Electronic bilge pump switch questions

[bajadan2000]

I have several questions concerning the electornic bilge pump switches.

The reason for the interest in them is: they do not have any moving parts to wear out and they do not become clogged with gunk in the water.

1) Anyone have any first hand exsperience with them? Pros and cons please?

2) The only brand I can find that is only a switch (without gas/oil detection) is SensaSwitch ($30-$35). Are there any other brands?

3) The SensaSwitch has a contant draw of 0.2mA when the pump is not running. Is this amount of constant draw a concern to the battery power if the boat sits for a while without use?

4) Are there any other ways to get more reliable service from reg. floating type switches? I was thinking about building a frame around the floating switch that is covered with a mess screen, possible panty hose material. I have used panty hose around the bilge pumps and it works very well to protect them from becoming obstructed.

Any help on this subject will be appreciated. This is one of my winter projects so there is no rush.

[DriftR]

Go with the Sensa-Switch. I am in the process of installing one. They are great. The small amount of draw they take power wise is minimal IMO.

[2nd Gen.]

I use water witch switches. They have no moving parts so they can't become fouled and also detect oil (won't pump straight oil)I don't like the thought of pumping oil out into the water, neither does the Coast Guard or the State Police . Englund Marine carries the water witch switches.