Frequently Asked Questions
Q. "Can I use the electronic utility pump switch to replace my existing mechanical float switch?"
A. Yes. You can replace your mechanical float switch in most types of applications, including sump pits and sewage pits, providing your pump's amperage rating does not exceed the rating for this switch.
Q. "How does the 'Electronic Utility Pump Switch' know to warn you if your sump pump motor is failing?"
A. When the Electronic Utility Pump Switch is initially installed, the control module measures the pump motors power draw and stores this information. Every time the sump pump is activated and turns on, the Electronic Utility Pump Switch measures the current pump motor draw and compares it to the initially stored information. If there is a 12% change in the power draw the Electronic Utility Pump Switch will emit a steady, slow repetitive beeping noise. If there is a 25% change in the power draw, then the Electronic Utility Pump Switch will beep at a steady faster rate.
Q. "What happens if you have a power failure? Will the Electronic Utility Pump Switch work correctly when the power is restored?"
A. All of the information is stored in the electronic control module and a power failure will not erase the memory. The Electronic Utility Pump Switch will return to normal operation when the power is restored.
Q. "We purchased the Electronic Utility Pump Switch and are very happy with it. But, is there something available in case we have an electrical power failure?"
A. We offer a water powered backup sump pump made by Zoeller and also one made by Liberty Pumps. The Little Giant battery backup Emergency Sump Pump System is very reliable and we have not heard of any problems with them. Zoeller also makes a 12 volt Battery Backup Pedestal Sump Pump with 25 years of proven performance in the field and thousands of satisfied customers. We also offer a Failed Circuit Alarm which will signal an alarm when a circuit has failed. It's designed for use on refrigerators, freezers, hot tubs, heat lamps for animals, pumps, etc. It can be used with any 110v/120v appliance where it is important to know if the breaker or fuse has blown (or any power outage).
Q. "Does the Electronic Utility Pump Switch work in oil instead of water?"
A. Unfortunately, the #HC7000 will not work in oil according to the manufacturer. An electrical current will not flow through oil, and this switch works by using the electrical conductivity of the water. The switch activates the pump when the sensor senses water by measuring the electrical resistance between the tip of the sensor probe and the electrical ground. The #HC7000 switch uses the pump itself as the electrical ground. When water is touching the sensor the resistance from the sensor to the pump is very low. When water drops below the sensor tip the resitance is very high. When the sensor detects low resistance from the water it triggers the control module to turn on the pump.
