What is a "Piggyback" Float Switch

A piggyback float switch is a float with an integrated electrical plug that simplifies installation. It has a male plug and female receptacle in one: you plug the float’s male end into the outlet, then plug your pump into the female end of the float’s cord. This way, the float controls power to the pump without any hard wiring – when the float trips, it internally connects or disconnects the power flowing through the plug to the pump. Piggyback floats are common for sump pumps and effluent pumps (they’re usually rated for 120V or 230V pumps up to a certain horsepower). The advantage is ease of replacement and installation. Just ensure you get the correct piggyback float: e.g. “pump down” (normally open) for dewatering, so that when water is high it will send power to the pump. Also note the amperage rating – piggyback floats directly handle the pump current, so choose one that can carry the amps of your pump.