single point level switch

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beerbeer95648

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http://www.usplastic.com/catalog/item.aspx?sku=56147&gclid=CND_t_CzmbsCFRSVfgodzXsA9g

I have a couple surplus float valves that I have had for years which are very similar to the link above. I want to hook it up to control my march pump which pulls out of a grant. I havent a clue how to do this. Do I need a relay? Can I just wire it into an outlet box like this:

http://morebeer.com/products/electronic-float-switch.html

I have been researching this on this site, and it seems simple, but I still want to make sure I am safe.

Thanks for any help you guys have.

Cheers
 
The usplastics one is only good for 30 watts and wouldn't support the power draw of a march pump, so you may need to check your floats ratings, but normally they are only used for pilot duty with a relay. If you have 2 set them up with a relay in a latching circuit and you can switch the pump on and off over a greater level rather than 1/4" or so of travel on the single float so you're not banging the pump on/off every 3 seconds.

quick google with no guarantee it is right just to give you an idea of a circuit layout.

latching_scheme_model_544757_original.jpg
 
I made a similar circuit as above for a water storage tank (nothing to do with brewing) but I used an Arduino microprocessor to control the pump. This latching circuit is a great way to save your pump from toggling on and off every couple seconds. To answer your question directly, I agree with WPS, it depends on the float switch but in general a float switch should turn a relay on and off which will control your pump.
 
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