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over40pirate · 08-06-2008, 15:25

I have gone thru a fair number of bilge pump float switches.
The one I had the best luck with is a switch that West Marine doesn't sell anymore. Not enough mark up I guess.
It is a cylinder affair with a round float in the cylinder.

What type/brand float switches have you other sailers used for over 2 years with no problems?

**CSY Man** · 08-06-2008, 15:50

Ultra Safety Systems at Fisheries Supply Marine Supplies

I have used the Ultra Junio for 10 years, 2 installed and 1 spare onboard

over40pirate · 08-06-2008, 16:03

I just searched the web. The Ultra switch is the one I have, that was sold by West.

**knottybuoyz** · 08-06-2008, 16:37

Water Witch model 101. Solid state. No floats to jamb. Works exactly like it says it's supposed to. They make a host of accessories, monitors, alarms, remote panels etc. Normal retail on the 101 is $29.95. I got mine on e-Bay for $20.

MidLandOne · 08-06-2008, 16:44

We don't have any powered bilge pumps but do have a "Sure Bail" bilge type float switch in our grey water sump - no problems in 12 years and are well regarded switches around here.

They are widely available and a Google will throw up plenty of suppliers.

**David M** · 08-06-2008, 22:37

I kind of like the pumps with no switches....the computerized pumps that run every couple minutes and if they detect no load on the pump they stop. If they detect a load they keep running. No float switches to go bad.

Aegean sailor · 30-06-2008, 14:33

Hi this is TOM.
I do have a Jeanneau Sun Magic 44 in Greece and I mostly sail in the Aegean sea.
Most of the boat maintenance and repairs I do them by myself.
I ll be happy to provide any comment / advice!

Hi aigain

defjef · 30-06-2008, 19:15

My bilge is quite dry, but I have a Rule as David M notes. I see the switch light up and hear it whurr for an instant and then stop. If I have a leak situation I have several bilge pumps to handle it, manual, portable, electric etc. Seems to do what I need in the engine compartment.

jim lee · 30-06-2008, 21:03

Manual switch only. Works great. If there's a leak, it becomes obvious in a hurry. Hence it gets fixed. Knock on wood, the Rule pump has now lasted 16 years and running strong.

-jim lee

over40pirate · 06-07-2008, 10:01

Jin Lee,
Just curious. Do you trailer sail your boat, or live aboard, and never leave the boat unattended?
I can't imaging leaving my boat unattended for any length of time, if I didn't have a bilge pump with an auto switch, just in case. Of course I have a back pump and switch mounted a bit higher, just in case.
Am I too paranoid?

silverp40 · 26-03-2010, 05:15

These guys sell the utra switch cheaper than anyone else I could find...

www.shustercorp.com

**fishwife** · 26-03-2010, 06:01

I've used all sorts of bilge pump switches over the years, most of them with a limited life My present boat has the Ultra Sr switch which seems to be totally reliable.
TEF-GEL - Ultra safety systems - Home page

For what it's worth

P.

**rtbates** · 26-03-2010, 06:21

Water Witch Bilge Switch Model 101 - 230

Model 230, 5 years no problems. I gave up on float switches 5 years ago as well as the "sit in the bilge' centrifugal pumps.

**daddle** · 26-03-2010, 06:37

I like the Rule float switches so much I buy new ones twice a year

Thanks for the tips about better switches.

**DennisM** · 26-03-2010, 06:48

Thank you immensely. I just ordered the 101-230. My primary float switch was nothing but trouble all last season. I'm looking forward to replacing it with the Water Witch as soon as it arrives.