Sump Pump Float Switch Many Options

Which sump pump float switch works the best? There are different types of float sump switches. All have the same function, that is to turn the unit on or off and to regulate the time to clear water within the switch operating range. Here is a summary of the most common types of sump switches.

What Is A Sump Pump Float Switch?

The sump pump float switch is what turns your sump pump on and off in response to the water level in the sump pit. A switch that "floats" on top of the water. The float switch is attached to a float arm that rises and falls with the water level.  When the water rises, the float rises with it. When it gets high enough, a switch inside the float closes and turns on the pump, draining the pit. When the water drops low enough, the switch inside the float opens and turns the pump off. And the cycle is repeated hundreds, thousands, and even hundreds of thousands of times during the life of the switch.

Pump-Down Style Float Switch

This means the switch will turn on the electricity when the float is in the UP position. This float switch is a direct-acting, in-line control system that automatically turns the switch on or off. The switch consists of one float, a cord with a piggyback plug, and one large mounting strap. Power rating of this type of switch is 120 volt and 1/2hp maximum. Most sump pump switches are mercury free but just as a precaution always check.

Wide Angle Float Switch Up Switch

This is a pump up style switch. Power is on when the float is DOWN. This type of switch is commonly found as an in line switch for automatically filling holding tanks or similar applications. The switch consists of one float, a cord with a piggyback plug, and one large mounting strap. Same power rating as the Down switch, 120 volt maximum 1/2hp. The wide angle float switch is mercury free but again always check. 

Compact Vertical Sump Pump Float Control

Commonly found in vertical pump applications, operates through a small microswitch that is attached to a rod with floater assembly. When the water level in the pit rises, the floater rises with it, lifting the rod with it. When the switch is set for the on setting the unit turns on and pumps the water out until the float reaches the off setting. The floater and the rod sinks, signaling the motor to stop pumping.

Vertical Switch

Ideal for high temperature and pressure applications. Rugged construction allows these units to be used for reliable switching in a wide variety of chemicals, oils and water in harsh environments.

Electronic Sump Pump Switch!

Is there an alternative to a sump pump float switch? Good news. It's called a SumpWatcher Sump Pump Controller (grey Water) and has no mechanical parts to wear out. This type of switch replaces most float switches. In addition  it makes most manual systems automatic. Easy to set for high water level and low level is set automatically. Easy fitting in a sump pit and plugs into an ordinary outlet. The Sumpwatcher also warns you if your sump pump motor is failing. There is also a sewage remote control switch to replace the standard float switch found in sewage sump pumps.

Manual To Automatic Remote Switch

Little Giant has a remote electronic switch that can convert a manual sump pump system to automatic. The Little Giant RS-5LL Remote Switch that can convert a manual pump up to a maximum of 1/3 HP. This remote switch can also be used as an alarm when used as an on/off switch for a 120V alarm system such as a horn or light. The Little Giant comes with a 25ft cord.

Electronic Sump Pump Switch!

Is there an alternative to a floating sump pump switch? Good news. It's called a SumpWatcher Sump Pump Controller (grey Water) and has no mechanical parts to wear out. This type of switch replaces most float switches. The Sumpwatcher works with probe wires that sit in the sump pit. In addition the Sumpwatcher can make most manual systems automatic. Easy to set for high water level and low level is set automatically. Easy fitting in a sump pit and plugs into an ordinary outlet. The Sumpwatcher also warns you if your sump pump motor is failing. There is also a sewage remote control switch to replace the standard float switch found on sewage sump pumps such as the Zoeller sump pump.

What Is The Cause Of Pump Failure?
 
The leading cause for a sump pump to fail is a power failure. The second most common is a sticky sump pump switch. Many times the float simply gets stuck between the pump and the wall of the sump pit. Other causes, pipes are frozen, the pump is bad, the impeller' s damaged, the cord is unplugged. After so many cycles the switch just gets worn out and no longer can it rise or fall with demand. And wouldn't you know it when it's running and with no water to "lubricate" the unit you have a major unit failure which means an expensive repair. See  Zoeller sump pump for information on safe, reliable sump pumps.

Check the switch frequently to make sure it is working properly along with the float assembly to ensure the float arm moves freely. You can't do regular maintenance on a float switch, you can only replace it once it fails.

So there you have it, the most common sump pump float switch for your sump pump system. There are many after market switches to be found, many of them will work with any brand of sump pump, just check to be sure.