What kind of timer do I need for Duel 250watt halides

[Diehl]

Don't I need a special heavy duty timer for my duel 250watt HQI halides? I need it because I'm going away for 36hrs. and would like to keep my corals from getting stressed. Please let me know where I can get a timer for my lights

[wapacz]

well 500watts /120 volts = 4.16 amps

so you want a timer that can handel about 5 to 6 amps

[Diehl]

So can it be any timer that can handle the Amps or should I order one for aquarium lighting use?

[CaliforniaDreamer]

I have 2 "cheap" $20 home depot digital timers and have been using them for 4 months with 2 250 MH's and 2 96 watt PC's. Never had a problem with it but I do worry that they may have problems. However the photo period is when I can observe so untill I have problems I'll keep using them.

[legnaordep@yahoo.com]

Hello

Check this item at Dr Fosters page the Power Center. Search it out on the New Products link.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...27&N=2004+2035

Verify it I know it will fit you good for every day basis.

Pedro Angel

[Scuba Dog]

I simply use some wallmart timers think i paid 12 bucks for it and it has worked like a charm for a year now...

[Eryl Flynn]

I would avoid timers like the power center. I used one for a while, mounted vertically. It would stop working after 2 weeks and you would have to reset it. Seems the parts would slowly work their way out and break contact.

[jeffbrig]

Originally posted by wapacz
well 500watts /120 volts = 4.16 amps

so you want a timer that can handel about 5 to 6 amps

HQI ballasts draw more like 325 watts each, so assume 650/120 volts = 5.4Amps. However, that's AFTER the bulbs are lit. The ballasts may draw twice the current while trying to light a bulb. I'd get something that can handle at least 10 amps to be safe.

[legnaordep@yahoo.com]

Hello Eryl;

Are you refering to the Coralife Power Center???

Please let me know.

[Eryl Flynn]

Not exactly to it, but the design. I have seen many timers with those tab and spinning design. I assume they all will work the same if mounted any way but horizontal.

[andro]

I have had no problems with heavy duty appliance timers from HD to power my dual 250's. Ont timer for each light.

-Ian

[Shak]

I use these and they work great for my dual 250 fixture, have one on the MH and another on my T5's.

Wexcel Expert Timer

Here are the specs, it appears to be enough

230/240VAC~ 50Hz u 16A 3680 W max resistive load.

They work great, have battery backup, and havent had a problem at all.