Photocells and timers are switches that turn on and off automatically. Photocells are commonly used to control lighting. Timers are used to control fans, water pumps, irrigation controls, etc.

Photocells and timers have a wattage rating. Do not exceed the wattage rating for the load on these switches. You can use the dimmer wattage rating instructions for calculating the wattage rating of photocells and other types of switches.

Photocells

Photocells are a type of switch used to automatically turn on in the morning (sunrise) and turn off at night (sunset). They are most commonly used to control lighting. Photocells are better than time switches for lighting because of the variations in time of sunrise and sunset.

Most new photocells are compatible with CFLs (check the package of the photocell for compatibility). Some CFLs are available with built-in photocells, but will not work in recessed (can) lights.

Some photocells screw into a socket in a light fixture and a bulb screws into the photocell. Find photocells

Photocells and Timers

CFL with Built-in Photocell

Photocell Operates Porch Light

Light Bulb in Photocell Socket

Some timer switches have a built-in clock. Specific times of day and days of the week can be set to turn a load on and off. They can be set to turn on at specific times and turn off at specific times or after a certain amount of time (turn on at 8:00 AM, off at 5:00 PM), (turn on at 8:00 AM, off after a certain time period).

Irrigation Switches

Irrigation switches are timer switches that are specific for irrigation purposes. Find Irrigation Switches

Photocell and Timer Wiring

Photocell and timer switch wires each have a line (black), load (red), neutral (white), and ground (green).

The black line wire connects to line voltage from the panel, the red load wire connects to the light(s), the white neutral wire connects to the neutral wires of the circuit.

The green ground wire is connected to the other grounds inside the electrical box.

Ground connection diagram is shown separately.

Photocell and Timer Wiring

Photocell and Timer Wiring Diagram

Timer Switch

Timer Switches

Timer switches are used to turn on and off according to specific times of day or for a certain amount of time. Timer switches are commonly used for irrigation systems. Find Timer Switches