Stephen D Mills

US Patent:

51252473, Jun 30, 1992

Filed:

Dec 31, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/636501

Inventors:

Stephen D. Mills - Snow Camp NC

International Classification:

D06F 3742

US Classification:

68208

Abstract:

A washing machine overflow prevention device for use with an automatic washing machine and a conventional fixed drain conduit. The device includes a float switch adapted to be removably positioned below the drain hose of the washing machine within the drain conduit and to be actuated from a normally open to a closed mode when the water level backs up to a predetermined level in the drain conduit. The float switch comprises an elongated protective cover thereover defining a first closed end positioned proximal to the top of the drain conduit and a second open end positioned distally to the top of the drain conduit to protect the float switch from waste water flowing thereover from the washing machine drain hose. Circuit means are electrically connected to the float switch and interposed between the washing machine and an electrical outlet for interrupting electrical power to the washing machine upon actuation of the float switch from the normally open to the closed mode when waste water backs up within the drain conduit due to a blockage therein.