How to Connect Flow Switch to Pump with a Long Distance in Between?

[jolondon]

Hi. I am planning on installing a Grundfos SQ pump for my well here in Costa Rica. I have an EG4 6000 XP and four 100 AH batteries.

The issue is that the tanque is 660 feet from the well. How can I operate a float switch from that distance. Seems like they are designed to have the switch next to the pump and tanque in one location. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[wpns]

Just use a contactor or relay, the relay coil will not draw nearly as much power, so you can use a much smaller gauge wire.

 

[jolondon]

Just use a contactor or relay, the relay coil will not draw nearly as much power, so you can use a much smaller gauge wire.

Thanks for this reply. Can you explain a little more what to do? I don't understand.

 

[wpns]

Instead of the float switch being near the pump, the relay is near the pump, and the float switch only has to control the relay coil.

Relays - SeaPerch

How Things Work series Last Updated: September 2020 Download PDF

seaperch.org

 

[OzSolar]

The issue is that the tanque is 660 feet from the well. How can I operate a float switch from that distance. Seems like they are designed to have the switch next to the pump and tanque in one location. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

A float switch just need to have wires ran between it and the pump. Distance is not an issue. Some pump controllers have an input for a float switch. The SQ does not have those inputs so you have provide a relay capable of switching the power between the pump and the power source.

 

[jolondon]

A float switch just need to have wires ran between it and the pump. Distance is not an issue. Some pump controllers have an input for a float switch. The SQ does not have those inputs so you have provide a relay capable of switching the power between the pump and the power source.

Thank you. Can you explain a little more how the pump works with the relay and the switch? I don't understand.

 

[WattSecond]

Or, you buy the Grundfos controller box CU 301 (I have 201) and use low current float switch fed into the controller to control the pump. No relay etc needed. Examine the Grunfos setup here https://www.envieq.com/grundfos-sq-and-sqe-pumps/.

 

[OzSolar]

Or, you buy the Grundfos controller box CU 301 (I have 201) and use low current float switch fed into the controller to control the pump. No relay etc needed. Examine the Grunfos setup here https://www.envieq.com/grundfos-sq-and-sqe-pumps/.

I don't believe the SQ is designed to talk to a control box. If it is that would be a solution but a pretty expensive one sadly.

 

[OzSolar]

Thank you. Can you explain a little more how the pump works with the relay and the switch? I don't understand.

It sounds like you might be early in building your electrical and pumping skills.

YouTube might be a great place for you to spend some time.

Here's one about relays.