Choosing the Right Pressure Switch

When it comes to building a dependable pumping system, choosing the right pressure switch is just as critical as the pump itself. At Southern Pumping, we carry a comprehensive range of Condor, Telemecanique, Square D, and Acequip pressure switches to suit all kinds of applications—whether you're fighting fires, protecting solar systems, boosting pressure in high-rise buildings, or managing delicate pressure thresholds.

Here’s a breakdown of which pressure switches we recommend by application type:

Fire

In firefighting and emergency water systems, reliability under high pressure and rapid response are non-negotiable. These applications demand heavy-duty switches that won’t fail when lives depend on them.

Why These Switches Work for Fire Applications:

• High-pressure ratings ensure compatibility with powerful fire pumps and hydrant lines.
• Heavy-duty construction means better resilience in harsh environments and higher switching currents.
• Rapid response switching ensures the pump kicks in the moment pressure drops, keeping water delivery uninterrupted.
• Suitable for diesel pump systems, hydrant mains, fire sprinkler boosters, and backup tank-fed systems.

Recommended Pressure Switches:

• Square D Pressure Switch 80–150 psi
• Square D Heavy Duty Pressure Switch 80–200 psi
• Square D High Pressure Switch 30–50 psi
• Condor Pressure Switch 1308–4500 kPa, on/off switch, 1/2” connection
• Telemecanique Pressure Switch 25 Bar

Fine Differential

Some systems, like those in agriculture, food processing, and precision manufacturing, require extremely accurate pressure control within a narrow operating range. Here, the key is adjustable differential control.

Why These Switches Work for Fine Differential Applications:

• Adjustable differential settings allow precise tuning of cut-in and cut-out points to reduce system cycling.
• Prevents pump short cycling, extending the life of motors and components.
• Ideal for delicate systems that require steady pressure—like dairy washdowns, food-grade piping, or residential irrigation.
• Material versatility (e.g., Viton or Buna diaphragms) ensures compatibility with various liquids, including mildly aggressive or high-temperature fluids.

Recommended Pressure Switches:

• Condor Pressure Switch 140–500 kPa, adjustable differential
• Condor Pressure Switch 130–600 kPa, adjustable differential, 1/2” connection
• Condor Pressure Switch 22–400 kPa, aluminium base, Viton diaphragm
• Square D Pressure Switch 0.2–100 psi
• Condor Pressure Switch 50–308 kPa, 1/4” connection

Solar

Solar-powered pump systems—often used in remote or off-grid areas—benefit from switches that are low-energy, robust, and protective against dry-running. Reverse action and loss-of-prime protection are especially important.

Why These Switches Work for Solar Applications:

• Reverse action models work with tank-level or float switches to shut down pumps if water runs out.
• Loss-of-prime protection prevents the pump from running dry, which is especially important in low-flow or variable head systems.
• Low-power consumption makes them ideal for use with inverters and solar controllers.
• Rugged construction with corrosion-resistant materials ensures longevity in remote outdoor environments.

Recommended Pressure Switches:

• Square D Loss of Prime Pressure Switch 30–50 psi / 20–40 psi
• Square D Reverse Action Loss of Prime Switch 40–20 psi
• Condor Pressure Switch 70–1000 kPa, poly base, Buna diaphragm
• Condor Pressure Switch 20–800 kPa, aluminum or poly base, Buna diaphragm
• Condor Pressure Switch 250–600 kPa, 1/4” connection

Pressure Boosting

Pressure boosting is about ensuring reliable, constant water pressure—whether for a suburban home, apartment complex, or industrial facility. Your switch should match the scale and electrical demands of the system.

Why These Switches Work for Pressure Boosting Applications:

• Standard pressure ranges (e.g., 20–40 or 30–50 psi) work perfectly for domestic and light commercial pumps.
• High capacity and durability for use with three-phase motors or heavy-duty booster sets.
• Adjustable models provide the flexibility to fine-tune your system as demand changes (e.g., adding more taps or fixtures).
• Available in multiple configurations, including DIN-mountable, single or dual setpoint, and various electrical ratings for tailored installations.

Recommended Pressure Switches:

• Acequip Pressure Switch STD 20–40 psi
• Acequip Pressure Switch HP 30–50 psi
• Square D Standard Pressure Switch 20–40 psi
• Telemecanique Pressure Switch 6 Bar / 12 Bar / 12 Bar 3 Phase
• Condor Pressure Switch 600–1600 kPa, adjustable differential
• Condor Pressure Switch 750–2500 kPa, adjustable differential
• Condor Pressure Switch 200–1100 kPa, on/off switch, 1/2” connection
• Condor Pressure Switch 500–1100 kPa, 1/4” connection

Final Thoughts

At Southern Pumping, we stock over 50 pressure switch variants—carefully chosen to cover every niche and mainstream application. Whether you're battling fluctuating tank levels, needing pinpoint pressure control, or operating in emergency services, there's a pressure switch in our range that's engineered to handle it.

Not sure what suits your system best? Reach out to our team of experts for advice tailored to your setup.