may contain one or more skimmers  100 , depending on pool size and the year the pool was built. For example, some U.S. municipalities require that municipal pools have one skimmer per 400 square feet of swimming area. 
         [0006]    Usually, the skimmer opening  135  and skimmer weir  170  are located several inches below the top overhang  130  of the pool. (The distance from the pool top overhang  130  to the top of the skimmer opening  135  is labeled as  140 . The distance from the pool top overhang  130  to the top edge  171  of the skimmer weir  170  is labeled as  150 ). Most, if not all, of the debris typically found in the basins  121  of swimming pool  110  is less dense than water and hence is located in the top layer of the water located in the basin  121  of the swimming pool  110 . Thus, for this reason, skimmer manufacturers instruct swimming pool owners to keep the water level in the basin  121  of the pool  110  approximately two-thirds (⅔) of the way up the faceplate  145  (i.e., below the top edge  171  of the skimmer weir  170 ) so that the skimmer  100  filters the top, debris-containing layer of the pool water. Unfortunately, keeping the water at the manufacturer&#39;s recommended level is problematic for several reasons. First, the owner may want to keep the water level in the basin  121  of the pool  110  near the top overhang  130  of the pool  110  for aesthetic effect (i.e., a full pool). Second, if a rainstorm increases the water above the manufacturer&#39;s recommended level, the owner must remove some of the water from the pool  110  via a drain so that the water returns to the recommended level. This creates a time burden on the pool owner unless the drainage is automatic and, in any case, is environmentally unfriendly and costly, as pool water and chemicals in the pool water are wasted when the pool is drained. 
         [0007]    Some devices in the prior art seek to address some of these water loss issues; however these prior art devices are costly and create hazards in the pool. For example, the Ecoskim™ device (Ecoskim Pty Ltd., Australia), which is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,993,515 to Davies, is a swimming pool cleaning device that includes an outer body with an outlet to the pool pump line, a hollow mating member, which floats within the outer body so that its top rim is at the surface of the pool and a litter basket which fits within the floating member. The device further includes an inlet that attaches to a hose, which moves about the swimming pool, and a backing plate that fits over the opening of a swimming pool skimmer and prevents water from entering the skimmer opening. The Ecoskim™ device costs approximately $700 U.S. Dollars and relies on the use of a mobile hose, which poses a hazard to children swimming in the swimming pool. 
         [0008]    Thus, there is a need for cheap and safe devices that improve the operation of swimming pool skimmers. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0009]    The present disclosure provides several systems for increasing the range of a pool skimmer that has a skimmer opening located in a sidewall of a swimming pool. 
         [0010]    One such system includes: 
         [0011]    a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin; 
         [0012]    b) a skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in one of the sidewalls, the skimmer opening in fluid communication with the basin; and 
         [0013]    c) a weir assembly located in the basin and adjacent to the skimmer opening, the weir assembly abutting the one sidewall and comprising a plurality of fastener apertures and a weir located in the basin, the weir configured to move in response to changing water levels in the basin, the weir assembly configured to deliver water from the basin to the skimmer opening. 
         [0014]    Optionally, the weir is configured to move above the skimmer opening so that water located above the skimmer opening can enter the skimmer. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water located in the basin to enter through the vacuum release opening and enter the skimmer opening. 
         [0015]    Optionally, the vacuum release door is located in the weir. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the weir assembly and the vacuum release door is moveable (more particularly pivotable) along the hinge. Optionally, the weir assembly comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the weir assembly. Optionally, the weir assembly has a height of at least about 4 inches and a width of at least about 4 inches, e.g., a height of from about 4 to about 14 inches and a width of from about 4 inches to about 24 inches. 
         [0016]    Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a plate abutting the pool sidewall, the plate comprising the plurality of fastener apertures, the plate preventing water in the basin from entering the skimmer opening without passing over the weir. Optionally, the plate comprises a flat portion abutting the one sidewall. Optionally, the plate further comprises a plate opening located between the weir and the skimmer opening, the plate opening configured to feed water to the skimmer opening, and further wherein the weir at least partially covers the plate opening. Optionally, the weir further comprises a top, the top comprising an opening configured to feed water from the basin to the plate opening. Optionally, the plate opening has a cross-sectional area from about 4 square inches to about 50 square inches (more preferably from about 16 square inches to about 40 square inches). 
         [0017]    Optionally, the system further comprises a plurality of fasteners attaching the weir assembly to the one sidewall. Optionally, the system further comprises a pool pump in fluid communication with the skimmer, the skimmer further comprises a throat and a water exit aperture/drain that feeds water from the skimmer to the pool pump, the throat located between the skimmer opening and the water exit aperture/drain, and the system further comprises an adjustable frame located in the throat, the adjustable frame having an adjustable length and an adjustable height. 
         [0018]    Optionally, the system further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures located in the adjustable frame and a plurality of fasteners attaching the adjustable frame to the weir assembly, each of the plurality of fasteners passing through a fastener aperture located in the weir assembly and a fastener aperture located in the adjustable frame. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a floor located at a bottom of the weir assembly, the floor abutting the one pool sidewall, the floor configured to inhibit water located in the basin from entering the skimmer opening from below the floor. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a motor configured to move the weir in response to changing water levels in the basin. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a track configured to allow the weir to move in response to changing water levels in the basin. Optionally, the system further comprises a power source configured to power the motor. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a top and the top comprises a solar panel configured to power the motor. Optionally, the system further comprises a water level sensor configured to sense the water level in the basin, and a processor connected to the water level sensor and configured to move the weir in response to data concerning the water level in the basin received from the water level sensor. Optionally, the basin is filled with water, and the weir comprises a top and a float located adjacent to the top, the float configured to allow the top of the weir to float in the water. Optionally, the weir is buoyant in water. 
         [0019]    The present invention also provides a method of using a pool skimmer system to increase the range of a pool skimmer, the method comprising: 
         [0020]    a) providing the pool skimmer system; and 
         [0021]    b) flowing water from the basin over the weir (i.e., at least partially over the weir) and into the skimmer opening. 
         [0022]    In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a system that includes at least one track attached to the sidewall and adjacent to the skimmer opening. The track has a track length generally perpendicular to the ground. The first system also includes a weir attached to the track and moveable in a generally vertical position along the track length in response to changing water levels in the pool (more particularly, water levels in the pool basin). The weir preferably is configured to feed water located in the pool (more particularly, in the basin) to the skimmer opening. Preferably, water from the pool flows through a weir recess in the weir and into the skimmer opening. In some embodiments, the weir recess is located in a quarter sphere portion of the weir. Preferably, the system includes two tracks and each track has a track length, a track recess surface extending along the track length, and a sidewall surface configured to face, preferably, abut (and optionally, to attach, directly or indirectly to) the pool sidewall and disposed at about a 90 angle relative to the track recess surface. Optionally, the weir includes a vacuum release opening and a vacuum release door that is configured to move between a closed position in which the door seals the opening and an open position in which the door allows water to enter through the opening. Optionally, the track sidewall surfaces include fastener apertures to attach the track directly or indirectly to the pool sidewall or to the adjustable frame described above. Preferably, the first system includes a weir fastener for immobilizing the skimmer weir (i.e., the weir located inside the skimmer throat). Optionally, the track and weir are comprised of clear plastic. 
         [0023]    Another system generally relates to a deflector that faces, preferably abuts (and optionally is attached, directly or indirectly to), the sidewall and that extends outwards into the pool and above the skimmer opening. The deflector further includes an opening. The opening may be centrally located or may be a side opening that is positioned to capture water circulating in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion (depending on the circulation pattern of water within the pool, more particularly, within the basin). The opening feeds water to the skimmer opening. As with the prior embodiment, preferably the skimmer weir is immobilized by a weir fastener or removed. Preferably, the deflector does not move within the swimming pool other than to slightly deform in response to pressure applied to the deflector. Preferably, the opening spans substantially the entire height of the deflector and at least above the skimmer opening. 
         [0024]    Preferably, the deflector includes fastener apertures and fasteners for attaching the deflector directly or indirectly to the sidewall or to the adjustable frame. Preferably, the deflector is attached to a skimmer faceplate that is attached to the pool sidewall. Preferably, the deflector includes a solid, water impermeable floor, which may abut the sidewall, and a top opening so that water flows through only the side or top openings. Preferably, the deflector extends into the pool (more particularly the pool basin) a distance of about 1 inch to about 18 inches so that the deflector does not interfere with swimmers in the pool and the deflector has a height of at least 8 inches (e.g., about 8 inches to about 20 inches). 
         [0025]    In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system for improving the range of a pool skimmer, the system comprising: 
         [0026]    a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin; 
         [0027]    b) a pool skimmer, the pool skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in one of the sidewalls and a skimmer interior; and 
         [0028]    c) a deflector adjacent to the sidewall comprising the skimmer opening and extending into the basin, the deflector having a rear facing the skimmer opening and comprising a first opening in fluid communication with the skimmer and configured to feed water through the skimmer opening, a front opposite the rear, a left side, a right side, and an interior defined by the front, the rear, and the left and right sides, at least one of the front, the left side and the right side comprising a second opening configured to deliver water from the pool basin to the deflector interior and the first opening, the second opening having a width of at least about 1 inch and a height of at least about 1 inch. 
         [0029]    Optionally, the second opening has a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches and a width of from about 1 inch about 6 inches. Optionally, the second opening extends above the skimmer opening. The second opening may extend above the skimmer opening at least about 1 inch, preferably about 2 to about 6 inches. Optionally, the rear of the deflector is substantially flat. Optionally, the rear of the deflector is attached to a plate comprising a gasket abutting the pool sidewall. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a weir configured to at least partially cover the second opening, the weir configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the pool basin. Optionally, the weir is configured to move above the skimmer opening. Optionally, the weir is configured to move upwards and downwards in an arc. Optionally, the deflector further comprises at least one track adjacent to the second opening and further wherein the weir is configured to move along the track. Optionally, the deflector is generally circular. Optionally, the weir further comprises at least one wheel and the at least one wheel is configured to move along the track. Optionally, the deflector further comprises two tracks located on opposite sides of the second opening, and further wherein the weir further comprises at least two wheels located on opposite sides of the weir and each wheel is configured to move along a track. Optionally, the tracks are curved and each track forms an arc. Optionally, the second opening is on the left side of the deflector, and the deflector further comprises a third opening on the right side of the deflector, the second and third openings each having a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches and a width of from about 1 inch about 6 inches, and the deflector further comprises two tracks adjacent to the second opening and two tracks adjacent to the third opening. Optionally, the weir further comprises at least two wheels located on opposite sides of the weir and each wheel is configured to move along a track adjacent to the second opening, and the deflector further comprises a third weir comprising at least two wheels located on opposite sides of the third weir and each wheel of the third weir is configured to move along a track adjacent to the third opening. Optionally, the weir is buoyant in water. Optionally, the weir comprises a top, a bottom, a tab extending from the top, and a float. Optionally, the float is attached to the tab. Optionally, the float comprises foam. Optionally, the weir comprises a top, a bottom, and a height extending from the top to the bottom, and the weir is curved along its height. Optionally, the weir is configured to move upwards and downwards along an arc in response to changing water levels in the pool basin. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water located in the basin to enter through the vacuum release opening and enter the deflector interior and the first opening. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the deflector and further wherein the vacuum release door is moveable along the hinge. Optionally, the deflector comprises a tab located exterior to the vacuum release door, the tab configured to prevent the vacuum release door from rotating beyond the tab. Optionally, the deflector comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the deflector. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a magnet to bias the vacuum release door in the closed position. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a bypass opening and a bypass door to removably close the bypass opening, the bypass door configured to move between a closed position wherein the bypass door closes the bypass opening and an open position wherein the bypass door allows water located in the basin to enter through the bypass opening and enter the first opening. Optionally, the bypass door is configured to rotate relative to the bypass opening. Optionally, the bypass door is generally circular in shape and is configured to rotate about a pivot point located in a center of the circle. Optionally, the bypass door is configured to move vertically relative to the bypass opening. Optionally, the system comprises a tube extending from the deflector rear and adjacent to the first opening, the tube having a front end attached to the deflector rear, a rear end, a hollow interior in fluid communication with the first opening, and a wall. Optionally, the tube wall comprises threads. Optionally, the system further comprises a nut comprising threads configured to mate with the tube wall threads. Optionally, the system further comprises a frame located inside the skimmer interior, the frame comprising an aperture receiving the tube, further wherein the nut is attached to the tube, and further wherein the frame is located between the nut and the skimmer opening. Optionally, the deflector further comprises at least one fastener configured to removably attach the deflector to the skimmer interior. Optionally, the fastener is a suction cup. Optionally, except for the first opening, at least 95% of the surface area of the skimmer opening is covered. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a substantially water impermeable floor. 
         [0030]    Optionally, the deflector further comprises a top, the top comprising a top aperture. Optionally, the pool skimmer further comprises a skimmer weir located inside the pool skimmer interior and the skimmer weir is immobilized. Optionally, the pool skimmer does not have a skimmer weir in the skimmer interior. 
         [0031]    In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of using a system to increase the range of a pool skimmer that includes 
         [0000]    a) providing the system; and
 
b) flowing water from the basin, through the second opening, through the deflector interior, through the first opening, through the skimmer opening, and into the skimmer interior.
 
         [0032]    In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer system comprising: 
         [0000]    a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin;
 
b) a pool skimmer, the pool skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in a sidewall and a skimmer interior,
 
c) two tracks located in the pool basin; and
 
d) a weir located in the pool basin, the weir configured to move upwards and downwards and regulate water entering the skimmer opening, the weir having opposite sides, each of the opposite sides having at least one wheel attached thereto, each of the wheels received in a track.
 
         [0033]    Optionally, the tracks are curved and the weir is configured to move in an arc upwards and downwards. Optionally, the skimmer interior further comprises a skimmer basket. 
         [0034]    Optionally, the system further comprises a pump in fluid communication with the basin and the skimmer interior. 
         [0035]    In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer comprising: 
         [0000]    a) a skimmer interior,
 
b) a front end comprising a top, a bottom, and a skimmer opening leading to the skimmer interior and comprising a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, a width extending from the skimmer opening left side to the skimmer opening right side of at least about 2 inches and a height extending from the skimmer opening top to the skimmer opening bottom of from about 2 inches to about 16 inches (preferably about 5 inches to about 16 inches);
 
c) a rear end comprising a top comprising a top opening, a lid configured to removably close the top opening, a bottom comprising a bottom opening in fluid communication with the skimmer opening, a well located directly below the top opening, the bottom opening extending into the well, a skimmer basket located in the well and comprising a floor, a sidewall extending from the floor, at least one of the floor and the sidewall comprising a plurality of apertures; and
 
d) a middle portion located between the front end and the rear end and comprising a top, a bottom, and a throat in fluid communication with the skimmer opening and the rear end, wherein the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are within about 1 inch of each other when the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are positioned parallel to the ground.
 
         [0036]    Optionally, the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are within about 0.5 inches of each other when the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are positioned parallel to the ground. 
         [0037]    Optionally, the height of the skimmer opening is from about 8 inches to about 14 inches. Optionally, the width of the skimmer opening is between about 3 and about 6 inches. Optionally, the pool skimmer further includes a weir configured to move upwards and downwards. Optionally, the weir is located adjacent to the skimmer opening (e.g., about 0 to about 6 inches from the skimmer opening). Optionally, the skimmer comprises a left track and a right track and the weir is configured is configured to move along the left and right tracks. Optionally, the weir further comprises at least one left wheel located in the left track and at least one right wheel located in the right track. Optionally, the weir further comprises a float. Optionally, the float comprises foam. Optionally, the weir is hingedly attached to the skimmer and is configured to pivot between a horizontal position in which the weir is parallel to the lid and a vertical position in which the weir is perpendicular to the lid. Optionally, the weir further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water to enter through the vacuum release opening. Optionally the weir further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the weir and further wherein the vacuum release door is moveable along the hinge. Optionally, the weir comprises a tab located exterior to the vacuum release door, the tab configured to prevent the vacuum release door from rotating beyond the tab. Optionally, the weir comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the weir. Optionally, the throat has a length of from about 3 inches to about 12 inches. Optionally, the throat is generally rectangular in shape. 
         [0038]    Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the apparatuses are relatively cheap to manufacture, safe, conserve water and chemical use, and allow for an aesthetically pleasing full pool. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0039]      FIG. 1  illustrates a front, perspective view of a prior art skimmer and pool sidewall. 
           [0040]      FIG. 2  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the prior art skimmer of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 3  illustrates a schematic view of water circulating in a clockwise fashion in a swimming pool with a prior art skimmer. 
           [0042]      FIG. 4  illustrates a front, perspective view of a system of one embodiment of the present invention for increasing the range of a pool skimmer. 
           [0043]      FIG. 5  illustrates a front, exploded view of the system of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0044]      FIG. 6  illustrates a rear, perspective view of the system of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 7  illustrates a side, elevational view of the system of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0046]      FIG. 8  illustrates a front, cut-away view of the system of  FIG. 4  attached to the faceplate of a pool skimmer. 
           [0047]      FIG. 9  illustrates a close-up, front, cut-away view of the system of  FIG. 4  attached to the faceplate of a pool skimmer. 
           [0048]      FIG. 10  illustrates a top view of the system of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0049]      FIG. 11  illustrates a front, perspective view of one embodiment of a deflector of the present invention. 
           [0050]      FIG. 12  illustrates a rear, perspective view of the deflector of  FIG. 11 . 
           [0051]      FIG. 13  illustrates a top, plan view of the deflector of  FIG. 11 . 
           [0052]      FIG. 14  illustrates a side, elevational view of the deflector of  FIG. 11  and a faceplate of a pool skimmer. 
           [0053]      FIG. 15  illustrates a front, perspective view of another embodiment of a deflector of the present invention. 
           [0054]      FIG. 16  illustrates a front, perspective view of another embodiment of a deflector of the present invention abutting a pool sidewall; in this embodiment, the deflector includes a weir. 
           [0055]      FIG. 17  illustrates another front, perspective view of the deflector of  FIG. 16 . 
           [0056]      FIG. 18  illustrates a front, exploded, perspective view of the deflector of  FIG. 16 ;  FIG. 18  shows that the deflector is attached to an adjustable frame located inside the skimmer. 
           [0057]      FIG. 19A  is a front, elevation view of the adjustable frame of  FIG. 18 . 
           [0058]      FIG. 19B  is a front, elevation view of another embodiment of an adjustable frame. 
           [0059]      FIG. 20  is a front elevation view of the adjustable frame of  FIG. 18  inside a skimmer, the deflector is not shown in  FIG. 20  so that the frame is visible. 
           [0060]      FIG. 21  is a front, perspective view of a weir assembly that abuts a pool sidewall; in  FIG. 21 , the weir assembly includes a central plate and two side plates that cover a skimmer with a large opening. 
           [0061]      FIG. 22  is a top, plan view of the weir assembly of  FIG. 21 . 
           [0062]      FIG. 23  is a front, exploded, perspective view of the weir assembly of  FIG. 21 . 
           [0063]      FIG. 24  is a front, perspective view of another embodiment of a weir assembly. 
           [0064]      FIG. 25  is a left side, perspective view of a system of another embodiment of the present invention for increasing the range of a pool skimmer. 
           [0065]      FIG. 26  is a left side, perspective, exploded view of the system of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0066]      FIG. 27  is a front, elevation view of the system of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0067]      FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional view of the system of  FIG. 27 , taken along line  28 - 28  of  FIG. 27 . 
           [0068]      FIG. 29  is a right side, elevation view of the system of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0069]      FIG. 30  is a right side, partially cut-away view of the system of  FIG. 25 ; the skimmer is partially transparent to better illustrate the threaded tube/pipe and nut. 
           [0070]      FIG. 31  is a right side, perspective view of the system of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0071]      FIG. 32  is a right side, cross-sectional view of the system of  FIG. 31 , taken along the line  32 - 32  of  FIG. 31 . 
           [0072]      FIG. 33  illustrates a front, perspective view of a skimmer of one embodiment of the present invention and a pool sidewall. 
           [0073]      FIG. 34  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the skimmer of  FIG. 33 , taken along line  34 - 34  of  FIG. 33 . 
           [0074]      FIG. 35  illustrates a front, perspective view of the skimmer of  FIG. 33 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0075]    The present disclosure provides several systems for increasing the range of a pool skimmer  100 . The first system is designated by the numeral  200 , is illustrated in  FIGS. 4-10 , and generally relates to a weir  230  that moves along one or more tracks  210 . The second system is designated by the numeral  300 , is illustrated in  FIGS. 11-18  and generally relates to a deflector  330 . A third system is designated by the numeral  500 , is illustrated in  FIGS. 21-24  and also generally relates to a weir  530  that moves along one or more tracks  510 . A fourth system, related to the above systems, is shown in  FIGS. 25-32  and also generally relates to a deflector  330  and optionally includes a weir  230 .  FIGS. 19-20  generally relate to attachment mechanisms for the above systems. A fifth system is shown in  FIGS. 33-35  and generally relates to a new design for a skimmer  100 . In the drawings, not all reference numbers are included in each drawing for the sake of clarity. The systems illustrated in  FIGS. 4-32  may be used in conjunction with any suitable pool skimmer, and are preferably used with immobile skimmers that are located in swimming pool, pond, fountain, or spa sidewalls, such as the skimmer  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 . As used herein, the term “pool” means a swimming pool, pond, fountain or spa. Typically, the pool  100  includes a basin (or swimming area)  121 , the perimeter of which is defined by a plurality of sidewalls  120  and the bottom of which is defined by a floor  122 . The floor  122  usually includes a bottom drain  101 , as described above. While, the systems illustrated in  FIGS. 4-35  may be used in spas, it will be appreciated that the systems are preferably used in swimming pools, given that spas generally have a small surface area and are typically covered during rainstorms. While one pool  110  may use two or more different systems, generally, only one type of system will be used with any one skimmer  100 . In other words, a given skimmer  100  will typically be outfitted with only one of the systems. It will be appreciated that the systems may each comprise several embodiments as described herein. 
         [0076]    Referring further to the first system  200 , as shown in  FIGS. 4-10 , the system  200  generally includes one or more tracks  210 , typically two parallel tracks  210 . The track  210  includes a track length  215  and a track recess surface  220 . Preferably, the track  210  has a length  215  of at least about 6 inches (e.g., about 6-24 inches) and a thickness  216  that is substantially equal to the thickness  148  of the faceplate  145  (e.g., about 1-3 inches). The track recess surface  220  includes a track recess  225  extending along the track length  215 . When it is mentioned that the track recess  225  extends along the track length  215 , it is meant that the track recess  225  extends at least partially along the track length  215 . In a preferred embodiment, the track recess  225  extends substantially the entire track length  215 . More preferably, the track recess  225  extends the entire track length  215  so that the weir  230  can be installed from either the top or the bottom of the track  210  and so that the weir  230  can slide out of the bottom of the track  210  if struck in a downward motion as a safety feature. The track  210  further includes a sidewall surface  221  configured to face, preferably abut (and optionally attach (i.e., directly or indirectly to)) the pool sidewall  120 . In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sidewall surface  221  is configured to attach to the sidewall  120  by attaching to a skimmer faceplate  145  that is attached to the sidewall  120 . Preferably, the sidewall surface  221  is disposed at an angle of approximately 90 degrees relative to the track recess surface  220 . Preferably, the sidewall surface  221  includes one or more fastener apertures  222  for attaching the track  210  directly or indirectly to the pool sidewall  120 . Preferably, the fastener apertures  222  are configured to receive a fastener  223  (e.g., bolt, screw, etc.) so that the fastener  223  may attach the track  210  to the skimmer faceplate  145 . In a particular embodiment, the fasteners  223  are a plurality (e.g., four) of pan-head screws that are used to attach two tracks  210  to the skimmer faceplate  145  and the fastener apertures  222  are longer than the diameter of the pan-head screw  223 , as best seen in  FIG. 8 , and counter-sunk for the seats of the pan-head screw  223 , which allows for the proper seating of the screws  223  and gives the flexibility of height adjustment of the track  210 . In some embodiments, the systems described herein include fastener aperture covers (not shown) that fit inside unused fastener apertures so that water and debris does not enter unused fastener apertures. In some embodiments, some or all of the fastener apertures described herein are threaded (e.g., nuts) and configured to receive a threaded rod. 
         [0077]    The first system  200 , as previously noted, is particularly useful in conjunction with the typical skimmer  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 . As previously noted, such skimmers  100  typically include a skimmer opening  135  and a skimmer weir  170  located inside the skimmer  100  (more particularly inside throat  196 ), which pivots between a vertical position (shown in phantom line  170 A in  FIG. 2 ) in which the skimmer weir  170  is generally parallel to the sidewall  120  (and perpendicular to the ground) and prevents large debris from flowing through the skimmer  110  (more precisely, beyond the skimmer weir  170 ) and a horizontal position (shown in phantom line  170 B in  FIG. 2 ) in which the skimmer weir  170  is generally perpendicular to the sidewall  120  (and parallel to the ground) and allows debris to flow through the skimmer  100  until the debris reaches a filter or debris basket  160 . For ease of reference, the skimmer weir  170  of a conventional skimmer  100 , located in the throat  196 , is referred to herein as the “skimmer weir” and the additional weir  230 ,  313  and  530 , located exterior to the skimmer  100  in basin  121  and provided by the systems of  FIGS. 4-32 , is referred to herein as the “additional weir.” However, it will be understood that systems of  FIGS. 4-32  may include only the additional weir, given that skimmer weir  170  may be removed as described below. 
         [0078]    In addition to the optional skimmer weir  170 , the first system  200  further includes an additional weir  230 . The additional weir  230  is configured to be received in the track recess  225  when the track  210  faces, preferably abuts, and (optionally is attached to) the sidewall  120  so that the additional weir  230  may move in a generally vertical direction (relative to the ground) along the track length  215  in response to changing water levels in the pool  110  (more particularly, the basin  121 ). 
         [0079]    Preferably, the forces acting on the additional weir  230  keep at least a portion of the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230  (preferably at least weir recess portion  235  of top edge  231  as described below) at or near the top surface of water in the pool  110  during normal operation so that the additional weir  230  only allows the top, debris-containing layer of water in the pool  110  to enter skimmer the opening  135 . For example, preferably, at least a portion of the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230  is at or near the top surface of water in the pool  110  when the pool  110  (more particularly basin  121 ) is filled with water to the top of skimmer opening  135 . Preferably, a majority of the surface area of the additional weir  230  is submerged in the pool water during normal operation so that the additional weir  230  inhibits non-debris-containing water from entering skimmer opening  135 . Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that such forces will include at least the buoyancy of the additional weir  230 . The forces may also include the suction power of the skimmer  100 . Optionally, the additional weir  230  includes one or more sealed air jackets  240  to increase its buoyancy. Alternatively, the additional weir  230  may be comprised of foam. The system  200  may be comprised of any suitable material, including without limitation, clear plastic (e.g., clear injection molded plastic). Preferably, the track  210  is comprised of a resilient plastic to prevent deformation. 
         [0080]    The track  210  extends at least above, and preferably above and below the skimmer opening  135  so that the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230  has the ability to move at least above (and preferably above and below) the skimmer opening  135  so that the additional weir  230  increases the range of the skimmer  100 . 
         [0081]    As shown in  FIGS. 4-10 , unlike U.S. Pat. No. 7,993,515 to Davies, preferably the first system  200  does not block all water from entering the skimmer opening  135 . 
         [0082]    The first system  200  generally eliminates the need for the skimmer weir  170  as the additional weir  230  is responsible for skimming the top, debris-containing layer of the water in the pool  110 . Preferably, the first system  200  further includes a weir fastener  250  (e.g., a clip with two prongs) removably attached to the skimmer weir  170  for immobilizing the skimmer weir  170  at an angle other than 90 degrees relative to the ground (i.e., at a position other than the vertical position  170 A). Preferably, the weir fastener  250  has a bottom portion  251  that contacts the top edge  171  of the skimmer weir  170  and a top portion  252  that contacts the top wall  197  of the throat  196  of the skimmer  100 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . In another embodiment, the skimmer weir  170  is removed so that it does not interfere with skimming by first system  200 . 
         [0083]    A particular shape of the additional weir  230  will now be described. However, it will be understood that the shape described is merely exemplary and that the additional weir  230  may have any suitable shape. Preferably, as shown in  FIGS. 4-10 , the additional weir  230  curves away from the pool sidewall  120  so that water may be stored (if even for a very short time) between the rear  232  of the additional weir  230  and the skimmer opening  135 . Preferably, the additional weir  230  extends between about 1-12 inches into the pool  110  (more particularly, basin  121 ) so that the additional weir  230  does not interfere with swimmers. In a particular embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 4-10 , the additional weir  230  comprises a quarter sphere portion  233  generally in the shape of a quarter of a sphere, and the quarter sphere portion  233  has a generally flat open top  234 . Preferably, the diameter  237  of the quarter sphere is generally parallel to the ground, it being understood that a quarter sphere has one diameter. Preferably, the additional weir  230  further includes a weir recess  235  located in the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230 . The weir recess  235  may be located adjacent to the lengthwise center  239  of the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230 . In such an embodiment, the weir recess  235  is the entry point of water entering beyond the additional weir  230  (and ultimately into the skimmer opening  135 ). Preferably, the weir recess  235  is not parallel to the pool sidewall  120  so that the weir recess  235  is optimized to capture the clockwise  183  or counter-clockwise circulation of the pool water. 
         [0084]    In some embodiments, the additional weir  230  further includes a vacuum release door opening  260  and a vacuum release door  261 . The vacuum release door  261  is configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door  261  closes (more preferably seals) the opening  260  and an open position wherein the vacuum release door  261  allows water to enter through the vacuum release opening  260 . Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that a purpose of the vacuum release door  261 , which is ordinarily in the closed position, is that if a child were to push the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230  above the water level in the pool  110  (more particularly basin  121 ), a vacuum may be created between the additional weir  230  and the pool sidewall  120  due to suction of the additional weir  230  to the pool sidewall  120  caused by skimmer  100 . In addition, when the top edge  231  of the additional weir  230  is pushed above the water level in the pool  110  by the child, the water behind the additional weir  230  (i.e., between additional weir  230  and skimmer  100 ) will be drained into skimmer opening  135  without being replenished, causing water in the pool  110  to exert pressure on the additional weir  230  without a counter-acting force from water behind the additional weir  230  (because the water behind the additional weir  230  is drained). To alleviate such issues, these forces cause the door  261  to move to the open position, allowing water to enter and destroying the vacuum, thereby releasing the additional weir  230  from the sidewall  120  and relieving water pressure exerted on the additional weir  230 . 
         [0085]    The vacuum release opening  260  and door  261  are generally the same shape and may be any suitable shape, such as generally circular or rectangular. Preferably, the vacuum release door  261  and opening  260  are located in the lower half of the additional weir  230  so that the door  261  and opening  260  still will be submerged when a child pushes the additional weir  230  upwards, given that a purpose of the door  261  and opening  260  is to allow water to pass through the opening  260  when a child pushes the additional weir  230  upwards. The vacuum release door  261  may use any suitable mechanism to bias the door  261  in the closed position, such as a spring  262  or magnet. If a spring  262  is used, the first system  200  may further include a nylon or plastic bolt  264  that passes through an aperture  267  in the additional weir  230 . The aperture  267  is slightly smaller than the shaft of the bolt  264 , which when pressed into position becomes rigid and tight and non-moveable. The vacuum release door  261  then slides onto the bolt  264  from the rear side. The forward end  263  of the spring  262  rests against the door  261  and the rear end  266  of the spring  262  rests against a washer  265 . A nylon or plastic nut  268  is placed to the rear of the washer  265  so that the washer  265  cannot move rearwardly (i.e., towards the sidewall  120 ) and the spring  262  applies a force to bias the door  261  in a closed position. In another embodiment, a magnet attached to the door  261  or additional weir  230  is used to bias the door  261  in a closed position. If a magnet is used, the door  261  may be hinged to the additional weir  230 . 
         [0086]    Optionally, the first system  200  is provided as a kit. 
         [0087]    The first system  200  may be installed by any suitable process. Optionally, the process includes: 
         [0088]    a) removing skimmer faceplate fasteners  146 ; 
         [0089]    b) placing two tracks  210  on the left and right sides of the skimmer opening  135  so that the track sidewall surfaces abut the faceplate  145 , the track lengths  215  are perpendicular to the ground, the track recess surfaces  220  of each track  210  face each other, and the faceplate fastener apertures  147  arc aligned with the track fastener apertures  222 ; 
         [0090]    c) inserting the track fasteners  223  through the faceplate fastener apertures  147  and the track fastener apertures  222  so that track  210  is secured to faceplate  145  and the sidewall  120 ; and 
         [0091]    d) positioning the additional weir  230  in the track recesses  225  so that additional weir  230  is moveable along track lengths  215 . 
         [0092]    Steps a) through d) may be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously. Preferably, the track fasteners  223  are slightly longer than the fasteners  146  that are conventionally used to attach the faceplate  145  to the pool sidewall  120 , given that the track fasteners  223  must pass through an additional material, namely the tracks  210 . The process may include additional steps, such as removing the skimmer weir  170  or providing a weir fastener  250  and immobilizing the skimmer weir  170  with the weir fastener  250 . 
         [0093]    The second system is generally designated by the numeral  300 , is illustrated in  FIGS. 11-18 , and generally relates to a deflector  330  that is external to the skimmer  100 . In some embodiments, as illustrated in  FIGS. 11-15 , the deflector  330  is attached, directly or indirectly, to the sidewall  120  and extends outwards into the pool  110  and above the skimmer opening  135 . The deflector  330  further includes an opening  320 . The opening  320  may be positioned at or adjacent to the widthwise center of deflector  330 , as shown in  FIG. 15 , or alternatively may be positioned at the left or right side of the deflector  330 , as shown in  FIGS. 11-14 and 16-18 , so that it is positioned to capture water circulating in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion (depending on the circulation pattern in the pool  110 , more particularly, basin  121 ). The opening  320  feeds water to the skimmer opening  135  and may be adjacent to the sidewall  120 , as shown in  FIGS. 11-14 . The deflector opening  320  may be any suitable shape, including generally oval-shaped and rectangular. Optionally, the opening  320  is adjacent to the deflector apex  390 , which is the furthest point that the deflector  330  extends outward from the sidewall  120 , as shown in  FIG. 15 . Preferably, the deflector  330  extends outward from the sidewall  120  a distance of about 1 inch to about 18 inches so that the deflector  330  does not interfere with swimmers. 
         [0094]    As with the prior embodiment, preferably the skimmer weir  170  is immobilized by a weir fastener  250  or the skimmer weir  170  is removed in the second system  300 . In some embodiments, the deflector  330  does not move within the pool  110  other than to slightly deform in response to pressure applied to the deflector  330 . Preferably, the deflector  330  is comprised of rubber. Preferably, the opening  320  spans substantially the entire height  335  of the deflector  300 , as shown in  FIGS. 11-18 , and at least above the skimmer opening  135 . Preferably, the deflector  330  includes fastener apertures  310  located on flat portions  316  on opposite sides (i.e., the left and right sides) of the deflector  330  and the second system  300  further includes fasteners  315  for attaching the deflector  330  directly or indirectly to the sidewall  120 . Preferably, the flat portions  316  have a width  317  at least equal to the thickness  148  of the faceplate  145 . For example, the flat portions may have a width  317  of at least 0.5 inches and preferably 1-5 inches so the flat portions  316  lay flat on skimmer faceplate  145 . Preferably, the deflector  330  includes a solid, water impermeable floor  340 , which abuts the sidewall  120  below the skimmer opening  135 , and a top opening  350  so that water flows through only the side or top openings  320  and  350 —and not from the floor  340 . Preferably, the deflector  330  includes a curved portion  360  that extends outward from the sidewall  120 . Preferably, the deflector  330  has a height of at least 8 inches (e.g., about 8 inches to about 20 inches). 
         [0095]    Optionally, the deflector  330  includes a left flap  370  and a right flap  380  and the opening  320  is located between the left and right flaps  370  and  380 , as shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         [0096]    It will be appreciated the second system  300 , like the first system  200  increases the range of a pool skimmer  100  and preferably does not block all water from entering the skimmer opening  135 , unlike U.S. Pat. No. 7,993,515 to Davies. Rather, the deflector  330  (more particularly openings  320  and  350 ) feeds water to the skimmer opening  135 . 
         [0097]    However, unlike the first system  200 , which feeds only the top, debris-containing layer to skimmer opening  135 , the second system  300 , as described above, is less selective and generally feeds any water that is able to enter through the openings  320  and  350  to the skimmer opening  135 . To alleviate this, as seen in  FIGS. 16-18 , the deflector  330  may further include an additional weir  313  that moves vertically in response to changing water levels in the basin  121  and the additional weir  313  at least partially covers the opening  320  so that the deflector  330  is selective in this embodiment and only feeds the top, debris-containing layer of water to the skimmer opening  135 . In some embodiments, the additional weir  313  travels along tracks  314  located on opposites sides of the opening  320  and optionally the system  300  further includes a motor  325  for moving the additional weir  313  along the tracks  314  and a power source  326  (e.g., battery and/or solar panels) for powering the motor  325 . In some embodiments, the opening  320  has a median width of at least about 1 inch (e.g., about 1 to about 6 inches), more preferably at least about 3 inches (e.g., about 3 to about 6 inches) and a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches (more preferably about 7 inches to about 12 inches). Preferably, the size of the opening  320  is relatively narrow to take advantage of the Bernoulli principle but is still large enough to allow debris to flow through. In some embodiments, as illustrated in  FIGS. 16-18 , the additional weir  313  may be a single piece of plastic that moves like a reverse garage door to close opening  320  (i.e., unlike a typical garage door which moves laterally at the top, the additional weir  313  may move laterally along the floor  340 , as best seen in  FIG. 17 ). In other embodiments, the additional weir  313  may be comprised of a series of panels that, for example, fold onto each other at the bottom of opening  320  like an accordion. 
         [0098]    In some embodiments, the deflector  330  includes a vacuum release door  311  and vacuum release opening  312  having the same features as described above for the first system  200  (e.g., spring or magnet-operated system). Optionally, if the second system  300  includes an additional weir  313 , the vacuum release door  311  and vacuum release opening  312  may be located on the additional weir  313 , as shown in  FIGS. 16-18 . 
         [0099]    Optionally, to increase the suction power of the second system  300 , the deflector  330  includes a narrow channel behind deflector  330  and in front of skimmer opening  135  that has a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of the opening  320 . For example, in some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the channel is from about 4 square inches to about 36 square inches at its narrowest point, more preferably from about 4 square inches to about 20 square inches. This allows the narrow channel to take advantage of the Bernoulli principle, which holds that velocity of water increases when water flows through a narrow constriction. It has been observed in the inventor&#39;s experimentation with similar systems that it is advantageous to locate a narrow constriction further into the pool basin  121  (i.e., further from sidewall  120 ) because doing so allows the suction power created by the constriction to extend further into the basin  121  (and thereby potentially increase the skimming radius of the skimmer  100 ). In other words, the suction force decreases as the distance from the constriction increases. In such embodiments, preferably the top of deflector  330  is closed (i.e., lacks top opening  350 ) and water enters through the opening  320 , into narrow channel and then into skimmer opening  135 . Optionally, the cross-sectional area of the openings  320  and channel may decrease gradually like a funnel to aid the flow of water and debris therethrough. In other embodiments, as opposed to a weir  313  that moves vertically, the opening  320  has a door (not shown) that can be moved by a user laterally over the opening  320  to partially close the opening  320  and reduce the size of opening  320 , and thereby take advantage of the Bernoulli principle. 
         [0100]    In some embodiments, as opposed to being attached to the pool sidewall  120 , the first and second systems  200  and  300  are attached to the skimmer  100  via an adjustable frame  400 , as shown in  FIGS. 16-18 . The adjustable frame  400  has an adjustable width and adjustable height to accommodate skimmer throats  196  of different sizes, and is generally positioned where skimmer weir  170  is typically positioned (e.g., behind downwardly extending flange  198  if the flange is present). Preferably, the skimmer  100  includes left and right flanges to the left and right sides of the skimmer weir  170  when the skimmer weir  170  is in vertical position  170 A, which provides an additional contact area for adjustable frame  400 . An example of such a skimmer is the Hayward SP1084 (Hayward Industries, Elizabeth, N.J.). In this embodiment, skimmer weir  170  is typically removed. In some embodiments the adjustable frame was a width of between about 4 to about 14 inches and a height of between about 2 and about 12 inches. The adjustable frame  400  is particularly useful for concrete and gunite pools, which unlike vinyl pools, typically lack a faceplate  145  and would require a significant amount of time to drill a fastener aperture into the sidewall  120 . Thus, instead of the fasteners  223 ,  315  and  520  anchoring the tracks  210 , deflector  330  and plate  531  (described below) by attaching to the sidewall  120 , the fasteners  223 ,  315  and  520  instead anchor the tracks  210 , deflector  330  and plate  520  by anchoring to the adjustable frame  400 . More particularly, the fasteners  223 ,  315  and  520  pass through apertures  222 ,  310 , and  521  as well as through fastener apertures  402  in the adjustable frame. Again, the adjustable frame apertures  402  may be slotted to allow a user to adjust the system and unused portions of the apertures  402  may be covered so that debris and water does not get trapped in the unused apertures  402 . In this embodiment, the adjustable frame  400  is typically prevented from moving forwardly within throat  196  due to the fact skimmers  100  typically have downwardly extending flanges  198  or other narrowings to prevent the skimmer weir  170  from over-rotating beyond the vertical position  170 A. And the adjustable frame  400  is typically prevented from moving rearwardly within throat  196  due to the fact that tracks  210 , deflector  330  and plate  531  abut the sidewall  120 . The adjustable frame  400  may be generally rectangular, include four sides  401  and may include adjustment knobs  403  on each side  401  to allow a user to adjust the frame&#39;s height and width, as shown in  FIGS. 18-21 . In some embodiments, the adjustment knobs (e.g., nuts)  403  may themselves move along threaded rod  408  and the knobs  403  may push against corner pieces  404 ,  405 ,  411  and  412  and cause the distance between the pieces  404 ,  405 ,  411  and  412  to increase or decrease (thereby increasing or decreasing the width or height of frame  400 ). In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 19B , each side  401  of the adjustable frame  400  includes a knob  403  having one end  413  attached to a right hand screw  408  and the other end  414  attached to a left hand screw  409  and each screw  408  and  409  is received in a threaded aperture  406  of a corner piece  404 ,  405 ,  411  and  412  so that rotation of the knob  403  in one direction (e.g., clockwise) rotates the right hand and left hand screws  408  and  409  further into both corner pieces of the side (and hence decreases the width of the frame  400 ) and rotation of the knob  403  in another direction (e.g. counterclockwise) rotates the right hand and left hand screws  408  and  409  out of the corner pieces of the side (and hence increases the width of the frame  400 ). 
         [0101]    Optionally, the second system  300  is provided as a kit. 
         [0102]    The second system  300  may be installed by any suitable process. Optionally, the process includes: 
         [0103]    a) removing skimmer the faceplate fasteners  146 ; 
         [0104]    b) positioning the flat portions  316  so they abut the faceplate  145  and the faceplate fastener apertures  147  are aligned with the deflector fastener apertures  310 ; and 
         [0105]    c) inserting the deflector fasteners  315  through the faceplate fastener apertures  147  and the deflector fastener apertures  310  so that deflector  330  is secured to the faceplate  145  and sidewall  120 . 
         [0106]    In other embodiments, the process includes: 
         [0107]    a) removing skimmer weir  170 ; 
         [0108]    b) positioning the adjustable frame  400  into the throat  196  and adjusting the frame&#39;s height and width so that the adjustable frame  400  cannot move forwardly within the throat  196  (i.e., towards sidewall  120  by, for example, placing the adjustable frame  400  in the same location vacated by the skimmer weir  170 ); 
         [0109]    c) positioning the deflector  330  so that the deflector rear faces, preferably abuts, the sidewall  120  and the deflector fastener apertures  310  are aligned with the expandable frame apertures  402 ; and 
         [0110]    d) inserting the deflector fasteners  315  through the deflector fastener apertures  310  and the frame apertures  402  so that deflector  330  is secured to the frame  400 . 
         [0111]    The above steps may be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously, and may include additional steps (e.g., the first method may also include removing the skimmer weir  170  or providing a weir fastener  250  and immobilizing the first weir  170  with the weir fastener  250 .). Preferably, in the first method, the deflector fasteners  315  are slightly longer than the fasteners  146  that are conventionally used to attach the faceplate  145  to the pool sidewall  120 , given that the deflector fasteners  315  must pass through an additional material, namely the deflector  330 . Preferably, for the second method, the deflector fasteners  315  have a length of from about 6 to about 18 inches. 
         [0112]    The present disclosure also provides a third system  500  that is similar in design and function as the first system  200 . In some embodiments, the third system  500  includes: 
         [0113]    a) a swimming pool  110  comprising a basin  121  configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls  120  defining a perimeter of the basin  121 ; 
         [0114]    b) a skimmer  100  comprising a skimmer opening  135  located in one of the sidewalls  120 , the skimmer opening  135  in fluid communication with the basin  121 ; and 
         [0115]    c) a weir assembly  532  located in the basin  121  and adjacent to the skimmer opening  135 , the weir assembly  532  abutting the one sidewall  120  and comprising a plurality of fastener apertures  521  and an additional weir  530  located in the basin  121 , the additional weir  530  configured to move in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 , the weir assembly  532  configured to deliver water from the basin  121  to the skimmer opening  135 . 
         [0116]    Optionally, the additional weir  530  is configured to move above the skimmer opening  135  so that water located above the skimmer opening  135  can enter the skimmer  100 . Optionally, the weir assembly  532  further comprises a vacuum release door  533  and a vacuum release opening  534 , the vacuum release door  533  configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door  533  closes the vacuum release opening  534  and an open position wherein the vacuum release door  533  allows water located in the basin  121  to enter through the vacuum release opening  534  and enter the skimmer opening  135 . (Again, the vacuum release door and opening  533  and  534  may have the same components as described with the first system  200 ). Preferably, the vacuum release door and opening  533  and  534  are external to the skimmer  100  (i.e., located in basin  121 ) and optionally, the vacuum release door  533  is located in the weir  530 . Optionally, the weir assembly  532  further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door  533  to the weir assembly  532  and the vacuum release door  533  is moveable (more particularly, pivotable) along the hinge. Optionally, the weir assembly  532  comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening  534  is located in the bottom half of the weir assembly  532 . Optionally, the weir assembly  532  has a height of at least about 4 inches and a width of at least about 4 inches, e.g., a height of from about 4 to about 14 inches and a width of from about 4 inches to about 24 inches. 
         [0117]    Optionally, the weir assembly  532  further comprises a plate  531  abutting the pool sidewall  120  (e.g. directly abutting the sidewall  120  or abutting faceplate  145  attached to the sidewall  120 ), the plate  531  comprising the plurality of fastener apertures  521 , the plate  531  preventing water in the basin  121  from entering the skimmer opening  135  without passing over the weir  530 . Optionally, the plate  531  comprises a flat, rear portion abutting the one sidewall  120 . Optionally, as shown in  FIGS. 21-24 , the weir assembly  530  includes a central plate, a left plate and a right plate if the skimmer opening  135  is large, as is the case with skimmers such as the Hayward SP1091 widemouth (Hayward Industries, Elizabeth N.J.), whose opening is 11 and ⅝ inches wide. In other embodiments, e.g., with skimmers  100  such as the Hayward SP1084 (whose opening is 7⅝ inches wide), the skimmer opening  135  is relatively small and only a central plate is needed. Optionally, the plate  531  further comprises a plate opening  535  located between the weir  530  and the skimmer opening  135 , the plate opening  535  configured to feed water to the skimmer opening  135 , and the weir  530  at least partially covers the plate opening  535 . Optionally, the weir  530  further comprises a top  536 , the top  536  comprising an opening  537  configured to feed water from the basin  121  to the plate opening  535 . Optionally, the top opening leads to a narrow channel whose cross-sectional area decreases gradually like a funnel to aid the flow of water and debris therethrough and increase the suction power of the system  500  through the Bernoulli principle described above. Optionally, the top opening  537  has a width of, for example, from about 1 to about 6. Optionally, instead of feeding water directly to the skimmer opening  135 , the system  500  includes a pipe/tube  722  system, similar to that described below and illustrated in  FIGS. 26, 30 and 32  and the pipe  722  has a first end attached to the plate  531  (adjacent to, preferably surrounding, the plate opening  535  and in fluid communication with the plate opening  535 ) and a second end located in the throat  196 . 
         [0118]    Optionally, the system  500  further comprises a plurality of fasteners  520  attaching the weir assembly  532  (more particularly, the plate  531 ) to the one sidewall  120 . Optionally, the system  500  further comprises a pool pump  190  in fluid communication with the skimmer  100 , the skimmer  100  further comprises a throat  196  and a water exit aperture/drain  199  located below basket  160  that feeds water from the skimmer  100  to the pool pump  190 , the throat  196  located between the skimmer opening  135  and the water exit aperture/drain  199 , and the system  500  further comprises an adjustable frame  400  located in the throat  196 , as described above. 
         [0119]    Optionally, the system  500  further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  402  located in the adjustable frame  400  and a plurality of fasteners  520  attaching the adjustable frame  400  to the weir assembly  532 , each of the plurality of fasteners  520  passing through a fastener aperture  521  located in the weir assembly  532  and a fastener aperture  402  located in the adjustable frame  400 . Optionally, the weir assembly  532  further comprises a floor  539  located at a bottom of the weir assembly  532 , the floor  539  abutting the one pool sidewall  120 , the floor  539  configured to inhibit water located in the basin  121  from entering the skimmer opening  135  from below the floor  539 . Optionally, the weir assembly  532  further comprises a motor  540  configured to move the weir  530  in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 . Optionally, the weir assembly  132  further comprises a track  510  (e.g., one or more tracks) configured to allow the weir  530  to move in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 . The track(s)  510  may be generally perpendicular to the ground, in which case, the weir  530  moves vertically up and down, as shown in  FIG. 24 . Alternatively, the track  510  may be circular, semi-circular or U-shaped, as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 23 , in which case the weir  530  rotates around the circular, semi-circular or U-shaped track  510 . Optionally, the system  500  further comprises a power source  542  (e.g., batteries and/or solar panels) configured to power the motor  540 . Optionally, the top  536  of the weir assembly  532  comprises a solar panel configured to power the motor  540 . Optionally, the system  500  further comprises a water level sensor  543  configured to sense the water level in the basin  121 , and a processor  544  connected to the water level sensor  543  and configured to move the weir  530  in response to data concerning the water level in the basin  121  received from the water level sensor  543 . Optionally, the basin  121  is filled with water, and the weir  530  comprises a top  536  and a float  551  located adjacent to the top  536 , the float  551  configured to allow the top  536  of the weir  532  to float in the water. Optionally, the weir  532  is buoyant in water. 
         [0120]    The Embodiments of  FIGS. 25-32   
         [0121]      FIGS. 25-32  illustrate another embodiment of a system for increasing the range of a pool skimmer. As will be appreciated, the system of  FIGS. 25-32  is similar in both design and function to the system of  FIGS. 16-20 . 
         [0122]    Referring further to  FIGS. 25-32 , the system includes 
         [0123]    a) a swimming pool  110  comprising a basin  121  configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls  120  defining a perimeter of the basin  121 ; 
         [0124]    b) a pool skimmer  100 , the pool skimmer  100  comprising a skimmer opening  135  located in one of the sidewalls  120  and a skimmer interior  700 ; and 
         [0125]    c) a deflector  330  adjacent to the sidewall  120  comprising the skimmer opening  135  (preferably directly in front of the skimmer opening  135 ) and extending into the basin  121 , the deflector  330  having a rear  701  facing the skimmer opening  135  and comprising a first opening  706  in fluid communication with the skimmer  100  and configured to feed water through the skimmer opening  135 , a front  702  opposite the rear  701 , a left side  703 , a right side  704 , and an interior  705  defined by the front  702 , the rear  701 , and the left and right sides  703  and  704 , at least one of the front  702 , the left side and the right side  703  and  704  comprising a second opening  320  configured to deliver water from the pool basin  121  to the deflector interior  705  and the first opening  706 , the second opening  320  having a median width  707  of at least about 1 inch and a height  708  of at least about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the deflector rear  701  is open (like the deflector rear of  FIG. 12 ). In other embodiments, the deflector rear  701  is closed, except for the first opening  706  (as shown in  FIGS. 25-32 ). In  FIGS. 25-32  (like  FIGS. 16-24 ), the pool sidewall  120  is shown as transparent for ease of viewing the components of the system. Optionally, the deflector  330  extends into the basin  121  from about 1 inch to about 18 inches, more preferably from about 1 inch to about 12 inches, even more preferably from about 1 inch to about 6 inches so that the deflector  330  does not interfere with swimmers. In other words, preferably, the deflector front  702  is located no more than about 18 inches, preferably no more than about 12 inches and even more preferably no more than about 6 inches from the sidewall  120 . 
         [0126]    Preferably, the first opening  706  is configured to deliver water through the skimmer opening  135  by feeding water through a tube/pipe  722  as best seen in  FIGS. 29-32 . The tube/pipe  722  preferably extends from the deflector rear  701  and is adjacent to the first opening  706 . The tube/pipe  722  optionally is generally cylindrical in shape, has an open front end  723  (which preferably surrounds first opening  706 ), an open back end  724 , a hollow interior  725  in fluid communication with the first opening  706 , a wall  726  forming the outside of the pipe/tube  722 , an outer diameter of from about 1 inch to about 5 inches (more preferably about 2.5 inches to about 4 inches), a length extending from the front end  723  to the back end  724  of from about 1 inch to about 14 inches (more preferably about 2 inches to about 8 inches). Optionally, the tube/pipe  722  is threaded with threads  727  so that it can receive a nut  729  (as explained below). Optionally, an additional tube/pipe (not shown) is configured to attach to the back end  724  of the tube/pipe  722  for skimmers  100  having a longer throat  196 . For example, some skimmer throat  196  can be as short as few inches and others can be over 6 inches in length. The front and back end  723  and  724  of the tube/pipe  722  are both open so that the tube/pipe  722  delivers water and debris from the deflector interior  705  into the throat  196  and ultimately through the basket  160  and pump  190 . The first opening  706  can have any suitable size, and optionally, has the same height and width as the tube/pipe  722  (e.g., from about 1 inch to about 5 inches). Preferably, the surface area of the first opening  706  is at least 3.14 square inches (the same surface area of a 2 inch diameter pipe) so that sufficient water flows to the pool pump  190  (which is in fluid communication with the first opening  706 ) so the pump  190  does not draw air. 
         [0127]    Optionally, the second opening  320  has a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches (more preferably about 7 inches to about 12 inches) and a median width of from about 1 inch to about 6 inches. Optionally, the second opening  320  extends above the skimmer opening  135 . The second opening  320  may extend above the skimmer opening  135  at least about 1 inch, preferably about 2 to about 6 inches. Optionally, the rear  701  of the deflector  330  is substantially flat. Optionally, the rear  701  of the deflector  330  is attached to a plate  709  comprising an aperture  733  for receiving the pipe/tube  722  and a gasket  710  abutting the one sidewall  120  so that the plate  709  creates a seal so that water must enter through the second opening  320  (instead of entering directly through the skimmer opening  135 ). Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises an additional weir  230  configured to at least partially cover the second opening  320 , the additional weir  230  configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the pool basin  121 . Optionally, the additional weir  230  is configured to move above the skimmer opening  135 . Optionally, the additional weir  230  is configured to move upwards and downwards in an arc in response to changing water levels in the pool basin  121 . Optionally, the arc is circular, elliptical, ovoidal in shape and/or forms part of an circle, ellipse or oval. Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises at least one track  210  adjacent to the second opening  320  and the additional weir  230  is configured to move along the track  210 . Optionally, the deflector  330  is generally circular. Optionally, the additional weir  230  further comprises at least one wheel  627 / 628  and the at least one wheel  627 / 628  is configured to move along the track  210 . Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises two tracks  210  (e.g., a front track  210 A and a rear track  210 B) located on opposite sides of the second opening  320 , and the additional weir  230  further comprises at least two wheels  627 / 628  (e.g., two to six wheels  627 / 628 ) distributed on opposite sides of the additional weir  230  (e.g., the front and rear sides) and each wheel  627 / 628  is configured to move along a track  210 , as best seen in  FIG. 28 . It has been observed that the movement of the additional weir  230  performs much better with the wheels  627 / 628  than without the wheels, due to reduced friction. Preferably, the wheels  627 / 628  are bearings. If included the bearings may include a plurality of balls (e.g., stainless steel or glass) located around a track that is made of a different material. Such bearings are known in the art and include the replacement C60 bearings for the POLARIS  280  robotic pool cleaner (available from Zodiac Marine &amp; Pool, Vista Calif.) as well as KMS Bearings, Anaheim Calif. Optionally, the tracks  210  are curved and each track  210  forms an arc, as best seen in  FIGS. 28 and 32 , so that the additional weir  230  moves upwardly and downwardly along an are in response to changing water levels in the pool basin  121 . In some embodiments, the second opening  320  is on the left side  703  of the deflector  330 , and the deflector  330  further comprises a third opening (not shown) on the right side  704  of the deflector  330 , the second  320  and third openings each have a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches and a median width of from about 1 inch about 6 inches, and the deflector  330  further comprises two tracks  210  adjacent to the second opening  320  and two tracks (not shown) adjacent to the third opening. This embodiment, though not shown, provides two options: first, the left and right side  703  and  704  can each have an additional weir  230 , which allows water to enter the deflector interior  705  through the second  320  and third openings, simultaneously); alternatively, the embodiment may include only one additional weir  230 , and only one of the second  320  and third openings is exposed at a time, in which case, the weir  230  moves along the tracks  210  adjacent to the exposed opening and the opening on the other side is blocked by a moveable plate or piece of foam that covers this opening. The alternative approach is preferable in some respects, as it allows a user to choose to have water enter through either the left side  703  or right side  704  of the deflector  330  (i.e., the second  320  or third opening), depending on the water circulation in the user&#39;s pool  110 . Preferably, the additional weir  230  is buoyant in water (meaning that the additional weir  230  does not fully sink in water) so that the additional weir  230  adjusts to changing water levels in the pool basin  121 . Optionally, the additional weir  230  comprises a top  231 , a bottom  712 , a tab  713  extending from the top  231 , and a float  714 . Optionally, the float  714  is attached to the tab  713 . Optionally, the float  714  comprises foam. It has been observed that good results are achieved (in terms of the additional weir  230  moving in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 ) when the float  714  is attached to the tab  713 , the tab  713  is immobile and the tab  713  is approximately perpendicular (e.g, about 60 to 90 degrees) to the water surface as the additional weir  230  moves around the tracks  210  so that the tab  713  floats like a boat. In such case, water flowing through the second opening  320  pushes the additional weir  230  downward so that the tab  713  is located about 2 inches underwater and only the top layer (2 inches) of pool basin  121  water enters through the second opening  320  when the pump  190  is turned on. In such embodiments, when the pump  190  is turned off, the additional weir  230  moves upwardly to inhibit the debris-containing water in the skimmer  100  from flowing through the second opening  320  when the pump  190  is turned off. As with the prior embodiments, the purpose of the additional weir  230  is that most of the debris in the pool basin  121  water is located on or just slightly below the surface (e.g., within about 2 inches of the surface), and thus, the additional weir  230  allows this top layer of water to enter the second opening  320  so that it can reach the pump  190  and filtration system and the sub-surface water is blocked by the additional weir  230 . In other embodiments, instead of relying on a floatation system to move the additional weir  230 , the system of  FIGS. 25-32  includes a water level sensor  543 , a power source  542 , a processor  544  and a motor  540  to move the second weir  230  in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 , as described with respect to system  500 . 
         [0128]    Optionally, the additional weir  230  is curved along its height/length  708 , as shown in  FIGS. 25-26, 28 and 32 . In some embodiments, instead of using a track  210 , the deflector  330  further comprises a hub (not shown) and a spoke (not shown), the spoke having a first end attached to the hub and a second end attached to the additional weir  230 , and the hub is configured to rotate about a pivot point (which is preferably centrally located on the front  702  or rear  701  of the deflector  330 ) so that the attached additional weir  230  similarly rotates about the pivot point (like a ferris wheel), which is an alternate way to allow the additional weir  230  to move upwardly and downwardly along an arc in response to changing water levels in the basin  121  that, as with the embodiment above, minimizes friction. Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises a vacuum release door  261  and a vacuum release opening  260  similar to that illustrated in  FIGS. 4-7, 9-10, 16, 17, and 24 . Like these prior embodiments, the vacuum release door  261  is configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door  261  closes the vacuum release opening  260  (e.g., at least partially covers/closes the vacuum release opening  260 ) and an open position wherein the vacuum release door  261  allows water located in the basin  121  to enter through the vacuum release opening  260  and enter the deflector interior  705  and the first opening  706 . As with the prior embodiments, it has been observed that, in the event that the additional weir  230  is intentionally pulled above the top of the water located in the basin  121  (e.g., by a mischievous child), the vacuum release door  261  opens and allows water located in the basin  121  to bypass the second opening  320 , which is now covered by the intentionally raised additional weir  230 , so that the pump  190  does not draw air. It has also been observed that the vacuum release door  261  equalizes the water pressure pressing on the deflector  330  from the deflector interior  705  and the pool basin  121  so that the additional weir  230  falls naturally to just below the top of the water located in the basin  121  when the person stops pulling the additional weir  230  upwards. Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises a hinge  624  attaching the vacuum release door  261  to the deflector  330  and the vacuum release door  261  is moveable along the hinge  624 . Optionally, the deflector comprises a tab  625  located exterior to the vacuum release door  621 , the tab  625  configured to prevent the vacuum release door  261  from rotating beyond the tab  625  so that the vacuum release door  261  does not rotate beyond the vertical. Optionally, the deflector  330  comprises a top half  626  and a bottom half  650  and the vacuum release opening  260  is located in the bottom half  650  of the deflector  330 , which allows the vacuum release opening  260  to be in the water even when the water in the basin  121  is relatively low. Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises a magnet to bias the vacuum release door  261  in the closed position. Optionally, in addition to the vacuum release door  261  and the vacuum release opening  260 , the deflector  330  further comprises a bypass opening  720  and a bypass door  719  to removably close the bypass opening  720 , the bypass door  719  configured to move between a closed position wherein the bypass door  719  closes (e.g., at least partially closes) the bypass opening  720  and an open position wherein the bypass door  719  allows water located in the basin  121  to enter through the bypass opening  720  and enter the first opening  706 . Optionally, the bypass door  719  is configured to rotate relative to the bypass opening  720 . Optionally, the bypass door  719  is generally circular in shape and is configured to rotate about a pivot point  721  located in a center of the circle. In other embodiments (not shown), the bypass door  719  is configured to slide/move vertically relative to the bypass opening  720 . The purpose of the bypass opening  719  and bypass door  720  is that the bypass door  720  preferably has a number of settings, the settings differing in the amount in which the bypass door  719  covers the bypass opening  720 , so that the user can adjust the bypass door  719  and let varying amounts of water through the bypass opening  720  depending on the force of the pump  190 ). Adjusting the bypass door  719  changes the pressure level at which the vacuum release door  261  (which is normally closed) is triggered open. More particularly, it has been observed that without the bypass door  719  and bypass opening  720 , stronger pumps  190  (as well as pumps that are not drawing water from the main drain  101 ) are more apt to trigger the vacuum release door  261  to open than weaker pumps  190 . This can be problematic as the vacuum release door  261  is designed as an emergency measure, like an electric breaker, to protect the pump  190  from drawing air when the additional weir  230  is too high, and the vacuum release door  261  is designed to be normally closed. However, by uncovering the bypass opening  720  in these stronger pumps  190 , water is able to enter through the bypass opening  720  and a greater amount of water pressure is required to cause the vacuum release door  261  to open. Like the vacuum release door  261 , the bypass opening  720  is normally in the bottom half  650  of the deflector  330  to ensure that the bypass opening  720  is under water. Unlike the vacuum release door  261 , which is normally closed and is triggered open by high pressure, the bypass door  719  is a dial door that is adjusted by a user depending on his/her pump  190  and is always kept in the same position. 
         [0129]    The deflector  330  can be attached, directly or indirectly, to the pool sidewall  120  by any acceptable method. For example, a nut  729  may be screwed onto the pipe/tube  722  extending from the deflector  330  and a frame  400 , with an aperture  728  receiving the pipe/tube  722 , may be located between the nut  729  and the skimmer opening  135 . In such a case, the frame  400  is prevented from moving rearwardly by the nut  729  and the frame  400  is prevented from moving forward due to the flanges  198  located in the skimmer interior  700 . For example, the Hayward model SP1070 skimmer (Hayward Industries, Elizabeth N.J.) has flanges  198  on the top and the bottom in the location where the skimmer weir  170  is normally located and in such skimmers, the skimmer weir  170  is removed and the top and bottom flanges  198  prevent the frame  400  from moving forward. In other embodiments, the deflector  330  and/or plate  709  may be screwed to the faceplate  135  in the case of a vinyl pool or an adjustable frame  400  located inside the throat  196  as described in the prior embodiments. Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises a substantially water impermeable floor  340  such that, for example, approximately 95% of the surface area of the floor  340  is not permeable to water, it being understood that the bypass door  719  and opening  720  may be located on the floor  340 . Optionally, the top of the deflector comprises a top aperture  350  allowing water to also enter the deflector interior  705  through the top aperture  350 . Optionally, the pool skimmer  100  further comprises a skimmer weir  170  located inside the pool skimmer interior  700  and the skimmer weir  170  is immobilized. Optionally, the pool skimmer  100  does not have a skimmer weir  170  in the skimmer interior  700 . Optionally, the skimmer interior  700  further comprises a skimmer basket  160 . Optionally, the system further comprises a pump  190  in fluid communication with the basin  121  and the skimmer interior  700 . Optionally, the deflector  330  further comprises a removable large debris door  731 , which slides into the deflector  330  via tracks (not shown), and covers a large debris opening  732 . The function of the large debris door  731  and opening  732  is that the large debris door  731  normally covers the large debris opening  732  but the large debris door  731  can be removed for example in the fall months so that large leaves and other debris can enter into the deflector interior  705  given that the large debris door  731  has a width that is typically larger than the width  707  of the second opening  320 . Optionally, the median width of the large debris door  731  is from about 3 inches to about 8 inches and the large debris door has a height of approximately 3 inches to about 12 inches. In some embodiments, the deflector  330  described directly above is provided as a kit that attaches to the sidewall  120  and/or skimmer  100  and includes one or more features, including but not limited to the additional weir  230 , tracks  210 , wheels  627 / 628 , vacuum release door  261 , vacuum release opening  260 , bypass door  719 , bypass opening  720 , large debris door  731 , large debris opening  732 , and pipe  722 . 
         [0130]    In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of using a system to increase the range of a pool skimmer that includes 
         [0000]    a) providing the system described above; and
 
b) flowing water from the basin  121 , through the second opening  320 , through the deflector interior  705 , through the first opening  706 , through the skimmer opening  135 , and into the skimmer interior  700 .
 
         [0131]    As described above, it has been found that wheels  627 / 628  are particularly useful for moving the additional weir  230  to reduce friction. Thus, in some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer system comprising: 
         [0000]    a) a swimming pool  100  comprising a basin  121  configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls  120  defining a perimeter of the basin  121 ;
 
b) a pool skimmer  100  comprising a skimmer opening  135  located in one of the sidewalls  120  and a skimmer interior  700 ;
 
c) two tracks  210  located in the pool basin  121 ; and
 
d) an additional weir  230  located in the pool basin  121 , the additional weir  230  configured to move upwards and downwards and regulate water entering the skimmer opening  135 , the additional weir  230  having two opposite sides, each of the opposite sides having at least one wheel  627 / 628  attached thereto, each of the wheels  627 / 628  received in a track  210 .
 
         [0132]    Optionally, the tracks  210  are curved and the additional weir  230  is configured to move in an are upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the pool basin  121 . 
         [0133]    In other embodiments, the additional weir  230  with attached wheels  627 / 628  is located inside the skimmer interior  700 . In such embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer system comprising: 
         [0000]    a) a swimming pool  100  comprising a basin  121  configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls  120  defining a perimeter of the basin  121 ;
 
b) a pool skimmer  100  comprising a skimmer opening  135  located in one of the sidewalls  120  and a skimmer interior  700 ;
 
c) two tracks  210  located in the skimmer interior  700 ; and
 
d) a weir  170  located the skimmer interior  700 , the weir  170  configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 , the weir  170  having two opposite sides, each of the opposite sides having at least one wheel  627 / 628  attached thereto, each of the wheels  627 / 628  received in a track  210 .
 
         [0134]    Optionally, in either of these embodiments described directly above, the skimmer interior  700  further comprises a skimmer basket  160 . Optionally, the system further comprises a pump  190  in fluid communication with the basin  121  and the skimmer interior  700 . In addition to these features, the system may have any of the features described above with respect to  FIGS. 25-32 , including without limitation, the vacuum release door  261  and opening  260 , the bypass opening  720  and door  719 , the attachment mechanisms described above, the float  714 , the tab  713 , etc. In addition, the tracks  210  may be vertical or in the shape of an arc as described above. 
         [0135]    The Embodiment of  FIGS. 33-35 . 
         [0136]    As shown in  FIGS. 33-35 , in some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a new design of a pool skimmer  100  that allows the skimmer opening  135  to be very close to the top of the sidewall  120  and the top of the concrete surrounding the pool  120 . This allows the pool owner to skim effectively when the pool  110  is filled with water to the top of the sidewall  120 . In some embodiments, the new skimmer  100  has 
         [0000]    a) a front end  600  comprising a top  601 , a bottom  602 , and a skimmer opening  135  leading to the skimmer interior  700  and comprising a top  605 , a bottom  606 , a left side  604 , a right side  603 , a width  608  extending from the skimmer opening left side  604  to the skimmer opening right side  603  of at least about 2 inches and a height  607  extending from the skimmer opening top  605  to the skimmer opening bottom  606  of from about 2 inches to about 16 inches;
 
b) a rear end  610  comprising a top  611  comprising a top opening  612 , a lid  613  configured to removably close the top opening  612 , a bottom  614  comprising a bottom opening  199  in fluid communication with the skimmer opening  135 , a well  616  located directly below the top opening  612 , the bottom opening  199  extending into the well  616 , a skimmer basket  160  located in the well  616  and comprising a floor  617 , a sidewall  618  extending from the floor  617 , at least one of the floor  617  and the basket sidewall  618  comprising a plurality of apertures configured to allow water to flow from the basket  160  to the bottom opening  199  and ultimately the pump  190 ; and
 
c) a middle portion  620  located between the front end  600  and the rear end  610  and comprising a top  621 , a bottom  622 , a height extending from the top  621  to the bottom  622  and a throat  196  in fluid communication with the skimmer opening and the rear end  610 , wherein the top  601  of the front end  600 , the top  611  of the rear end  610 , and the top  621  of the middle portion  620  are within about 1 inch of each other when the top  601  of the front end  600 , the top  611  of the rear end  610 , and the top  621  of the middle portion  620  are positioned parallel to the ground. Optionally, the top  601  of the front end  600 , the top  611  of the rear end  610 , and the top  621  of the middle portion  620  are within about 0.5 inches of each other (i.e.,  0  to about 0.5 inches) when the top  601  of the front end  600 , the top  611  of the rear end  610 , and the top  621  of the middle portion  620  are positioned parallel to the ground. In other words, preferably, the top  601  of the front end  600 , the top  611  of the rear end  610 , and the top  621  of the middle portion  620  are co-planar. More particularly, the top  611  of the rear end  610  (more particularly the top of the lid  613 ), the top  621  of the middle portion  620  and the top  601  of the front end  600  are substantially level so that no concrete is placed on top of the rear end  610 , on top of the middle portion  620  and on top of the front end  600  after positioning the skimmer  100  in the sidewall  120 . Rather, users are able to walk on the top  611  of the rear end  610 , the top  621  of the middle portion  620  and the top  601  of the front end  600 , just as users now walk on the top of the lid  613 . (It will be appreciated that concrete is typically poured over the middle portion  620  and front portions  600  of typical prior art skimmers, as shown in  FIG. 2 )
 
         [0137]    In some embodiments, the throat  196  extends substantially to the top  621  of the middle portion  620 . Optionally, the top  611  of the rear end  610 , the top  621  of the middle portion  620  and the top  601  of the front end  600 , are comprised of plastic. Optionally, the lid  613  is generally circular. 
         [0138]    Optionally, the height  607  of the skimmer opening  135  is from about 8 inches to about 14 inches. Optionally, the width  608  of the skimmer opening  135  is between about 3 and about 6 inches. Optionally, the pool skimmer  100  further includes a weir configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the basin  121 . In some embodiments, similar to  FIGS. 4-10 , the weir is an external weir  230  and located exterior to the skimmer interior  700  and skimmer opening  135 . In other embodiments, the weir is an internal weir  170  located in the skimmer interior  700  and configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the skimmer interior  700 . Optionally, the weir  230 / 170  is located adjacent to the skimmer opening  135  (e.g., about 0 to about 6 inches from the opening  135 ). Optionally, similar to the above embodiments, the skimmer  100  comprises a left track and a right track (not shown in  FIGS. 33-35 ) and the weir  230 / 170  is configured is configured to move along the left and right tracks. Optionally, similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 25-32 , the weir  230 / 170  further comprises at least one left wheel located in the left track and at least one right wheel located in the right track (not shown in  FIGS. 33-35 ). Optionally, the weir  230 / 170  further comprises a float  714 . Optionally, the float  714  comprises foam. Optionally, the weir  230 / 170  is attached to the skimmer  100  via a hinge  155  and is configured to pivot between a horizontal position in which the weir  230 / 170  is parallel to the lid  613  and a vertical position in which the weir  230 / 170  is perpendicular to the lid  613 . Optionally, similar to the above embodiments, the weir  230 / 170  further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening (not shown in  FIGS. 33-35 ), the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water to enter through the vacuum release opening. Optionally, similar to the above embodiments, the weir  230 / 170  further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the weir  230 / 170  and further wherein the vacuum release door is moveable along the hinge. Optionally, similar to the above embodiments, the weir  230 / 170  comprises a tab located exterior to the vacuum release door, the tab configured to prevent the vacuum release door from rotating beyond the tab. Optionally, similar to the above embodiments, the weir  230 / 170  comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the weir  230 / 170 . Optionally, the throat  196  has a length of from about 3 inches to about 12 inches. Optionally, the throat  196  is generally rectangular in shape. Optionally, as shown in  FIGS. 34 and 35 , the skimmer  100  is generally in the shape of an upside down “L” with the top  611  of the rear end  610 , the top  621  of the middle portion  620 , and the top  601  of the front end  600  forming the horizontal portion of the “L” and the rear end  610  forming the vertical portion of the “L” it being understood that the rear end  610  may taper in width, as shown in  FIGS. 34 and 35 . 
         [0139]    Terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can be construed as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies. In addition, use of the singular form of a term embraces the plural. 
         [0140]    Having now described the invention in accordance with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in the art will understand how to make changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments to meet their specific requirements or conditions. Changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, as defined and limited solely by the following claims.