Timers

[Tangy1]

I am about to install a mag 12 on a closed loop. I want to have a timer that turns this pump on and off throughout the day. Since I only have one pump I dont think i need to get a "wavemaker" type controller.

What type of timers are people using to control pumps? Is there a reliable digital timer that I can get at a HD?

 

[reefmut]

any of the timers will work at home depot as long as they have the number of on off buttons that you need. They have a really good digital timer i forget the name but runs about 20-25 $ and has 98 on offs. This digital i mentioned is not a direct wire. anyway hope this helps....

 

[Tangy1]

Thanks Reefmut
That digital timer sounds like something I could use. But what is a "direct wire?"

Does that mean I can't plug the Mag 12 into it?

 

[Marcosreef]

The digital timer Reefmut speaks about is this one: Intermatic Digital Timer

You can not plug directly into it. It needs to be wired into an electrical box of sorts. I have two and they work very well. Hope this helps.

[ March 27, 2002: Message edited by: Marcosreef ]</p>

 

[pez]

I have these timers in my house and I would not recommend them. They have an electronic control mechanism that switches the load on and off through a mechanical switch. They actually have a small motor with gears to drive the switch. Can you believe it? Why they don't use an electronic switch (SSR or SCR) is far beyond me or even a mechanical relay. I had one break within 5 minutes of installing it. The other two are working fine though, but not sure for how long, given the completely mechanical mechanisms by which they work.

In any case, you might want to get an X10 controller. It will be more money, but you can control just about anything with them. You can replace all your existing timers with x10 units (assuming you have timers on your lights and such). www.x10.com (if you haven't been badgered by the d*mn popup ads yet).

-Tom

 

[Tangy1]

Thanks for the info. What should I look for in the x10.com website? It's confusing. Nothing just says "timer."

What product name from this place do people use?

 

[Anonymous]

hi.
You can always convert a dry contact (or direct wire) timer to a "regular" timer by using the socket end of an extension cord. Cut the cord, and wire the socket to the timer.

For the X10, check out the home automation section. For one pump, using an X10 is an overkill, IMHO.

Keep in mind that turning on and off an big powerhead may shorten its life.

 

[pez]

To control only one pump X10 would be overkill (understatement). However, I'm pretty sure he can use X10 for other stuff too. At least the the main lights. But if your going to spend the money for X10, you might want to get an AquaController instead. It's got X10 and pH, ORP, etc. 0.02.

Tangy,

if you want an X10 controller (opposed to the AquaController), look for one that can control house appliances, such as lamps. I think ActiveHome can control things without needing a computer connected all the time. There used to be a small controller available for about $30, but I don't see it. That's about the cost of the timers from Intermatic and you can control a large number of items - not just one.

-Tom

 

[Marcosreef]

<blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr>Originally posted by pez:
<strong>I have these timers in my house and I would not recommend them. They have an electronic control mechanism that switches the load on and off through a mechanical switch. They actually have a small motor with gears to drive the switch. Can you believe it? Why they don't use an electronic switch (SSR or SCR) is far beyond me or even a mechanical relay.
-Tom</strong><hr></blockquote>

By using a mechanical switch, you are able to control ANY type of electrical load (Resistive or Inductive). Certain ballasts (IE electronic, etc, but not all) will not work on certain timers. Also you are able to switch just about any electrical current (12v-277v DC or AC). I don't think it is fair to conclude that ALL these timers will fail, just like anything, things break.

[ April 07, 2002: Message edited by: Marcosreef ]</p>

 

[Tangy1]

Great info. everyone. Thanks for the help. I have a lot more to research now. I do have a few things I would like to put on a timer.

2x250 MHs
MAG 12 - closed loop
2xMAG 2 - under rock circulation

Any advice ona aquacontroller type of device?

 

[Tim Reed]

Lowes has, and occationally Home Depot has, a timer that can be set in 15 minute increments. I use them for everything on my tank. I just hooked my gen-x pump up to it because for a 55 gal I don't want that big pump running all the time. I hope it can handle the load of going on/off all the time but I think the bennefits would be great (just started it 3 days ago). Other pumps and lights have been on them for a year or more but someday a wave maker or some wave device will replace this system. IMO.

 

[Tangy1]

Thanks for all the timer and controller info. After seeing the prices on the aquacontrollers i opted for something a bit more simple. I just picked up a Intermatic Digital Timer from the hardware store. I wired it with a regular extension cord and mounted it in a single switch box. The options on it are great! I like the random feature and the 7 days a week programing capability. It is perfect for turning on my MAG12 for my closed loop.

Thanks again for helping me find this.