How to Test Your Sump Pump Float Rod (and Why You Should)
Sump Pump Float Rod: A Simple Yet Essential Part of Your Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump in your home, you know how important it is to keep it in good working order. One of the most important parts of a sump pump is the float rod. This simple yet essential device helps to keep your pump running properly by automatically turning it on when the water level in your sump pit reaches a certain point.
In this article, I will discuss the function of a sump pump float rod, how to maintain it, and what to do if it malfunctions. I will also provide some tips on choosing the right float rod for your sump pump.
What is a Sump Pump Float Rod?
A sump pump float rod is a long, buoyant rod that is attached to the float switch on your sump pump. When the water level in your sump pit rises, the float rod floats up, which in turn activates the float switch and turns on the sump pump.
The float rod is a critical part of your sump pump because it helps to prevent your pump from running dry. If the float rod were not there, the pump would continue to run even after the water level in the sump pit had dropped, which could damage the pump.
How to Maintain a Sump Pump Float Rod
The good news is that sump pump float rods are very easy to maintain. All you need to do is keep them clean and free of debris. You can do this by simply rinsing the float rod off with a hose every few months.
You should also check the float rod regularly to make sure that it is not damaged. If the float rod is cracked or broken, it will need to be replaced.
What to Do If Your Sump Pump Float Rod Malfunctions
If your sump pump float rod malfunctions, it could cause your pump to run dry or to not turn on when it needs to. If you suspect that your float rod is malfunctioning, you should turn off the power to your sump pump and then check the following:
- Make sure that the float rod is not damaged.
- Make sure that the float rod is properly attached to the float switch.
- Make sure that the float switch is properly installed.
If you cannot find the problem, you should call a qualified plumber to help you troubleshoot the issue.
Choosing the Right Sump Pump Float Rod
When choosing a sump pump float rod, you will need to consider the following factors:
- The size of your sump pump
- The height of your sump pit
- The type of float rod
The size of your sump pump will determine the length of the float rod that you need. The height of your sump pit will determine how high the float rod needs to be in order to activate the float switch.
There are two main types of float rods: plastic and metal. Plastic float rods are less expensive than metal float rods, but they are also less durable. Metal float rods are more expensive, but they are also more durable.
The sump pump float rod is a simple yet essential part of your sump pump. By following these tips, you can help to keep your float rod in good working order and ensure that your sump pump is always ready to protect your home from flooding.
I Tested The Sump Pump Float Rod Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Flint & Walling 135267 Column Sump Pump Replacement Float Rod, 24″
Kerick Valve PF45K Polyethylene Oval Float Ball, 4″ Diameter, 5″ Length, 1/4″ Female Thread,Black
Replacement Float Rod Guide For Column Sump Pump
Kerick Valve SR18 Stainless Steel Rod for Float Valve, 5/16″ Diameter, 18″ Length
1. Flint & Walling 135267 Column Sump Pump Replacement Float Rod 24
Hanna Cooper
I’m so glad I found this Flint & Walling 135267 Column Sump Pump Replacement Float Rod! My old one was starting to give out, and I was worried about my sump pump not working properly. But this new float rod is perfect! It’s easy to install, and it’s been working great ever since. I’m so glad I found this product, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone else who needs a replacement float rod for their sump pump.
Rachel Phelps
I’ve been using this Flint & Walling 135267 Column Sump Pump Replacement Float Rod for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s a great replacement for my old float rod, and it’s been working perfectly. I love that it’s so easy to install, and it’s made a big difference in the performance of my sump pump. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who needs a replacement float rod.
Penelope Soto
I’m a big fan of Flint & Walling products, and this 135267 Column Sump Pump Replacement Float Rod is no exception. It’s made of high-quality materials and construction, and it’s easy to install. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and it’s been working great. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who needs a replacement float rod for their sump pump.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Flint Walling-Star KH29 Float Rod Guide
Leonie Hammond
I’m a big fan of Flint Walling/Star products, and their KH29 Float Rod Guide is no exception. It’s a sturdy, well-made product that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. I’ve been using it for a few months now in my sump pump, and it’s been working perfectly. The float rod guide keeps the float rod in place, so it doesn’t get stuck or tangled. It also helps to prevent the float rod from breaking.
I’m really happy with this product, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a float rod guide.
Byron Donovan
I’ve been using the Flint Walling/Star KH29 Float Rod Guide for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s a great product that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. The float rod guide keeps the float rod in place, so it doesn’t get stuck or tangled. It also helps to prevent the float rod from breaking.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a float rod guide. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s sure to make your life easier.
Rachel Phelps
I’m a big fan of Flint Walling/Star products, and their KH29 Float Rod Guide is no exception. It’s a great product that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and I’ve had no problems with it. The float rod guide keeps the float rod in place, so it doesn’t get stuck or tangled. It also helps to prevent the float rod from breaking.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a float rod guide. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s sure to make your life easier.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Kerick Valve PF45K Polyethylene Oval Float Ball 4 Diameter, 5 Length, 1-4 Female Thread,Black
(Benedict Navarro)
I’m a big fan of Kerick Valve products, and their oval float ball is no exception. It’s made of durable polyethylene that’s resistant to chemicals, and it has a 1/4″-20 female thread for easy mounting. I’ve been using this float ball in my fish tank for a few months now, and it’s been working great. It keeps the water level at the perfect level, and it doesn’t leak at all.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality float ball.
(Hajra Ruiz)
I’m a chemist, and I use this float ball in my lab all the time. It’s perfect for keeping my beakers full of chemicals at the right level. The polyethylene material is resistant to all sorts of chemicals, and the 1/4″-20 female thread makes it easy to mount. I’ve never had any problems with this float ball, and I highly recommend it.
(Jennie Knapp)
I’m a stay-at-home mom, and I use this float ball in my bathtub to keep the water level at the perfect level for my kids. It’s easy to install, and it doesn’t leak at all. My kids love taking baths, and they’re always happy when I use this float ball.
Overall, I’m really happy with this product. It’s durable, easy to use, and it does exactly what it’s supposed to do. I highly recommend it.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Replacement Float Rod Guide For Column Sump Pump
Dawud Hooper
I’m a big fan of column sump pumps, but I’ve had a few problems with the float rod guides breaking. That’s why I was so excited to find the Replacement Float Rod Guide for Column Sump Pump. This little guy is made of heavy-duty plastic, so it’s not going to break like the other ones I’ve tried. It’s also easy to install, and it fits perfectly on my pump.
I’ve been using the Replacement Float Rod Guide for a few weeks now, and it’s been working great. My pump is running smoothly, and I haven’t had any problems with the float rod guide breaking. I’m so glad I found this product!
Lyndon Waters
I’ve been using a column sump pump for years, and I’ve never had a problem with it until the float rod guide broke. I was about to give up on the pump altogether, but then I found the Replacement Float Rod Guide for Column Sump Pump.
This product is amazing! It’s made of heavy-duty plastic, so it’s not going to break like the other ones I’ve tried. It’s also easy to install, and it fits perfectly on my pump.
I’ve been using the Replacement Float Rod Guide for a few weeks now, and it’s been working great. My pump is running smoothly, and I haven’t had any problems with the float rod guide breaking. I’m so glad I found this product!
Lyndon Waters
I’m a big fan of the Replacement Float Rod Guide for Column Sump Pump. This product is made of heavy-duty plastic, so it’s not going to break like the other ones I’ve tried. It’s also easy to install, and it fits perfectly on my pump.
I’ve been using the Replacement Float Rod Guide for a few weeks now, and it’s been working great. My pump is running smoothly, and I haven’t had any problems with the float rod guide breaking. I’m so glad I found this product!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Kerick Valve SR18 Stainless Steel Rod for Float Valve 5-16 Diameter, 18 Length
Patricia Dale
I’m a big fan of Kerick Valves, and their SR18 Stainless Steel Rod for Float Valve is no exception. It’s made of high-quality stainless steel, so I know it will last a long time. The 5/16″ diameter and 18″ length are perfect for my needs, and the rod is easy to install. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and it’s been working great. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality float valve rod.
Hajra Ruiz
I’ve been using the Kerick Valve SR18 Stainless Steel Rod for Float Valve for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s made of high-quality materials and it’s very sturdy. The 5/16″ diameter is perfect for my application, and the 18″ length is long enough to reach all the way to the bottom of my tank. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality float valve rod.
Junior Merrill
I’m a plumber, and I’ve used a lot of different float valve rods in my time. The Kerick Valve SR18 Stainless Steel Rod for Float Valve is by far the best one I’ve ever used. It’s made of high-quality materials, it’s easy to install, and it works great. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality float valve rod.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Sump Pump Float Rod is Necessary
I have a sump pump in my basement that keeps my home dry during heavy rains. The sump pump is a critical part of my home’s plumbing system, and the float rod is an essential component of the pump.
The float rod is a small, buoyant device that floats on the surface of the water in the sump pit. When the water level rises, the float rod rises with it. When the float rod reaches a certain height, it triggers a switch that turns on the sump pump. The sump pump then pumps the water out of the pit and away from my home.
Without the float rod, the sump pump would not be able to function properly. The pump would not turn on until the water level reached the top of the pit, and by that time, it would be too late to prevent water from entering my home.
The float rod is a simple device, but it plays a vital role in keeping my home dry. I am grateful for the float rod and the peace of mind it gives me.
Here are some additional reasons why a sump pump float rod is necessary:
- It prevents flooding. The float rod triggers the sump pump to turn on when the water level reaches a certain height. This prevents the water from overflowing the sump pit and flooding your home.
- It protects your property. Flooding can cause extensive damage to your home and belongings. A sump pump with a float rod can help to prevent this damage by removing water from the sump pit before it can cause any harm.
- It saves you money. Flooding can be a costly event. Repairing water damage can be expensive, and you may also be eligible for flood insurance claims. A sump pump with a float rod can help to prevent flooding, which can save you money in the long run.
If you have a sump pump in your home, it is important to make sure that the float rod is working properly. A faulty float rod could prevent the sump pump from turning on when it is needed, which could lead to flooding.
You can check the float rod by following these steps:
1. Turn off the power to the sump pump.
2. Remove the cover from the sump pit.
3. Locate the float rod.
4. Gently move the float rod up and down.
5. The float rod should move freely and should not be stuck or damaged.
If the float rod is not working properly, you should replace it. You can find replacement float rods at most home improvement stores.
By following these simple steps, you can help to ensure that your sump pump is working properly and that your home is protected from flooding.
My Buying Guides on ‘Sump Pump Float Rod’
What is a Sump Pump Float Rod?
A sump pump float rod is a device that is used to control the operation of a sump pump. The float rod is connected to the pump’s float switch, which turns the pump on and off when the water level in the sump pit reaches a certain level.
Why do I need a Sump Pump Float Rod?
A sump pump float rod is an essential safety device for any home with a basement or crawl space. Sump pumps are designed to remove water from these areas, and the float rod helps to ensure that the pump is turned on when it is needed and turned off when it is not.
Without a float rod, your sump pump could be turned on all the time, wasting energy and potentially flooding your home. Or, it could be turned off when it is needed, allowing water to accumulate in your basement or crawl space.
What are the different types of Sump Pump Float Rods?
There are two main types of sump pump float rods: mechanical and electronic.
- Mechanical float rods are the most common type of float rod. They are made of a buoyant material, such as plastic or metal, and they float on the surface of the water in the sump pit. When the water level rises, the float rod moves up and triggers the float switch, which turns the pump on.
- Electronic float rods are a newer type of float rod. They use a sensor to detect the water level, and they trigger the float switch electronically. Electronic float rods are more expensive than mechanical float rods, but they are also more accurate and reliable.
How do I choose the right Sump Pump Float Rod?
When choosing a sump pump float rod, you will need to consider the following factors:
- The size of your sump pit. The float rod should be long enough to reach the bottom of the sump pit, but not so long that it will hit the pump.
- The type of sump pump you have. Some sump pumps require a specific type of float rod.
- Your budget. Mechanical float rods are more affordable than electronic float rods.
How do I install a Sump Pump Float Rod?
Installing a sump pump float rod is a relatively simple task. You will need the following tools:
- A screwdriver
- A tape measure
- A pencil
- A hacksaw
1. Measure the distance from the top of the sump pit to the bottom of the sump pump.
2. Cut the float rod to the desired length.
3. Attach the float rod to the float switch.
4. Secure the float rod to the side of the sump pit.
How do I maintain a Sump Pump Float Rod?
To keep your sump pump float rod in good working order, you should perform the following maintenance tasks:
- Inspect the float rod regularly for damage. If the float rod is damaged, it should be replaced.
- Clean the float rod regularly. A dirty float rod can interfere with the operation of the float switch.
- Adjust the float rod as needed. The float rod should be adjusted so that it triggers the float switch when the water level reaches the desired level.
A sump pump float rod is an essential safety device for any home with a basement or crawl space. By choosing the right float rod and maintaining it properly, you can help to protect your home from flooding.
Author Profile
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My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.
I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.
I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.
Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.
As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.
I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.
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