Multiquip Single Mechanical Float Switch | 120V | NEMA 5-15 Piggy-Back Plug | Corrosion-Resistant PVC | Adjustable 7–36 in. Range | 20 ft. Cord | SW1A

Multiquip SW1A Single Float Switch

The Multiquip SW1A is a mechanically activated, wide-angle single ON/OFF float switch designed to provide automatic operation for compatible submersible pumps. Its wide-angle design is not sensitive to normal rotation or turbulence, helping provide dependable pump activation and deactivation in changing water conditions.

The SW1A features a 120V piggy-back plug for convenient connection to compatible 115V single-phase submersible pumps, along with a corrosion-resistant high-impact PVC float housing and a 20-foot water-resistant cable. Its adjustable activation range makes it useful for unattended dewatering and water-removal applications.

Product Features:

• Automatic pump control: Turns compatible submersible pumps on and off automatically as the water level changes.
• Wide-angle activation: Mechanically activated design is less sensitive to float rotation and water turbulence.
• 6–18 inch activation range: Adjustable tethering provides control over the desired pumping range.
• 120V piggy-back plug: Provides convenient connection between the float switch, power source, and compatible pump.
• 120/230V compatibility: Rated for 120/230V, 50/60 Hz single-phase applications within its electrical rating.
• 13A running rating: Electrical contacts are rated for up to 13 amps of running current and 85 amps of startup current.
• Durable float housing: High-impact PVC construction provides corrosion resistance for demanding water applications.
• 20-foot cable: Includes a 16-gauge, 2-conductor water-resistant cable for flexible installation.
• High-temperature operation: Float switch is designed to operate in liquids up to 140°F.
• Certified construction: UL/CSA certified and tested according to NSF Standard 61 protocol.

What Is the SW1A Float Switch?

A float switch is an automatic level-control device that uses the movement of a float to open or close an electrical circuit. As the water level rises, the SW1A changes position and activates the connected pump. As the water level falls, the float changes position again and switches the pump off.

The SW1A uses a single mechanically activated float, making it a straightforward solution for automatic operation of compatible single-phase submersible pumps. It is particularly useful when the pump needs to operate without continuous manual supervision.

Wide-Angle Float Design

The wide-angle configuration allows the float to respond to changing water levels without requiring a precise vertical orientation. Its mechanical activation method is designed to remain reliable in normal turbulent water conditions and is not highly sensitive to float rotation.

Adjustable Pumping Range

The SW1A provides an adjustable activation range of approximately 6 to 18 inches. The effective range depends on how the float tether is positioned and secured. Multiquip installation instructions require the float cable to be secured using the supplied mounting hardware and positioned so that it can move freely during operation.

Electrical Connection

A 120V piggy-back plug provides a convenient connection method for compatible 115V single-phase submersible pumps. The switch is rated for 13 amps of running current and 85 amps of startup current. The electrical rating should not be exceeded when selecting a pump for use with the SW1A.

Construction and Cable

The float housing is made from high-impact PVC designed to resist corrosion in water-service environments. The switch uses a 16-gauge, 2-conductor water-resistant cable with a 20-foot cord length, providing additional flexibility when positioning the float relative to the pump and discharge hose.

Installation

The SW1A is normally secured to the pump's discharge hose using its mounting cable and hose clamps. The float cable should be positioned so it can move freely and should not be trapped underneath the hose clamp. The clamp should be tightened securely without overtightening, and excess clamp band should be positioned so it cannot contact the float cable during operation.

The pump should be positioned on a stable surface and the float should have sufficient clearance to move through its complete operating range. The float switch should be installed and used according to the instructions supplied by Multiquip for the specific pump application.

Compatible Applications

Multiquip specifies the SW1A for its single-phase, 115V submersible pumps and comparable compatible pump models. It is offered as an optional accessory on multiple Multiquip submersible pumps, including models in the ST series and smaller utility pumps such as the YELLSUB and PX400.

SW1A Specifications

• Accessory Type: Single automatic float switch
• Activation Type: Mechanically activated
• Float Design: Wide-angle ON/OFF
• Voltage: 120/230V
• Frequency: 50/60 Hz
• Phase: Single-phase
• Running Current Rating: 13A
• Startup Current Rating: 85A
• Adjustable Activation Range: 6–18 in.
• Float Housing: High-impact PVC
• Cable: 16-gauge, 2-conductor, water-resistant
• Cable Length: 20 ft.
• Maximum Operating Temperature: 140°F
• Plug: 120V piggy-back plug
• Certifications: UL/CSA certified
• Testing: Passed NSF Standard 61 protocol
• Mounting Hardware: Standard mounting cable and pipe clamps included

SW1A vs. Dual Float Control

The SW1A uses a single float and provides straightforward automatic ON/OFF operation. For applications requiring a more controlled water-level range or reduced pump cycling in turbulent conditions, Multiquip also offers dual-float arrangements such as the SW2A or control-box configurations using SW1WOPA switches.

Recommended Applications

The SW1A is suitable for unattended dewatering, flooded-area drainage, construction-site water removal, utility pumping, basements, pits, tanks, basins, and other applications where an appropriately rated single-phase submersible pump needs automatic water-level control.

Why Choose the Multiquip SW1A Float Switch?