How to Monitor an A/C Float Switch?

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A picture of you existed float switch might help us help you.

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You either need a dedicated single pole (2 wire) float switch for alarm only purposes or a 2 pole (4 wire) float switch.

With the 2nd option one set of wires is for alarm only and one set of wires is for shut down interlocks.

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This is the condensate overflow float switch and the two black wires going into the handler.

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This is the leak detector which works incredibly well. Both the audible alarm and the wifi / App notification within an instant of one drop of water. GoveeLife Upgraded Smart Water Leak Detector 1s with 1804ft Ultra-Long Range, WiFi Water Sensor with SMS/Email/APP Push and Sound Alarm,5-Year Battery Life, 1 Pack, Suit for Home, Basement, Kitchen - Amazon.com

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I don’t see any 2 pole float switches that could replace the one you have.

It looks like your float switch opens on high water level. This kills the 24 volt control system so the AC shuts down and stops producing condensate.

I don’t see any easy solutions for someone not comfortable working with electric.

If you are comfortable do minor plumbing, you could remove the existing float switch, install a tee, and the install 2 float switches connected to the new tee. One switch would duplicate what you already have and one would connect to a a smart device like the leak sensor I showed yesterday.

The only problem is that your style float switch is normally closed and opens on high water. So the connected leak sensor would always be in the alarm position. This is not a problem for automations, but it might cause excessive battery drain.

A Zooz Zen 16 or 17 would be a better but more complicated option.

Sorry but I don’t have any easy solutions.

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Yeah. But thanks for trying to help. I appreciate it. Can’t believe the a/c industry isn’t selling smart alarms and making $$$. I realized that mine is actually a magnetic reed switch and not a floating switch (whatever that means). The tee is a good idea. I also thought about extending it about an inch from the handler so it doesn’t go off so easily. Or I may just remove it altogether and put a cap with a hole in it so a drop of water will set off the leak alarm.