Aquaguard float switch
One of the most underappreciated pieces of equipment in an HVAC system is the float switch, affectionately known as the “ceiling saver.” Code now requires that this little device be installed in the emergency drain pan of your HVAC system to protect you. If you don’t have one of these on your HVAC system, it’s time to get one.
What does the float switch do?
The emergency drain pan fills with water (condensation from the system) to protect your home from water damage. If the emergency pan is utilized, it should drain water properly. However, sometimes the water does not properly drain and the water fills the pan until it overflows, causing severe water damage if left unaddressed. A float switch sits on the pan and will detect this issue, turning off the system before the pan overflows and floods your house.
A major problem we see is that many homes don’t have float switches, either because their systems predate the code requirement or because the installation company didn’t follow the correct requirements. The absence of a float switch is especially common in unincorporated areas outside of city limits.
Why get a float switch?
You may be thinking that if you haven’t needed a float switch yet, you don’t need it now. However, here are some reasons this isn’t true:
1. Save Your Home From Flooding
As tempting as it is to procrastinate getting a float switch, your drain pan could fail when you least expect it. If your home floods, you’ll be left with exponentially more problems than scheduling and paying for a float switch installation. This includes water damage to your ceiling, floors, walls and furniture.
2. Prevent the Hassle of Insurance Claims and Loud Fans
Homeowners who’ve experienced water damage in their homes are jealous of those who haven’t. Starting insurance claims and attempting to dry out a flooded home on top of trying to resume daily life is a major hassle, but it’s easily preventable with a float switch.
3. No Unplanned Skylights
Float switches are called “ceiling savers” for a reason. If your drain pan floods, you could find yourself with an unexpected skylight in the ceiling! Depending on where your HVAC system is placed, you could find this unwanted design change to be quite an obstacle.
Luckily, Mission AC & Plumbing is well-equipped to provide you with any HVAC equipment. We recommend an Aquaguard float switch for our customers.
If you live in the Houston area and need an Aquaguard float switch for your home’s HVAC system, contact us today.
