Setting a timer for your outdoor lights is an easy way to automate when they turn on and off each day. Using a timer can save energy, provide security and create ambiance in your outdoor space. With some basic knowledge, you can set up timer controls for any outdoor lighting, from path lights to floodlights. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to set timers for outdoor lights.

Why Use a Timer for Outdoor Lights?

There are several benefits to using a timer for your outdoor lighting:

Saves Energy

Timers prevent you from forgetting to turn lights off manually. This saves electricity and reduces your energy bill since the lights won’t be on all night unnecessarily. Timers also allow you to program the lighting schedule to match when you actually need the lights.

Provides Security

Outdoor security lights controlled by a timer create the illusion that someone is home even when you are away. Turning lights on and off at varying times makes your home look occupied and deters burglars.

Creates Ambiance

Timers allow you to set different lighting moods for various times of the evening. You can have bright security lights early in the night then soft path lighting later on.

Convenience

Once programmed, a timer handles turning outdoor lights on and off automatically at the desired times each day. You don’t have to go around manually turning lights on and off.

Flexibility

Most timers allow you to set different schedules for different days of the week. You can create custom schedules to match when you need lighting on weekdays, weekends and holidays.

Outdoor Lighting Timer Options

There are a few different options available for adding timer controls to your outdoor lighting:

Plug-In Timers

Plug-in timers simply plug into a standard electrical outlet and have a built-in digital clock to control when power is supplied. They are inexpensive and easy to set up. Just plug your outdoor lights into the timer instead of the outlet.

In-Wall Timers

In-wall timers replace a standard light switch or outlet. An electrician wires them directly into the electrical system. In-wall timers work well when you want to control hardwired outdoor lights.

Smart Lighting Systems

Smart lights connect to your home WiFi and allow lighting control from your smartphone or voice assistants. Smart bulbs like Philips Hue have timer functionality controlled through an app.

How to Set a Timer for Outdoor Lights

The specific steps to set a timer vary slightly depending on which type you are using. But the general process is the same:

1. Decide When You Want the Lights On/Off

First, determine your desired lighting schedule. Do you want the lights coming on at sunset and going off a few hours after you normally go to bed? Or on from 6 pm – midnight? Pick the on/off times that work best for your home.

2. Program the On/Off Times

For plug-in and in-wall timers, you’ll program the exact on and off times into the clock interface. For smart bulbs, you’ll select times in the control app. Most timers allow multiple on/off settings per day.

3. Set the Day(s)

If your schedule varies, set which days of the week the timer follows the on/off times you programmed. For example, Monday-Friday for one schedule and Saturday-Sunday for a different weekend schedule.

4. Connect the Lights

Plug lights into a plug-in timer outlet or smart bulb base. Or have an electrician connect lights to an in-wall timer. The timer now controls power to the lights.

5. Adjust as Needed

Check that the programmed schedule works as intended and adjust on/off times and days if needed. Enjoy your automated outdoor lighting!

Detailed Steps to Program a Plug-In Timer

Plug-in timers are the easiest option for controlling outdoor lights. Here are the step-by-step instructions for programming one:

1. Choose Timer Location

Select where you will place the timer – near an outdoor outlet that the lights can reach. Make sure it will be protected from weather.

2. Plug In Timer

Plug the timer into the outdoor outlet just like you would a normal plug. The digital clock interface will light up.

3. Program On/Off Times

Use the timer dial or buttons to program the exact on and off times you want. Most allow multiple on/off settings per day.

4. Select Day(s)

Choose which day(s) of the week you want the programmed on/off schedule to be active. Some timers have sliding tabs for each day.

5. Plug in Lights

Plug your outdoor lights directly into the outlet sockets on the timer. This allows the timer to control power to the lights.

6. Check Settings

Verify correct on/off times and days are set. Adjust if needed. The timer will now automatically turn the lights on/off per the schedule!

Setting a Schedule on a Smart Lighting System

Smart bulbs like Philips Hue offer easy timer functionality through their control apps. Here’s how to program a schedule:

1. Open the App

Launch the app for your smart bulbs – Philips Hue, LIFX, etc. You’ll need to be on the same WiFi as the bulbs.

2. Go to Scheduling

Find the section in the app for creating schedules. This may be under Automation, Routines or something similar.

3. Configure Time(s)

Tap to select the time(s) you want the lights to turn on and off each day. You can set multiple times as needed.

4. Choose Day(s)

Pick which days of the week you want the schedule active by checking the boxes. For example, M-F for weekdays only.

5. Select Lights

Tap to choose which smart bulbs you want included in the schedule. This could be all or just certain lights.

6. Save Schedule

Give the schedule a name if desired and hit save. It will now automatically control the selected lights to the programmed times!

Tips for Outdoor Lighting Timers

Here are some useful tips when setting up and using timers for your outdoor lights:

• For security lights, set the timer to turn them on at sunset and off later at night when less activity is expected around the home.
• Make sure timers are rated for outdoor use and protected from weather. Plug-in versions should be connected to outdoor-rated grounded outlets.
• Allow enough wattage capacity on the timer for the lights you want to connect. Exceeding the rating can overload the timer.
• Position plug-in versions close enough that extension cords are not required between the timer and lights.
• Program off times to account for season changes so lights are not staying on too long into the mornings.
• Set different weekend schedules to reflect when you are typically home versus weeknights.
• Smart bulb schedules can be adjusted remotely via the control app if plans change and you need the lights on or off at alternate times.
• Use multiple timers for more control over different outdoor lighting zones – front porch, back patio, driveway, etc.
• Check that all settings were properly saved after programming. Test lights at on/off transition times to verify correct operation.

Troubleshooting Timer Issues

Here are some common problems and solutions for outdoor lighting timers:

Lights Not Turning On At Programmed Time

• Check if the timer display shows the correct time. If not, time may have been disrupted when power was lost. Reprogram.
• Verify timer is set to correct day(s) of the week for the schedule. Adjust if needed.
• Inspect lights and wiring. Faulty bulbs or loose connections can prevent lights from turning on.

Lights Staying On Continuously

• Make sure timer is plugged in and interface is illuminated, showing it has power.
• Check that on/off times are programmed correctly. Adjust if needed.
• Test lights by plugging them directly into the outlet without the timer. Faulty lights could stay on continuously.

Lights Turn Off Too Early/Late

• Double check the programmed on and off times. Reset if needed to the desired times.
• Daylight Saving Time change may have impacted schedule. Reprogram with correct times.

Timer Screen Is Blank

• Try unplugging the timer and plugging back in to reset it.
• Battery may need replacement if the timer has internal battery backup.
• Timer may be defective. Test with another outdoor-rated timer.

Smart Bulb Schedule Not Working

• Ensure bulbs are within WiFi range. Move closer to router if signal is weak outside.
• Reboot bulbs and/or router if connecting to WiFi is disrupted.
• Update bulb firmware and app to eliminate software issues.

FAQs About Outdoor Lighting Timers

Can I use any timer for outdoor lights?

No, choose a timer specifically rated for outdoor use. Indoor timers can short circuit when exposed to moisture outside.

Where is the best place to install outdoor timers?

Position timers close to the lights in a sheltered spot protected from weather. Under the porch eave or in a covered outlet box works well.

How do I determine the wattage a timer can handle?

Check the maximum wattage rating printed on the timer. Add up the wattages of all bulbs you want to connect and verify it’s under the timer capacity.

Should I use one timer for all outdoor lights?

Not necessarily – it depends on your lighting needs. Consider different timers for security vs. decorative lights that will be on different schedules.

Can smart bulb schedules be overridden manually?

Yes, smart bulb schedules can easily be turned on/off manually at any time via the control app. Manual changes don’t impact the saved schedule.

How do timers account for season and daylight changes?

Many timers have a daylight savings time adjustment to shift schedules an hour forward/back. Beyond that, you’ll have to adjust on/off times accordingly.

What happens if the power goes out on a plug-in timer?

Plug-in timers will revert to factory default times when power is restored. The programmed schedule will need to be reset unless it has battery backup.

Can I control low voltage landscape lights with a timer?

Yes, just wire a plug-in timer to a low voltage transformer and then connect your landscape lights to the transformer per usual.

Why aren’t my timer-controlled lights turning on?

Check that the timer is plugged in, outlet is working, correct time is set, lights are functional and schedule is programmed properly.

Conclusion

Installing timers for your outdoor lighting provides many benefits like automation, energy savings and security. Plug-in timers, in-wall timers and smart bulbs all offer timer capabilities to control when your outdoor lights turn on and off each day. It’s simple to program the schedules you need into these timers with just some basic setting adjustments. Position your timer properly to keep it protected from the weather. Troubleshoot any issues that arise to ensure your outdoor lights are operating on schedule as intended. The small effort to set up timers will make enjoying and managing your outdoor lighting much more convenient.

How to Position Floodlights

Outside the Home
Properly positioning outdoor floodlights is key to maximizing their effectiveness for visibility and security around the exterior of your home. Follow this guide to learn proper height, angle and direction to aim floodlights when installing around your house.

Check Local Regulations

First, be aware of any local regulations regarding outdoor lighting. Many municipalities restrict how bright lights can be on private residences to prevent glare and light trespass on neighbors’ properties. Make sure your floodlighting plans conform to community rules before installation.

Height Recommendations

Mounting height is important for achieving optimal floodlight coverage. Here are recommended heights for standard-sized floodlights:

• On the house – 8 to 10 feet above the ground
• On garages – 8 to 10 feet from ground to bottom of light
• On poles – 10 to 15 feet from ground to light fixture

Installing lights at these heights illuminates a wide area without excessive glare. Adjust height based on the specific light distribution and intensity you need.

Angling Tips

Aim floodlights down at a 45-degree angle. Angling the light down casts illumination outward over a broad area while minimizing glare. Tilting the lights down also helps prevent light trespass.

Focus Light Where Needed

Determine problem areas to light up, like doors, walkways, driveways and yard corners. Position and angle floodlights to directly focus light on these key areas. Avoid stray light spilling into neighbor yards.

Take light measurements at ground level to determine the optimum angle and direction for each flood. Adjust floodlight aiming if needed to get sufficient coverage.

Use Motion Sensors

Motion sensors automatically turn floodlights on when activity is detected, then off after a set time. Use motion sensor models and aim them at likely approach routes to your home. This provides lighting when needed while conserving energy.

Consider Lighting Zones

You may want brighter, tightly focused light near doors for visibility and safety. Supplement this with wider floodlight coverage over yards, driveways and other areas. Use separate floods and controls for different lighting zones.

Check Coverage

Test floodlight coverage at night after aiming the lights. Look for and eliminate any uneven lighting, dark sports or excessive glare. Adjust individual floodlight angles and heights as needed to perfect coverage and light distribution. Proper floodlight positioning maximizes security and visibility.

How to Reset Outdoor Light Timer

Outdoor light timers occasionally need resetting to restore proper operation. Whether you have a plug-in mechanical timer, digital programmable timer or wireless WiFi timer, here are the steps to easily reset the timer:

Unplug Plug-In Mechanical Timer

The simplest outdoor timers have an analog dial for setting on/off times. To reset:

1. Unplug the timer from the electrical outlet completely.
2. Wait 30 seconds.
3. Plug the timer back into the outlet.
4. Use dial to reset current time and program schedule.

Unplugging these basic timers resets them back to the factory settings so you can fully reprogram.

Reset Button on Digital Timer

Many outdoor timers have an LCD screen and buttons for programming. These often have a reset button:

1. Press and hold reset button for 3-5 seconds.
2. Release when display clears or resets.
3. Reprogram timer using the buttons as needed.

Refer to manual for how long to hold reset and what clears on display.

Restore Factory Settings

You can also reset more complex digital outdoor timers back to their original factory settings:

1. Locate small pinhole reset button on rear of timer.
2. Use a paperclip to press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds.
3. Display will revert to original out-of-the-box mode, deleting all programs.
4. Reprogram timer as new with on/off times and days needed.

Reset Smart Home Timer

For wireless outdoor timers controlled by a smart home app:

1. Open the app and locate timer controls.
2. Look for a Factory Reset or Reset Device option.
3. Follow prompts to confirm reset to delete all schedules.
4. Recreate lighting schedules in the app from scratch.

Resetting gives a fresh start if your outdoor light timer is not working correctly or needs reprogramming. Always test lights at on/off transition times after resetting to ensure timer is controlling properly.

How to Adjust Photocell on Outdoor Lights

Photocells on outdoor lights automatically turn the lights on at dusk and off at dawn by sensing ambient light levels. Here are tips for properly adjusting a photocell when installing outdoor lights:

Mount at Optimal Location

• Position photocell on top or side of light fixture facing north or east to prevent false on/off triggering from sunlight or other light sources.

Adjust Sensitivity

• Turn sensitivity dial or slider on photocell to adjust the light level threshold that turns the lights on/off.

Set Delay Time

• Use delay knob to set a delay of 5-15 minutes before lights turn on at dusk and off at dawn to avoid false triggering.

Consider Time Delay Feature

• Photocells with this added feature prevent lights turning on too early or off too late by presetting the on/off times relative to sunset and sunrise.

Check Automatic Cutoff

• Many photocells have a cutoff several hours before sunrise, ensuring lights turn off despite streetlights or early sunrise light.

Test and Observe

• Watch lights at dusk and dawn to check if photocell is triggering at the desired ambient light level. Adjust settings as needed.

Use Light Barriers

• If needed, add barriers like louvers to limit artificial light from triggering photocell off at dusk or on at dawn.

With some adjustments during installation, photocells provide hands-free control of outdoor lights based on natural daylight cycles. Proper positioning and settings are key for automated lighting that turns on when you need it at night and off during daylight hours.

How to Wire a Photocell for Outdoor Lighting

Using a photocell is an easy way to automate controlling outdoor lighting based on ambient light levels. Photocells switch lights on at dusk and off at dawn. Follow these steps to properly wire a photocell to outdoor lights:

1. Turn Off Power

Flip the circuit breaker to turn off power to the outdoor lighting circuit you are installing the photocell on.

2. Connect Wires

Twist the hot supply and load wires to the corresponding hot wires on the photocell using wire nuts. Connect the neutral wires in the same way through the photocell.

3. Ground Photocell (if applicable)

If the photocell has a ground wire, connect it to the ground wire in the outdoor lighting box using a wire nut.

4. Mount Photocell

Securely mount the photocell on the exterior of the home or pole pointing north. Ensure no artificial light will hit sensor directly.

5. Adjust Settings

Set sensitivity, time delay and other settings on the photocell based on product directions and your lighting needs.

6. Restore Power

Flip