Programmable Timers for Lighting
About two years ago, I started to turn on our outdoor lights at night (after I realized that we were the only "dark" house in the neighborhood). However, I couldn't seem to remember to turn them off. I did some research and decided to try a programmable timer that would replace the light switch on the wall. Here is the timer that I bought (it is available here at Amazon).
The installation procedure is the same as if you are installing a light switch or dimmer (I'll outline this procedure in the future). The control takes up a bit more space behind the faceplate than a traditional light switch, but I didn't have any problem crowding. Once it is installed, it can be operated just like a regular light switch. The small door on the front acts as a button, cycling the light on and off.
The timer (which has a battery backup) is programmed using a panel of buttons hidden behind a small door.
The programming procedure is described in detail in the instructions. I followed the instructions closely and didn't have any problems, but I read some reviews online where the reviewer had a difficult time with the programming. The reason it can appear complicated is that you have a great deal of flexibility with the on/off times. You can set each day separately, go with a weekday/weekend split, or choose to have the lights turn on and off at the same time each day. I chose to have the lights turned on at sunset and off at sunrise- the timer can do this because you enter you time zone (it will even adjust for daylight savings time).
I installed two of these timers more than a year ago and have ben extremely happy with them. They have probably already paid for themselves in energy savings. They look sleek- they mount flush with the wall and the buttons are hidden.
There is also another, more expensive model at Amazon that has received some very good reviews. However, I have not tried this model.
Go get a couple for an easy home improvement project. Between the energy savings and the longer bulb life (since they are only on during specified periods), they will pay for themselves in the first year. There is an additional security benefit- when you are on vacation, the light timers help to give the impression that someone is home at night.
Jon
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