Zoeller uses many sump pump float switch types. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Understanding their pros and cons is essential when choosing the best sump pump model for your water pumping needs.
Unless a manual sump pump is selected, Zoeller uses specific float switch types with each model. So choosing a float switch type narrows your Zoeller sump pump model options.
We will discuss Zoeller float switch types, their pros and cons, and which models use which float switch type to help you be an educated shopper.
Over time, float switches wear out so we will also provide float switch replacement options and instructions on how to replace them.
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Three Quick Ways To Distinguish Zoeller Sump Pump Float Switch Types
A float switch is either attached to a sump pump (integrated as part of the pump) or is not attached to a sump pump (solid state and stands alone independently). An integrated float switch is wired with the pump and runs the pump automatically when the switch electric circuit is closed. A stand-alone switch is not wired with the pump and relies on the pump electric cord to be plugged into its piggyback plug so the switch can provide current to the pump when the switch circuit is closed.
Mechanical switches use a float. Electronic switches do not use a float. Electronic switches use sensors. Sensors perform the role of a float but do not move. They sense water height while remaining stationary.
Mechanical switches rely on up and down float movement to close the switch circuit and provide electrical current to run the pump or a thin membrane as found in the diaphragm style to activate the switch. An electronic switch relies on sensors to indicate the water height and sends a signal when the switch circuit should close and send electricity to the pump. The constant movement of the mechanical float causes wear and eventually it fails. However, electronic switches have no movement and circuit boards can last forever.
The above information gives us great background to better understand Zoeller's Sump Pump Float Switch types.
Zoeller Sump Pump Float Switches are three types traditionally: the Tether, Vertical, and Variable Level. Zoeller is currently working on an electronic no float switch option.
Considering this new potential switch option, Zoeller float switch types are newly classified as mechanical and electronic. We explain and show how each float switch type works and identify their differences.
It is important to note that not all switch types are available for all Zoeller pump product lines; therefore it is important to notice the float switch type when reviewing a specific model.
So what switch types are used with what Zoeller Models? The easiest way to remember the switch type is by the Model prefix. Models beginning with 'M' use the vertical float switch. The exception is Model 49 one-fourth horse power which uses the tether float switch. Models without a prefix M are Zoeller pumps made by Zoeller in Taiwan and they use a vertical float switch. Models beginning with 'N' are non-automatic and can use the tether, vertical float switch or any other solid state float switch including an electronic switch. We discuss this more later.
Understanding float switch types aids in choosing the best to protect the basement from flooding because of float switch failure. Float switches are always the weakest part of any sump pump and no float switch lasts forever. However, owning a pump with a long lasting float switch is ideal. The enhanced snap action float switch has great features and the Zoeller floatless switch when available will have great potential. Both of these options have features that will greatly increase the float switch longevity.
Zoeller is one of those companies that makes replacement float switch parts readily available that are easy to replace, so investing in a Zoeller is wise because the pump frame and motor are built to last a long time, more than twenty years.
Zoeller float switch types include 1) the mechanical type: the tether float switch and the vertical float switch, and 2) the electronic switch type which has no float.
Each of these switch types looks different, attaches to the pump differently, and works differently. We explain how each float switch type works, their pros and cons and our recommendation.
Then we present the Zoeller sump pump models by the specific float switch type used.
The mechanical float switch includes two float switch types: 1) The tether float also known as the variable level float switch 2) The vertical float known as either the master magnetic or the 2-pole snap action float switch or the 2-pole enhanced float switch. These float switch types are not electronic switch types.
The mechanical float switch is made of two different float types: 1) The mechanical tether 2) The mechanical vertical.
These three float switch types can be easily identified by three characteristics: 1) The electrical cord configuration 2) The location of the switch 3) The presence of a float and the ability to change the pump run time.
The electrical cord configuration is such that the electricity flows through the tether cord. The electrical cord configuration for the vertical float is such that the electrical positive and negative circuit flows through the cord to the pump head where the switch is located.
The location of the switch varies depending on the mechanical switch type. As for the mechanical tether switch, it is located in the float. For the vertical switch, the switch is located in the pump head.
Run time is something we get a lot of phone calls about because home owners want to change the pump run time. The only mechanical float that allows for run time adjustment is the tether float. The tether can be lengthened or shortened to increase or decrease the run time. Run time for the vertical float is preset during manufacturing.
Let's keep these differences in mind as we review each mechanical float switch type with their pros and cons.
The tether float switch gets its name from its tether (long cord) with an attached float at the end. Inside the float is a ball like object and a switch with two connections. Zoeller has two styles of tether floats: one that is attached directly to the sump pump and one that is solid state and can be used with a manual pump. Both styles work the same. The only difference is that the solid state variable level is attached to the discharge pipe, its height is customizable, and the pump cord is plugged into the piggy back switch.
How Does The Tether Float Switch Work?
When the water level is low the tether with its float rests quietly along the side of the pump and the ball is far from the switch and the switch connection is open and electric current does not flow, however as the water level rises, the tether moves upward freely in the pit with the float. As the float moves upward, the ball like object in the float moves closer to the switch and at its highest point causes the switch connections to touch. The current closure gives electrical power to the pump to run until the float lowers enough for the switch connections to open again and the pump stops.
What Causes The Tether Switch To Fail?
Over time the tether (cord which houses the electrical cord running through it becomes britt and cracks. A cracked tether allows water to enter. Water causes the electrical current to fail. In addition the switch connection is a mechanical movement which over time eventually wears out.
Pros
Cons
Our Conclusion
We do not recommend the tether float because it takes too much basin diameter leaving no room for a backup sump pump.
Of the two types of tether float switches, the external variable level float switch offers more advantages. It has a piggyback switch which means if the switch fails the pump can be operated manually by plugging the pump directly into the wall socket and monitoring it so the pit does not pump dry and burn the motor out.
Which Models Use The Tether Switch?
The M49 comes with the tether float. The following models are manual and can thus use the Tether or the variable level tether to automate them: N53, N55, N57, N59 and N137.
Zoeller uses three vertical float switch types: the vertical magnetic reed, the two-pole snap action and the vertical electro mechanical. These four switches have similarities. Each vertical float switch has a rod attached to the pump head, a float that travels up and down the vertical rod as the water rises and lowers and a switch located in the pump head. However, they also have differences. These differences are noted by the way the switch activates the electric current for the pump motor.
Vertical Magnetic Reed Float Switch
The vertical magnetic reed float switch gets its name from its components: a rod, float, two magnets, and two reeds for the switch.
How Does The Magnetic Reed Switch Work?
The rod allows the float to slide vertically up and down as the water rises and recedes in the basin. A stopper at the end of the rod stops the float at its off point. A magnet is located in both the top of the rod and in the pump head which houses the switch. As the water rises, the float rises. When the float gets high enough the two magnets cling and at the same time the two reed strips in the switch close allowing electricity to pass through causing the pump to run. As the water level recedes the magnets release, the reeds separate, the electrical circuit disengages and the pump turns off.
What Causes The Magnetic Reed Switch To Fail?
The switch depends upon the magnetic fields to attract; however over time the attraction weakens and mineral deposits can interfere and cause it to fail. Plus the switch reeds wear out over time because their movement is mechanical.
Pros
Cons
Our Conclusion
The vertical magnetic switch is an improvement over the tether float switch however we do not recommend them because minerals can too easily cause the magnet draw to fail and the pump will fail to run. Admittedly the cost is lower; however a flood adds considerably more cost than buying a better sump pump.
Which Models Use The Vertical Magnetic Float Switch?
The models 1073-001, 1075-001, and 1099-0001 come with a magnetic float switch. The following models are manual and can thus use the Magnetic Vertical float switch to automate them: N53, N55, N57, N59, N98 and N137.
2-Pole Snap Action Vertical Float Switch
The two-pole snap action switch is comprised of a float, two arms used to anchor the top and bottom of the rod and a switch enclosed in a cast iron pump switch head.
How Does The 2-Pole Switch Work?
When the water is low the float is resting in its lowest position. As the water rises in the basin, the bottom negative circuit is closed and as the water continues to rise, the float rises and the top arm moves with the physical force of the water. The movement causes the top circuit to send a rapid transfer of contact from the positive to the negative closing the electric circuit at which time the pump runs. As the water recedes the connection is disengaged and pump stops.
What Causes The 2-Pole Switch To Fail?
Over time the switch wears because friction and heat are caused when the circuit closes. Also as it wears arching is caused. Arching and switch wear causes the switch to fail. Plus the switch head gasket can wear thin allowing moisture to enter the switch head. Moisture causes electrical failure. Obviously if the switch fails, the pump-motor will not work.
Pros
Cons
Our Conclusion
The 2-pole snap action vertical switch is more reliable than either of the above switch types. It is not affected by basin water mineral buildup.
The pump switch head plays a very instrumental role in determining how long the switch lasts. Zoeller's basic models, offered at a cheaper price, use a thermoplastic switch head which traps heat and causes the switch to fail quicker. These models include M72 and M76. Zoeller's professional line, more expensive, uses a cast iron switch head which draws the heat away from the switch and it lasts longer. The models with the cast iron switch head are M53, M57, M59, M98, and M137.
Which Models Use The Vertical 2-Pole Snap Action Float Switch?
The M53, M55, M57, M59, M72, M76, M98, and M137 come with a 2-pole snap action switch. The 1052-0005, 76-0001, and 1096-0001, built by Zoeller Taiwan, are made slightly different with only one cast iron housing known as the motor housing which dissipates motor heat well. The switch head is thermoplastic. Its cost is less as well as the weight. The M53, M57, M98, and M137 have cast iron housing for the motor and pump body and the switch head. M55 and M59 come with bronze housing and switch head. They are more costly but have a longer life span and replacement float switches are easy to purchase and install. No other float type can be used with these sump pumps.
The 2-Pole Snap Action Enhanced Vertical Float Switch
The Mechanical 2-Pole Enhanced Float Switch is an upgrade to the 2-pole snap action switch. The two-pole enhanced switch is comprised of a puncture-proof float, two arms used to anchor the top and bottom of the rod and a switch enclosed in a cast iron pump switch head with an additional blade connecting the positive and negative charges.
So How Does Zoeller Improve the 2-Pole Vertical Switch?
Since the Switch is the weakest part of a sump pump, Zoeller reduces the amount of friction caused when closing the electric current. Rather than rely on the fast snap action to pass the current, Zoller chooses to use a bar placed between the positive and negative post to close the switch. This reduces the heat and friction tremendously.
The other issue causing switch failure is the intrusion of moisture in the switch head. To prevent this Zoeller puts the switch in a viton boot. So these two changes greatly improves the switch life span.
How Does The Enhanced 2-Pole Switch Work?
When the water is low, the float is resting in its lowest position and as the water rises the float rises too. When the float reaches its predefined highest point, the circuit is closed. The enhanced switch just needs a gentle touch because the extra bar already connects the positive and negative together. As the water recedes the float lowers and the connection is disengaged and pump stops. Using a blade to pass the current definitely reduces the heat and friction caused when the circuit closes.
What Causes The Enhanced 2-Pole Switch To Fail?
The enhanced switch design adds so much more switch life longevity. The friction and heat caused when the circuit closes is greatly reduced, arching is decreased, and the effects of moisture are almost eliminated because of the additional boot protection for the switch. That's why its warranty is 5 years. However, this switch still has mechanical movement which over time causes switch wear and failure.
Pros
Cons
Our Conclusion
We recommend the 2-pole upgraded vertical switch because it is more reliable than any of the above switch types. The switch contact is effective much longer with the usage of the blade and the switch has additional protection from moisture with the added viton glove. Like the 2-pole snap action switch, this upgraded switch is housed in cast iron which draws heat away from the switch to extend its life.
Which Models Use The 2-Pole Snap Action Enhanced Vertical Float Switch?
The Zoeller Premium product line which includes the M63 and the M95 use the 2-Pole Snap Action Enhanced Vertical Float Switch. No other float switch type can be used with these two sump pump models.
The Electronic Switch is comprised of a mechanism that houses three electronic sensors and an electronic circuit board to receive signals from the sensors.
How Does The Electronic Switch Work?
The three sensors remain stationary throughout the entire operation. The bottom electronic sensor, known as the OFF sensor, sends a signal to the circuit board in the switch head when the water rises above it. The next sensor, known as the ON sensor, sends a signal to the circuit board when the water rises above it.
The programmed circuit board connects the two signals and the electric circuit is closed to send electricity to run the pump. The pump runs until the water recedes below both the top and the bottom sensor and continues an additional few seconds to prevent motor short cycling.
What Causes The Electronic Switch To Fail?
Circuit board which controls the switch could fail or sludge build up could prevent the switch sensors form operating.
Pros
Cons
Our Conclusion
Using an electronic switch is the way to go. Currently Zoeller engineers are perfecting its design. Currently it is Floatless and has two ON sensors to provide dual protection in case one sensor malfunctions.
We strongly recommend an electronic switch. We installed an electronic switch made by Hydrocheck in 2011. This switch has been unbelievably reliable. We have had no failures since its installation. It certainly gives us so much peace of mind. The model number for the switch is HC6000.
Check out the Hydrocheck HC6000 electronic switch. Learn how it works.
Which Models Can Use An Electronic Switch?
All manual sump pumps such as N53, N55, N57, N59, N86 and N137 can use the electronic switch because the switch is solid state which means it is not attached to the sump pump. Instead the pump motor plugs into its piggyback switch.
All manufacturers float switches will eventually fail. Float-switch failure depends a lot on how often the sump pump runs. If the pump runs more than once a day and continuously during heavy rainfalls you can expect the switch will last three to five years. If the sump pump rarely runs the switch will last much longer. Some homeowners report their switch has lasted ten years.
The Zoeller pump housing and motor will outlast the switch. The housing and motor are built to last almost forever. In fact, only eighty percent of the motors capacity is used during a pumping cycle which results in motor longevity.
Most of the time the float-switch will fail during heavy continuous pumping; therefore it is wise to replace the switch every three to five years depending upon the frequency of usage ton prevent flooding. The smart homeowner will keep a replacement switch on hand. Replacement of the switch is easy. Follow the replacement steps below.
When it comes to replacement switches, Zoeller manufacturers their own parts so they are guaranteed to fit and work. The pump housing and motor are built to last a long time; therefore rather than discharge the well-built heavy cast iron pump, replace the switch. It is easy to buy and install.
There are several replacement switch options available for submersible sump pumps M53 (also known as 2P547), M55 (also known as 2P549), M57 (also known as 2P549), M59 (also known as 2P550), and M96 (also known as 2P550).
To make installment easy, install the entire switch head assembly part number 004702 which includes the switch already installed inside the switch head and the gasket. If the pit is dry and the four screws holding the pump head turn, it may be possible to loosen the screws and replace it without removing the pump from the pit. So basically it is loosen 4 big screws, remove the old switch cap and switch assembly, put the gasket on if it came loose, put the cap on, tighten the screws and the job is done. We have done it and it is easy.
The replacement switch is easy to replace. See switch installation instructions below.
The replacement gasket part number #034046 is made by Zoeller and fits Models Mighty-Mate M53, M55, M57, M59, Flow-Mate M98 and Waste-Mate M264. We have replaced our M53 gasket once. Our M53 is 12 years old. The gasket is very easy to replace. Just open four screws, remove the old gasket and replace it with the new. The gasket fits perfectly.
The replacement float rod part number #054062 is manufactured by Zoeller.
The replacement float part number #034019 is manufactured by Zoeller. The floats found on the automatic pumps are unsinkable if they are punctured because they are buoyant solid polypropylene. It is highly unlikely that the float will need to be replaced.
Zoeller also makes a replacement guide assembly part number: #034086 for the float.
A few other parts that Zoeller makes available include #004704, an assembly arm for the float, #054062, a float rod, and #003644, an impeller and replacement guide assembly part number #034086 for the float.
The following steps define how to replace a failed float-switch.
Model | HP | GPH @ 10 FT | Pump House | Float Switch Type | Solid Hand-ling | Port Size | A m p | Shut Off | Pit Dia. Req. | Float On Float Off | Power Cord | Price Rang | Model |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zoeller 49-0005 | 1/4 | 1500 | Enginerd Plastic | Tether | 3/8 in | 1 1/2 in | 3.8 | 18 ft. | 12 in | 7.25 3.0 in | 9 ft. |
$149 $160 |
Zoeller 49-0005 |
Zoeller M53 | 1/3 | 2040 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 1/2 in | 1 1/2 in | 9.7 | 19.25 ft | 12 in | 7 1/4 3 in | 9 ft. |
$139 $160 |
Zoeller M53 |
Zoeller M55 | 1/3 | 2040 | Bronze | 2-Pole Vertical | 1/2 in | 1 1/4 in | 9.7 | 19.25 ft | 12 in | 7 1/4 3 in | 9 ft. |
$899 $980 |
Zoeller M55 |
Zoeller N55 | 1/3 | 2040 | Bronze | Variable Level | 1/2 in | 1 1/2 in | 9.7 | 19.25 ft | 12 in | Adj. Adj. | 16 ft. |
$953$970 |
Zoeller N55 |
Zoeller M57 | 1/3 | 2040 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 1/2 in | 1 1/2 in | 9.7 | 19.25 ft | 12 in | 7 1/4 3 in | 9 ft. |
$153 $193 |
Zoeller M57 |
Zoeller BN57 | 1/3 | 2040 | Cast Iron | Variable Level | 1/2 in | 1 1/2 in | 9.7 | 19.25 ft | 12 in | Adj. Adj. | 16 ft. |
$192 $234 |
Zoeller BN57> |
Zoeller M59 | 1/3 | 2040 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 1/2 in | 1 1/2 in | 9.7 | 19.25 ft | 14 in | 7 1/4 3 in | 9 ft. | $153 - $212 | Zoeller M59 |
Zoeller N59 | 1/3 | 2040 | Cast Iron | Variable Level | 1/2 in | 1 1/2 in | 10 | 19.25 ft | 11 icn | Adj. Adj. | 16 ft. |
$1239$1250 |
Zoeller N59 |
Zoeller M72 | 1/3 | 1800 | Enginerd Plastic | 2-Pole Vertical | 3/8 in | 1 1/2 in | 3.1 | 18 ft | 11 in | 7 3/8 3.5/8 in. | 9 ft. |
$182 - $202 |
Zoeller M72 |
Zoeller M76 | 1/3 | 2400 | Enginerd Plastic | 2-Pole Vertical | 3/8 in | 1 1/2 in | 5 | 25 ft | 14 in |
8 1/2 3 3/4 in. |
9 ft. |
$201$220 |
Zoeller M76 |
Zoeller M98 | 1/2 | 3660 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 1/2 in | 1 1/4 or 1 1/2 in | 8.5 | 23 ft | 14 in |
9 1/2 3 in. |
15 ft. |
$214$239 |
Zoeller M98 |
Zoeller M137 | 1/2 | 4740 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 5/8 in | 1 1/4 in | 10.7 | 26 ft | 18 inch |
10 2 3/4 in. |
10 ft. |
$309 $449 |
Zoeller M137 |
Zoeller N137 | 1/2 | 4740 | Cast Iron | Variable Level | 5/8 in | 1 1/2 in | 10.7 | 26 ft | 18 in | Adj. Adj. | 15 ft. |
$439$485> |
Zoeller N137 |
Zoeller M139 | 1/2 | 4740 | Bronze | 2-Pole Vertical | 5/8 in | 1 1/2 in | 10.7 | 26 ft | 18 in |
10 2 3/4 in. |
10 ft. |
$1945$2200 |
Zoeller M139 |
Zoeller N139 | 1/2 | 4700 | Bronze | Variable Level | 5/8 in | 1 1/4 | 10.7 | 26 ft | 18 in | Adj. Adj. | 15 ft. |
$1850> |
Zoeller N139 |
Zoeller M264 | 1/4 | 1500 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 2 in | 2 inch | 9.4 | 18 ft | 10in |
12 1/2 4 1/2 in. |
15 ft. |
$272$398 |
Zoeller M264 |
Zoeller M267 | 1/2 | 3000 | Cast Iron | 2-Pole Vertical | 2 in. | 2 inch | 10.4 | 21.5 ft | 18 in | 12.0 4.0 in. | 10 ft. |
$316 $364 |
Zoeller M267 |
A Check Valve prevents Backflow when the Float Switch returns to the OFF position
Zoeller manufactures check valves. They are highly rated by Consumers and are easy to find online.
Zoeller makes many check valve styles ranging from those that slip on both ends of the discharge pipe and those that are glued on. Sizes also vary from 1 1/4 inch to 2 inches.
As for the water thumping sound, Zoeller manufactures both the standard and the quiet check valve. The quiet check valve reduces the thumping sound.
Zoeller check valves are very reasonably priced ranging from $9 to $30.
When sump pump float switches fail, if no battery system exists, the basin may overflow. A high level water alarm alerts the homeowner when such a condition exists.
Zoeller manufacturers two water alert series. They are the A-Pak and the Aquanot Flood Alert.
The Aquanot Flood Alert Series uses three AAA batteries. Stainless steel is used for the sensor contacts. The alarm can be installed as is without adjustments. The alarms are made of solid-state electronic components, have a five foot lead wire, and have an AC power adapter capability (Class 2 transformer, Type B Plug).
The Aquanot Flood Alerts has a 103 decibel horn to alert the homeowner when the sensors are contacted by water and when the alarm batteries are low. There is an on/off silence button to silence the alarm.
The model number is 10-0763.
The A-Pak Alarm System has terminal connectors for a pump and a float-switch. It can be used indoors or outdoors. Its horns is rated at 86 decibels. When there is a high water condition a light will come on. There is a auto reset button to test or reset the alarm. The standard float-switch cord length is fifteen feel with a six foot power cord. It has a 9 V battery backup feature. The model number is 10-0623
Auto Dialer
The auto dialer uses voice chip technology. It can be used with any device that can provide a normally open/closed contact including telephone (voice tone or pulse not digital), most cell phones, and pages. Four numbers can be stored. Each contact number is dialed up to four times. A sixteen second pre-recorded message can be created by the homeowner. An internal 9V battery backup is included. The model number is 10-2616
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