A sump pump float switch is a control device that is used to adjust the timing of the sump pump. The float adjusts the height of water in the sump so the water can be pumped out when needed. It’s important because if you don’t have enough water in your sump, then it will not work properly and this may cause flooding problems.
Adjusting the sump pump float is very easy, but there are several things that need to be considered before doing so. You should also know how to do it safely. This article contains all that information on how to correctly adjust the sump pump float.
Steps To Adjusting The Sump Pump Float Switch:
Using a sump pump, you can control the amount of water entering your home. Sump pump floats will not work if they are not adjusted properly, either they won’t activate or they won’t stop pumping. The following steps explain how to adjust the float valve on your sump pumps.
Sump pump adjustment is fairly straightforward and does not require any tools except:
Turning off the power source:
It is the safest thing to do when working on a sump pump. Electricity and water don’t mix well, and if you’re not careful you could get electrocuted. While it’s easy enough to turn an entire breaker off, it may be necessary to just shut off one feeder line (not an entire breaker).
Adjusting the float:
Next, manually or electronically adjust the float switch. If you use a manual float, you’ll first need to remove the cover plate from the bottom of the sump pump and then loosen the screws holding the float in place. Once it’s loose, lift the float up and down until it activates the pump as desired. You will need to open the access panel for electronic switches and then press the button for the appropriate setting.
After adjusting the float, make sure that it stays where you’ve set it. When you test the pump, make sure the float doesn’t move back into its original position. If it does, then you’ll need to reset the switch again.
Adjusting Manually:
Manual adjustments are often easier than electronic ones. Simply remove the cover plate at the bottom of the sumps and then loosen the screws that hold the float in place. Lift the float up and down as desired.
Adjusting Electronically:
Electronic controls are much more convenient than manual ones. They usually come with a remote control that allows you to change settings without having to go inside the house. Most models allow you to select between “on” and “off”, while others let you choose between different levels of activation.
Testing the pump with water:
Once you’ve made sure that the float works properly, add some water to the reservoir. Make sure that the water level is high enough to prevent the sump pump from activating. Then, check to see whether the pump has activated. If it hasn’t, then it means that the water level needs to go higher.
If the pump has already been activated, then the water level needs to drop lower. There are two ways to accomplish this. You can drain the tank completely by turning off the power supply and letting the water run out through the overflow pipe. And then, you can let the pump continue to operate while adding more water to the tank.
Replacing the float switch:
When replacing the float switch, make sure you replace it with the same type of switch. Not only will this ensure proper operation, but it will also help keep the water flowing smoothly.
Additional Information On How To Fix Your Sump Pump:
The sump pump is designed to protect your house against flooding. It ensures that the water drains away from your property instead of collecting inside. However, this system is prone to malfunction at times. A sump pump failure can lead to serious problems such as basement flooding. If your sump pump malfunctions, you should immediately call a professional plumber. They will be able to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
How can I tell if my sump pump’s float switch is bad?
It’s hard to determine whether the float switch is working correctly. The best way to do so is to disconnect the electrical wires coming from the breaker box and then turn on the sump pump. If the float doesn’t activate the pump, then the switch must be faulty.
What causes a sump pump to stop working?
One common reason why a sump pump stops working is that the float switch is damaged. Another possible cause is an issue with the wiring. The pump won’t work until you get it fixed in both cases.
What causes sump pump float switches to fail?
It is common for this type of float switch to fail for the same reasons. An incorrectly configured switch, poor maintenance, and using a float switch not rated for the application are all possible causes.
How much water does the sump pump need to start pumping?
Once the float begins to rise, carefully pour around 20 liters of water into the sump pit. This amount of water should be sufficient to trigger the sump pump.
Is it possible to adjust a sump pump’s float?
Yes, you can easily adjust the float manually. All you need to do is lift the float up or down. You can also adjust the setting electronically using a remote control.
Is it possible to adjust rigid or stiff floats?
You can use either a rigid or stiff float. Stiff floats tend to move more freely in response to changes in water depth. Rigid floats have less movement, which makes them easier to set accurately.
Where should the sump pump float be placed?
You should hang your float switch a few inches above the motor of your sump pump. Depending on how big your sump pit is and how powerful your sump pump is, you will have to determine the exact height.
Bottom Line:
Sump pumps are one of the most important parts of any home. Without them, there would be no way to prevent flooding. But they’re also prone to malfunctioning. That’s why it’s always good to know how to repair them. With these tips, you’ll never worry about having a backup plan again!
If you want to learn how to install a sump pump, check out our guide here.
