This is a Zoeller sump pump model 98-0001, but the information applies to all pumps with similar floating switches. Watch PART 1 here: • Zoeller Sump Pump cycl...
I have the same one. It started switching on and off sporadically, so I just changed the switch and it is working fine. These switches do not last forever, so you have to keep on ear to it and make sure they are working and if not then change the switch. It's really easy to do. I also have a water powered sump pump right next to it if the Zoeller fails completely. And I also have a utility pump just in case the others fail. You can't be too careful.
I have been in the sewer/septic field for over 30 years and I strongly recommend using a separate on/off float switch like a SJ Rhombus brand and it can last at least 20 years, The pump would be a Gould WE0311M the pump is a 1/3 of a HP that can pump up to 20 feet of elevation. I have had excellent results with this pump. The oldest WE0311M I had to replace was 30 years old.
I’ve had my Zoeller for 20 plus years. I maintain it by cleaning it during the summer when it’s not raining. I’ve also changed the switch in it twice in 20 plus years. Easy to work on even if your not a professional. I also have a second for a spare.
The built-in switch has been a weak point on every brand I've tried. I stopped using them years ago. I replaced both of the sump pumps in the house, with Zoeller M98 pumps. I removed the float bulb and strapped the metal actuator arm to the on position using a plastic strap. I then installed a Basement Watchdog Model BWC1 universal float switch, which mounts on the vertical discharge pipe. That was 7 years ago and I've had no issues with either pump.
Thanks!!! Basement Watchdog Model BWC1 switch has a slightly higher rating than on Amazon this pump. They also tend to get stuck in the ON position. I will follow your advice, just without removing the pump's float. I will use a plastic zip tie to keep the switch lever up. If the switch gets stuck running, I will remove it, cut the zip tie to go back to the Zoeller pump switch, and order another BWC1 switch. At $36/each it is a cheaper consumable than complete Zoeller pumps!
That’s the switch system I use myself, that float is dumb. Kind of wonder why zoeller doesn’t remove the float since it’s their weakest point. And make the lock down an option. Why do 3rd party companies have to do the work around. They can sell the back flow check valve and a pvc standpipe and placement location to ensure the float is in the right place. That’s what I would do if I was in the RnD team. The battery back up units are garbage and expensive to fix every few years.
@@map1313 You can put it wherever you need it, provided it's mounted vertically. They didn't list a specific measurement. I just guessed it off, using the pic in the instructions as a reference. The sump here is not very deep. So I had to keep it closer to the bottom.
Have had my Zoeller now 25+ years and still working great...just nervous and wanting to possibly change it out. I just hope they're still being made as good. I think mine is a heavier duty one though.
I live close to a stream and always had water problems, but after goin through a few pumps over 20 years I decided I'd give zoeller a try instead of wayne or harbor freight pumps. This zoeller 98 didnt last any better and was more than twice the cost. Same problem,crappy switches. I've got 2 in my basement and one switch still works sometimes, but the other one kept short cycling until it burnt up. I pull them out and clean off the float and rod periodically, but nothing helps. The floats aren't boyount enough and the rods they slide on just dont work well. I dont understand why theyd build such a great lookin pump and then put this cheap switch on it. Hire an engineer!
Mine just go out as well. Why do you think they do it like that? Of course to sell more units or parts. If you look at the "switch" its literally 1 or 2$ worth of cable and plastic, and they sell it for $50. It should be illegal to do this...
Ok in the first test you were holding it float, and not letting it drop. New pump you were letting it drop....Was the float in example # not dropping at all?
it shouldnt matter until the float gets to the bottoms to pull the arm down. i can see it being 2 issues, first the internal switch trigger arm is bad so the switch needs replaced or the arm linkage is bad. either way easy and cheap fixes compared to buying a new pump that would still work.
How is M98 working, I saw lot of complains about switch going bad every now and then. I am looking to buy one but wanted to see how is it working for you.
I have the same one. It started switching on and off sporadically, so I just changed the switch and it is working fine. These switches do not last forever, so you have to keep on ear to it and make sure they are working and if not then change the switch. It's really easy to do. I also have a water powered sump pump right next to it if the Zoeller fails completely. And I also have a utility pump just in case the others fail. You can't be too careful.
I have been in the sewer/septic field for over 30 years and I strongly recommend using a separate on/off float switch like a SJ Rhombus brand and it can last at least 20 years, The pump would be a Gould WE0311M the pump is a 1/3 of a HP that can pump up to 20 feet of elevation. I have had excellent results with this pump. The oldest WE0311M I had to replace was 30 years old.
I’ve had my Zoeller for 20 plus years. I maintain it by cleaning it during the summer when it’s not raining. I’ve also changed the switch in it twice in 20 plus years. Easy to work on even if your not a professional. I also have a second for a spare.
The built-in switch has been a weak point on every brand I've tried. I stopped using them years ago. I replaced both of the sump pumps in the house, with Zoeller M98 pumps. I removed the float bulb and strapped the metal actuator arm to the on position using a plastic strap. I then installed a Basement Watchdog Model BWC1 universal float switch, which mounts on the vertical discharge pipe. That was 7 years ago and I've had no issues with either pump.
Thanks!!! Basement Watchdog Model BWC1 switch has a slightly higher rating than on Amazon this pump. They also tend to get stuck in the ON position. I will follow your advice, just without removing the pump's float. I will use a plastic zip tie to keep the switch lever up. If the switch gets stuck running, I will remove it, cut the zip tie to go back to the Zoeller pump switch, and order another BWC1 switch. At $36/each it is a cheaper consumable than complete Zoeller pumps!
@@SupercarEngg, Here is a short clip of one of my pumps, so you can get a general idea of how it's set up.
th-cam.com/video/F6xajY1HLtk/w-d-xo.html
That’s the switch system I use myself, that float is dumb. Kind of wonder why zoeller doesn’t remove the float since it’s their weakest point. And make the lock down an option. Why do 3rd party companies have to do the work around. They can sell the back flow check valve and a pvc standpipe and placement location to ensure the float is in the right place. That’s what I would do if I was in the RnD team. The battery back up units are garbage and expensive to fix every few years.
Why height you keep the float to turn on? Just before water reaches top of the pump? Can you put it higher so that pump is completely under water?
@@map1313 You can put it wherever you need it, provided it's mounted vertically. They didn't list a specific measurement. I just guessed it off, using the pic in the instructions as a reference. The sump here is not very deep. So I had to keep it closer to the bottom.
Have had my Zoeller now 25+ years and still working great...just nervous and wanting to possibly change it out. I just hope they're still being made as good. I think mine is a heavier duty one though.
Buy from plumbing supply not box store. May look same but not.
I had seen it written elsewhere. The flood switches are the problem. Regular maintenance should include replacing these switches every 3 to 5 years.
I live close to a stream and always had water problems, but after goin through a few pumps over 20 years I decided I'd give zoeller a try instead of wayne or harbor freight pumps. This zoeller 98 didnt last any better and was more than twice the cost. Same problem,crappy switches. I've got 2 in my basement and one switch still works sometimes, but the other one kept short cycling until it burnt up. I pull them out and clean off the float and rod periodically, but nothing helps. The floats aren't boyount enough and the rods they slide on just dont work well. I dont understand why theyd build such a great lookin pump and then put this cheap switch on it. Hire an engineer!
Mine just go out as well. Why do you think they do it like that? Of course to sell more units or parts.
If you look at the "switch" its literally 1 or 2$ worth of cable and plastic, and they sell it for $50. It should be illegal to do this...
@@MrAnderson58 yeah,I'll just go back with harbor freight. At least with them if it goes out I'm not losing much
Ok in the first test you were holding it float, and not letting it drop. New pump you were letting it drop....Was the float in example # not dropping at all?
it shouldnt matter until the float gets to the bottoms to pull the arm down. i can see it being 2 issues, first the internal switch trigger arm is bad so the switch needs replaced or the arm linkage is bad. either way easy and cheap fixes compared to buying a new pump that would still work.
I read enough complaints about Zoeller pumps that I would never buy one. My floatless little giant has worked flawlessly for over 25 years.
What is the brand of the floatless little giant? My zoeller just stopped working. I am considering if I should try repair or buy something else.
@@MrAnderson58 The brand is Little Giant. Home Depot sells them. But I understand the Zoeller is an easy fix.
My Zoeller M264-B is going on 15 years strong. Just bought a second and switched old to back-up...
How is M98 working, I saw lot of complains about switch going bad every now and then. I am looking to buy one but wanted to see how is it working for you.
The rod that the float rides on is getting dirty and the float doesn’t slide up and down anymore.