A float with a permanent magnet moves reliably along with the liquid level on a guide tube. Within the guide tube is fitted a reed contact (inert gas contact), which is energised, through the non-magnetic walls of the float and guide tube, by the approach of the float magnet. By using a magnet and reed contact the switching operation is non-contact, free from wear and needs no power supply. The contacts are potential-free. WIKA float switches with permanent magnets are also available with several switch points.