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Solenoid Valves and Float Switches: How They Work, Types and Prices
- Solenoid valve = electric on/off valve
- Normally closed (NC): opens only when powered
- Float switch: switches with the water level
- Brass for water; stainless for food and aggressive water
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How Does a Solenoid Valve Work?
An electric coil (the solenoid) creates a magnetic field that lifts a plunger. In a normally closed valve, the plunger blocks the flow until the coil is powered. Remove the power and a spring closes it again. RO plants, vending machines and irrigation controllers use solenoid valves to start and stop water automatically.
Normally Closed vs Normally Open
| Normally closed (NC) | Normally open (NO) | |
|---|---|---|
| Without power | Closed | Open |
| Typical use | Most water uses: dispensing, RO inlet, irrigation | Where flow must continue if power fails |
Solenoid Valve Prices
Solenoid Valves, Brass, Normally Close (1/2')KSh 2,200
Solenoid Valves, Brass, Normally CloseKSh 2,700| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Solenoid Valves, Brass, Normally Close (1/2') | KSh 2,200 |
| Solenoid Valves, Brass, Normally Close | KSh 2,700 |
Current listed prices incl. VAT (updated 2 October 2026).
H-TECH solenoid valve range (DN = nominal pipe size: DN15 is about ½ inch, DN20 ¾ inch, DN25 1 inch):
| Size and body | Price |
|---|---|
| Brass DN15 | KSh 2,200 |
| Brass DN20 | KSh 2,700 |
| Brass DN25 | KSh 4,300 |
| Stainless DN15 | KSh 4,350 |
| Stainless DN20 | KSh 7,250 |
| Stainless DN25 | KSh 7,700 |
| Stainless DN32 | KSh 10,200 |
| Stainless DN40 | KSh 13,100 |
Current listed prices incl. VAT (updated 2 October 2026). Order: H-TECH Solenoid Valves & Control Fittings.
Solenoid Valve vs Ball Valve, Gate Valve or Motorised Valve
A ball or gate valve is opened by hand. A solenoid valve opens instantly by electricity. A motorised valve also opens electrically, but slowly, with a motor, and suits larger pipes and hard water. See manual vs automatic control valves.
How Does a Float Switch Work?
A sealed float on a cable tilts as the water level changes, which switches a contact inside it. In a tank-filling setup it starts the pump when the level is low and stops it when full. In pump protection it stops a pump when the source tank runs dry.
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| DAYLIFF FLOATSWITCH | KSh 1,500 |
Current listed prices incl. VAT (updated 2 October 2026).
Float Switch vs Pressure Switch
A float switch reacts to water level in a tank; a pressure switch reacts to pressure in a pipe (used with booster pumps). See booster pumps and pressure tanks.
Watch: RO purifiers and water ATMs
Frequently asked questions
How does a solenoid valve work?
An electric coil lifts a plunger to open the valve; when the power is removed a spring closes it (normally closed type).
What is the difference between normally closed and normally open solenoid valves?
Normally closed valves stay shut without power; normally open valves stay open without power.
How does a float switch work in a tank?
A float tilts with the water level and switches a contact, starting or stopping the pump.
How much is a float switch in Kenya?
Our float switch is KSh 1,500.
How much is a solenoid valve in Kenya?
Brass solenoid valves start from KSh 2,200; stainless valves are listed in the range above.