Light Switch Timers Buying Guide

A light switch timer is an electronic mechanism that controls lighting within a domestic or commercial environment. They are often installed to save energy and can be controlled either manually or electronically via a digital display.

Light switch timers may be used to manage lighting levels over a two, five or seven-day basis. The installation process usually involves the replacement of existing light switches. However, there are some versions which can be fitted on top of such switches.

Light switch timers should be installed in accordance with written instructions and diagrams provided by the manufacturer. It is advisable to contact an electrician if you are concerned about safety or unsure of the correct procedures for installation. The complete installation is expected to take around 15 minutes.

The installation process should be carried out as follows:

Step One: Turn the Power Off

Begin the installation by turning the power off at the circuit breaker. A voltage tester should be used to ensure that no power is being generated.

Step Two: Identify the Live Wire

Turn the circuit breaker back on and use the tester to identify the live wire. The power should be turned off once more before labelling the live wire with electrical tape.

Step Three: Split the Wire Ends

Separate the wire ends so that they don’t touch each other or the switch box.

Step Four: Connect the Wiring

A terminal block should be used to connect the electrical wiring. The appropriate type of terminal block will depend on the amount of space and number of wires required for the connection. The block will also need to have the capacity to conduct the highest current level in order to power the light switch. Testing will be required to ensure that there is no overheating and the wires remain securely positioned.

Step Five: Arrange the Wires

Carefully gather and tuck the wires into the switch box. Next, firmly attach the timer switch to the mounting and fix the cover plate once more. The circuit power can now be switched back on.

Light switch timers vary, and the programming process will be different each time. As previously mentioned, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult an electrician if you are in any doubt. It’s important to ensure that the switch timer is securely fixed and that the lighting is functioning properly.

Manually operated timers have two modes: on and T (Timer). If you apply the on setting, then the power will bypass the timer and the lighting will operate normally. You will need to apply the T setting in order for the lighting to be automatically adjusted at different times.

The manual light switch timer should be programmed as follows:

Step One: Identify the Dial

Locate the dial on the main part of the switch, complete with the pointer.

Step Two: Adjust the Tabs

Set the pointer correctly and push down the tabs to set the times when you want light. The remaining tabs should all be up to indicate that the lighting will not be on at those times.

Step Three: Test

Test the manual switch timer and make any adjustments as necessary.

The process of activating a digital switch timer is quite similar to the manual variety. The labelled buttons should be applied to ensure the appropriate levels of illumination at different times. Such devices should be operated in accordance with any instructions provided.

Do LED Lights Work with Timers?

Timers are fully compatible with energy-saving bulbs and LEDs. However, there may be some flickering or continuous lighting if the correct installation procedures aren’t followed. This is because these kinds of lights are inductive and do not have a resistance characteristic to offer. It results in the timer continually turning on and off as the inductive element is charged and discharged. The small current generated through operation of the switch timer is also sufficient to keep the LEDs dimly lit. This will result in the timer switch fuse blowing at the same time as the light bulb, meaning that the mains must be switched off before replacing a fuse.

There are different ways to overcome the issues associated with the use of LED lights. There may be the option of fitting a large external resistor between the bulb and switch allowing bulbs of 20w to operate. Another solution is to increase the number of bulbs so that the minimum load requirements of the timer switch can be met. It is also advised to use digital timers to power LED lights.

How Does a Light Timer Work?

The light timer is an electrical circuit with an integrated clock. It can be set to turn the lighting on or off at specific times, according to individual requirements. The buying choices include devices featuring single or multiple electrical outlets, as well as those included within a complete security system. There is a wide variety of mechanical and digital timers available.

Digital timer switches are typically connected to electrical circuits powered via the mains supply. They feature timing circuitry, switching devices, and no moving parts. Such switches can be used to turn lights on or off at times selected by the user. Some of these switches allow for the pre-setting and cyclical arrangement of lighting levels.

How Do I Know Which Wire is Neutral When Installing My Switch?

The connection of a neutral wire is required in order for a light timer to remain powered and function correctly. This wire allows remote communication, keeping the correct time, and controlling the load.

You should be able to identify two white neutral wires in the electrical lighting box. These wires may be tied together and capped with a wire fastener. However, such neutral wiring will not be present in all instances. A flathead screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, and handheld voltage tester will be required to identify the neutral wiring.

The identification process is as follows:

Step One: Flick the Switch

Test the light switch to ensure that the lighting system is working properly.

Step Two: Power Down

Turn the power off at the circuit breaker and make sure that the light remains off.

Step Three: Remove the Wall Plate

Use the flathead screwdriver to remove the light switch wall plate.

Step Four: Move the Switch

Unscrew the switch from the wall box and pull the switch towards you (taking care not to touch the wires or screws on the side).

Step Five: Use Your Voltage Tester

Use the voltage tester to ensure that the power is off.

Step Six: Conduct a Visual Inspection

Inspect the colours of the wiring within the switch box (two entwined white wires will indicate neutral).

Step Seven: Investigate the Box

If the two control wires are white and black, then inspect the box. The presence of separate white, black and copper leads running into the box will indicate that there is no neutral.

Step Eight: Talk to an Expert

Consult an electrician if you are still in doubt over the presence of neutral wiring.