How to Pick the Perfect Sump Pump Float Switch

While the quality of a pump is important, it is useless without a reliable sump pump float switch. Those who own a manual sump pump that does not include an integrated float switch, or those tired of replacing switches due to failure, have multiple options to consider. 

The type of switch chosen will depend on the basin size and depth, the water table, and the pump. Modern technology has introduced several effective new options in the world of sump pump switches. 

Piggy-Back Float Switches 

A piggy-back plug features prongs on one side and an additional outlet on the other. By checking the number of power cords coming from a sump basin, a homeowner can determine the setup. 

If there are two cords, it is likely a piggy-back plug. The benefit of this design is that the cords can be unplugged from the wall and separated; the pump can then be plugged directly into the outlet without the switch, allowing for independent testing of the pump. 

Tether Float Switches 

A tether float switch features a float tethered to the pump and is more common with sewage pumps or larger basins. As the water rises, the float rises, causing the tether to flip the switch and turn on the pump. 

Once the water level drops, the float drops, loosening the tether, releasing the switch, and shutting off the pump. While these are suitable for larger sump pits, they may get caught on the basin wall or on the pump itself in some cases, making them riskier for use in smaller sump pits. 

Vertical Float Switches 

Vertical float switches work similarly to a tether switch, but they slide up and down on a vertical rod rather than being loosely tethered. These are more practical for smaller basins where a tether float could otherwise get stuck. 

They work well in confined spaces but still rely upon a mechanical float, which can be compromised if the float is punctured, takes in water, or if debris seizes up the mechanism. 

Electronic Float Switches 

Electronic switches represent the gold standard in pump switch technology and are the most reliable of the options listed. 

Electronic float switches typically feature piggyback plugs that are plugged into the wall outlet; the pump is then plugged into the back of the switch plug. There are no moving mechanical parts; instead, an internal sensor detects the water level. When the switch is triggered, it transfers power to the pump. As the water level drops below a certain point, the switch is triggered again, cutting power to the pump. 

This type of switch takes up the least amount of space and is exceptionally reliable as long as it has the recommended power source and the pump amp rating meets the switch requirements. In many cases, these switches can outlive the pump because they do not contain moving mechanical parts that can fail over time. 

Smart Sump Pump Alarm Systems 

For those concerned that a sump pump switch could fail without their knowledge, cutting-edge alarm technology provides ways to alert homeowners if power fails, a switch gets stuck, or if water is filling the pit too quickly for the pump to manage. 

Smart sump pump systems—offered as smart primary pumps, smart combination pumps, or complete backup smart pump systems—all feature integrated float switches and connect to the internet. This connectivity makes it possible for email or text alerts to be sent directly to a smartphone.