One issue that is of concern to many pool owners is how much owning a pool will increase their electrical usage. Most expect to see a change but are surprised at how much “juice” it really does take to keep a pool filter, automatic chemical feeder, and pool lights running. Seeing that first high energy bill might be enough to make you want to run out to your pool and turn off the pump, filtration system, and anything else sucking energy. However, this isn’t the right thing to do.
The Importance of A Good Pool Timer
As commonsensical as this will sound, the pump and filter need to be on to do their job. Chemicals will not be pumped into the pool, the water will not circulate, nor will the filtration system work if the system is off. This means that you run the risk of your pool’s chemicals crashing, icky mold or algae beginning to proliferate, and water that is unsafe to swim in. Most pool techs recommend that you keep all your pool systems running for at least 8 hours a day since this is generally the amount of time it takes for the water to “turn over,” but it can be a hassle to try to remember to do this, and an expense if you forget.
So what is a pool owner to do? Well, there are now automatic pool timers which take the guesswork and hassle out of the process. These are specially-designed units intended to be used outdoors. These are simple to use and install and you can set these and forget them. They will keep your pool running the required amount of time, without any need for you to remember to go out and turn the system on or off. This will, in turn, help save money on your energy costs.
What to Look For in A Filter Timer
Since pool filter timers act as a “middle man” between your pool filtration and pump system and the power source, it’s important to make sure the timer you choose has the features There are lots of fancy bells and whistles on some of these, including real-time monitoring via an app for phones or tablets.
In general though, the most important features to look for in a good pool timer are:
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Designed Specifically For Outdoor Use
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Designed For Heavy Duty Applications
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Has a Manual Override Option
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At least a 1 year warranty
There are a lot of different options out there when it comes to automatic filter timers, so we have narrowed them down to our top five choices (all of which feature the features we just listed). What follows is, of course, by no means an exhaustive list of quality options, just our top picks for price and quality.
GE Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Heavy Duty Switch
This is a high-quality timing system that is water- and weather-proof. It is safe to use outdoors, so it can be directly plugged into the power source used for your filtration system. You can control the timer wirelessly and it is compatible with Alexa and other voice-assistant devices.
It doesn’t just allow you to control your filtration system. It also allows you to manage lighting, pumps, heaters, and more. Users of this system swear by the ease and simplicity. The biggest downside is that you have to purchase a hub, sold separately if you want to use the associated app with this timer.
- WEATHERPROOF – A rugged, wall-mount, metal NEMA-3R enclosure with lockable door withstands the elements for outdoor use while protecting wiring and settings against tampering.
- UNIVERSAL USE – With multiple configuration possibilities, the double-pole/single-throw switch supports 120-277VAC and up to 40A. Up to two 120VAC device can be connected with options for single- or dual-load control.
- ENERGY MONITORING – Remotely track Watts and kilowatt-hours when connected to a compatible Z-Wave hub that supports energy monitoring.
- OPERATION MODES – An integrated toggle switch allows the choice of manual or remote operation with ON, OFF and Z-Wave modes. Indicator LEDs are visible on the front of the housing to display power status without opening the water-tight door.
- EASY-ACCESS WIRING – Clearly numbered screw terminals provide fast, secure connections and are protected from accidental contact by a clear plastic guard.
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Woods Outdoor 24-hour Heavy Duty Mechanical Time Switch
Woods is a time-honored company well known for providing durable and high-quality products for affordable prices. The heavy-duty mechanical timer system is incredibly affordable, running about $50. It is made from industrial-grade metal and is lockable to keep the unit secure.
24 different programmable settings can be chosen to repeat daily. It is safe to use outdoors and is also suitable for use with spas. The unit is 208/277V and 40 amps. The unit also has a manual override switch in case of emergencies.
Users of this unit love the combination of value and quality. It is one of the more affordable timer options and it is well designed and durable. It provides a durable, weather and water-proof timing system with the added security of the industrial steel lockbox.
- Program up to 24 ON/OFF settings per day, repeats daily
- Ideal for outdoor lighting and signs, water heaters, spas and pool heaters, heating and air conditioning, and other heavy-duty applications
- Industrial-grade NEMA 3R lockable metal box with 1/2in and 3/4in knockouts
- Heavy duty gear train with pins that cannot be removed
- 208-277Vac, 60Hz, DPST, 40A General/Resistive, 40A Tungsten, 20A Ballast, 1000VA Pilot Duty, 2Hp (24FLA)
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Last update on 2023-09-08
Intermatic T104R Electromechanical Timer
This is another great option that combines affordability and value. This timer is available in 120V SPST or 208-277V DPST. It is safe for use outdoors and is designed for even industrial or commercial use, giving residential pool owners the peace of mind that they have a heavy-duty timer system. There are 12 different on/off combinations to choose from.
It is an incredibly sturdy and durable timer and one of the best for the money at less than $100. People who use this timer like how solidly it is built. It is easy to use and gives the user several different options that allow you to set it and forget it.
- Time switch control for industrial, commercial and residential applications
- Highest HP ratings in the industry up to 40 amps
- Provides 1 to 12 On/Off operations during 24 hour period
- Equipped with one "On" and one "Off" tripper
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Intermatic Heavy Duty Outdoor Timer
This is another great, budget-friendly option available from the trusted brand, Intermatic. This isn’t as fancy as the other timers we have reviewed here, but it is a very solid basic model and you can’t beat the less than $30 price tag. It is designed to be used outdoors and is safe from water and weather.
It is a 15 amp system, which makes it suitable for pool pumps and filters, though not entire pool systems. The unit comes with two sets of pins that are used to determine the start and end times. It is a grounded 3-prong plug and can handle two different on/off settings at a time. For safety, it also features a manual override switch and a grounded cord.
Those who use this timer love how affordable and simple to use it is. It doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles, but it works perfectly well for managing a pool filter. The biggest downside is the pin system that is used to set the time. You must insert a green and red pin for the start and finish time and some users have found this a little frustrating.
- Designed specifically for outdoor applications, dynamic weather conditions and ease of use
- Controls pool pumps, water fountains, yard/patio/landscape/holiday/LED/CFL lighting, signs, fans, engine block heaters, heavy duty appliances and more
- To use, insert a green pin for the start time and a red pin for the end time
- Ships with 2 sets of pins for 2 ON/OFF settings per day, and a grounded 3-prong plug and receptacle
- Ratings: 15 A, 1, 800 W, 120 V, 60Hz - CSA Certified, 1 Year
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Aube 7-Day Programmable Timer
This is a great high-quality option from the trusted brand Honeywell. It is well designed for pool filtration and pump systems and has three different operating modes that give you more freedom than other outdoor timers provide. You can program up to 14 settings for 7-day periods, giving you flexibility.
The unit is sturdily built and can easily handle temperature changes and outdoor weather conditions. It is made from a proprietary Nema 3R casing. Users can choose between 120 or 240V, depending on your pool system. The casing features a lockable door that provides added security. The biggest complaint associated with this system is that it is pricer than many other models.
- Heavy-duty weather-proof casing (Nema 3R) ideal for outdoor use, pool pumps, outdoor equipment, construction sites, etc. Use the TI040 to run your pool pump for 16-hours a day instead of 24 and recover energy efficient costs.
- Selectable voltage switch enables choice of 120V or 240V
- Lockable casing for increased security
- Temporary bypass enables override without affecting programming. Three-operating modes: Manual (conventional on and off switch), Automatic, and Temporary bypass
- 3-Way input for a remote switch. Connection: Terminals for No.14 to No.10 AWG wire, multi switch (3-way) compatible, 1.5 HP 120-Volt 30-Ampere (resistive), 10-Ampere (ballast), 2 HP 240-Volt 30-Ampere (resistive), 10-Ampere (ballast)
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Last update on 2023-09-08