Bilge Float Switch

Ralph Johnstone · 2025-09-14T09:06:31-0700

Randall Schmidt said:
Not sure why I find the switch submerged in water and not automatically activating.

Is the pump's float UP or DOWN when the assembly is submerged?

Tally Ho · 2025-09-14T12:24:22-0700

Randall Schmidt said:
I have a 1984 Oday 28. The bilge pump is hot wired yet the float activation is not working When I lift the switch the pump runs or when I turn on. The A or B or both batteries and hit the bilge pump switch on the panel she runs and pumps out nicely. Not sure why I find the switch submerged in water and not automatically activating. Guess I need to replace it. Anyone know what switch to use or have any other relevant advice? Thanks

this looks like it will do the job

https://www.westmarine.com/rule-industries-rule-a-matic-bilge-pump-switch-8247082.html

How deep is the water? You indicate if you lift the switch it turns on…. So, you are saying the float switch “doesn't float”?

My float switch is internal to the housing, but I have to have a fair amount of water in the bilge before the pump turns on.

But if there is something wrong with your float switch, the one you selected should be a good one.

Greg

Project_Mayhem · 2025-09-14T13:46:31-0700

Some panels allow you to select off/auto/on. Test for power in all positions. You can pull the switch up by hand if its external or turn the pump upside down if it's an internal switch. Chances are, the switch went bad but checking for power at the wires, panel, etc will confirm this. It could just be an improper use of the switch on the panel

PS - Dont drill into your bilge to mount your bilge components

Bilge Float Switch

Randall Schmidt

.

Ralph Johnstone

.

Tally Ho

.

Project_Mayhem

.