Best Flow Switches of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Flow switches are essential components in many industrial processes that require monitoring and controlling the flow of liquids or gases. These switches are designed to detect the presence or absence of flow within a pipeline and trigger an action accordingly. Whether it's for protecting equipment from damage due to low flow conditions or ensuring the proper functioning of cooling systems, flow switches play a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and safety. With various types and configurations available, these versatile devices offer reliable and accurate flow detection for a wide range of applications.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 Flow Switch Cover #TOP 1
McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 Flow Switch
ftb score rating icon 9.8
McDonnell & Miller FS251 Flow Switch Cover #TOP 2
McDonnell & Miller FS251 Flow Switch
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Dwyer Vane Flow Switch Cover #TOP 3
Dwyer Vane Flow Switch
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Flow Switches

#TOP 1

McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 Flow Switch

McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 Flow Switch Cover
McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 General Purpose Liquid Flow Switch

The McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 Flow Switch is a versatile device designed for starting or stopping various electrically operated equipment. With a 1" NPT connection, this flow switch is suitable for a wide range of applications. It has a temperature range of 32 degrees F to 300 degrees F, allowing it to operate in different environments. The sensitivity adjusting screw makes flow adjustment easy, ensuring precise control. The flow switch comes with four stainless steel paddles in different sizes, allowing users to choose the most suitable one for their specific needs. Whether you need to control signal lights, alarms, motors, or metering devices, the McDonnell & Miller FS4-3 Flow Switch provides convenience and reliability.

What We Like
Versatile
Precise flow adjustment
Comes with multiple paddle sizes
#TOP 2

McDonnell & Miller FS251 Flow Switch

FS251
Black
McDonnell & Miller FS251 Flow Switch Cover
McDonnell & Miller FS251 General Purpose Flow Switch, 1" Replaces Fs4-3

The McDonnell & Miller Flow Switch is an essential electronic component designed for reliable performance. With compact dimensions of 9.1 cm in length, 10.4 cm in width, and 21.3 cm in height, it can easily fit into various setups without taking up much space. Weighing just 1 pound, its lightweight design allows for easier installation and handling. Proudly made in the United States, this flow switch ensures quality and durability. Whether you need it for industrial applications or home use, it offers the convenience of consistent flow monitoring, helping you maintain efficient operation.

What We Like
Compact size
Lightweight design
Made in USA
Reliable performance
#TOP 3

Dwyer Vane Flow Switch

FS-2
Dwyer Vane Flow Switch Cover
W.E. Anderson® Vane Flow Switch, FS-2, 1" MNPT, Low Cost, Field Adjustable Set Point & Paddle

The Dwyer Vane Flow Switch is a versatile and cost-effective solution for monitoring flow in various applications. With its field adjustable set point and paddle design, this flow switch allows you to easily customize and control the flow rate. The wetted materials, including tin-bronze bellow and stainless steel vane, ensure durability and reliability even in harsh conditions. The forged brass body provides excellent resistance to corrosion. With a temperature limit of 230°F and pressure limit of 145 psig, this flow switch can handle demanding environments. Equipped with a SPDT snap switch and NEMA 4 enclosure rating, the Dwyer Vane Flow Switch offers precise and reliable flow monitoring.

What We Like
Versatile
Cost-effective
Field adjustable set point
#TOP 4

LOCHINVAR Flow Switch 100208653

100208653
LOCHINVAR Flow Switch 100208653 Cover
LOCHINVAR 100208653 Flow Switch

The LOCHINVAR Flow Switch is designed as a direct replacement for the original LOCHINVAR part number 100208653, making it easy for you to find the exact component you need. This product matches the specifications of the original, ensuring reliable and consistent performance in your system. Using this flow switch means you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues since it’s equivalent to the original part. Plus, it comes with a manufacturer warranty, giving you peace of mind by protecting your purchase against defects. The LOCHINVAR Flow Switch is a practical and dependable choice for maintaining your equipment smoothly.

What We Like
Direct replacement
Exact part match
Reliable performance
Manufacturer warranty
#TOP 5

Hayward Solaxx GNR00003 Flow Switch

GNR00003
Hayward Solaxx GNR00003 Flow Switch Cover
Solaxx GNR00003 Flow Switch with Round Connector

The Hayward Flow Switch is designed specifically for the Saltron Reliant application, ensuring optimal performance for your swimming pool system. With a plumbing connection size of 3/4", it easily integrates into various setups, providing a reliable connection. The male pipe thread connection type further enhances compatibility, making installation straightforward for users. This flow switch helps maintain proper water flow, ensuring your pool equipment operates efficiently and effectively, giving you peace of mind while you enjoy your pool experience.

What We Like
Easy installation
Compatible with Saltron Reliant
Reliable water flow maintenance
Standard plumbing size
#TOP 6

General Pump 100975 Flow Switch

100975
Black
General Pump 100975 Flow Switch Cover
General Pump 100975 Flow Switch, 12.0 GPM, 5000 psi

The General Pump Flow Switch is a reliable and efficient device designed to control the flow of liquids. With a maximum switch voltage of 250 VAC and a maximum switching current of 5 AMPS, this flow switch can handle high-pressure systems with ease. It has a low resistance of 30 OHM with leads, ensuring accurate and responsive performance. The electrical service life of 200,000 cycles and mechanical service life of 10,000,000 cycles guarantee long-lasting durability. Whether you need to control the flow of water, chemicals, or other liquids, the General Pump Flow Switch is a dependable choice. Its high-quality construction and impressive performance make it an ideal solution for various applications.

What We Like
High-pressure compatibility
Accurate and responsive
Durable construction
#TOP 7

DIGITEN FS-C02 Brass Water Flow Switch

FS-C02ZJ
G3/4" Male Thread
DIGITEN FS-C02 Brass Water Flow Switch Cover
DIGITEN FS-C02 G3/4" BSP Male Thread Brass Water Flow Switch 1-30L/min, 0-2A/ 0-220V(AC or DC)

The DIGITEN Flow Switch is a reliable device designed to enhance safety in your water systems. Made from durable brass, it ensures that your equipment, like heaters and pumps, automatically shuts off when there is no water flow, preventing potential damage. Its 3/4" BSP male thread design allows for easy connections, offering versatility in installation. Additionally, the flow switch is built to withstand harsh conditions, being waterproof and heat-resistant, making it suitable for various applications. With a voltage range of 0-220V and a flow capacity of 1-30L/min, it meets the needs of many users.

What We Like
Automatic shut-off for safety
Durable brass construction
Easy installation
Wide application range
#TOP 8

Thincol LKB-01D Water Flow Switch

Thincolz4pnh93aft
Blue
Thincol LKB-01D Water Flow Switch Cover
LKB-01D Water Flow Switch - 250V 15A, Two Way, IP54, 1.0MPa, SPDT Contacts for Fire Safety, Air Conditioners

The Thincol Water Flow Switch is designed to monitor the flow of liquids like water and ethylene that do not corrode copper. It helps you by activating or deactivating circuits automatically when the flow rate changes, which is useful for safety and control in your systems. With a repeatability error of only about 2.5%, this switch ensures consistent and reliable performance, giving you peace of mind. Its IP54 rating means it is well-protected against dust and water splashes, making it safer and more durable for use in environments like water treatment, air conditioning, or cooling units.

What We Like
Accurate flow detection
Automatic circuit control
High repeatability
IP54 dust and splash protection
#TOP 9

wriboard 100975 Flow Switch for Pressure Washers

100975
wriboard 100975 Flow Switch for Pressure Washers Cover
100975 Flow Switch for Pressure Washer, Flow Switch Fit for General Pump, 12.0 GPM, 5000 PSI, Mounts in Any Position

The wriboard Flow Switch is designed to work in any mounting position, making it easy for you to install without worrying about placement. It can handle pressures up to 5,000 PSI, so it’s reliable for tough industrial tasks. Thanks to its micro-switch technology, it offers long-lasting performance with an impressive electrical and mechanical lifespan, meaning fewer replacements and less downtime for you. The flow switch supports flows from 1.25 to 12.0 GPM, ensuring smooth fluid handling with minimal pressure loss. Its stainless steel shuttle and durable materials keep it stable across a wide temperature range, so you can trust it to perform well in various conditions.

What We Like
Universal mounting
High-pressure capacity
Long service life
Wide flow range
Corrosion-resistant design
#TOP 10

Grid Controls Flow Switch M-210

57F1221201W
Grid Controls Flow Switch M-210 Cover
Grid Controls Flow Switch 2in. Model 210 57-F1-2212-01W

The Grid Controls Flow Switch is a reliable device designed to manage fluid flow in your plumbing system. With a robust amperage rating of 10A, it ensures safe and efficient operation. The 2-inch spigot connection makes installation straightforward, allowing you to integrate it easily into your existing setup. This flow switch is especially useful for maintaining optimal flow rates, preventing potential damage to your system. By using this product, you can enhance the performance and longevity of your plumbing, providing peace of mind for your daily operations.

What We Like
Easy installation
Safe operation
Durable design
Optimal flow management
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a flow switch used for?

A flow switch is a device used to monitor the flow of liquid, gas, or steam. It triggers a switch when the flow reaches a pre-set flow rate, which can then signal an action such as shutting down the flow. This is done through electrical signals created by the switching mechanism.

2. What are the two types of flow switches?

There are two main types of flow switches: paddle design and piston or shuttle design. The paddle design uses a hinged or spring-mounted paddle in the flow path, where media flowing at the target rate holds it in position.

3. Where should a flow switch be installed?

A flow switch should be installed in the pump suction piping when there are spring-loaded check valves or other closed coupled accessories in the pump discharge piping. It is important not to apply sealant to the first threads, as the switch is grounded through the pipe mounting.

4. What are the advantages of flow switches?

Flow switches provide trip signals to other devices in a system, such as pumps, to protect them from damage or for cooling circuit protection. They can determine if the flow is above or below a certain set point, allowing for appropriate action to be taken.

5. How many types of flow switches are there?

There are four categories of flow switches: paddle flow switches, piston or shuttle flow switches, solid-state switches, and switches for gas, liquid, volumetric, and velocity flow.

Editor's Notes

During our flow switch research, we found 24 flow switch products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,558 customer reviews through our big data system to write the flow switches list. We found that most customers choose flow switches with an average price of $83.67.

The flow switches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of flow switches, including Mcdonnell & Miller, Dwyer, LOCHINVAR, Hayward, General Pump. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 255 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.