LF: Reliable Digital Timer

Timbits · #1 03-31-2011, 09:55 AM

Hey guys, just wondering if you guys have one lying around that you'll sell me, i am so fed up with mine it doesn't turn my lights off its driving me crazy anyways pm me! thanks!

phi delt reefer · #2 03-31-2011, 11:48 AM

i dont believe a reliable digital timer exists. I have read everywhere to either use a reef controller (ie. reefkeeper lite $120 but has 4 outlets) or mechanical timers. I think the circuitry in the digital timers is prone to interference so they muck up quite a bit.

monocus · #3 03-31-2011, 02:38 PM

i found the best timer is a 24 hour in wall timer by intermatic(km2st-1g).get a double box an outlet and do some simple wiring and you'll have a reliable timer that's simple to use with 2 outlets.it's not digital , but you can set it up for multiple on and offs

fencer · #4 03-31-2011, 03:43 PM

CDN Tire. They sell heavy duty timers for auto block heaters

ScubaSteve · #5 03-31-2011, 04:13 PM

Walmart. Their digital timers are bomb proof. I've accidentally poor water on them and everything, still work like the day I bought them.

Ripwoop · #6 03-31-2011, 11:23 PM

I won't buy another digital timer again. Had it for about 7 months and it keeps time for about 2 days, then boom just starts making up it's own mind what time it is. 24 hour manual one are far better. IMO

martinmcnally · #7 03-31-2011, 11:32 PM

I just got some timers from these guys:

http://northcoastpets.com/lighting_parts.htm

They are the only ones I can find with battery backup so if the power goes out they wont lose the timer settings. That seems to happen to me every time i set foot out of the country.

Lance · #8 03-31-2011, 11:53 PM

I've tried numerous brands of digital & mechanical timers and most of them are POS! I've found using a controller is the best way to go. If you have to go with a timer I like the Hamilton Dual Digital Timer.

Nebthet · #9 03-31-2011, 11:59 PM

I have 2 of the digital timers made by Wood's, that look and work the exact same as the coralife digital timers, but are cheaper.

Mine have never given me an issue. Just make sure you are setting it correctly by having every day of the week showing on the program on off part unless you want things to be different every day. Also ensure you have it on the auto setting once all done.

I have been using these for well over a year now and they work perfect. The only time I do have an issue with them is if the power goes out and that is my fault b/c I haven't put the batteries in the back as a timer back up.

Timbits · #10 04-02-2011, 10:11 PM

Wow, thanks for all the replies guys! i was looking for a digital timer because i've heard from someone before that they are more reliable... im using a mechanical one right now and it screws up all da time! but after hearing from all you guys it seems like mechanical ones are much more reliable.... i guess i need to find a better mechanical one... if you still have one that ur not using please let me know!

Thanks, Tim