I have a Bayliner Capri and I would like to install a float switch. Is there one I can easly hook in between the bilge pump and the battery that will come on when I'm not at the boat for a while? If so what's a good one to buy.
Attwood or rule make good quality.Personally if the bilge pump you have is an older one I would replace it with self contained unit with the float switch built in.Charlie
I have two bilge pumps on my boat.<br /><br />There is one with the float switch and directly connected to batteries and other one is on manual that I can turn on & off when the auto fails (if ever).<br /><br />I highly recommend this set-up.<br /><br />I am not really sure which is the best brand, I buy these things from West Marine and replace it at least every two year.<br /><br />That self containing unit is really good by the way for the one directly connected to batteries, I dont have a float switch for the manual pump/
I don't care for the built-in type pumps/switches...but if installing a float switch, install a new pump as well if it's 2 or more years old. Install the float switch so it's about 1/2 inch above the pump bottom in the "down" location as some will continue to run about the time the pump starts cavitating, and won't shut off.
Thanks for the info. I never give it a thought to replace the pump also. Good idea. I guess if your going to fix something you might as well do it right. Thanks again.<br /><br />Tom
Hey Thuges... When istaling, make sure float faces rear of boat, this will help prevent stuff floating in your bilge getting jamed under float, causing it to stay on and burning out your batt.<br /><br /><br /> Jim
I moved away from mechanical float switches because they are vulnerable to just about everything, but theyre cheap. The problem with an unattended float switch is getting stuck in the on position and taking down the battery or getting stuck in the off position an allowing water to accumulate in the bilge.<br /><br />This is what I got:<br /><br /> http://www.msc-emd.com/sensaswitch.shtml <br /><br />Field-effect circuitry imbedding in the plastic senses a change in the electromagnetic field when water gets in the vicinity of the sensors and activates the bilge pump. No moving parts, nothing to corrode, small, lightweight, easy to install, not affected by the boats movement, not cheap at about $30.
