Wiring up a Float switch for my mash tun

[breyton]

I wanted to build a float switch to control the amount of sparge water in my mash tun. I know B3 sells a float switch, but for $100 bucks, I'd like to build one myself.

For saftey, I would like to use a relay to keep 100V AC from being in the mash tun. I am not an EE, just a lowly ME, so I cant say I am a wiring genius. Can you electronics wizes help me figure out how to wire up a float switch using DC voltage for the float switch and then triggering on my pump using 110V.

Hopefully this makes sense. I think I need a relay and Xfrm, but not sure the parts or how to wire it up. There are a number of float switches on ebay or in Grainger that I will likely use.

[NobleBrew]

You might try looking at a heating and air conditioning shop for a pan float switch. They are about $12.00. If you need help with the wiring let me know.

NB

[keggermeister]

if you really wanted to do it that way why not get your hands on a DC solenoid valve and use it in the pump output line. Then just leave the pump running and have the valve on a seperate DC circut.
I'm also no EE but being a licensed mechanic i do know a bit.
Try using an old computer power supply for the dc power side. They are easily gotten for free at a computer store. Just ask them for an old junky one. I tested one once, I got like 10 amps peak and 5 amps continious.
The cool thing about them is if you overload them they have an internal circut breaker.
You should see the keg washer i just built! 3/4HP SS pump, Heated Caustic tank, rinse cycle... I'll make up a post when i finish it.

you could also use a sump pump float switch, they are kind of remote, but you would have to rig up a different float then the one with it.

Let us know how you make out.

[codewritinfool]

A relay is what you're after, as well as some sort of low control voltage (simple wall transformer, etc.). Figure out what you're going to use as a switch and I can sketch up how to connect everything if you still need help.

[flobey]

I think this is trick: http://essersnet.com/php/content.php?viewPage&ID=160
Cheers!

Flobey

[codewritinfool]

Hey Push, you have something really close to that too, don't you?

[DannyW]

"do I detect a hint of grommet?"

I LOLed!

[beer_bear]

Grommet Gueze' anyone?