Sump pump monitor

[Rob.B67]

I have a mains 240 v float switch activated submersible sump pump in my basement and I would like to monitor/ record how many times it has been activated. Any information would be much appreciated!

 

[Minder]

Well you would need some kind of recording unit, either just No. of times and/or the duration and time, depends how far you want to go.
For one, I would be inclined to set up another L.V. float switch which will be less invasive of connecting into the present pump.
If you have any experience with micro's a small one counld be set up with some kind of display indicator, from a LCD display to a 7 segment etc.
This is assuming you want to build and not off the shelf unit, which may be tricky to find.
M.

 

[hevans1944]

Try an electro-mechanical counter with a 240 VAC coil wired in parallel with the pump. This one might be appropriate.

 

[Kiwi]

As well as counting how many times the pump is activated, you could also add an hourmeter to monitor how long it runs for.
This would give you a better idea of the pump operation.