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Solar Well Pumps Online

Paddle Float Switch

Paddle Float Switch

$58.00 USD
$58.00 USD
Sale Sold out
A 3-wire paddle-style float switch functions as a
Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) device, allowing you to choose between "Pump-Up" (filling) and "Pump-Down" (emptying) operations by selecting the correct pair of wires.
The standard wiring for most 3-wire float switches uses Black as the Common wire. To achieve your desired shutoff behavior, connect as follows:
  • Tank Full Shutoff (Pump-Up / Filling)
    • Goal: The pump runs when the float hangs down (tank empty) and stops when the float rises (tank full).
    • Wiring: Use Black (Common) and Blue (Normally Closed) wires.
    • Action: The circuit is closed when the float is down, providing power to the pump. The circuit opens when the float reaches the "up" position, cutting power.
    • Note: Cap off the unused Brown wire.
  • Tank Empty Shutoff (Pump-Down / Draining)
    • Goal: The pump runs when the float is up (tank full) and stops when it hangs down (tank empty) to prevent dry-running.
    • Wiring: Use Black (Common) and Brown (Normally Open) wires.
    • Action: The circuit is open when the float hangs down (at rest), meaning no power flows. It only closes and activates the pump when the water level lifts the float.
    • Note: Cap off the unused Blue wire.
Technical Specifications
Voltage/Current: Rated for up to 240VAC and 150VDC with a maximum current of 16A.
  • Direct Control: Can directly control small motors (typically up to 1/2 HP or 13A-16A depending on the specific model). For larger motors, wire the float switch to a magnetic contactor instead of directly to the pump.
  • Grounding: Always ensure the pump and system are properly grounded using the green or bare copper wire from your power source.
  • use the sliding counterweight included with the float. This acts as a pivot point; the longer the cable between the weight and the float, the larger the "swing" (the distance between start and stop).
  • Step-by-Step Adjustment
    1. Insert the Cable: Slide the float cable through the center of the counterweight. Most weights have a plastic locking clip or a tapered ring to hold it in place.
    2. Determine the Pivot Point:
      • For a small level change (e.g., 6–10 inches), place the weight closer to the float (about 4–5 inches away).
      • For a large level change (e.g., 2–3 feet), slide the weight further back along the cable.
    3. Secure the Weight: Snap the locking clip into the groove of the counterweight to "pinch" the cable. This ensures the weight doesn't slide when the water level shifts.
    4. Position in the Tank:
      • Low Point: The pump will stop (or start) when the float hangs vertically below the weight.
      • High Point: The pump will start (or stop) when the float is buoyed up and tilts past the horizontal plane of the weight.
    5. Dry Run Test: Before filling the tank, manually lift and lower the float. You should hear a distinct "click" from the internal ball bearing as it passes the pivot point, indicating the switch has triggered.
    Pro-Tips for Stock Tanks
    • Clearance: Ensure the float has enough room to swing without getting caught on the tank wall or your aerator plumbing.
    • Minimum Tether: Never set the weight closer than 4 inches to the float, or it may not have enough leverage to tilt the internal switch.
    • Alternative: If your tank is shallow, you can zip-tie the cable to a weighted PVC pipeinstead of using the sliding weight to keep it from drifting.
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