Re: [Paddlewise] Float Switches

From: Dave Kruger <kdruger_at_pacifier.com>
Date: Sun, 08 Oct 2006 09:54:41 -0700
Derek wrote:
> Has anyone successfully used a float switch on their pump systems?  A
> few different switch options have been mentioned, but I do not recall
> anyone using a float switch.

One problem with a mechanical float switch is that the amount of water
needed to activate the switch may exceed the amount you would tolerate
swashing around in the bilges.

Another problem is that conventional mechanical switches are well-known for
maintenance issues (= failure when you need one the most).  If you are
committed to this type of pump activation, you might prefer a Water Witch (
http://www.waterwitchinc.com/product_sheet/bilge_switchsheet.html ), which
uses a contact-free system for activating the pump.  Buddies out here who
use these in their power boat bilges swear by them, after having had one or
more mechanical float switches fail, sometimes in catastrophic situations.

The simplest model should work for a kayak, and only draws 6 mA at rest.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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Received on Sun Oct 08 2006 - 09:54:40 PDT

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