What Is A Grow Light Timer?
A grow timer is a device that works with your grow lights to provide automated lighting control. It can be programmed to turn your lights on and off based on the needs of your plants, ensuring they get the correct amount of light at the right times.
A grow timer will automatically turn on and off your lights based on the schedule you set, so you never have to worry about whether your plants are getting enough light again. If you put something into an outlet that has a timer set to turn off the power before it is needed, the timer will prevent power from reaching its destination.
In comparison to manually turning lights on and off, this method conserves electricity by keeping them on for a certain period of time. Some timers may also be operated by voice-activated assistants like Amazon's Alexa or Google's Assistant.
Light Timers Types
Grow timers come in many different shapes and sizes, from basic plug-in models for a single outlet to full-featured power strips with multiple outlets and the ability to control multiple lights.
- Plug-in timers are the most basic type of timer and come in both digital and analog versions. They plug into a standard wall outlet, and you can set them to turn your lights on and off at specific times using either a built-in dial or digital timer.
- Power strips with built-in timers are a more advanced type of timer and will give you the ability to control multiple lights from one place. This type of timer is especially useful if you have several grow light systems that need to be controlled separately, as each outlet on the power strip can be set to turn on and off at different times.
- Finally, some digital timers are WiFi-enabled, allowing you to control them from your smartphone or tablet. This is an especially convenient option for busy gardeners as it allows you to adjust the lighting schedule even when you're away from home.
What To Look At In Grow Light Timers
When shopping for a grow light timer, there are several important features to look out for.
- First, consider the size of the timer and how many outlets it has. If you only have one grow light system, then you won't need a large power strip with multiple outlets. On the other hand, if you have several lights that need to be turned on and off separately, then you'll want a timer with multiple outlets.
- Safety is also an important consideration. Look for a timer that is UL listed and has built-in surge protection, so you don't have to worry about blowing any of your equipment.
- You'll also want to consider how easy it is to adjust the timer settings. Look for digital timers with intuitive menus that make it easy to adjust the lighting schedule.
- Finally, consider the type of control panel the timer has. If you want to be able to change the settings from your phone or tablet, then look for Wi-Fi-enabled timers that can be controlled remotely.
Grow light timers are an invaluable tool for indoor gardeners, and with the right timer in place, you'll never have to worry about whether your plants are getting enough light again.
Best Grow Timers: Our Top Picks
With a little research and some careful consideration of all the features available, you'll be able to find the best grow timer for your needs. Also, we have compiled a list of some of the top-rated products on the market.
Best Overall: BN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer
This 2-pack of traditional 3-prong digital timers makes it simple to configure up to 8 on/off states for each of the two grounded outlets on either timer. All outlets may be managed at once, and timers go down to the minute.
The digital outlet timer has passed stringent safety and quality control inspections and has been granted the UL listing. When the timer's outlets are active, a red LED light will illuminate. It has a rating of 15 amps and 1725 watts at 115 volts and 60 hertz.
With the push of a button, you may enter or exit Daylight Saving Time. In the case of a power loss, your preferences will be preserved by the unit's long-lasting backup battery.
Pros:
- Easy installation and setup.
- Affordable.
- 2 outlets on either timer.
- UL listed for safety.
- Daylight savings time setting.
- Long-lasting backup battery in case of a power loss.
Cons:
- No Wifi compatibility, which means it needs to be manually adjusted if needed.
Best Value Pack: NEARPOW Digital Timer With Dual Outlets
This digital light timer is incredibly simple to use and comprehend, accommodating a wide variety of time settings, including week, hour, minute, and second. Further, the minimum timer setting is accurate to the nearest second. This three-pronged timer plug-in can operate many devices simultaneously.
The outlet timer may be programmed up to ten separate times to automatically turn appliances on and off. The 15 possible weekday settings complement the 7-day programmable timer. The two grounded outlets are equivalent to a timer with a single outlet. As the name suggests, a manual switch allows you to toggle between several modes of operation.
12/24 Hours Display that easily differentiates between morning and afternoon. Just one minute of Daylight Saving Time. Protect your home from burglars by making it appear occupied while you're gone with the help of Random Vacation Mode. The ability to lock off one's stored programs from prying little eyes is a must.
Pros:
- Dual outlets.
- Easy to use and understand.
- Accurate time settings.
- 15-weekday settings.
- Daylight Saving Time setting.
- Random Vacation Mode for home security.
Cons:
- No surge protection on the timer.
Easy To Set: DEWENWILS Mechanical Timer Power Strip with 8 Outlets
The power strip timer's flat socket allows it to fit neatly behind furniture, and its two mounting holes make it simple to attach it to a wall. Its 6 ft. SJT long wire also allows for a variety of placement options.
With the power strip timer, you may set ongoing devices to off and ongoing devices to off at regular 30-minute intervals throughout the day, with the power strip timer repeating daily at the time you set. The power strip with timer gives you the choice between four timed outlets and four always-on outlets, and the override "on" and "off" switch allows you to manually keep the timed outlet row on/off.
The power strip timer has been certified as safe by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and has overload protection. The power strip also has a built-in fuse, which is replaced after it trips.
Pros:
- 8 outlets.
- Flat socket to fit behind furniture.
- Two mounting holes for wall mounting.
- 30-minute intervals throughout the day.
- Override switch for manual control .
- UL-certified safe with overload protection and a built-in fuse.
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi compatibility.
Versatile And Reliable: myTouchSmart Outdoor Programmable Timer
With the integrated SunSmart technology, you can program the on/off hours to correspond with the local dawn and sunset. During a power outage or if the timer is unplugged, the settings are stored in the backup battery so that you don't have to reset it. General purpose/resistive, 125V, 15A, 1875 watts is the total rating for this outlet.
It works with incandescent, compact fluorescent, incandescent, and halogen light bulbs and lets you use LED and CFL bulbs that can be dimmed. This heavy-duty timer can be used both inside and outside, making it easy to control a wide range of electrical equipment, such as string lights, lamps, fans, electronics, outdoor heaters, small pumps, holiday decorations, and lighting.
Simply input the current time, and then choose a predefined mode or program your own times when the device is on and off. Includes a digital display, two (2) grounded outlets for high loads, and blue LED lights close to every button to indicate which settings are currently being used.
Pros:
- SunSmart technology.
- Integrated backup battery.
- Compatible with dimmable bulbs.
- Indoor/outdoor use.
- Digital display and blue LED lights.
- Two grounded outlets for high loads.
Cons:
- No surge protection.
Great Waterproof Option: DEWENWILS Outdoor Digital Power Strip Timer
The digital yard stake timer is protected from rain, snow, dust, and other elements by its durable weatherproof case, making it ideal for use with ponds, pumps, sprinklers, irrigation systems, Halloween displays, and other outdoor equipment. This clock just shows the time in 24-hour format (military time), with no indication of morning or evening.
If a power breakdown happens, the internal backup battery will keep your settings intact for up to three months. Using the same method, you may switch between any of the outdoor power stake timer's six grounded outlets; a six-foot extension cable allows for more flexibility in placement.
Connect the stake and the strip, set the timer (up to 20 individual On/Off times are possible), and then push it into the ground to make sure it stays on. The timer will turn off in the event of a power surge, and the lighted LEDs show you when it is on or off.
Pros:
- Weatherproof case.
- Integrated backup battery.
- Set up to 20 On/Off times.
- Lighted LEDs for on/off display.
- Six-foot extension cable.
- Power surge protection.
Cons:
- Only displays time in 24-hour format.
Heavy-Duty Option: DEWENWILS Outdoor Power Stake Timer Waterproof, 100FT Wireless Remote Control
In addition to the standard "dusk 'til morning" setting, you can also choose from others, like "on at dusk and off after 2/4/6/8 hours," "on immediately and off after 2/4/6/8 hours," "always ON/OFF," and so on. There are 6 gadgets that may be used at once thanks to the three outlets on each side. An additional 6 feet of power line expands the scope of your installation.
Each outlet has a waterproof cover to prevent water, dust, and damage to the overload switch, making them usable even when it's raining or snowing. High-quality protection is provided by the use of fire-resistant PPE and SJTW cable.
The powerful radio frequency (RF) signal of the remote can penetrate walls and doors and reach distances of up to 100 feet in a direct line of sight. Use the wireless remote to effortlessly activate the pool pump, fountain, and outside lights for the holidays, Halloween, and other special occasions without having to brave the elements.
Pros:
- Multiple settings for different needs.
- Three outlets on each side.
- 6 feet of power line included.
- Waterproof covers prevent damage to overload switch.
- Fire-resistant PPE and SJTW cable used for protection.
- Remote control up to 100 feet in direct line of sight.
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi compatibility.
Editor's Choice: TOGOAL Digital Infinite Repeat Cycle Timer Plug with Countdown
Fantastic Time-Saving Device That Also Lowers Your Energy Bills By Turning Appliances On And Off Mechanically When Needed Features a big, clear LCD display, a rechargeable battery to keep your programs running in the event of a power outage, and an almost quiet operation, making it ideal for use in the house.
This timer is more flexible and convenient than others because of its 3-in-1 design, which has three daily repeating on/off timers, a brief on/off cycle repeat timer with many operating modes, and a delay (countdown) on/off timer.
Most of your products, including ventilation fans, various tiny pumps, holiday lights, space heaters, humidifiers, and more, should be compatible with a 15A/1800W rated grounded outlet. Use with confidence thanks to the fireproof casing and child lock feature; take advantage of the helpful support staff both before and after the sale.
Pros:
- Big and clear LCD display.
- Rechargeable battery backup.
- 3-in-1 design with three daily repeating on/off timers, brief cycle repeat timer, and delay (countdown) on/off timer.
- Compatible with 15A/1800W rated grounded outlet.
- Fireproof casing and child lock feature.
- Helpful support staff both before and after the sale.
Cons:
- The size is pretty large.
Best Grow Timers: Our Conclusions
When choosing a grow timer, you have to evaluate a lot of features and decide which one will work best for your situation. Whether you are looking for something simple that just turns on/off at dusk and dawn, or something more robust with multiple settings and times, there is an option out there to meet your needs.
Grow timers can be divided into two categories: basic on/off timers and more advanced options with multiple settings. Basic models are great for simple applications such as controlling outside lights, while the more advanced models come with features such as wireless remotes, waterproof covers, fire-resistant cables, and a range of settings to choose from.
Our #1 option is BN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer as it is simple to use and comes with all the features you need in a basic timer.
For users who need basic functionality with the convenience of a remote, the DEWENWILS Outdoor Power Stake Timer is an excellent choice.
For those who need more flexibility and control, the TOGOAL Digital Infinite Repeat Cycle Timer Plug with Countdown offers a great combination of features in one device.
Whichever you decide to go with, make sure it has all the settings you need for your specific application.
Ultimately, you want a timer that will be reliable, last long, and give you the most bang for your buck. With so many options out there, you should be able to find one that meets all your needs. Happy growing!
