[IAmWoman]

How do I install a timer on my porch light for security purposes while we're on vacation?

 

[Scuba_Dave]

Is this a hard wired light controlled by a switch?

My outside light I installed a programmable "switch"
It goes off & on at the times I set
I can also manually turn it off & on

We also plug in timers on lamps inside the house

 

[IAmWoman]

Yes, this is a hard-wired light controlled by a switch just inside the front door. The first graphic you provided seems to be the answer. Thanks.

 

[300zx]

Don't know what kind of room you have but this might work just leave the switch on http://www.smarthome.com/2512/Screw-In-Motion-Sensor-Switch/p.aspx

 

[IAmWoman]

electrical question

The porch light would be on the porch, and the switch is just inside the front door.

 

[Yoyizit]

Nice to meet you, Ms. Reddy. :thumbsup:

 

[Speedy Petey]

How do I install a timer on my porch light for security purposes while we're on vacation?

1) Buy a timer like the first one in Scuba Dave's post.
2) Remove the wall switch and install the timer according to the instructions.
3) Program the timer.
4) Enjoy your vacation.:thumbsup:

 

[PaliBob]

Just a precaution before buying a programmable switch for a porch light.

For energy conservation and long life many porch lights are now compact florescent. Some Wall switch timers will not work with florescent bulbs.
e.g. http://www.intermatic.com/products/timers/consumer indoor timers/in-wall timers/ej500c.aspx

Make sure of the Load Rating before buying.

Another Consideration on Programmable Switches is the security issue of what happens if there is a Power Outage while you're on vacation? Some switches have a 3V battery (lasts about 3 years) that will maintain the program and time schedule when the Power comes back on.

I use the Intermatic Model ST01C which has switch contacts rated for 15A resistive and 8A for a 120V Ballast (florescent) This model also has the included battery
http://www.westsidewholesale.com/heavy-duty-digital-self-adjusting-wall-switch-timer-white.html

The STO1C is being replaced by the newest model E1600 which has a rating of 16 A for Ballasts. This is brand new model that is way overkill for a porch light.

http://www.intermatic.com/products/timers/in-wall timers/electronic 7-day astro time switches.aspx
.

 

[Yoyizit]

You could also do a photocell.

 

[kbsparky]

That timer switch looks like an Aube astronomical unit. Click here for
ordering information. You program it with your latitude and longitude so it knows when the sun sets and switches on your lights. Same for sunrise. although you can program it to turn off your lights at midnight if you want.


And Bob, it will operate any kind of load, since it requires a neutral wire for its switching mechanism. Also, it does not need a battery, unlike the Intermatic units. :whistling2:

 

[Leah Frances]

I decided to leave my front porch light on all the time. 2 years and counting on the same CFL bulb.

Plus, I HATE my neighbor's motion detector light (though I know that's not what the thread is about - just venting) it goes off (I mean on) every time anyone drives down the street. :furious:

 

[Scuba_Dave]

My timer has worked with multiple CFL bulbs/Mfg without a problem
We have light from a street light on the corner of our property
So we don't really need the light too much
I have an LED light string on the 3 season porch as light
I'm not into the motion detectors any more

 

[jerryh3]

That timer switch looks like an Aube astronomical unit. Click here for
ordering information. You program it with your latitude and longitude so it knows when the sun sets and switches on your lights. Same for sunrise. although you can program it to turn off your lights at midnight if you want.


And Bob, it will operate any kind of load, since it requires a neutral wire for its switching mechanism. Also, it does not need a battery, unlike the Intermatic units. :whistling2:

My aube. Easy to program, and it's great not having to adjust the dawn/dusk settings every few weeks. I just wish there was a standard "white" between all of the manufacturers.

 

[IAmWoman]

Electrical

Thanks, Guys, for all your help. Since my husband thinks electricity is witchcraft, I will pass along to him all your suggestions so he can study for himself which device to use.:thumbup:

 

[spark plug]

Just one little note; Those timers can be used as Seven day timers. They have Seven sets of on/off programs. They're easy to program. (just watch to have the right DAY displayed for each program desired. Otherwise you'll be disappointed when the lights don't come ON or go OFF as intended). As a general rule, (in my own experience) those timers that use a NEUTRAL as part of their operation can be used with fluorescent lights including CFL. And the timer will continue to function regardless if there is a working bulb in the socket. On the other hand, the timers that are hooked up w. 2 wires, "in series" won't work with any fluorescent lamps, and will only be operable (i.e. the LCD display) when there is a working lamp in the socket!
p.s.; Thanks Scuba Dave for the clear display of the timer!!! (Can't import any Smilies to a "Quick Reply" yet! (No matter what) Don't Drink and Drive!!!