What's A good Light Timer

Reefer Rob · #1 01-23-2007, 03:47 AM

I'm looking for suggestions for a good high wattage timer for the lights on my new tank. I need to be able to switch 1200 watts of MH lights. The 500W Intermatic timer I've been using on my old tank won't cut it. (unless I put 1 on each bulb)

mark · #2 01-23-2007, 04:28 AM

I'm still using the ones I had from another project from years ago. From Cdn Tire, they're for block heaters; digital, waterproof, high wattage.

AndyL · #3 01-23-2007, 06:02 AM

Princess auto - GE5191-DPDT G.E. Time switch. 19.99 for the SPDT, 25 for the DPDT (go for the DPDT - to toggle 12/24v moonlights etc)

30A loads, DPDT, easily wired so as to turn on/off ancillary devices as lights go on/off.

Little bit of wiring involved, but they come in a big waterproof housing, and the wirings really not that bad.

Linky (no association, never heard of this company - just have pics/specs) http://www.skycraftsurplus.com/index...ROD&ProdID=789

Reefer Rob · #4 01-23-2007, 05:14 PM

Ahh, Princess Auto, of coarse. Worth a trip just to snoop around.

beaker020 · #5 01-25-2007, 03:38 AM

I've used this timer for years with no problems. It gets salt spray on it all the time.
http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/pr...romSearch=true

I prefer electronic timers over mechanical any day. Electronic timers are more reliable and accurate, Mechanical timers can vary their on/off times by a few min. each time they switch. Electronic timers do not have to be reset after every power outage. That can be a big deal since I'm running 7 times between 2 tanks.