Float Switches

At RS Philippines, we provide a range of float switches and sensors designed for reliable liquid level monitoring in tanks and fluid control systems. Whether you’re automating a water tank, monitoring chemical levels, or integrating overflow protection, our solutions deliver performance, precision, and long-term durability.

As a trusted float switch supplier in the Philippines, we give you access to top global brands, such as Gem Sensors, WIKA, and our own RS PRO product line.

What Is a Float Switch Sensor?

A float switch is a type of liquid level sensor used to detect the presence or absence of liquid in a tank, container, or well. The flotation part of the device sits on top of the liquid and will switch on the rise and fall of the liquid. This movement actuates an internal switch, enabling automatic level control of pumps, alarms, or valves. Float switches are commonly used for groundwater, wastewater, and sewage pump control, raw water and liquid transfer, and high-level alarms in waterworks and industrial fluid systems.

How Does a Float Switch Work?

Most float switches have a reed switch and a pivoted magnet inside the float. The switch can be configured as normally open (N/O) or normally closed (N/C), and this logic can be reversed by rotating the switch 180°, effectively changing its behavior based on system requirements.

As the float rises or falls with the liquid level, the movement of the magnet triggers the reed switch at a predefined point, causing the circuit to either open or close. This mechanism enables the float switch to control connected devices, such as activating or deactivating a water pump, depending on the fluid level.

Materials and Temperature Ratings of Float Switches

The material of a float switch is critical to its performance, especially when exposed to chemicals, high temperatures, or food-grade fluids. Common materials used for float switches include the following:

• Nylon / Polypropylene (PP): These general-purpose materials are commonly used in water, light oil, and mild chemical applications. They are cost-effective and offer good mechanical strength for basic float switch sensors in residential or commercial tanks.
• PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide): PPS is highly resistant to aggressive chemicals and can withstand temperatures up to 120°C. It’s the preferred material for a high-temperature float switch or for environments with corrosive fluids.
• Stainless Steel: Ideal for corrosive environments, food and beverage applications, and pressurized systems, stainless steel float switches are durable, hygienic, and capable of withstanding both mechanical stress and temperature extremes. These are also widely used in fuel tanks, oil reservoirs, and marine applications.

How to Choose a Float Switch

Choosing the right float switch depends on several factors related to the fluid, tank type, environment, and system logic. These are the following factors to consider:

Liquid Type

The type of liquid you’re monitoring plays a critical role in float switch selection. For clean water or light liquids, materials like nylon or polypropylene (PP) are cost-effective and sufficient for basic level sensing.

However, in more demanding applications, such as wastewater or fluids containing debris, you’ll need sealed float switches with IP-rated enclosures to ensure protection against contamination and solid intrusion.

For fuel, oil, or chemical storage, corrosion-resistant options like PPS or stainless steel are necessary to ensure both safety and durability.

Matching the float switch material to your fluid type extends lifespan and prevents premature failure.

Temperature and Chemical Exposure

If your float switch will be exposed to high temperatures or corrosive chemicals, material selection becomes even more important. Standard materials like PP or nylon are only suitable for moderate conditions. For hot liquids above 80°C, a high-temperature float switch made of PPS or stainless steel is required, as these materials resist warping, degradation, and sensor failure.

Switch Logic

Float switches operate using two logic types: Normally Open (N/O) and Normally Closed (N/C). In N/O setups, the circuit is open until the liquid reaches a certain level, at which point the float rises and closes the circuit, activating a connected device like a pump. In N/C configurations, the circuit remains closed until the float changes position and opens the circuit, stopping device operation.

Your choice depends on whether you want the switch to trigger equipment on the rise or on the fall of fluid level. Understanding your system's operational logic is crucial to selecting a float switch that aligns with your automation or safety goals.

Installation Requirements

Consider how and where the float switch will be mounted, top, side, or bottom and whether the cable length suits your tank depth. Also, check compatibility with tank size and control systems.

Industrial Applications for Float Level Switches

Float level switches are used across multiple industries in the Philippines, supporting safety, automation, and fluid control in diverse operating conditions.

Water & Wastewater Management

Float switches help manage levels in water tanks, sump pits, and sewage systems, ensuring pumps and valves operate only when needed. In particular, float switches for water tank applications prevent overflow and conserve pump energy in municipal and residential systems.

Fuel & Chemical Storage

For fuel tanks and chemical reservoirs, float switches must resist corrosion and chemical degradation. Stainless steel or sealed PPS models are ideal for these critical applications, where safety and material compatibility are essential.

Facilities & Infrastructure

In HVAC systems, cooling towers, or oil-water separators, float switches provide temperature resistance and reliable switching under continuous operation. These switches maintain fluid balance and trigger fail-safes in case of abnormal conditions, contributing to system efficiency and safety.

Buy Float Switches in the Philippines

Find the right float switch for your application at RS Philippines, where we offer a comprehensive selection designed to meet the demands of various fluids, temperatures, and control systems. Our range includes float switches made from polypropylene, PPS, and stainless steel, available in multiple mounting styles, cable lengths, and switch configurations to suit your specific setup.

Choose from globally recognized brands like WIKA, Gems Sensors or our reliable RS PRO line, all at competitive prices. Aside from float switches and sensors, we also provide pressure pumps, vibration meters, and anemometers. Shop with confidence and ensure your system operates safely and efficiently with RS.