need a timer for my lights

[clutterydrawer]

Hello.

I'm going away for a bit and I don't want my aquarium plants to die because I've finally managed to keep some alive for more than a few weeks.

I was advised that I could put my tank light on a timer, but I went to get one today and they ALL said they were unsuitable for fluorescent lights!

Does anyone know why this is, or where (UK) I can get one that would be suitable?

Thanks.

 

[Yeaulman]

I dont know why you cant use a timer on your lights. I use one on mine and its just a switch that turns it on and off at a specific time.

 

[clutterydrawer]

That's what I thought

It's just that the pack is covered in warnings saying not to use it on a fluorescent light

I don't want to go away then come back and find out it's exploded or something.

 

[DXG]

Look up this code at Argos - 982/7758 - £7.99 for 2

I've been using them for a year without any problems.

 

[SarahBravo]

I'm only a newbie, but I'm using one of those cheap-o timers where you push down sections for on times and leave sections up for off times. They work fine with any lights that have a 3 pin plug on - they only don't work if you try to wire the fluorescent straight into them off the ballast. No exploding lights, I promise!

Sarah

 

[clutterydrawer]

thanks all

I'll head off to argos tomorrow, if anything explodes I'll send you the bill

 

[SarahBravo]

oh 'eck...... but I haven't blown anything up yet, and believe me, if it's possible I would have done it by now...... Mistress of Destruction!!!!

Sarah

 

[RossGrant]

If it helps, I just use one of those same timers, with the sections you push up and down to set the time for on and off, Touch wood never had any problems. I don't see why you cannot use them with flor bulbs, as they to are switched on and off. WEIRD.