Means for removing residual water from a surface

An apparatus for removing liquid from a substantially flat surface such as a floor, comprising:

• framework means;
• substantially closed reservoir means mounted on said framework means for holding a liquid, such as water, said reservoir means having an inlet port near the top thereof which is adapted to receive a hose which, in operation, is extended to the liquid to be removed, and an outlet port near the bottom thereof, the inlet port being located above the typical level of liquid in said liquid reservoir when the apparatus is in operation, and the outlet port being located below the typical level of liquid in said liquid reservoir when the apparatus is in operation, said apparatus means being characterized by an absence of means to prevent liquid in said reservoir means from flowing through the outlet port thereof;
• pump means for pumping compressible fluid, such as air mounted on the framework means, said pump means having an inlet and an outlet, and an internal configuration between the inlet and outlet such that a liquid, such as water, which is drawn into said pump means through the inlet thereof will flow through the pump means and exit through the outlet thereof;
• means connecting the outlet port of said liquid reservoir means to the inlet of said pump means;
• filter means positioned upstream of the pump means for filtering liquid from said reservoir means prior to the liquid reaching the pump means;
• and
• aeration means including a conduit having a first open end within the throat of the pump and extending to a position whereat the second open end is continuously in communication with the ambient atmosphere.