I installed a new float switch before launching the boat, a "Rule A Matic Plus".

It lasted a few months before failing. When the switch was supposed to be open, i.e. no water in bilge, it had low resistance across the switch, 200-300 ohms which made the pump run all the time.

I sent it back and got a replacement. Of course I got the usual nonsense of "we had it checked out and it seems ok".

The second one has now gone the same way, 2 ohms resistance when it should be open circuit.

They are rated at 20amps. My pump draws less than 2amps (I measured it) so that's not the problem.

Can anyone recommend a brand that works for more than a few months?

I had 2 types of Rule Bilge pumps with inbuilt switches that were not much chop. Pumps were okay but the (smart) switches weren't. So I brought one of these old style switches and have never had a problem since. They can stick their clever switches with test buttons and the like where the sun don't shine and I don't mean in the bilge

Just buy a Sea Witch. You will nly do it once.

Ramona said..
Just buy a Sea Witch. You will nly do it once.

+1 that
.....and they're easy to check....moist finger is all that's needed.

Thanks for the responses.

I had a look for the "Water Witch" but can't find any in Australia. Does anyone know of a supplier?

Took a 200km round trip to Whitworths and bought a Water Witch, hopefully fit it today if weather permits.

Thanks for all the feedback and advice.