Submersible sump pump with vertical switch

Daniel Edelman

Sump Pump Float Switch Types for Your Home

For homes with basements, a sump pump is a must to keep water out and protect your home from floods. The float switch is the key to your pump’s operation. Working as the sump pump’s brain, the float switch detects when there's too much water and turns the pump on to remove it.

There are different sump pump float switch types, each with its own pros and cons. Knowing about these types helps you pick the best sump pump for your home. Let's look at the most common types of sump pump float switches.

Common Types of Sump Pump Float Switches

Now that you understand the importance of a float switch, it’s time to learn how to check sump pump float switch types. Let's explore the different sump pump switch types available:

Tethered Float Switch

One of the best sump pump switch types, the tethered float switch, features a float attached to the pump with a cord that rises with the water level. When the float switch mechanism reaches a certain height, it pulls a cord and activates a switch that turns on the pump.

PROS	CONS
✔ Simple design ✔ Inexpensive ✔ Compatible with larger sump pits	X The cord can get tangled or stuck, preventing the pump from working correctly X May not be suitable for smaller sump pits

Products:

Zoeller 10-0055 Variable Level Float Switch

Glentronics DFC2 Dual Float with Deluxe Controller

Liberty ALM-2, Alarm, indoor, wide angle float, 115V, 20' cord

Vertical Float Switch

These sump pump float switch types have a float mechanism that moves up and down along a vertical rod. Rising water levels cause the float to reach the top of the rod and flip a switch, which turns on the motor.

PROS	CONS
✔ More precise control than tethered sump switches ✔ Suitable for smaller sump pits ✔ Less likely to get tangled	X These sump pump switch types may not be ideal for wide, large sump pits X Can be blocked by debris

Products:

Glentronics CIS-33V The Cast Iron 1/3HP Sump Pump

Liberty Pumps 441 Battery Back-Up Emergency Sump Pump System

Zoeller 73-0001 Model M73 Sump Pump

Diaphragm Float Switch

These sump pump float switches use a pressure-sensitive diaphragm to detect changes in water level. The rising water level puts pressure on the diaphragm, which activates the switch and turns on the pump.

PROS	CONS
✔ Works well in small sump pits ✔ Less likely to be affected by debris ✔ Compact design	X Can be more expensive than other sump pump float switches X May not be as readily available

Electronic Float Switch

Ion Sump Pump with Electric Digital Switch

Electronic float switches are the most technologically advanced of the sump pump float switch types, offering better reliability and precision. Instead of relying on physical movement like tethered or vertical floats, electronic switches use sensors to detect water levels. These sensors trigger the pump motor when the water reaches a predetermined level.

PROS	CONS
✔ Highly accurate and reliable ✔ Not affected by debris or tangling ✔ Longer lifespan than mechanical sump pump switch types	X Typically the most expensive option

Products:

Ion M523503320 WC33I 1/3 HP Sump Pump

Ion IN-006-010-10PA-B Digital Level Control Switch

Choosing the Right Float Switch for Your Sump Pump

With several different sump pump float switch types available, selecting the best one for your needs is important. Here are some key factors to consider:

Size and Shape of Your Sump Pit: Tethered sump pump switch types generally require more space because of the float’s swinging motion, making them better suited for larger sump pits. On the other hand, vertical float switches are more compact and work well in smaller pits where space is limited. Diaphragm switches are also a good option for small pits due to their compact design.

Presence of Debris: If your sump pit accumulates debris like dirt, leaves, or small stones, a tethered float switch might be more prone to getting stuck or tangled. Vertical float switches are less susceptible to debris interference, but you’ll still have to keep the pit clean. Both diaphragm and electronic sump pump float switches are the least affected by debris, making them a good choice if your pit is prone to collecting dirt.

Desired Level of Accuracy and Control: When it comes to precision, vertical float switches offer more precise control over the pump's activation compared to tethered switches. For the highest level of accuracy and reliability, electronic float switches are the best sump pump switch type.

Budget: Tethered float switches are typically the most affordable option. Vertical float sump pump switch types fall in the mid-price range. Diaphragm switches can be more expensive than tethered or vertical switches, while electronic float switches are usually the most expensive, but offer the greatest longevity and reliability.

Type of Float Switch	Tethered	Vertical	Diaphragm	Electronic
Pit Size and Shape	Best for large, wide pits	Best for small, narrow pits	Best for small pits	Suitable to all sizes
Unaffected by Debris	X	X	✔	✔
Accuracy and Control	Least accuracy and control	Better than tethered	Average	Highest level of control
Budget	Most affordable	Mid-price	More expensive than tethered and vertical, cheaper than electronic	Most costly

Get Top Quality Sump Pump Switches From NYDirect

NYDirect offers a comprehensive selection of replacement sump pump float switch types for all major sump pump brands, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your needs and optimize your pump's functionality.

With competitive pricing, fast shipping, and a wide selection of top-quality brands, NYDirect makes it easy to get the right float switch for your specific sump pump model. Enjoy exclusive discounts when you join our PRO Membership program.

Visit NYDirect.com or call us today to explore our range of sump pump float switches and order your replacement today.