Abstract: An improved housing for a mercury float switch as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,223,190. The improved housing includes an exterior bracket connected to a side wall of the housing structured to releasably yet securely retain lead electrical wires extending from the mounting shaft of the float switch whereby the exposed lead electrical wires may be arcuately configured, then wedgedly locked between the bracket and side wall. By this arrangement, free pivotal movement of the float switch within the housing is maintained while holding the exposed lead electrical wires above the bilge water level, as in a boat bilge.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a Mercury Float Switch that is, a float operable by variations in the water level in the bilge of a boat to control the operation of a bilge pump or control the operation of a sump pump, both operable when the water level in the bilge or sump is above normal. The present float switch comprises a mercury containing tube having two switch contacts extending into one end of the tube which when bridged by the mercury in the tube will cause operation of a bilge pump or a sump pump or the operation of a visible or audible signal. The mercury tube is embedded in a polyurethane foam float which holds it firmly in position and protects it and the contacts from water seepage and corrosion. The tube is bent intermediate its ends at an angle so that the mercury will not be moved to bridge the switch contacts during normal vibration of the tube under normal variance of the water level in the bilge or sump.