Float switch for sump pump

mark freshwater

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Could anyone tell me the best approach to a float switch for my sump pump , so if the hang on overflow box gets jammed the pump wont overflow the main tank .
thanks
mark
 
Do you have an Apex or similar? Optical sensor with backup float switch would be my choice.
 
I believe the best approach, especially if the tank is not set up, and you know the glass isn't tempered (easy test for this), is to drill the tank and put in an internal overflow. I started with an external HOB overflow, with safe-guards, and after two floods, I was sold on a drilled tank.

You have a number of after market choices with overflows, all smaller and less obtrusive than the typical corner overflows found in reef-ready tanks. I'd highly recommend installing one of these overflows.

Now, if you still wish to pursue the external, and have DIY skills, HERE is an example of a float switch (with backup, which I'd highly recommend) that would control the return pump. This potentially could be installed in the sump and detect too low a water level and shut the pump down. Most (if not all) reed valve float switches can be switched for normally open to normally closed by flipping the little float around.

If you don't wish to make your own, I've included a link in the referenced link above to a kit that will do the same thing (AquaHub Premium kit).
 
Hi,
What is an apex?
My tank is full i was just looking at a sump because the big hang on skimmer , heaters etc are unsightly as well as ease of adding reactor or media bags etc.
Any im not good a electrical diy.
The overflow i was looking at was https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/marine-...erforated-bottom-filter-reef-NIB-/16230263890
Is there such a thing as a float switch that plugs between the power plug on a sump pump and a wall socket (like the Aquahub but prebuilt/sealed), so that if the overflow hang on box gets blocked somehow the main tank wont keep filling and overflow onto the floor?
I saw on a urau joey vid when he was making an auto top off he was testing it by attaching it to a lamp , as he moved the float the light turned on /off , this is the sort of thing i was imagining.
My tank sump will be fine if the pump stops and wont overflow , but if the overflow blocks the pump will keep on running and disaster.


Edit: i just found this http://www.creativepumps.com.au/work/float_switches/float-switch-menu.htm, not sure if this would work
 
I like the float switch/pump idea thanks for sharing. Didn't know.
 

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