Sump Pump Reviews: Sump Pump Float Switches

Every sump pump has some type of float switch to control its operation. In this third of a series of videos, sump pump expert Barry Schilling talks about which types of float switches are most dependable and which ones to avoid.

[nca]

Added precaution: if you have Ring alarm system, add freeze/flood sensor at the top of the sump pit. Any detection of temps below 42 degrees or minute traces of water will trigger a phone call (mine saved me this morning at 5am). Secondly, keep a submersible pump and garden hose nearby as backup. If the sump goes out, I attach hose to submersible pump, drop it in the pit and place the other end of hose in sink or shower basin (or outside).

[jimpie]

I like the tether type. I have the original pump (Hydromatic) in my 17+ year home . After the first switch failed after 5 years I bypassed the pressure switch and did a piggyback tether switch. That one failed after 8 years and my current switch has been working for 4+ years. Almost all pumps are pretty reliable. However switches do fail. Many times people replace a sump pump that is good, and only the switch has failed. They don’t have the knowledge or the expertise to repair them. When buying a sump pump, buy one with a piggy back switch. Even if the arrangement fails, you can always unplug the pump from the piggy back switch and plug the pump in for manual operation. If it works then shut it off, by pulling the plug (disconnecting from power). Then go out and buy a new switch, remove old, and put in new switch and you’re done! Thanks….Jim

[breeze]

My first sewage pump lasted 16 years it was a green Hydromatic and the float switches all 4 of them are still being used after I replaced the pump. Your video is more of a warning than any kind of counsel for those looking for pumps. I don't know how useful your cry for wolves really helps DYI'ers like myself.
If you pointed out how each of these pumps have characteristics that make it ideal for the hundreds of different sump & sewage pumping applications there are for all residential use might have been way more helpful. 1/3rd horsepower, 1/2 horse 2" & 1-1/2" discharge pipes and non-clog designs able to pass up to 2" material up a 10 foot 2" vertical pvc pipe. Lots of things to emphasize for each pump besides the switch like can changing out a pump be an easy or difficult job for the DIYer home owner. Yeah switches will fail and you mentioned that but is that the only thing to consider?

[Drew_]

Basically he’s saying they all suck

Get it?

They suck

I’ll be here all night folks

[RickyTickyTabby]

I believe the green heavy duty looking pump some people asked about is a Hydromatic(Pentair) hence the box to the left of it. Also, Hydromatic's green color is slightly lighter than Zoeller. 

[jddavisnyc]

Very helpful. I was trying to figure out why my new sump pump with the vertical switch was constantly on and all I had to do was pull the switch down since it was stuck in the upright position.

[rotunda]

The original Penberthy sump pump in my house had a mercury tilt switch. It was original on the pump and never failed with 52 years of service. (The motor locked up). Switches today are consumed like candy.

[ruco]

I've had problems with all of the switches except the Basement watchdog duel float switch. It can be purchased separately from the pump.

[neilbrookins]

I bought a levelguard switch and it’s been working great for about 10 years. My previous switches all would die after 6 months to a year or so.

[tayninh]

Very informative video. In my experience with sump pumps I have found that the Wayne sump pump has a very good design for it's float switch and it is serviceable by the homeowner. Tethered switches seem to wear out the wires at the point of tether. That means buying a new switch every so often. We live in an area that has a high water table and our pump runs a lot year round. For me the Wayne 3/4 horse power pump has worked out pretty good. Very little issues.

[ManCaveMachining]

I have an older (1995!) Hydromatic pump with the diaphragm switch. I've never had a problem with the pump or switch in 26 years. I feel like I'm pressing my luck so I'll be swapping it out soon.

[PJAgnew]

The Basement Watchdog caged float switch seems to be the best and most reliable of all of the switches.

[Proer]

Thanks, but I noticed that you stopped at the Zoeller which is notorious for switch failures.

[DavidSchertz]

And the video just ends? Which one do you recommend? Any brand more reliable than others? Do you like da bears?

[pupdog]

I have a 1/2 HP, Coleman with a tether switch. It has lasted me over 20 years.

[TeslaRules]

Digital Floats are now available - separately or with Pumps like Ion Technologies. No moving parts.

[rakun]

Have you reviewed the Wayne HALO75 Basement Guardian Halo 3/4HP Smart Sump Pump with the solid state air switch with wifi setup? I know it's not in this video, but maybe you have had a chance since this was made to see it?

[Romans--bobr]

I have a $49. Harbor Freight - 1/2hp sump pump with a vertical shaft magnetic switch and a float that is only 1.25 inches in diameter by 3/4 inch "thick". It has been in heavy use (due to High water table) now for nearly 6 years... works like a champ!! I did by a new one at HF last summer (2018) as a handy back-up, all plummed with a new anti-reversion valve, etc... ready to change out should or when the need arises, if it does so, before I will change them out this summer after (hopefully!!) the water level drops way down and out of the sump basket, just as a preventative maintenance measure and keep the current one as a spare.

[IdvbI]

Hello, I want to find a pump that has a float on mechanism at 4" top. Where may I find it?

wow that is a huge display of pumps. Thank you for your video. I'm trying to find out who makes the best ball float switch for an external pump in a holding tank.