reliable bilge pump and float switch

[svJasmine]

I have an ultra safety switch. Installed it in 1997. Still works fine. A 20 year switch. Amazing.

[senzafine]

thank you direct answer based on lots of experience right to the point

just what i need best answer

[svJasmine]

I have a spare too.

[senzafine]

thanks all this information will save me time,money and saying lots of bad words

[Scott Berg]

After 35 years in the industry: Ultra Safety Switches ONLY (not cheap but they really don't EVER fail), Diaphragm pumps (Whale and Sealand) for small volume but dry bilges, and Rule and Johnson for Centrifugal pumps. Regardless, the Ultra switches are all we ever use now....

[jmschmidt]

I have used the solid-state electronic water level detectors for 20+ years. Had one failure in that time. Far superior to the lever float type. Only need a little wipe with a damp rag every month or so.

[thunderhoof]

I don't know if float switches still use Mercury filled glass tilt switches but if you come across one throw it out. These switches have, almost by design, a limited operating life because the arcing at switch closure causes the Mercury to become contaminated which eventually affects operation.
I think most float switches now use magnetically operated sealed switches. Make sure the switch rating can handle the pump starting current and the stopping back-EMF. The latter can be more of a problem because it will cause arcing across the contacts. This can be cured with an appropriate capacitor or diode across the pump motor leads.

[btrayfors]

Originally Posted by Scott Berg

After 35 years in the industry: Ultra Safety Switches ONLY (not cheap but they really don't EVER fail), Diaphragm pumps (Whale and Sealand) for small volume but dry bilges, and Rule and Johnson for Centrifugal pumps. Regardless, the Ultra switches are all we ever use now....

I agree with this switch recommendation, after messing for over 25 years with every sort of switch there is. Only the Ultra can be considered truly reliable; I have two of them, each connected to a remote diaphram pump (the Flojet...not Shureflo....Flojet).

Bill

[CdS2 Roland]

Good morning everybody,
I'am using airswitch from Jabsco, no electricity near water, easy to install. And if clogged, disconnect air tube on switch side and blow air inside... done.

[haiqu]

Originally Posted by David M

I gave up on float switches. All the different ones I have tried, and it has been many, eventually failed.

I use the automated ones. They are not perfect but they are much better.

Agreed. Mine seem to last less than 12 months before needing replacement.