A guide to a water pump pressure switch

A water pump pressure switch helps to make the pump operations fully automatic. The water pump pressure automatically turns on the pump when the water pressure goes below a pre-determined level. A pressure switch may be connected directly to the pump, or through a relay. Only a reliable pump float switch must be used for hassle-free pump operations. This article provides a guide to a water pump pressure switch.

Water pressure switch

Water pump pressure switch may have a direct electrical connection with the pump or the switch may control a relay system. The relay is typically used for submersible pumps where the operational power is in excess of the pressure switch’s contact capacity. The water pressure switch may be attached to a bladder pressure tank or into a water pipe on the water system. The key role of the air pressure switches is to prevent the starting of the pump in case the water pressure is below the cut-in level. The automatic operations can be restored once the water pressure rises above the cut-in level. This can be performed with the help of a reset button that comes with most water pump pressure switch devices. This reset button or lever can be manual or electronic, depending on the type of model chosen. The manual level must be depressed manually until sufficient pressure is built up in the system to allow resumption of automatic operations.

Switch contacts maintenance and adjustment

A pressure pump switch is usually factory-set but it includes adjustments for on and off that can be accessed by the user. The electrical contacts are usually attached mechanically to a set of springs. The spring tension is adjusted with the help of a small nut. The spring tension adjustment controls the pressure switch on and off functions. The pump float switch may sometimes be placed in wet conditions. This may result in corrosion of the electrical contacts. It is important to shut off the electrical connection to the control circuit and the pump when checking the contacts for corrosion. The contacts must be cleaned with a fine-tooth file or an emery cloth. If the contacts are found in a severely pitted condition, it may be time to replace them. Both outgoing and incoming sides of the contacts must be tested for correct voltage using a voltmeter.