One of the essential things you can do to maintain your pool gleaming and clean is to filter the water. On the other hand, your swimming pool pump is one of the most energy-intensive appliances in your home.
Although it would be nice to keep our pool pumps running continuously, doing so could be expensive. This requires manually turning your filter on and off at various periods of the day.
So, unless you have spare time to hang around, turn switches on and off during different times of the day. Choosing the best pool timer is proven to be a lifesaver.
What Is a Pool Timer?
It is a device that automatically cuts off the power to your pool’s pump when it is not in use. This helps to save energy because the pool pump can draw large amounts of power.
Although several different pool timers have a common purpose, they basically determine how long your pump should run before it cuts off and assure a quality filtration system. We recommend operating your filtration system for at least eight hours each day, providing at least one round of circulation of your pool water. One water turnover is critical for maintaining clean, clear, and swimmable pool water.
How Does Pool Timer Work?
A pool timer is a simple device that allows users to set the exact amount of time their pool pump runs before it shuts off. The timer can be set for approximately two hours, six hours, or even longer.
There are two types of pool timers: manual and digital (and clocks). Manual timers are traditional and consist of a switch and a counter inside of the timer. Once the counter reaches zero, this unit will shut off your pump. Digital timers automatically turn off your filter when it comes to your selected time limit.
What to Take Into Account When Buying The Best Pool Timer?
1. The Best Pool Timer Should Match Your Pool Pump
Take the time to understand everything you can about your pool pump’s electrical characteristics before you start looking for a pool pump timer. If the automatic pool timer and the pump are not electrically compatible, neither will they perform the functions they are intended to do.
Some timers are designed to work with several voltages (often 120 and 240 volts) and may be switched between them as needed. If your pool pump simply has one speed, on the other hand, you won’t need a timer with various speed settings either.
Note: “A pool pump should run for as long as necessary to circulate all of the water through the pool filter. This process can take between 6 to 12 hours (and sometimes longer) depending on the size of your pool.” - Rick, Author at poolonomics.com
2. Energy Efficiency
The best pool timers do their job by turning off your pool pump or by cutting its power off. Just like any other appliance, these timers use electricity. If you want to conserve energy, it is best to look for a timer that works with a pool pump that uses less energy.
In addition to being energy efficient, don’t forget that the best pool timer can be set up to work with your electrical outlet timer too!
3. Size and Dimensions
Of course, the best pool timer needs to match your filter and pump setup. But don’t forget about how much space you have for this unit in your home. Put the filter at the bottom of this list, along with accessibility. Remember that your pool filter is a big piece of equipment that must be cleaned regularly. Being able to turn off your pump and clean it regularly will make a world of difference in the quality of your pool water.
Why Should You Look For The Best Pool Timer?
When shopping for a pool pump timer, there are a few key features that you should keep an eye out for. Ensure that you receive the appropriate time to ensure that this purchase is one that you will not have to do again and again.
Outdoor Use
Check to see if the timer is suitable for outdoor usage before purchasing. There are many different timers available on the market, but you will want to pick ones capable of withstanding rain and other adverse weather conditions. Although many clocks come with a protective casing, the timer itself remains weather resistant.
Can It Handle Multiple Devices?
You need to be able to operate your pool pump, hot tub, and lighting fixtures. Look for an outdoor pool timer that has various uses.
Multi-device timers, which can manage many devices at once, are often more expensive, but they provide an easy and convenient solution for pool owners to control their outdoor gadgets.
You will want some degree of freedom in the wiring design and the ability to perform some electrical work on your own.
Wireless Feature
A pool pump that has a wireless feature is available in the market. This means that you can freely adjust the settings using your phone or personal computer. These wireless timers are pretty simple to configure, and you won’t have to dial ever again manually. If you’re concerned about technicalities, then consider wireless technologies.
Hardwired
Most outdoor pool pump timers are hooked into your home’s electrical system. This means they are not simply electrically connected to the wall. Moreover, you’ll need a pool professional or a technician to do the installation for you. Hardwired timers are suitable for most inground pools, but most above-ground pools could still do well with a plugin automatic pool timer.
Case
Pool pump timers come in an array of weatherproof and non-weatherproof designs. When purchasing a timer, be careful to thoroughly research the product and ensure it has a case to ensure it’s adequately protected.
5 Best Pool Timers On The Market
1. Honeywell Industrial Indoor and Outdoor Pool Timer
We recommend this nice 220v timer, also capable of 110v. It’s a 7-day programmable timer with three settings, including manual, automatic, and temporary bypass. Nonetheless, it’s worth it for the value and one of the best pool timers available in the market. It comes with a heavy-duty casing that makes it perfect for outdoor environments.
However, one of its drawbacks is that this automatic pool timer can’t control multiple devices. Moreover, you can operate this time under different schedules.
Pros
- This timer is easily programmable, and you can set it up for 14 days up to 14 settings
- 7-day programming
- The pool timer case is waterproof
- Lockable metal box
Cons
- Cannot operate multiple pumps at once
2. Intermatic Heavy Duty Outdoor Timer
The P1121 is intended for use in outdoor pools. It includes a waterproof enclosure that you can quickly flip open. Additionally, it features detachable trippers that enable two daily settings (on and off) and a minimum operation period of 30 minutes.
Additionally, the Intermatic features a NEMA plug that is compatible with standard outlets. Despite these advantages, some users have complained about the timer’s lack of durability compared to other outdoor timers. However, when we put it to the test, the timer performed well.
Pros
- The casing is built waterproof
- You can directly fix and plug it into the wall
- Settings are pretty easy to use
Cons
- It’s not that durable compared to other pool timers mentioned here
3. Woods Heavy Duty Mechanical Time Switch
Woods Heavy Duty Mechanical Time Switch is programmable up to 24 ON and OFF setting each day. It’s good for outdoor fixtures and signs, pool water heaters, pool spas, pool heating, air conditioning, and other heavy-duty electrical pool equipment. It also has an industrial-grade metal box that you can lock. Plus, this device has 1/2 and 3/4 in knockouts.
Overall, the installation is quite simple. The operation can be pretty tricky, but we have the manual for that, so don’t worry. It’s a pretty good timer for the price and has many more key features than the Intermatic.
Pros
- Also comes with a weather metal casing
- 24-hour settings
- Installation is pretty straightforward
Cons
- A little noisy compared to other swimming pool timers
4. GE Z-Wave Timer
Ge Z-wave timer is the best pool timer for us because you can control it with a mobile app. You can even connect it with Alexa. You may operate the timer on and off features wirelessly, eliminating the effort to walk to the timer.
The GE Z-Wave Timer is ideal for large-load applications, such as pool pumps, landscape pool lights fixtures, and even pool heaters.
Pros
- Allows control via smartphone
- LED indicators for power and condition
- Waterproof
Cons
- The wireless can be weak, especially at longer range
5. Woods Heavy Duty Outdoor Digital Plug-in Timer
When it comes to pricing, the Woods Outdoor 50015WD is hard to beat. Additionally, it has several fantastic vital features that make it a decent bargain.
This plugin timer features a digital display and three timer modes: random, digital, and countdown. It may be programmed for up to seven days in advance. This means that you may have a different configuration for each day of the week.
Additionally, this pool timer works with pool pumps, pool water fountains, and pool water heater pumps. It has a smart battery backup and remembers your timer settings, so you don’t have to set it after a power outage.
Pros
- Multiple settings
- Self-charging battery backup
- Can use multiple pool appliances such as pool heat pumps and fountains
Cons
- The power cord is quite short
Bottom Line
I hope this article has been helpful in making a decision on which pool timer you should buy. The best pool timer for us is the Woods Heavy Duty Outdoor Digital Plug-in Timer. It’s a little bit more expensive than others, but it offers great features and excellent performance.
We believe having the best pool timer is an essential part of every swimming pool. They can significantly extend the life of your swimming pool by helping you maintain the water. Without it, you may end up with an expensive repair bill for all kinds of damages. Not only that but having the best pool timer could help you save on electricity bills.
If you have any questions or need help, please leave a comment below, and we will try to get back to you as soon as possible. Additionally, you will find more pool-related articles that you will definitely find useful. Don’t miss them! Read more pool articles here.