Float Switches

Float Switches

The Float Switches category covers the full range of inline and tee-mounted condensate overflow protection devices used across residential and light-commercial cooling systems. Unlike pan-mounted switches that monitor water in the drain pan, these float switches are installed directly on the primary condensate drain line, making them one of the fastest-reacting safety mechanisms available. When a blockage occurs, the rising water level inside the tee activates the float and instantly stops the system to prevent leaks, ceiling damage and mold growth.

You’ll find tee-mounted float switches, inline safety switches, compact micro-float designs, directional float assemblies, normally-open/normally-closed switches and mini-split line-mounted float switches. Many units are code-required for attic installations or systems located above finished areas. For mini-splits, ultra-slim switches are engineered to fit into narrow wall-channels or inside decorative line covers while maintaining high sensitivity to rising condensate levels.

• Tee-mounted float switches for primary drain line protection.
• Inline safety switches that stop the system on blockage.
• Mini-split micro float switches for compact wall-mount units.
• Normally open / normally closed variants for all wiring setups.
• Electronic and hybrid designs for high-accuracy detection.

When selecting a float switch, confirm the pipe size, whether the switch will be tee-mounted or inline, voltage compatibility, switch orientation options and whether the equipment location requires redundancy. For attic installations, many pros combine a line-mounted float switch with a secondary pan switch to meet best-practice protection standards.

Pro tip: Always install tee-mounted float switches vertically for best performance and place them close to the air handler for early detection. After wiring, test by slowly adding water into the tee until the float rises—confirm the system shuts down instantly.