Sump Pump Switches

Jim explains how each different type of sump pump switch works, and which one is best for your needs.

[GSXRMVDUCRD]

Thanks for the information. The retailer websites don't show any of that sort of info.

FYI Switch range of motion means they activate at different water level. They are just different
The tethered switch doesn't activate until it is higher than the pump, thus the water level is higher. So high that it wouldn't activate in my shallow sump. It works in my deeper sump, so I got a vertical switch for the shallow sump

[rarroyo]

Thank you for this video. It really helped my wife understand how these work.

[paulheadley]

Very good and quick explanations of which switch is better.
I ran electric to a Plumber Installed pump with a tether switch. Absolutely impossible to both turn on and off. Got an accessory “plug in” float switch from Home Depot. Taped the tether switch in the ON position. Plugged in the accessory switch, DONE.

[chuck]

#2 mode of failure, corroded pump bearings. I've thrown out 3 pedestal style pumps and 1 submersible pump where the pump impeller bearings corroded and seized when the pump was sitting in a wet sump for a few months without being run. Saved from a wet basement in all cases by having a second pump sitting higher in the pit. It's sits high and dry even during normal operation of pump #1 and will kick in if the water level in the pit rises to activate the switch. Pump #2 is also on a separate electric circuit and breaker.

[kathyt]

Thanks, just the information I was searching for

[zackk]

I have the 1/3hp pump with the lever switch which is your 2nd pump. The switch works but hangs on. I want to just replace it but not sure if it’s the switch or the float ball. Pump is about a year old and pumps out a pond if it overfills

[LandscapeMaster]

I find the first pump switch a pain. I just had a new pump installed with that type of switch and it doesn’t even kick on sometimes. Causing a water mess in my crawl space. I adjusted the length of the cord hoping that it will kick on next time I get water build up.

[crabtrap]

the vertical float switch is a better option for a shallow sump bason too. a tether has to long a sweep for those.

[supertrucker]

Solid state switch is the best. No moving parts

[jerseyjim]

Why no mention of diaphragm switches. I have one on my little giant sump pump and it's worked flawlessly for over 25 years.

[tomlatenite]

Can some switches be adjusted to come on at like three inches of water.

[michaelohara]

It doesn’t matter if you have a really good quality pump because all the switch fail or get hung up.
They can not be trusted while you are a way.
So everyone needs a backup.

[filipelollita]

My stupid pump has a tether switch, so it is always getting stuck, the pump is always falling down. I cannot trust it. Why aren't all pumps using a vertical floating switch? In europe i cannot find pumps with vertical switches. Why? Why do manufacturers insist in thether switchs pumps? Can I change my pump's switch. Thanks.

[dinhazu.]

Number 3 - how do you raise the pump so it turns on higher ?

[TeslaRules]

What about considering dual caged floats or an electronic switch like levelguard or Ion Technologies.