Choosing the Right Level Sensor for the Job

Float vs Radar vs Integrated Radar

When it comes to accurate level monitoring, whether in wastewater, stormwater, tanks, or reservoirs, choosing the right sensor is critical. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which is best suited to your specific site and operating conditions. 

In this article, we’ll break down three common approaches - float, radar, and the emerging category of integrated radar - to help infrastructure asset managers make informed decisions.  

Float Sensors: Simple, Low-Cost, and Familiar

Float sensors rely on mechanical movement - a float that rises and falls with the liquid level, triggering a switch or recording its position via a magnet or pulley system. These sensors must be connected to a separate data logger to collect and transmit readings.  

Best for: 

• Clean water applications with minimal debris

• Sites with existing telemetry hardware 

• Budgets prioritising simplicity over precision 

Pros: 

• Cost-effective and widely understood 

• Low power draw 

• Works well in simple, predictable conditions 

Cons: 

• Only gives an on/off status instead of continuous level measurement 

• Prone to fouling in dirty or turbulent environments 

• Mechanical wear over time 

• Requires external logger and power source, adding to install complexity 

Key takeaway:
Use float sensors when conditions are stable, the budget is tight, and you have an existing data logger already in play. 

Kallipr data logger and float sensor

Radar Sensors: Contactless Precision in Harsh Environments

Radar sensors use electromagnetic pulses to measure the distance between the sensor and the liquid surface. These are highly accurate, non-contact solutions designed for challenging conditions like wastewater, stormwater, or chemical tanks. Like float sensors, they connect to a seperate data logger for data capture and transmission.  

Best for: 

• Provides accurate, continuous level data for better monitoring and control 

• Non-contact sensing in dirty, foamy or turbulent environments 

• Monitoring non-liquid materials like grains and fertilizers.  

• Sites with limited access like manholes, pits or sewer chambers.  

• Sites that may require additional sensors later (e.g. pressure, flow, environmental) 

• Projects needing flexibility in mounting and the ability to adapt to different pit shapes or site layouts.  

Pros: 

• Extremely accurate and non-contact – handles turbulence, debris and foamy surfaces 

• Mounting and install flexibility to suit varied pit and chamber designs 

• Option for onboard battery on the sensor to reduce load on the logger and extend overall system life 

Cons: 

• Installation alignment is critical 

• Requires external logger and power source if not battery-supported 

• Higher up-front cost than float sensors 

• As a separate device, it can be at risk of damage or tampering in public or exposed locations 

Key takeaway:
Choose standalone radar when you need high-precision sensing in tough environments, with the flexibility to integrate with your existing telemetry, extend system battery life, and scale with future sensor needs. It’s ideal for infrastructure managers who want modular hardware, longer field life, and full control over how the system evolves. 

Captis data logger and Kallipr radar sensor

Integrated Radar: Compact All-in-One Smart Monitoring

Integrated radar combines a high-accuracy radar sensor, long-life battery, data logger, and communications module into a single, rugged, IP-rated device. It does everything a standalone radar + telemetry setup would, but without the complexity of multiple components, enclosures, or wiring. 

Best for: 

• Sites with limited access or install time, such as manholes, underground chambers, or remote pits 

• Projects requiring rapid deployment at scale, with minimal technician time on site 

• Networks where simplicity, reliability, and total cost of ownership are key priorities 

Pros: 

• Fast, clean installation - no wiring, junction boxes, or separate loggers 

• Offers the same radar accuracy and performance as standalone systems but in one simple device 

• Optimised battery design enables multi-year life with minimal maintenance 

• Reduced install time = lower deployment cost per site 

Cons: 

• Less modular than standalone setups meaning you can't add othe sensors or easily replace the radar component.  

• Fixed form factor may offer less mounting flexibility than modular setups 

Key takeaway:
Integrated radar is the ideal choice when you want everything in one device - precision sensing, reliable comms, long battery life, and low-touch deployment. It’s built for scale, speed, and simplicity, making it a smart option for large networks, remote sites, or any environment where install time and maintenance visits need to be kept to an absolute minimum. 

Kallipr's integrated radar, Spectra

In many networks, the right approach isn't just one sensor type - it's a mix. Some sites suit float sensors just fine, others demand the precision of radar, and in many cases, integrated radar makes installs faster and simpler. If you're unsure which way to go, our engineers can help you map out the best setup for your network. Get in touch and we'll work through it with you.