12 best bilge pump switches
Bilge pump switches are essential components of a boat's bilge pump system. They play a crucial role in automatically activating and deactivating bilge pumps to remove excess water from the bilge area of a boat. Here's what you should know about bilge pump switches:
Purpose: The primary purpose of a bilge pump switch is to control the operation of the bilge pump. It determines when the pump should turn on and off based on the water level in the bilge area.
Types of Switches:
- Float Switches: These are the most common type of bilge pump switches. They consist of a float or buoyant device attached to an electrical switch. When the water level rises, the float rises with it, activating the switch and turning on the bilge pump. As the water level falls, the float descends, deactivating the pump.
- Electronic Sensors: Some modern bilge pump systems use electronic sensors, such as pressure sensors or solid-state level detectors, to monitor water levels. These sensors trigger the pump when water reaches a certain level, and they are often more reliable than mechanical float switches.
Installation: Bilge pump switches are typically installed inside the boat's bilge area, where they can detect changes in water level. Proper installation is essential to ensure the switch functions accurately.
Wiring: Bilge pump switches are wired to the boat's electrical system and connected to the bilge pump. They are often equipped with a fuse or circuit breaker to protect the electrical circuit.
Manual Override: Many bilge pump switches offer a manual override feature, allowing boat owners to manually activate the pump if needed, regardless of the water level detected by the switch.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for bilge pump switches to ensure they function correctly. This includes checking for debris or obstructions that could interfere with the switch's operation, as well as testing the switch and pump periodically.
Reliability: Bilge pump switches are critical for preventing flooding and maintaining the safety of the boat.Ensuring the reliability of the switch is essential, as a malfunctioning switch can lead to potentially dangerous situations.
Safety Regulations: Depending on your location and the type of boat you have, there may be safety regulations and standards governing the installation and operation of bilge pump switches. It's important to be aware of and comply with these regulations.
Bilge pump switches are vital components of a boat's bilge system, helping to prevent water accumulation and maintain the safety and integrity of the vessel. Proper installation, maintenance, and monitoring of these switches are essential for safe boating.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bilge pump switches on the market
SEAFLO 3-Way Bilge Pump Switch Panel (Automatic-Off-Manual) 12v 24v w/Built-in 15A Circuit Breaker
SEAFLO
Product description
Controls any pump equipped with an automatic float switch. Toggle has three positions (Automatic, Off, or Manual) and has a "fail safe" spring to return the switch to "off" from the "manual" position, so the pump can not accidentally be left on. The pump has a Built-In 15A Circuit Breaker. The panel is black with an LED indicator on the switch when the switch is on.
Specifications:
-Voltage: 12v & 24v
-Size: 2.95" x 2.48"
-Positions: 3-Positions (Automatic, Off, Manual)
- SEAFLO 3-Position Toggle Switch : Automatic, Off, Manual
- Voltage: 12v & 24v
- Size: 2.95" x 2.48"
- Built-In 15A Circuit Breaker and LED Indicator when Switch is ON
- 4-Year Warranty!!
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the rotary switch used for |
| Answer: | 18 AWG Wire |
| Question: | Do i need a fuse if i install this |
| Answer: | Maximum Switch Voltage: 100V;Contact Capacity: 500(mA) |
| Question: | Does the LED remain on in auto mode even when the pump is not pulling current |
| Answer: | Yes. There's a common, an NC, and a NO connection point on each switch. You an wire them up either way you want. |
| Question: | Is there an IP water resistance rating |
| Answer: | Yes, when you connect the LED light strips and the power cable to the Magnetic Door Swith, you can choose to open or close to trigger the Magnetic Door Swith |
Keep Your Boat Afloat with USS Bilge Pump Switch – JR. - 12 Volt. USS Float Switches, Simply the Best automated bilge switch available
Ultra Safety Systems Pump Switch Jr.
Product description
Ultra Safety Systems Pump Switch Jr. UPS-02-12 V Float Switch Bilge Pump Switch Ultra Pump Switch Jr. Bilge Pump Float Switch UPS-02 12 VDC. Listing is for a SWITCH ONLY. Pump NOT included. Mounting bracket included. TECHNICAL DATA: Dimensions: Height – 6 1/4” Diameter – 2 ½” Operating Voltage: 12 VDC Relay Output: 30 ampere relay 15 ampere pump load Sensor Tube: Non-magnetic stainless steel Case Tubing: Buterate (highly resistant to impact fuel, oil, and salt water) Float: Buna-N Features: Ignition protected. Power on indicator light on top. Current rating- 15A @ 12V. Internal relay rated at 30A. 1 1/4" differential. Positive action, no time delays or electronics. Made in the USA Long leads with adhesive wall heat shrink butt-splice connectors installed. Wiring instructions permanently stamped on the housing. Unique design provides maximum immunity to clogging, sticking, or pump burnout. Exceeds U.S. Coast Guard Standards. Contains No Mercury. Factory New, Quality built by ULTRA SAFTEY SYSTEMS Don’t risk your boat or safety of your family and friends on an inferior switch.
- Dimensions: Height – 6 1/4” Diameter – 2 ½”
- Ignition protected.Power on indicator light on top.
- Current rating- 15A @ 12V. Internal relay rated at 30A.
- Long leads with adhesive wall heat shrink butt-splice connectors installed.
- Positive action, no time delays or electronics
User questions & answers
| Question: | How high does the float get before it kicks the pump on? And is that level adjustable |
| Answer: | About 6 feet or less. I never unpacked mine because I returned it. |
| Question: | I have a 30 foot center console. Which size would be right for me |
| Answer: | No battery. You have to supply external power to it. Also, it uses LEDs for the display, not an LCD, so it is drawing current as long as it is on. It works well, and I like the feature that if power goes out, it retains the current value of the count. |
| Question: | band that connects switch to pump, how big is it? What diameter pump will it fit |
| Answer: | My shop gets down to 30 degrees and it works great. |
| Question: | ultra safety systems pump switch jr. ups-02-12 v float switch bilge pump switch does this include pump |
| Answer: | The click counter simply counts how many times the magnet passes the sensor. It doesn’t know if it is a rotation or vibration. But it counts much more than 20 passes in a minute, which is one every three seconds. So my guess is 50 per second. |
Rule SuperSwitch Float Switch, Moisture Tight Seals, 12, 24 or 32 Volt
Rule
Product description
The non-mercury SuperSwitch is designed for the toughest applications. Design includes marine-grade, 14 gauge blocked wire, a larger float for increased buoyancy, removable base for easy servicing and a snap switch design capable of handling pumps drawing up to 20 amps at 12 volt DC.
- Sport Type: Boating
- The Package Height Of The Product Is 8.64 Centimeters
- The Package Length Of The Product Is 20.07 Centimeters
- The Package Width Of The Package Is 13.72 Centimeters
User questions & answers
| Question: | How to wire |
| Answer: | Hi, Thank you for your question! The length of the stainless steel capsule is 1.25"L. |
| Question: | Switch failed, after 11 months. 5 year warranty |
| Answer: | Thank you for your question! This assembly is normally open and make contact when the magnet is brought in to range. Hope this helps, please contact us at [email protected] if you have any more questions. Have a great day! |
| Question: | I need the pump to be turned on when the water level drops instead of when it rises. Would this do that if installed upside down |
| Answer: | Thank you for your question! The actuation distance minimum is .25"L. Thank you!! |
| Question: | Una bomba de achique de 2400 /3000 GPH de 32 volt |
| Answer: | Check the amperage for your application and size the reed to it |
Rule 35A Rule-A-Matic Bilge Pump Float Switch, Mercury Free,White
Rule
Product description
- Designed for pumps drawing up to 14 Amps
- Includes a 2 year warranty
- Dimensions (L x W x H) 4-1/2 inches L x 1-1/2 inches W x 2 inches H, 114 L x 38 Wx 51 H (mm)
- A genuine Rule product, don't settle for anything less
- Year after year, the Rule-A-Matic has been the switch of choice for boaters the world over
- Switch is removable from the base for easy cleaning
- Completely sealed metal capsules enhance flawless operation
- A mercury free snap switch tested to over one million cycles
- Marine grade "blocked" wire
User questions & answers
| Question: | does it come with wiring and directions |
| Answer: | Yes I currently have it working a 277v light in a closet off a pp20 power pack so yes |
| Question: | how long is the wires and what gage are they |
| Answer: | Yes, that's what they are made for. My sensor is attached under the hull of a kayak and activated by sliding a refrigerator magnet over that spot. |
| Question: | Is this float switch Polarity Sensative |
| Answer: | 27.3mm long by 6.9mm diameter |
| Question: | My previous switch was all distorted from the heat of the engine, is this capable of surviving the engine heat |
| Answer: | The switch is normally open. |
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump Switch 3-Way Panel
Shoreline Marine
Product description
Shoreline Marine’s 3 Position Bilge Pump Switch is an On/Off/On design. It’s meant for applications where the bilge pump is equipped with an automatic float switch and you want the ability to turn the pump on manually, turn it off completely or to leave it set in the automatic mode operating from a float switch. The pumps automatic float switch can be either a remote or a self-contained style switch. Two separate lights on the panel illuminate to indicate when either the manual or auto setting of the circuit is engaged, there is no light present when the switch is in the off position. An integral circuit breaker is located right on the panel to protect the entire bilge pump circuit from over loading, easy to reset with a touch of a button. * Requires a 1 ¼” x 2 ½” cut out with 1 ½’ depth clearance to flush mount ** For use with Automatic Bilge System with Automatic Pumps or External Float Switches. NOTE : – The circuit breaker is intentionally on the negative side of the switch this is not a defect, circuit protection can reside on either the positive or negative side of a DC circuit. - You have to cut a hole, make 5 wire connections, drill 4 small holes and install 4 small screws. For most do-it-yourselfers this is pretty easy. - We state that a 1 ¼” X 2 ½” cut out is needed with 1 ½” of depth required. The cut out is correct and the Depth needs to be changed to 2 1/4” vs. 1 ½”.
- LED Light Indicates When Switch Is On
- 3 ½ X 2 inches : Aluminum Face Plate
- Booted Toggle Switch
- 10 AMP Breaker
- Easy To Follow Wire diagram
User questions & answers
| Question: | I can't find the wiring diagram that came with it. What goes to what |
| Answer: | Used to switch between auto bilge out and manual auto meaning on all the time and will empty when the water gets to a certain level |
| Question: | What's the dimension of the panel/switch |
| Answer: | It is recommended that it run through a fuse. My pumps will run directly off the battery. I will run them through a 15 amp fuse then though the switch. The instructions recommend as well. |
| Question: | How to wire this switch to the sail flow three wire bilge pump |
| Answer: | I believe you can not attach the ground wire and then the LED won't be on, which is how I'd prefer as I'll just leave the bilge in auto when I leave the boat in the water. |
| Question: | Wires are color coded coming out of pump - need to know which is + - or ground |
| Answer: | I know it works on manual not sure about automatic |
Whale BE9003 Electric Field Sensor Switch, 12V or 24V, Suitable for Up to 20 Amps, One Size, Black
Whale
Product description
The Whale Electric Field Sensor Switch automatically activates and shuts off bilge pumps when water reaches specific levels. Its worry-free, precise operation ensures proper bilge pumping. This switch automatically activates the bilge pump when 2 inches of water is sensed, and it turns the pump off when the water level drops below ½ inch. Two color-coded wires make installation easy, and there are two test circles that can be used to ensure activation. This unit offers side or base mounting to suit the available space configuration. This switch can operate with 12V or 24V power, and it is suitable for up to 20 amps. Whale designs and manufactures reliable marine water systems which are easy to install and use; providing boating enthusiasts with water, waste management and durable bilge pumps. For over 70 years, Whale has delivered innovative, high quality products that ensure peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your adventures on the water.
- Precision switch automatically activates and shuts off bilge pumps when water reaches specific levels
- Worry-free, precise operation ensures proper bilge pumping and provides peace of mind
- Automatically activates bilge pump when 2 inches of water is sensed
- Turns pump off when water level drops below ½ inch
- Two color-coded wires make installation easy
- Two test circles can be used to ensure activation
- Offers side or base mounting, can operate with 12V or 24V power, and it is suitable for up to 20 amps
- Included components: End Product & Information
User questions & answers
| Question: | What are the "real" dimensions of this unit. it certainly is not 7x4x3 inches as stated and would not even fit in it's package. we need a pictue with |
| Answer: | It depends on bilge size and through hulls. 750 - 1,000 gph |
| Question: | Will oily bilge water disturb the operation of switch |
| Answer: | A #46 Hose Clamp works for Rule 1500 or 2000 Pumps. If you order a switch from me I'll throw one in. |
| Question: | How do you test this switch? For example you would test the Water Witch with a wet rag, most mechanical switches have a lever you can push down to m |
| Answer: | This is the switch pump only and does not come with the bilge pump. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. EileenExtreme Discount Marine |
Rule 40A Rule-A-Matic Plus Bilge Pump Float Switch, 12, 24 or 32 Volt, Moisture Tight Seals , White , Small
Rule
Product description
Sleek and rugged, the Rule-A-Matic Plus float switch has a strong, fully integrated, impact resistant cover, which protects against debris and jamming. 14 gauge highly abrasive resistant marine grade wire, and a built-in test feature. Designed for pumps drawing upt to 20 Amps Model 40A and 40FA now includes a 2 year warranty.
- Acrylic
- Made in the USA or Imported
- A genuine Rule product, don't settle for anything less, 2 year warranty
- Sleek and rugged with a strong, fully integrated impact resistant cover to protect against debris and jamming
- 14 gauge highly abrasive resistant marine grade wire
- Built-in test feature
- Designed for pumps drawing up to 20 amps
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the hole spacing (and/or general dimensions) the same as on the older mercury switch rule-a-matic plus model |
| Answer: | Hello, I am sorry to hear that the float switch has failed. For the warranty process, please contact Amazon or [email protected] so we can work on replacing the 37A float switch. Regards, Rule. |
| Question: | Why wouldn't you put the mounting holes in the same place as the original one with murcury |
| Answer: | Yes it would, you would have to mount it to something substantial. Not sure what you are doing, but a less expensive option would be to search in amazon for "Sensor Liquid Plastic Floating Switch" and use that to turn on a relay ("12v relay 4 pin" or "12v relay pcb") that will turn on the pump. This adds a possible failure point (the relay), but I have not had any trouble in my various electrical projects on my boat using similar relays or float switches, except for unmaintained dirty float switches jamming, which happens with the super switch too. |
| Question: | I have an older version of this that has a turn able knob on the side. Any idea what this is used for |
| Answer: | As long as it is less than 20A yes. |
| Question: | Where is the built in test feature |
| Answer: | On a Junior or Senior switch the ON/OFF differential is 1-1/4" On a Mini Switch the ON/OFF differential is 3/4" The level can be ajusted by moving the switch up or down in the mounting bracket |
Rule 41 Marine Deluxe Panel Switch (12-Volt), Black, 3-1/4" L x 2" W,999
Rule
Product description
Controls any pump equipped with an automatic float switch. Toggle has three positions (automatic, off, or manual) and has a "fail safe" spring return to "off" from the "manual" position. Panel is black stainless steel and has red indicator light and fuse holder.
- 3-Way Panel Switch, use with any automatically controlled pump
- Black plastic panel, built-in fuse holder
- Internally lighted rocker switch with three positions (automatic, off or manual)
- 12V DC, 20 max amps
- Size: 3-1/4 x 2 inches
User questions & answers
| Question: | What amperage can this switch handle? Half of the documentation links are not for this product at all |
| Answer: | Hello, The wires on the 35A float switch are 28" long and 16AWG. Regards, Xylem. |
| Question: | How many pumps can be run off of 1 switch ,i have a catamaran w 4 pumps will i need two switches |
| Answer: | No, it is a mechanical switch. You may connect it in any polarity. |
| Question: | Will this switch allow the Rule 27S computerized automatic pump (i.e. no float switch) to run in automatic mode |
| Answer: | Hello, Our float switches are tested to 150 degrees F. If the float switch is in direct contact with the engine, it may be best to re-position the float switch or add a blower to the engine compartment. Our float switches should not distort with heat if positioned correctly. Regards, Xylem. |
| Question: | Can anyone tell me the size of the switch (cover plate)? I need to know if it will cover the hole left by the existing switch |
| Answer: | Hello Douglas, One wire is the power coming into the float switch and the other wire goes to the brown wire on the bilge pump. A wiring diagram will be in the booklet that comes with the float switch. Regards, Xylem |
Ogrmar Automatic Boat Bilge Pump Float Switch Moisture Tight Seals 12/24/32VDC Ignition Protected Mercury
Ogrmar
Product description
Specifications:
Model: SFBS-20-01
Max Amps 12volts: 20A
Max Amps 24volts: 10A
Max Amps 32volts: 8A
Wire Length: 1M
Wire gauge size: 18AWG.
100% brand new and high quality.
Features:
Ignition protected; Mercury free; Solid ABS material for high strength and durability.
Turn pump on when water level reaches 2” (51mm) ; Turn pump off when water level reaches 0.7” (19mm).
Completely sealed metal capsules enhance flawless operation.
Ultrasonic welding technology ensures using safety & drip free.
Switch is removable from the base for easy cleaning.
Note:
Keep all wire connections above the highest water level. Wires should be sealed with a waterproof marine sealant to prevent wire corrosion.
Designed for fresh water or sea water only.
Best Service:
We believe in the quality of our products, if you have any problems, please feel free to contact us.
- Max Amps 12volts: 20A; Max Amps 24volts: 10A; Max Amps 32volts: 8A. Wire Length: 1M; Wire gauge size: 18AWG.
- Switch is removable from the base for easy cleaning.
- Turn pump on when water level reaches 2” (51mm) ; Turn pump off when water level reaches 0.7” (19mm).
- Long life, switching frequency up to 10 million times; Ultrasonic welding, forming a seal, reliable and secure, not leaking.
- Heavy duty flow switch is designed for the toughest applications; Environmentally responsible.
User questions & answers
| Question: | where is it made |
| Answer: | Hello Amy, Yes, the 35A float switch comes with the wiring diagram and directions for installation. Regards, Xylem. |
Pactrade Marine Boat Bilge Alarm Pump Switch Aluminum Plate Manual Automatic
Pactrade Marine
Product description
This is a stamped anodized aluminum bilge pump switch. This product features both automatic and manual settings. Two means of alarm (visual and sound) are activated when water level in your bilge is beyond your bilge pump float switch level. Operation manual: See picture attached to this listing with drawings and instructions. Measurements: 2.5" by 4.5" installation: The pump is mounted in the bilge with its operating float switch mounted 20mm higher than pump. A second alarm float switch is than installed approximately 7.87" above the pump float switch. Operation: 1. With the control switch on manual, the pump float switch will be by passed and the pump runs continuously. (Take care: Should be ensured the pump does not run dry) 2. With the control switch on auto, the pump will be controlled automatically by the lower float switch. Should this float switch fail and the water builds up to the upper float switch, then the alarm will sound. An important feature of this panel is that the alarm float switch not only sounds the alarm, but it also kick starts the pump. 3. The same feature applies if the control switch is left in the off position. When the water level reaches the alarm float switch, it will sound and the pump will start. This provides a safety backup by ensuring the water level will not rise above the float switch even when unattached. Item: P10298.
- This is a stamped anodized aluminum bilge pump switch and this product features both automatic and manual settings
- Two means of alarm (visual and sound) are activated when water level in your bilge is beyond your bilge pump float switch level
- Operation manual: See picture attached to this listing with drawings and instructions
- Measurements: 2.5" by 4.5"
- Item: P10298
User questions & answers
| Question: | Instalation drawing above shows 12v or 24v. however when i received the switch, the enclosed drawing only states 12v. which is it? i need 24v |
| Answer: | hope this helps1. Splice suitable lengths of brown and black 16-gauge wire to existing pumpwiring, enough to reach ON/OFF/AUTO switch, automatic float switch, andbattery.2. Using insulated terminal connectors:Connect positive lead (brown) to the ON/OFF/AUTO switch.Connect negative lead (black) to negative (-) battery terminal.In a location easily accessible for changing fuses, splice fuse holder intopositive lead (brown). The fuse holder must be installed within 72" (183 cm)of the positive (+) battery terminal. Connect remaining lead from fuseholder to positive (+) terminal of the three-way switch.3. Splice the remaining positive lead (brown) from the automatic float switchinto the positive lead (brown) from the pump. |
AURELIO TECH 12V 750GPH Automatic Submersible Bilge Pump for Boats with Float Switch
AURELIO TECH
- ⛵Voltage: 12V DC; Flow capacity: 750 Gallons per hour (2850 Liters per hour) - 47. 5 Liters per minute
- ⛵Maximum delivery head: 3. 8 meters (height of vertical water flow up pipe); Current draw: 3 Amp
- ⛵Hose Outlet: 19mm (3/4"); Dimensions: Length 145mm (5. 71") x Width 83mm (3. 27") x 103mm (4. 05")
- ⛵Ignition protected; 3-wire lead, approx. 1m long; Model: SFBP1-G750-06
- ⛵Tough plastic body automatic bilge pump with built-in float switch. (No separate float switch is needed)
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the warranty on this unit |
| Answer: | This is a terrible product! In the 4 years I have owned the boat that came with this switch, I have had to replace same 3 times. I would replace same along with the component but it is in a very difficult spot. In you are in the same situation, buy two switches because the first one will go out after awhile and then you have a spare. Good luck. |
| Question: | so manual mentions the strainer base as well as a filter, but my pump has no filter. Is it just the strainer |
| Answer: | It's a 2 pole switch with a circuit breaker and a couple of lights. Power comes in to the middle lug of the switch, one side goes directly to the pump, the other side goes through the float switch for the "Auto" side. |
| Question: | what is the warranty on this model |
| Answer: | 3.5 inches x 2 x 2 deep ....... |
| Question: | How does it mount in the boat does it have a bracelet |
| Answer: | I used this site to get me going on the installation. Hope it helps you.https://www.boatus.com/boattech/casey/installing-bilge-pump.asp |
SEAFLO 03-Series Heavy Duty Bilge Pump Float Switch for 12V, 24V, 32V
SEAFLO
Product description
SEAFLO 03-Series Heavy Duty Bilge Pump Float Switch for 12V, 24V, 32V
SEAFLO manufactures the highest quality float switches on the market. This float switch has a capacity of up to 10 million activations. We use an Anti-Aging, Ultraviolet-Resistant ABS Thermoplastic with robust reinforcement for maximum durability and reliability. The rugged design provides performance that you can rely on for years. Ultrasonic welding forms reliable and secure seals as opposed to competitors with weaker sealing. While competitor float switches often corrode and rot out, the 03-Series and its superior design outperforms the rest. This newly designed heavy duty float switch can handle up to and industry leading 25 Amps. At an affordable price with a 4-Year Warranty to back it up, SEAFLO is the perfect choice for all your Marine & RV needs.
Features:
BRAND NEW SEAFLO 03-Series Bilge Pump Float Switch
Suitable for 12V, 24V, and 32V systems
Capable of handling up to 25 Amp systems
Heavy duty, UV stabilised ABS construction
Sleek new orange and white finish
Reinforced seals prevent corrosion and water entry
Easy to install and mercury free
Pump turns on when water levels reaches 1.77" and turns off when water level recedes to 0.79"
14 AWG wire gauge size
Fits industry standard mounting patterns
Marine grade wiring
Package Includes:
- 1 x SEAFLO 03-Series Bilge Pump Float Switch
Specifications:
Dimensions: Approx. 5.2" x 2.99" x 1.29"
Suitable for 12V, 24V, and 32V systems
Max amperage capacity: 25A
Mounting screws not included
- 4-Year Warranty
- Constructed with high quality ABS material and newly designed sealing for maximum durability and longevity
- Turns pump on when water level reaches 1.77" (45mm) and turns pump off when water level reaches 0.79" (20mm)
- Mercury free electric reed switch system for consistent activation performance
- Brand new design can handle 12V, 24V, and 32V systems up to 25 Amps
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the voltages for this ax or dc. I have a 24vdc pump 4amp. Can I use this |
| Answer: | no |
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