Best Bilge Pump Float Switch in 2024 – Expert Reviews Guide
Posted in Water Pumps
March 6, 2024
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump with Float Switch
- 12 Volt
- 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump Float Switch
- 12 Volt
- 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Rule Rule-A-Matic Plus Float Switch
- 12/24/32 Volt
- 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Rule SuperSwitch Float Switch
- 12 Volt
- 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Attwood 4201-7 Float Switch With Cover
- 12/24 Volt
" />- 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Buying Guide for the Best Bilge Pump Float Switch
A bilge pump is a device used to remove water from the bilge of a boat or ship. It is usually powered by either electric, manual, or engine-driven pumps.
Bilge pumps are designed to dry the bilge area and prevent water damage to the boat or ship.
However, in order for a bilge pump to function properly, it must have a float switch.
What is a Bilge Pump Float Switch?
A bilge pump float switch is a very important device that automatically turns on and off an automatic bilge pump whenever there is excess water in the boat.
A float switch is typically connected directly to your bilge pump and will activate when the water level in the bilge reaches a certain height. This helps to ensure that the bilge area stays dry and prevents water damage.
Purchasing the best float switch is extremely important, because if your boat’s float switch malfunctions, your chances of sinking are very high.
In the guide below, we reviewed some of the best bilge pump float switches available.
Top 5 Best Bilge Pump Float Switches in 2024
1. Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump with Float Switch
In-Depth Review
The Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump comes fully equipped with a Float Switch that moves water conveniently out of your boat to keep it afloat.
This float switch’s sensor is designed to automatically turn on the water pump when the water level exceeds the minimum limit. On the flip side, this switch will turn off the water pump as soon as the water level drops below safe levels.
This float switch even includes a mounting bracket, making the installation easier without having to buy any extra parts.
For safety, the pump is equipped with an impeller that prevents the motor from heating up, and this helps to increase the life of the switch.
One of the things that I love about this Bilge Pump kit is that it is constructed with marine-grade wiring so that it can withstand corrosive and harsh conditions when submerged put in the water.
Overall, this is a compact device that is designed to take up little space.
Features
- Comes with a mounting bracket for easy installation
- Constructed of marine-grade stainless-steel wiring
- Equipped with an impeller to prevent the motor from overheating
- Compact design which makes it compatible with most boats
Top Uses
- Small, medium, and large boats
- Freshwater and saltwater
Pros
- Affordable price for any budget
- Durable and designed to withstand harsh marine conditions
- Includes mounting bracket
- Easy installation
Cons
- Troubleshooting can be a challenge because it comes fully sealed
2. Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump Float Switch
In-Depth Review
When you are looking for a high-quality float switch that is affordable, consider buying Shoreline Marine products, because they are known for manufacturing the highest quality products.
The Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump Float Switch is easy to set up and easy to use. The package comes with all the required mounting hardware to make your self-installation easy. It even features a wiring diagram, that allows beginners to do a DIY installation without requiring an expensive electrician.
This switch is designed to automatically activate your boat's pump when the water level is past a safe level. This float switch is compatible with 12V DC bilge pumps with a maximum output of 10 amps which greatly increases compatibility with an existing bilge pump and gives you more options when searching for a new one for your boat.
Shoreline Marine includes tinn marine wiring, which helps the switch withstand harsh and corrosive conditions while submerged in water.
I love how compact and lightweight this switch is, weighing in at only 0.2 lbs, which makes it easy to handle and install.
Features
- Includes mounting equipment
- Equipped with tinned marine wiring that can withstand harsh water conditions
- Compatible with 12V DC bilge pumps with 10 amps max output
- Lightweight switch that weighs only 0.2lbs
- Includes beginners wiring diagram for DIY installation
Top Uses
- Small, medium, and large boats
- Freshwater and saltwater
Pros
- Easy to install and setup
- The switch is fully submersible, and designed to activate the bilge pump automatically
- The price point for this switch is excellent
- Float switch does not contain mercury
Cons
- Activates the pump when the water is above 3 inches.
3. Rule Rule-A-Matic Plus Float Switch
In-Depth Review
Rule is another quality brand that is worth buying, as it is equipped with many features that will help keep your boat on the water even when conditions are extreme.
This float switch comes with enhanced safety because it has a built-in test kit that is used to assess the performance of the switch before you start sailing. It is easy to install this switch because it comes with all the required hardware to make your job hassle-free.
This switch is sleek and rugged with a sturdy impact-resistant cover that helps to prevent the switch from jamming with debris. Moreover, the switch is designed to turn the pump on when the water level reaches 2,” and it then turns it off when the water level falls to 3/4”.
The unit features 14-gauge marine-grade wire that is abrasive resistant to protect the switch from malfunctioning in corrosive and harsh water environments. This switch can be used for high-water alarm systems because it can support marine-grade pumps.
This float switch is designed for Bilge pumps pumping up to 20amps to the maximum with a voltage that ranges from 12V to 32V.
One of my favorite features with this switch is the detachable mounting base, which makes it easy to install and makes regular cleaning far less time-consuming.
Features
- Built-in test feature to check obstructions
- Equipped with an impact-resistant cover to prevent debris and jamming
- Perfect for Bilge pumps pumping up to 20Amps with 12V to 32V range
- Detachable mounting base for easy installation and cleaning
- Includes mounting hardware for easy installation
Top Uses
- Small, medium, and large boats
- Freshwater and saltwater
Pros
- It can be used to operate high-water alarm systems
- Built with an environmentally-friendly design
- Great quality for the price
Cons
- This switch can stick if you don't clean it regularly
- The acrylic material used is not resistant to heat
4. Rule SuperSwitch Float Switch
In-Depth Review
If you want a mercury-free switch designed to handle heavy-duty use, this switch is worth buying.
I deeply care about the environment, and this switch is mercury-free, making it perfect for any boat owner looking for an environmentally friendly option.
This switch is designed to handle pumps drawing up to 20amps with a maximum voltage of 12 volts DC, which increases your chances of compatibility with your boat.
Despite all its advanced features, installing the float switch is easy because it comes with all the required hardware, and you will not need any professional.
Like other Rule switches, this switch has a removable base, making installation and cleaning hassle-free.
Features
- Removable base for servicing
- Features large dimensions that increase buoyancy
- Snap switch design enables it to handle pumps drawing up to 20 amps
- Includes installation hardware
- Easy-to-follow installation instructions
- Equipped with 14-gauge marine-grade wire
- Moisture-tight seals
Top Uses
- Small, medium, and large boats
- Freshwater and saltwater
Pros
- Ideal for heavy-duty use
- Mercury-free and environmentally friendly
- Well-built with durable parts
- Easy to install
Cons
- Not as efficient as some more expensive models
5. Attwood 4201-7 Float Switch with Cover
In-Depth Review
The Attwood 4201-7 Float Switch is built with a compact design that allows it to mount on any surface without taking up much space.
This switch triggers your pump’s motor at a 2” water level to keep your boat dry and above water.
On top of that, it is built with a sealed switch mechanism that enables the switch to resist electric shock, ignition, and moisture.
This switch converts a manual pump into an automatic pump within minutes. You can mount the switch on any horizontal surface with up to a 24-degree angle, making the switch compatible with most boats.
This model is designed for Bilge pumps drawing from 6 amps at 24V DC to 12 amps at 12V DC.
I really like the improved safety features included with this switch for durability and safety.
It is even equipped with a test knob that allows you to check for malfunctions before you take your large boat on the water for long trips.
Features
- Built with a compact design for easy mounting
- Equipped with a test knob that tests for any malfunctions
- Sealed switch mechanism for moisture, water, and shock resistance
- Can be mounted on any horizontal surface with up to a 24-degree angle
- Designed to trigger your pump’s motor at a 2” water level
- Can draw from 6 to 12amps
- Equipped with a cover for added protection
Top Uses
- Small, medium, and large boats
Pros
- Converts a manually controlled pump into an automatic pump in minutes
- The compact design allows it to mount on any surface
- Suitable for all water conditions
Cons
- Alternative design compared to other models
Factors to Consider To Choose a Bilge Pump Float Switch
Installation
Installing a float switch can be a tedious task if you don’t have the necessary hardware.
A float switch should come with all the essential tools that will allow you to do the installation in minutes even for DIY installation.
Other than tools, the switch should be built with a compact design to enable you to mount it on any surface.
Price
How much do you want to spend, and how strong is your budget? These questions will run thru your mind when shopping for a pump float switch.
If you want a quality float switch that won't fail, then you must be willing to pay a little extra. I can tell you that it is well worth it because the switches reviewed on this page will improve your pump's performance, durability, and safety.
Construction
To boat safely, I can't stress enough that you need a high-quality, well-constructed, bilge pump float switch.
You should choose a pump that will be suitable for all water conditions even harsh ones.
If you want to use it in saltwater, the switch should have corrosion-resistant parts for increased durability.
The pump should include a cover that is resistant to moisture for protection.
Capacity
Pumps differ a lot on how much water they can pump at one time. Gallon Per Hour (GPH) is the figure used to measure how much water is pumped per hour.
For any bilge boat pump, it should have at least 1000GPH, unless your boat is small. Therefore, capacity is a crucial figure, but you have to consider the size and type of boat.
Who Needs a Bilge Pump Float Switch?
A bilge pump float switch is needed by any boat owner who wants to keep their boat dry whenever they are out in the waters.
It will switch on the bilge pump automatically when there is water in the boat and then switch it off when the water is cleared, keeping your boat safe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bilge Pump Float Switches
Automatic Bilge Pump
An automatic bilge pump is the most common type. An automatic bilge pump works by using a float switch to detect when the water level in the bilge rises above a certain point, and then it automatically turns on the pump.
Manual Bilge Pump
A manual bilge pump is a type of hand-operated pump that can be used to remove water from the bilge. Manual pumps are typically less powerful than automatic or centrifugal pumps, but they are still very useful if you need to remove small amounts of water quickly.
Centrifugal Pump
A centrifugal pump is a type of bilge pump that works by using an impeller to create a vacuum and suck water out of the bilge. It is more powerful than an automatic pump and can move more water in a shorter period of time.
Diaphragm Pump
A diaphragm pump is a type of bilge pump that uses a flexible diaphragm to create suction and move water out of the bilge. This type of pump is often used for applications where a lot of suction is needed, such as in wells or tanks with limited access.
Submersible Pump
A submersible pump is a type of bilge pump that is designed to be installed underwater. It has a sealed motor and can move large amounts of water quickly. It is usually used in larger boats or yachts with deeper bilges.
Conclusion
Even for experienced boat owners, choosing the right bilge pump float switch is not easy. The bilge pumps and switches reviewed above are efficient, easy to install, and ideal for all applications.
We hope that our bilge pump float switch reviews will help you find the very best switch to meet all your unique boating needs, while still giving you ultra safety and peace of mind.
