Float switch, which is best of class? (1 Viewer)

[RSnodgrass]

Electronic float switches, reliability doesn't seem to always be a defining characteristic.

Which variety do you feel is the best of class? I've been a big fan of my Avast style for reliability and ease of use but wondering about alternatives that connect directly to the breakout box vs an outlet.

I'll be hooking up to my sump in a dark space.

 

[marty9876]

I had good luck with the BRS type vertical float switches. Exact models I used came from someplace with acrylic mounts where adjustable and was one less thing to make.

Biggest thing I found is having a backup for the backup. Use three float switches for example #1 does the on/off, #2 is a high water measure that in theory should never go off (but if does alert you/shut skimmer off etc.) and #3 is a low water float always on so to speak. Same theory as #2, turn off level sensitive devices etc. I always left the main return run regardless of sump level, theory is I’d rather have a burned up pump than risk a programming mishap and kill everything with a accidental main pump shut down.

 

[whotzler]

Totally agree with marty9876, they all kinda suck. I have 6 in my sump for redundancy. Also programmed apex to look at switch levels between them. Example if switch 3 is closed it checks that 1 and 2 are closed also and 4,5,and 6 must be open. If that is not true it sends me a email alarm.

 

[marty9876]

In 3-4 years I never had a issue with them but was always somewhat nervous. All my problems were self induced (programming challanges, not labeling anything or no system documentation and a brain that got full).

Clean them off every not and again, mine would grow white fuzzy crap them which was a mess waiting to happen.

Nice programming add by whotzler, yea make it like a AI voting deal where all switches need to agree with the situation before something happens. I used a time statement also for the fresh top off so it could only run for 5-10 minutes twice a day for example regardless of what the switches said.

 

[whotzler]

In 3-4 years I never had a issue with them but was always somewhat nervous. All my problems were self induced (programming challanges, not labeling anything or no system documentation and a brain that got full).

Clean them off every not and again, mine would grow white fuzzy crap them which was a mess waiting to happen.

Nice programming add by whotzler, yea make it like a AI voting deal where all switches need to agree with the situation before something happens. I used a time statement also for the fresh top off so it could only run for 5-10 minutes twice a day for example regardless of what the switches said.

I do the same with my top off, total 2 min every half hour before float switches have a play in it.

I have not had alot of problems with the switches them selves but, have had cheato get caught in them, rubble land on them, get sticky from algae, not to mention several butt connector crimps of mine that salt destroyed. Sooner or later a way seems to find them to give a false reading