I am dealing with a sticking bilge float switch that is drivin' me nuts every time we get a signifigant rainfall. (but not after I test it !!!)

Has anyone used this Johnson Ultima Float Switch ?

It uses 2 field effect sensors to cycle the bilge pump, instead of a mechanical switch. I am just curious if anyone has used it, and had success with it. If not, I think I will take one for the team and be the guinea pig!

I have not used that particular one however a freind of mine added a non mechanical switch last year as debris kept his float switch from working and sank his boat.

I believe they work well, but two pumps and two types of switches is probably the way to go for redundancy.

We use similar types of things to control sewage lift stations and as was stated we never rely on a non-mechanical with out having a mechanical switch. They tend to get build up from stuff and can interfere with normal operation. Just my 02.

Thanks guys for your input.

The user reviews that I have read for the switch have been promising, although I am a bit concerned about the sensor eyes getting dirty and the switch not working. I still think I am going to pick one up and try it anyway. It's gotta be better then the float switch! I went down to my boat last night to find the pump stuck in the on position again. I am sure it had been running all day sucking air.

Prober, you made a good point about adding a second bilge switch, a point that was backed up by an article that I stumbled upon here while looking for info on these types of switches. I think that adding a second higher capacity bilge pump will be on my winter to-do list.

These guys say great things about their switch:

https://www.aqualarm.net/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=27

Try the Sure-Bail, it's a simple switch with a protected float and I've had one for 6 seasons with no problems. And this is a mooring kept boat so even tho it's always covered, the bilge pump HAS to work!