float switch not working

[dlewis812]

installed new float switch last season, worked fine. last week not working. went ahead and installed a new one, no luck. re connected the next point where float connects to pump still no luck. guess need to check entire path of the wiring however other than that any other thoughts?

 

[Duke]

If you think a switch is bad, turn off the power going to the switch, and using your meter in the ohms position, connected directly across the switch, open and close the switch. With the switch closed (turned on) the meter should read near zero. If the switch checks good it could be the pump motor is bad. Without knowing the specific motor / pump the quickest way to check it is to direct wire it from a known good battery. Don't forget to disconnect the in-service wiring before you attach the direct wiring. Hope this helps. Duke

 

[JoeWhite]

I would simply short the two wires going to the float switch. If the pump comes on then the switch is bad. If the pump does not come on - then measure the voltage across the pump. If there is 12 VDC - means bad pump. If no voltage - then check the battery or the switch at the circuit breaker panel.

 

[Duke]

Also, if the pump does not run, there could be debris in the pump, blocking the impeller.

 

[rhythmsurfer]

Faulty Wiring

It could be faulty wiring. I went through several pumps/float switches when I installed my setup. I looked at each unit on the shelf at WestMarine and could not believe what I saw. Looking at the eletrical connections,some units were ok, some were good, and others were terrible. Keep your receipt.

 

[Chuckbear]

let me guess, It might be a Rule float switch. They are the biggest piece of crap made. If you get a year out of many of these you are doing quite well. I know, many of you have them that have worked for years, most of which don't get exercised which is why they have lasted. If it is indeed the switch, replace it with another brand. Chuck

 

[dlewis812]

The pump works fine, it's the float switch that does not work. Eventhough just put in a new one last year went ahead and installed another new one. Yes a rule but they can't be that bad right out of the box. Obviously something in the wiring.

 

[Stu Jackson]

...it's the float switch that does not work. ...a rule but they can't be that bad right out of the box. Obviously something in the wiring.

Obviously? Maybe not. Take the new float switch and tie it into a simple circuit with a light in it. Check to see if it works as an on/off switch. Lotsa things come "broken" right in the box. What do you have to lose to try it and check it out?