The top 3 recommendations and buying guides

Our recommendations

Of the Float switch of the WilTec brand is equipped with a red housing and black cable. With dimensions of around 16 x 8 x 4 cm (LxWxH) and a cable length of five meters, it is a classic all-rounder. It works up to a temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, so there are no operational disruptions to worry about. For the reviewers on Amazon, this PVC and metal float switch is a good quality model, that is easy to assemble, works flawlessly and apparently has a long service life goes hand in hand. Furthermore, the price-performance ratio is convincing.

This float switch also comes from WilTec. In principle, it is the same model as our comparison winner: All features are identical, only the cable is twice that, so it is ten meters instead of five meters. We therefore recommend this level switch for all hobby gardeners who want a version with a particularly long cable. In terms of quality, there are no differences to the “shorter” float switch, as confirmed by Amazon reviewers with descriptions such as “does what it should” or “works perfectly”. Incidentally, the WilTec float switches are also available in the typical color combination of blue and yellow instead of red.

Third place in our comparison of different float switches is the inexpensive model from Ruesious. It measures approximately 10 x 8 x 4.5 cm (LxWxH) and comes with a three meter long cable. The majority of the reviewers on Amazon are absolutely satisfied with this float switch. It should be ideal for the garden pond and work reliably. Many a customer complains that they have received a used product that has already been flawed. Of course, this can always happen at Amazon. If you notice this right away, simply send the product back and have it replaced free of charge.

Purchase criteria

Type

Float switch: There are different constructions of the float for the float switch. The most common variant houses a metal ball in a hermetically sealed housing. Depending on the water level and the associated inclination, the ball changes its position on a predetermined guideway as a result of the natural shift in the center of gravity. Electrical contact is made via a system of levers. Less used alternatives for the pond or pool are models with a permanent magnet or a mechanical linkage.

Level switch: A mechanical level switch is operated by the water pressure via a membrane. However, it is more likely to be used in washing machines and dishwashers than in ponds and pools. There are also electronic level switches. These evaluate the electrical resistance of the water column and, depending on the result, initiate the appropriate action in relation to the water level - i.e. filling or pumping out.

Number of swimmers

Float switches with one float can only be used for one "direction" at any given time - either for filling or pumping out the pond or pool. However, there are also models with two floats. These versions allow you to control the submersible pump in both directions at the same time.

material

Float switches for the garden pond or pool are usually made of plastic, more precisely made of polypropylene (PP), only the ball inside is made of metal. For other areas of application there are also versions made of nylon, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) or stainless steel. When making your comparison, make sure that the individual parts of the float switch are well made. Check whether the float switch is CE certified and therefore a safe device.

size

Also take a look at the dimensions of the float switch and adjust the size to the area of ​​your pond or pool if possible. The swimmer shouldn't be too big so as not to be too much in the foreground. In a fish-stocked garden pond, a float switch that is too bulky could irritate and disturb the fish. Most float switches measure approximately 10 x 8 x 5 cm (LxWxH).

Length of the connection cable

The length of the connection cable plays an important role when buying a float switch, because it determines the level at which the connected submersible pump switches on or off. Generally, the cable length is three, four or five meters - but you will occasionally come across float switches with longer cables, for example ten meters. Adjust the feature to your needs.

Working temperature

With classic PP float switches, the working temperature is usually between zero and 70 degrees. This area is also perfectly adequate for the garden pond or pool. You should only ensure that the temperature range covers your plans if you want to buy the float switch for other purposes.

frequently asked Questions

What is a float switch and what is it used for?

A float switch, often also called a float switch, is a vessel usually made of plastic with an integrated steel ball. It usually comes in combination with a submersible pump for unsupervised filling or pumping off Garden ponds or pools are used. Float switches effectively protect submersible pumps from overheating and prevent them from overflowing as well as from running dry.

How does a float switch work?

A hollow plastic body floats on the surface of the water. He's on a cable with the Submersible pump tied together. A steel ball rolls back and forth inside the hollow body. Depending on the location - it depends on the fill level of the pond or pool - the ball actuates a switch that activates or deactivates the pump.

Which brands offer good float switches?

The best-known and most popular brands for float switches include Gardena, Einhell, Kärcher, Güde and Wiltec.

Where is the best place to buy a float switch?

Float switches are usually available in all well-stocked hardware stores and garden centers. You will also find what you are looking for in specialized pond shops. Amazon offers you a large selection and a convenient ordering and return system. If you are not satisfied with your float switch, you can generally return it without any problems.

How much does a float switch cost?

Most of the commercially available float switches cost between 15 and 20 euros. There are also a few models for which you only have to spend around ten euros. Conversely, some manufacturers charge more than 20 euros for their high-quality float switches. However, the aids rarely cost more than 30 euros.

equipment

Submersible / dirty water pump

If you do not yet have a submersible or dirty water pump, you can coordinate this and the float switch directly with one another to ensure optimal compatibility. Just make sure the connectors fit together. There are also sets consisting of a pump and a float switch. Basically, it is logically very important that the submersible pump itself is 100 percent convincing in terms of quality.