5 best electrical outlet timer

An electrical outlet timer is a device used to control the power supply to electrical appliances or devices by allowing you to set specific times for them to turn on or off. These timers are commonly used in various settings and are related to timers, plug-in switches, switches, dimmers, and are generally categorized under electrical and tools home improvement. Here are some key points about electrical outlet timers:

  1. Function: Electrical outlet timers are designed to automate the operation of connected devices. They can be programmed to supply power to devices for a specified duration or at specific times of the day or week. This is particularly useful for managing energy consumption, enhancing security, and simplifying daily routines.

  2. Types: There are different types of electrical outlet timers available:

    • Plug-In Timers: These timers plug directly into standard electrical outlets, and the device or appliance to be controlled is then plugged into the timer. Plug-in timers are versatile and easy to install.
    • In-Wall Timers: In-wall timers are installed within a wall switch or electrical outlet box. They replace standard wall switches or outlets and provide timer functionality for built-in lighting or appliances.
    • Smart Timers: With the advent of smart home technology, there are now smart outlet timers that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps or integrated into home automation systems. These timers offer additional features such as voice control and remote scheduling.
  3. Applications: Electrical outlet timers have a wide range of applications:

    • Home Lighting: They can be used to control indoor and outdoor lights, helping to create the illusion of occupancy when you're away from home for added security or to save energy.
    • Appliance Control: Timers are often used to automatically turn on and off appliances such as coffee makers, fans, and heaters, making them ready for use when needed.
    • Holiday Decorations: Timers are commonly used for holiday lights and decorations, allowing you to set festive displays to turn on and off at specific times.
    • Plant Lighting: In gardening and hydroponics, timers are used to control the lighting cycle for indoor plants.
  4. Energy Savings: Outlet timers can contribute to energy savings by ensuring that devices are only powered when necessary. This can help reduce electricity bills and lower your environmental footprint.

  5. Security: Timers can enhance home security by controlling lights and other devices to give the appearance of an occupied home when you're away, deterring potential burglars.

  6. Convenience: Outlet timers offer convenience by automating repetitive tasks. For example, you can set a timer to turn on your coffee maker in the morning, so your coffee is ready when you wake up.

  7. Programming: Timers can be programmed with specific on/off times, and some advanced models allow for customizable schedules, randomization (to simulate occupancy), and countdown functions.

Overall, electrical outlet timers are versatile tools that provide convenience, energy savings, and security benefits in both residential and commercial settings.They are a valuable addition to home automation and energy management systems.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best electrical outlet timer on the market
  

GE 24-Hour Heavy Duty Indoor Plug-in Mechanical Timer, 2 Grounded Outlets, 30 Minute Intervals, Daily On/Off Cycle, for Lamps, Seasonal, Christmas Tree Lights and Holiday Decorations, 15075

GE

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Regulate your indoor lighting with ease while helping to keep your energy costs low using the GE 24-hour plug-in heavy duty indoor timer. The easy-to-use timer features two grounded outlets and helps in reducing the operation time of your electronic devices to help keep your energy bills low, while creating the "lived-in" Look to help improve your sense of security. Ideal for lamps, seasonal lighting, fans, appliances, AC units, and other appliances and devices. The timer is programmable in 30-minute intervals and includes a convenient override switch for manual uses as well. Complete instructions provided in packaging. Backed by a one-year limited.

  • Turns two lamps, fans, appliances, seasonal lighting, AC units and other devices on and off at your set desired times saving you energy and deterring crime when you are away from home
  • The timer allows you to set on and off times at 30 minute intervals for a total of 48 on/off options that will cycle daily without having to reset
  • Features 2 grounded outlets and a convenient override switch at the top of the timer allowing you to use your lights or devices manually when needed
  • The plug in mechanical timer is intended for indoor use only; LED, CFL, incandescent and halogen bulb compatible
  • Ratings 125Vac 60 HZ: 15A general purpose, 15A resistive, 1250W tungsten, ½ HP

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be used with a crockpot
Answer:
Question: How to set the timer,Gray buttons go up and down
Answer:
Question: in what country is this product made
Answer:
Question: Is this noisy at all. I've heard some of them have a buzzing sound
Answer:

Product features

30-Minute Intervals

The timer allows you to set ON/OFF times at 30-minute intervals; set your desired time on the hour or half-hour.

2 Side-Access Outlets

The two grounded outlets are perfect for devices with a 3-prong plug, controlling one or two lamps, fans or other devices at the same time without blocking the second outlet.

Programmable Daily Cycle

With a 24-hour cycle, multiple ON/OFF times can be set during the day or night. The cycle runs every day without reprogramming, saving time and energy.

Override Switch

Want to control your light manually? No problem with the easy-to-use override switch. Simply slide the button to "OUTLET ON" mode to continuously power your device.

Timer Versatility and Uses

Set your lights to your desired ON/OFF times to help keep your home secure. By automating your lights, this timer gives your home a lived-in appearance even when you are away.

Compatible with LED, CFL, incandescent and halogen bulbs, this timer supports a wide range of plug-in lighting.

The timer's versatility is not limited to lights. It can also be used for portable fans, coffee makers, small appliances, seasonal decor, and other devices. The timer is intended for indoor use and rated for 125VAC/15A.

How It Works

1. Pull up all pins on the dial.

2. Select a period (or periods) you want the device turned on, then push down ALL the pins that fall on or within that period.

3. Rotate the timer’s dial clockwise until the pointer on the face of the dial points to the current time of the day.

4. Set the override switch to TIMER ON position.

5. Plug the timer into an outlet.

6. Make sure your device is on and working.

7. Plug your device into the timer.

BN-LINK BND-60/U47 Indoor Mini 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer, 3-Prong, 2-Pack

BN-LINK

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

BN-LINK Indoor 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer with 3 Prong turns indoor lighting on and off at set times. Package includes 2 mini timers that can be used in two locations, which will give your home that lived-in look while you’re away. This plug-in timer provides up to 48 on/off settings per day and the cycle repeats every 24 hours. Easy to set in 30-minute intervals with segment pins that can easily push down or up. Use the manual override button to turn the timer on or outlet on, so you don't have to delete any preprogrammed settings. The compact design fits the bottom outlet without blocking the outlet above. Plug fans, lamps, or holiday lights in and set the timer to turn the device on and off so it won't remain on when unused. This timer provides safety and security as you come home to a lighted house. No fumbling for the light switch or tripping over obstacles in your way, the lights are on when you walk in the door. This timer is compatible with compact fluorescent lighting, LED bulbs. The BN-LINK Timers bring simplicity to your life, by maximizing convenience, security, and energy savings.

  • SIMPLE TO USE: Pins UP means timer is OFF. Pins DOWN means timer is ON. Please note that your timer’s pins will come pressed DOWN new of the box. Pull the pins UP to begin setting your timer.
  • AUTOMATE YOUR HOME OR OFFICE: Turn on and off lamps, small appliances, Christmas trees, and other electrical devices with a handy timer.
  • DESIGN YOUR OWN SCHEDULE: With up to 24 on and off settings per day, you can program your devices to turn on/off in as small as 30-minute intervals. Settings will repeat daily once programmed and plugged-in.
  • CONVENIENT AND COMPATIBLE: Each package includes 2 mini timers that can be used in 2 locations.This timer is compatible with compact fluorescent lighting, LED bulbs, and most small appliances
  • RATINGS: 125-Volt, 60 Hz./15-Amp, 1875-Watt resistive/8-Amp, 1000-Watt tungsten/5 Amp ballast

Product features

BN-LINK Indoor 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer, 3 Prong, 2-Pack

Save energy and automate your home's lights, fans, and appliances with the BN-LINK slim and easy-to-use 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer. Just set your schedules and go, and you'll never worry if you left the lights on ever again.

Simplify and Improve Your Life

Reading to sleep? No more worrying about leaving the nightstand lamp on.

Simplify and Improve Your Life

Holiday spirits without wasting energy. Set a program and stop worrying.

Simplify and Improve Your Life

No more worry about overcharging your devices

Simplify and Improve Your Life

Not sure if you have turned the fan off? No more.

BN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

BN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer - Dual Outlet 2 Pack can control your system every day, every several days, or several times per day! The timer allows up to 8 on/off times per day, a one minute minimum "on" time, and different settings for different days. The timer is a great way to keep everything on track and promote the healthy growth of your plants and flowers. It's three-prong grounded, has an LCD digital display for easy operation, includes a battery backup, and has a dual outlet feature so you don't lose a plug. These timers are great for lights or hydroponic systems. Using timers to automate your hydroponic garden adds convenience and encourages productive growth of your plant. Timers allow you to provide a consistent light, nutrient, and airflow program for your garden. The battery backup assures you stay on schedule even after a power outage. Our product has an internal battery that will last 3 months when not plugged into an electrical source. If the battery needs to be recharged, plug it into an electrical source and allow it to charge for 30-45 minutes. After the timer has been fully charged, use a small pin to push the small reset button to turn on the display. Please follow these instructions for the timer to follow the program after setting the schedule. (a) If you want the timer to be currently ON and follow the schedule, press the ON/AUTO/OFF button so ON is shown. Then press the same button once so AUTO is displayed (b) If you want the timer to be currently OFF and follow the schedule, press the ON/AUTO/OFF button so OFF is shown. Then press the same button once so AUTO is displayed. If you have any question, please contact us: [email protected]

  • ✓ VERSATILE & CUSTOMIZABLE: Easily set up to 8 on/off programs for the timer’s two grounded outlets. Outlets are controlled simultaneously, and settings can be as short as one minute.
  • ✓ JUST SET & GO: Choose your own individual days or simply select one of the convenient pre-set combination days. Switch to Daylight Savings mode with a press of a button. Our long-lasting backup battery keeps your settings even in the event of a power outage.
  • ✓ PROTECT YOUR HOME: Activate the “Random” Vacation mode to randomize your programmed lights. Make your home look “lived in” even when you’re away.
  • ✓ SAVE ENERGY & MONEY: Save costs on electricity. Use for lights, coffee machines, fans, and much more!
  • ✓ SAFE & RELIABLE: This timer is UL listed and rigorously controlled for quality and safety. Rating: 115V, 60 Hz, 15A/1725W

User questions & answers

Question: How many Watts does the unit itself consume
Answer: According to the technical details on the product description page , this timer consumes a fairly high 1725 watts. However, when I checked a number of comparable digital timers, I found similarly high levels of wattage ranging from 1000w to 1850w. I find this very surprising since these timers have an LCD display and no motor like their mechanical counterparts. By way of comparison, my mechanical timers consume 1750w.
Question: can this be used to turn off my router every three days ? sometimes it needs to be reset when I am out of town. It would need to be off for 1 minute
Answer: Yes, you can set the time to turn off for 1 minute then turn on. For example, you can set it turn off on 4:00am wed, then turn on 4:01am wed.
Question: It looks like You can plug 2 different items into the timer, can you also set 2 different times for both plugs
Answer: No, this timer runs both outlets via the same program. We do have a timer that has two outlets with separate controls, which you can find here: https://www.amazon.com/Century-Heavy-Digital-Programmable-Outlet/dp/B071KXV73N/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
Question: For a standard 2-receptacle outlet, does this timer obscure the unused receptacle
Answer: if you use the top receptacle the bottom one will be free. if you plug the timer into the bottom receptacle the top receptacle will be covered.

Product features

BN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer - Dual Outlets

Automate your home's lights, fans and appliances with the BN-LINK dual outlet digital timer. Just set your schedules and go, and you never turn on/off your lights manually ever again. Use the timer to automate your hydroponic garden, adding convenience and encouraging productive growth of your plant.

Save Energy and Simplify Your Life

Set a program and wake up ready

Save Energy and Simplify Your Life

No more thinking about forgetting leaving your coffee pot on

Save Energy and Simplify Your Life

Holiday Spirits without breaking the bank

Save Energy and Simplify Your Life

No more plugging and unplugging. Just set a program.

GE, 15119 24-Hour Indoor Basic Timer, 1 Polarized Outlet, Plug-In, Daily On/Off Cycle, 30 Minute Interval, for Lamps, Seasonal Appliances, and Portable Fans, 1 Pack

GE

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GE 24-Hour Indoor Basic Timer - 1 Polarized Outlet Mini Saving you time, money and energy - Automate a lamp, seasonal lights, or small appliances24-hour daily cycle - Turns light source on/off at any desired times daily Programmable in 30-minute intervals with multiple daily settings1 Polarized outlet Intended for indoor use only Electrical Ratings: 125VAC 60 Hz15A Resistive1250W Tungsten½ HP Motor

  • Automating Lighting - Automate a lamp, seasonal lights, or small appliances, saving you time, money and energy
  • Daily Cycle - Turns light source or plugged in device ON/OFF at desired time(s) without resetting
  • 30-Minute Intervals - Programmable in 30-minute intervals, allowing you to specify ON/OFF times by the hour or half-hour
  • 1 Polarized outlet – Intended for indoor use only, and is CFL, LED and Incandescent compatible
  • Electrical Ratings - 125VAC 60 Hz: 15A Resistive, 1250W Tungsten, ½ HP Motor

User questions & answers

Question: What is the current and wattage rating of this timer's outlet
Answer: 125 VAC, 60 Hz 15A Resistive 1250W tungsten 1/2 hp motor direct from the back of the packaging
Question: Doe this limit a three way bulb lamp to only the lowest 30 watt vs setting lamp to 70 watt or 100 watt
Answer: The timer just switches power to the lamp, so the three way bulb will run at whatever wattage the switch on the lamp is set to.
Question: How many timers can you set
Answer: As many as you want. Every half hour has a tab. You put the tab up for "on" and down for "off", if you wanted to, you could have the lights go on and off every half hour all day long. I set the Christmas lights to go on in the morning while I am getting ready, then go off, then come on again at supper time, and off at midnight. I have tried just about every type of timer out there, and this one is the simplest by far, and my favorite. I probably have 15 of them turning lights on and off throughout the house. My 10 year old can set it no problem.
Question: We are unable to push the gray buttons down! What are we doing wrong
Answer: make sure all gray buttons are pulled all the way up

Product features

30-Minute Intervals

The timer allows you to set ON/OFF times at 30-minute intervals; set your desired time on the hour or half-hour.

1 Polarized Outlet

The side-access polarized outlet is perfect for devices with a 2-prong plug, controlling the device without blocking the second outlet.

Programmable Daily Cycle

With a 24-hour cycle, multiple ON/OFF times can be set during the day or night. The cycle runs every day without reprogramming, saving time and energy.

Ideal For

This timer is the perfect addition to your seasonal lighting, and can be used to time lamps and other small appliances.

Timer Versatility and Uses

Set your lights to your desired ON/OFF times to help keep your home secure. By automating your lights, this timer gives your home a lived-in appearance even when you are away.

Compatible with LED, CFL, incandescent and halogen bulbs, this timer supports a wide range of plug-in lighting.

The timer's versatility is not limited to lights. It can also be used for potable fans, coffee makers, small appliances, seasonal decor and other devices. The timer is intended for indoor use and rated for 125VAC/15A.

How It Works

1. Pull up all pins on the dial.

2. Select a period (or periods) you want the device turned on, then push down ALL the pins that fall on or within that period.

3. Rotate the timer's dial clockwise until the pointer on the face of the dial points to the current time of day.

4. Set the override switch to TIMER ON position.

5. Plug the timer into an outlet.

6. Make sure your device is on and working.

7. Plug your device into the timer.

Fosmon 24 Hour Programmable Digital Timer Outlet (2 Pack), ON/Off Program, LCD Display, Mini Indoor Single Plug-in Outlet Timer, 125V 15A for Seasonal Light, Lamp, Heater, Portable Fan, Aquarium

Fosmon

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • [AUTOMATE YOUR OUTLET] Simply plug in the Fosmon 24-hour outlet timer and let the timer control your device following your daily 24-hour programmable schedule. You are also able to manually turn the outlet on/off using the MODE button. The timer is great for holiday/Christmas decorations, patio lights, heaters, lamps, fans, and aquariums.
  • [USER FRIENDLY OPERATION AND LCD SCREEN] The digital timer is quiet, and the large numbers are very easy to read. Programming your schedule is easy and quick. The timer comes with a backup battery that will keep all the settings for more than 100 hours when external power is not available.
  • [SAFE AND RELIABLE TIMER] The electrical outlet timer is rated 125V/15A, and compatible with incandescent, CFL, and LED lights. The polarized 2-prong outlet reduces your chance of getting electrical shock. The light timer is certified by ETL, FCC, and RoHS.
  • [SPACE SAVING] The outlet timer only occupies one socket. You are able to use two timers in duplex outlets, or leave the neighboring socket available to other devices. The low profile, side-entry plug design makes the timer fit behind furniture or in other hard-to-reach areas.
  • [LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY] Join millions of satisfied customers with our limited lifetime warranty, backed by our experienced and dedicated USA based customer service.

User questions & answers

Question: I can not plug my lamp plug into the timer does not go all the way in Stops half way into the timer outlet
Answer: The Fosmon timer 24 hour timer has two male prongs that attaches the timer to your wall outlet. If your lamp will plug into that wall outlet it should plug the timer outlet. If there is a problem with the timer outlet, you could use the second timer to check the outlet of the first timer to see if that outlet might be damaged. When doing this be sure the timer is “NOT PLUGED” into to the wall outlet.
Question: Does this timer accept appliances with a ground plug? I cannot find a single photo of where it plugs in
Answer: Both the female (to the appliance) and male (to the wall) plugs are two-prong polarized connectors. There is not a third, ground prong on either connection.
Question: Is there a 12 hour (twice daily) cycle? I need plant lights on and off morning and evening
Answer: you can have 12 hr or 24 hour so if you put the clock on a 12 hr cycle you should be able to have 2 on off cycles in a 24 hr period. Just not able to have more than one on off in a 12 hr period.
Question: can you use with a crockpot
Answer: Yes. Crockpots are a resistive load. This item is rated 15A resistive. All the crockpots I've seen are much less wattage; much less than even 500W.

Product features

Easy to program

Setting the outlet timer is very easy and can be done in less a minute. Let the outlet timer is 24-hour programmable with manual ON and OFF using the MODE button.

Large LCD Screen

User-Friendly large LCD screen is easy to read and make it easier to program your schedule quicker.

Space Saving

The compact size of the timer allows you to use two timers in duplex outlets,or leave the neighboring socket available for other devices

Safe and Compatible

The outlet timer is durable and certified with ETL and FCC standards. The polarized outlet reduces your chance of getting an electrical shock.

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