Automatic float switch

[a70eliminator]

I removed this automatic switch from a trashed 110V pump, put it in a bucket and slowly added water till the switch closed, it took about 2" of water, it seems to be pressure sensitive rather than an actual float switch, it seems reliable, any reason not to use this type switch? like maybe dirt and oil suseptable? My boat never had an automatic bilge, I always trailer it but I like improvements especially when it doesn't cost me anything. Here's wahat the switch looks like, notice the white plastic vent tube along with the wires.

 

[seabob4]

Re: Automatic float switch

It may actually function correctly, but since it came off a 110VAC pump, that means it's a 110VAC switch. Your boat is 12VDC. How you going to rig that up?

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Automatic float switch

The switch won't know the difference, it's just a normally open contact, it doesn't care what current ac/dc. I'm just wondering what's typical for a bilge, pumps that have the float built right into them?

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Automatic float switch

The switch won't know the difference, it's just a normally open contact, it doesn't care what current ac/dc. I'm just wondering what's typical for a bilge, pumps that have the float built right into them?

Built in, or add on like mine.

My guess is that those that need a new pump opt for the automatic self enclosed units...and those that have a good manual pump just add the switch.

Happy boating!

 

[superbenk]

Re: Automatic float switch

My only concern is that it's not made for marine and it sits in the bilge where all the gas fumes settle. I'd be concerned about spark potential & explosions.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Automatic float switch

I understand, I may use it to sound the horn if the bilge takes on water, just for peace of mind, what I do now is just flip the switch and see if water comes out, once in while (well every time out) I pull the engine cover to look and then it's still hard to see the bottom of the bilge. I've never had water in the bilge other than from melting cooler ice and swimming traffic but it would nice to know immediatly if I were to take on water from some sort of failure.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Automatic float switch

My only concern is that it's not made for marine and it sits in the bilge where all the gas fumes settle. I'd be concerned about spark potential & explosions.

Haven't given a thought until you mentioned it, but the unit is sealed.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Automatic float switch

I think I would buy a marine float switch, your bilge pump isn't something you want to maybe work, the switch you have was made for a house not a boat.

I wired an alarm right into my switch on my second pump so if it goes off I know right now.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Automatic float switch

agreed, that looks like it's for a house sump pump. Don't risk your boat cobbling together a scavenged part for the sake of a $20 float switch.
And that's coming from a life-long scavenger and cobbler.

 

[seabob4]

Re: Automatic float switch

The switch won't know the difference, it's just a normally open contact, it doesn't care what current ac/dc. I'm just wondering what's typical for a bilge, pumps that have the float built right into them?

Good point, a switch is simply an interruption in current flow...AC or DC.

Off to the stupid barn I go...