Installing outdoor lights on a timer allows you to easily control when your outdoor lighting turns on and off each day. Using a timer saves energy, extends the life of your lights, and provides safety and security by ensuring your outdoor lights are on when needed. Putting outdoor lights on a timer is a relatively simple project that can be customized to meet your specific needs.
Introduction
Outdoor lighting controlled by a timer offers many benefits compared to manually turning lights on and off each day. With a timer, you can set lights to turn on at dusk and off later at night when no longer needed. This saves electricity, protects lights from being left on accidentally, and provides lighting when you need it for safety, security, and ambiance.
Timers designed for outdoor use are weather-resistant and often have multiple programming options. Many allow you to set different schedules for each day of the week. Timers can be used with various low-voltage outdoor lighting systems as well as 110-volt fixtures. We’ll walk through the process of selecting, installing, and setting a timer for your outdoor lights.
Choosing an Outdoor Light Timer
Several types of timers can be used to control outdoor lighting:
- Mechanical timers – Inexpensive dial timers that mechanically open and close circuits at set times. Less flexible scheduling options than digital timers.
- Digital electronic timers – Offer screen displays and multiple programming capabilities. Often have battery backup.
- Photoelectric timers – Turn lights on at dusk and off at dawn or after a set number of hours.
- Smart timers – Connect to WiFi and allow lighting control from smartphones.
The type you choose depends on your budget, needs, and the type of lighting you want to connect to it. Make sure to choose a timer rated for outdoor use and appropriate for the voltage of your lighting system. Many timers have multiple programming options to allow customization of the lighting schedule.
Installing and Wiring the Timer
Outdoor light timers are installed into the lighting circuit between the power source and the lights. They can be placed anywhere in the circuit, but a covered location near the lights provides protection from the elements. Cut the wires to install the timer:
- Turn off power to circuit at breaker.
- Cut wire between lights and power source.
- Use wire nuts to connect wires to the timer. Follow timer wiring directions.
- Timer often has a ground wire that should be connected to ground.
- Place timer in outdoor-rated box and securely mount box.
Use the proper wire gauge and type for the lighting system and adhere to all electrical codes. Ensure waterproof connections using outdoor-rated wire nuts or splicing gel. Secure any junction box covers and timer covers properly after wiring.
Setting and Programming the Timer
Once wired into the circuit, it’s time to set the programming schedule for the outdoor lights. Steps vary slightly for different timer types:
- For dial timers – pop open the timer dial and set trippers for on and off times.
- For digital timers – use the display screen and buttons to enter schedule times.
- For photoelectric timers – adjust light sensor and set number of hours lights stay on.
- For smart timers – download app and use smartphone to program schedule.
Most timers have multiple on/off settings for each day, along with other features such as sunrise/sunset modes or random settings. Determine the lighting schedule needed for security, visibility, and ambiance. Program on and off times to activate at dusk and continue illuminating walkways or other areas as desired.
Tips for Using an Outdoor Light Timer
Follow these tips to successfully install and use your new outdoor light timer:
- Test the programmed schedule and make any needed adjustments.
- Allow sufficient cooling and ventilation around any digital timer.
- Change batteries per manufacturer recommendations, often annually.
- Check if timer automatically adjusts for daylight savings time.
- Override an on/off schedule when needed via app or manual dial.
- Ensure outdoor timer and wiring connections are weatherproof.
- Group lights on a single timer when possible to save cost.
Placing your outdoor lights on a timer gives you effortless control over your lighting schedule. Timers enhance security, safety, and ambiance while conserving energy and increasing the life of lighting fixtures. Select an appropriate timer for your installation and take time to program an optimal outdoor lighting schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I override my outdoor light timer for an event or holiday?
Most digital timers have a manual override that allows temporarily turning lights on or off. Just return the dial or switch back to “auto” when done. Check your timer model for the specific override method.
What type of timer works with LED lights?
LED lighting works fine with digital electronic timers and smart timers. Some older electromechanical dial timers can produce a pulsing effect, so digital is better for LEDs. Always check manufacturer ratings.
Should I get a battery backup for my outdoor timer?
A battery backup or retention allows the timer to maintain its programmed schedule through a power outage. This way your lighting schedule stays on track after the power returns. It’s a useful feature, especially if power failures are common in your area.
Can I connect more than one light to a timer?
Yes, most timers can handle connecting multiple lights or sets of lights. Just ensure the timer has sufficient wattage/amperage capacity for all the lights connected to it. Group connecting lights on the same lighting circuit.
How do I reset or change programs on my outdoor timer?
Refer to the manufacturer instructions for your specific timer model. For digital timers, you’ll use the display screen and buttons to reset and enter new programs. Smart timers can be reset and reprogrammed using the app.
Conclusion
Installing outdoor lighting on a timer is easy to do and provides many benefits. The right timer allows you to customize when your exterior lighting turns on and off each day. This saves energy, extends the life of lighting fixtures, and provides safety, security, and ambiance when you need it. Choose a timer suited for outdoor use that works with your type of low-voltage or 110-volt lighting. Follow directions for proper electrical wiring connections. Set customized on/off times to meet your specific lighting needs. With the lights programmed on a schedule, you can enjoy the many advantages of automated outdoor lighting.