In residential and civil installations, submersible pumps are often used to empty small collection pits, tanks for wastewater, or utility rooms that lack slope.
In these compact environments, wastewater management is often a challenge and choosing the right float switch for submersible pumps can determine whether the system runs reliably or keeps causing issues.
How to choose a float switch for submersible pumps that ensures long-term reliability?
In the past, oversized float switches were often used to guarantee interrupted operation.
But with pits becoming smaller and space more limited, the focus has shifted to tailored solutions and float switches designed for specific operating conditions. Each shape now on the market follows a clear design logic, created to solve precise challenges and to work in harmony with the pumping system.
Choosing the float switch by application: the Mac3 range
Each Mac3 float switch model is the result of real-world testing and is engineered to meet the requirements of submersible pump manufacturers across residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
Mac3: double-chamber reliability in clean and turbulent water
The Mac3 float switch is heavy and robust (106 x 154 x 54 mm, 234 g), built to handle gray water where debris might disrupt performance. Its smooth body prevents blockages caused by floating solids, while the IP68 double chamber prevents water infiltrations, adds resistance to impacts, and preserves device integrity over time.
Mac3’s durability and dual operating modes (filling and emptying), make it a versatile float switch for many applications, including ACS-certified potable water use.
Key: proven versatility in millions of installations
The Key float switch is built for versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of pumping systems. It comes in many versions with different cables and microswitches (from 16A to 20A, including multi-voltage options), ensuring strong compatibility across various pump types and installations.
A UL-certified version is available for the North American market, while the Key Green, made entirely from recycled plastic, supporting sustainable and circular economy-oriented projects.
Small: compact float for tight spaces
The Small float switch is a compact float widely chosen by pump manufacturers for drainage applications. Requiring only 20 cm from the fixing point, it fits perfectly in residential pits where standard floats cannot operate.
It is available with a wide range of cables and high-performance microswitches (20(8)A 250V or multi-voltage 10(6)A 400V–20(8)A 250V). An IECEx-certified version is also offered for the Australian market.
Mac5: heavy-duty performance for challenging applications
The Mac5 tilt float switch is built for demanding conditions, where dirty water and wastewater quickly wear out standard devices. Its pear-shaped body, larger size, and heavier weight give it the stability needed to operate even with floating debris and irregular currents.
The integrated counterweight ensures proper balance, while the IP68 double chamber provides full protection against water infiltration and impacts.
With a switching angle of ±45° (or ±10° on request), it adapts easily to different operating needs. An ATEX-certified version is available for hazardous or explosive environments.
E-fly: tilt float switch with gold-plated contacts
The e‑Fly tilt float switch is a tilt float switch for technical and professional applications.
Compact in size (Ø100 mm x H156 mm, 700 g), it balances maneuverability and stability in challenging environments. The smooth, seamless body helps prevent grease or debris buildup, while the reduced switching angle (±10°) delivers precise control in turbulent water or fluids containing suspended solids.
Its gold-plated contacts are E-fly’s key feature, preventing contact oxidation in low-current applications and ensuring reliability even in humid or corrosive conditions.
Which are the float switch solutions for ultra-compact pits?
AGMA W EVO: vertical control in narrow pits
AGMA W EVO is designed for extremely tight pits where standard floats cannot operate. Its compact vertical design (37 x 100 x 226.5 mm) and vertical movement allow installation even ins paces with with very limited horizontal clearance. Despite its reduced size, it can directly control pumps up to 2 HP, even in water with moderate turbulence or debris.
IP68‑rated, it resists water and humidity, while its ±20° operating angle makes it ideal for direct mounting on submersible pumps in critical residential applications.
REKA2000: capacitive level switch
The REKA2000 capacitive level switch takes a different approach, using capacitive detection instead of mechanical movement. With a measuring range of 30–130 mm, it offers flexibility across many applications. It can directly control pumps up to 1 HP (10A/4A at 250VAC), eliminating the need for external relays.
REKA2000 works with a wide variety of fluids – from water and milk to wine, juice, and liquid soaps. Available in multiple voltage options (12V, 24V, 117V, 230V) with programmable delays, it is also a reliable solution for nautical use.
The cable: a critical component of the system
If the float switch is not matched to the real dimensions of the pit, issues are inevitable: irregular movements, debris buildup, and inconsistent switching.
But reliability also depends heavily on the cable, where flexibility and mechanical strength are critical. Mac3 cables are designed to remain flexible over time and to resist bending stress, preventing internal breakage.
Mac3 provides multiple cable options: PVC cables for standard installations, neoprene H07RN‑F or H07RN8‑F for permanent immersion, and H07BN4‑F for particularly demanding environments. Other versions are available with different approvals, such as UL for the North American market or ACS for potable water applications.
Technical partnership: customization, support and co-design
With more than 40 years of experience, we know that every pumping application has its own challenges. That’s why we are a trusted partner for pump manufacturers who want to integrate Mac3 float switches, customizing every detail, from terminals and cable length to packaging, labeling, and even fully OEM‑branded solutions.
Our commitment goes beyond supplying products. With an in-house production system that relies on Lean Manufacturing principles we ensure consistent quality and reliable delivery times. From a technical perspective, we bring extensive co‑design expertise and provide after‑sales support, highly appreciated by many of our partners.
For drainage pump manufacturers, selecting the right float switch means preventing failures, ensuring reliable long-term performance, and reducing costly after-sales and service interventions.
Request the Mac3 catalog and discover the full range of float switches: practical, reliable technical solutions designed to ensure consistent performance in every application.
