Question about Philips PureProtect Water 3400 Series

The polystyrene float contains a magnet that actuates a reed switch in the base. If the polystyrene float sinks to the bottom due to the low water level in the tank, the reed switch signals a lack of water to the control unit and no longer humidifies the air. See orange drop display. If you fill the tank with water, the polystyrene float switch rises and the orange low water indicator goes out and the air is humidified again.

I thought about that too. I think the ring has a function. I've left it in.