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Grow lights are likely one of the most essentials when it comes to ease of handling the interior conditions of your grow rooms. However, much like the natural light settings from the sunlight, even the grow room plants need sustained hours of light exposure, especially when we are dealing with light-sensitive plants inside the grow tent.
While a few of the grow lights are available with in-built timers to help you set an automatic timing, the same isn’t available in all of them. If you have a set of grow lights that don’t come with a timer, buying one separately is advisable. Not only does it help with optimal growth of the plants, but it also reduces your burden as per your likings.
The best grow light timers will come with a range of highly functional features and designs, making them ideal for use everywhere around. Having these help, you control your plant’s growth in check, ensuring that you wouldn’t have to worry about the quality and the functions.
With the growing popularity of the grow light timers available in the market, it is not surprising that more and more brands have come out with their version of the grow light timers. But, with the abundance of products, choosing just one can be a little confusing.
Following are the best grow light timers that you can consider buying if you are looking for the best products.
11 Best Grow Light Timers in 2022
Finding the best grow light timers can be a little tedious, especially because you need to consider the quality of the products and the kind of price point, they come with. So, when you are splurging out on one, make sure that you keep a check on the quality before anything else. The best ones in the market include:
1. BN-LINK 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer
With so many different types of grow light timers available in the market, the BN-LINK 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer does stand out amidst them all. Not only is it designed with the best features in consideration, but it is also pretty amazing in terms of functions.
Unlike the other available options in the market, this one features an easy-to-use a function with an in-built pin. If you want to make the most out of this timer, you can seamlessly use the toggle pins to get your work done in no time.
It is highly appreciated for the varying types of indoor grow settings, including hydroponics, lamps, or even fans. So, not just the grow lights but it also functions well with the other elements of the grow room.
Each pin in this automated mechanical timer conforms to 15 minutes in the timer that allows you to customize the grow light settings according to one’s needs. It also enables you to customize the light settings with ease.
The best thing about this mechanical timer that allows seamless functions is that it comes with 48 different on and off settings that work to automate multiple functions and accessories inside a grow room. It also comes with a heavy-duty design that makes this option stand out from the lot.
Pros
- Easy to automate
- Has 3-pronged design
- Customizable design
Cons
- Ticking noises are disruptive
2. Canagrow Outlet Timer
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For the users looking for a stunning, functional, and customisable timer for their grow lights, the Canagrow Outlet Timer is hands down the best option around. It comes with 20 different on-off timer settings.
It comes with advanced functions that make it ideal for everyday usage. And, each setting can seamlessly program the timer to stay functional for as minimum as 1 minute. It features a built-in battery that allows you to manage the digital programmable timer according to your needs.
The outlet timer also comes with two different dual-outlet settings that enable you to manage two devices at once. The plug-in feature in the outlet can also operate according to the needs of the user, further making it an ideal option for everyday use.
Not only does it help you manage the switch on and off of the timer and reduces the costs of the electricity bills as well. It helps extend the life of your grows lights as well. It comes with simple manual buttons that allow you to switch to the desired settings with a press of the fingers.
It also comes with the Random vacation mode that lets you customize the light settings inside the grow room. All the materials in this timer are made with insulated materials that ensure maximum protection against the risks of tripping or any other risks.
Aside from the 30-day money-back guarantee, the users also get up to a 1-year warranty on this product, making it one of the most reliable options available in the market.
Pros
- Customisable and highly functional model
- Safe with proper insulation
- Backed with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t accept 2 prong devices
3. NEARPOW Dual Digital Light Timer
Next on the list of the best grow light timers is the NEARPOW Dual Digital Light Timer. Unlike the other options, it has a sleek and durable design with two different independently controlled outlets with a 3-prong outlet timer.
The dual grounded outlets are pretty amazing too, making it one of the best options in the market. It comes with 18 different on-off programs that let you manage your grow lights and other electronics automatically without any hassle.
It comes with a 7-day programmable timer switch that allows you to switch between 15 different settings according to the needs of the grow room. The digital light timer is extremely flexible and convenient to use with week, hour, and even seconds management with ease.
It has a multifunctional setting with the 12-24 hours settings along with the daylight saving time and the vacation mode that make it easier for handling the grow light settings according to your needs. It also has a separate child lock function to keep it away from the prying eyes of your children.
The product is backed with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 12 months replacement in case you are experiencing any kinds of quality issues with the product.
Pros
- Easy to customise and manage
- Multiple switch settings
- Backed with 12 months replacement policy
Cons
- Customer service is disappointing
4. BN-LINK 8 Outlet Surge Protector with 7-Day Digital Timer
When discussing the best brand for grow light timers, the BN-LINK 8 Outlet Surge Protector with 7-Day Digital Timer is a perfect option. Not only does it feature the best functions and adjustable timers, but it also makes it a perfect option for enabling multiple grow lights to function.
The four outlets in this timer are programmed and controlled by the individual timer making it easier for you to manage the functions with ease. It also comes with a surge protector on the side of the product, protecting it against issues like voltage fluctuations.
It has a very versatile design and functions, enabling it for every kind and set of grow lights that you need around. It also comes with 8 different on-off programs that you can switch between. It also comes with 4 different grounded outlets.
The best thing about this outlet timer for grow lights is the fact that it comes with pre-set functions with the combination days that make it ideal for you to choose between the available or individual days based on the requirements of the users.
The daylight savings mode helps at times but if you have highly photosensitive plants inside the grow room, you’d want to manage the light settings accordingly. Each row of ducts come with indicator lights, allowing you to keep a check on when the lights are switched on.
The model is ETL listed, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about the quality and reliability of the product. It is only for indoor use, so make sure that you use it for your grow rooms and general light settings only.
Pros
- Highly customisable option
- Comes with 8 different settings
- A safe and reliable option
Cons
- Overpriced
5. DEWENWILS Digital Outlet Timer Indoor
For the users who don’t want to compromise on the efficiency and adjustable settings for managing the functions of their grow lights, the DEWENWILS Digital Outlet Timer Indoor is likely the best option available in the market.
It is pre-programmed with the daily schedule that can seamlessly help you save your time, money, and the efforts you put into things. Not just for the grow lights, it also works seamlessly for the other kinds of appliances and electronics.
It has a very easy to use user interface, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about handling this model, especially when it comes to the 5 different adjustable buttons that allow you to manage the settings of the timer according to your needs.
The timer has a separate polarized outlet that comes in handy when you are trying to keep the functioning of the light in check. The slim bar design also accommodates any space that you have around, which is great too.
The digital screen is extremely easy to read and function. The big and bold digits can keep a check on the functions. You also can keep up with the settings. It comes with adjustable settings, which again is a benefit of this product.
The model comes with a battery backup, which is ideal when it comes to the timer settings, especially when there are power outages and other hassles. The polycarbonate material of the product is also on point.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Battery backup
- Slim bar design
Cons
- Instructions are a little complicated
6. GE 24-Hour Heavy Duty Indoor Plug-in Mechanical Timer
While the digital timers are pretty amazing, the GE 24-Hour Heavy Duty Indoor Plug-in Mechanical Timer is not a bad option at all, especially if you are trying to find a budget-friendly option for everyday usage.
It comes with amazing lightning control, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about the backup it provides. You can seamlessly manage multiple outlets including the grow lights and the other types of appliances and electronics around.
The timer is programmed with a 24-hour setting that can change the functions every 30-minutes for seamless and uninterrupted functions. This has one of the best settings, including 48 different on-off switch options.
Like the majority of the other timers in the market, even this one comes with dual outlets to conveniently override the switch at the top of the timer. You do have to manage the timer manually so that is a hassle for some.
Pros
- Multipurpose usage
- 24-hours settings
- Has 48 switch on-off options
Cons
- Manual functions are a little confusing
7. VIVOSUN 7 Day Programmable Digital Timer
When talking about grow room accessories, it is not surprising that we had to mention Vivosun in the list. If you are looking for highly functional digital timers for your grow lights, the VIVOSUN 7 Day Programmable Digital Timer is hands down the best option in the market.
It has a very sleek, durable, and professional design that has passed through multiple testing to ensure maximum durability without further issues. The exterior of the timer is constructed with highly durable and fortified plastic with two 3-prong for easier functions.
It does feature program settings with 8 different on and off settings with the 7-days pattern that come in handy when you are looking for good quality products. The timer settings are manageable for up to 1 minute, making it one of the best options around.
The auto-battery backup in this timer is hands down the best feature of this product that means all your settings and programs are set up, even when there is a power outage. You can also program this timer as per your requirements, from the comfort of your own home.
Pros
- Versatile programs and settings
- Durable construction
- Auto battery backup
Cons
- Might have to be checked every 6 months
8. Honeywell Home Programmable Light Switch Timer
Although the Honeywell Home Programmable Light Switch Timer isn’t necessarily a grow light timer, this multipurpose programmable timer is ideal for managers and schedules the functions of your grow lights to ensure that you don’t have to do it manually on the side.
This programmable switch timer allows you to customise the timings of the grow lights and manage them according to your needs and the needs of the plants in the grow room. The scheduling with this timer allows you to save a lot on the power bills, especially when you don’t want to spend a lot of money on nothing.
The timer is not just effective for handling your grow lights but it works pretty well with the other motor run devices too. The on and off schedules per week are pretty simple to master. All you need to do is look through the settings and functions and operate them accordingly.
Also, the 3-button interface makes it easier for you to handle things without complications. The best thing about this switch timer is that it is compatible with any kind of lighting that you have. It could be CFL, LED, or even a bulb for that matter.
The painless and simple installation process saves a lot of your time, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about getting external tools and other equipment to fix things straight. The Ecocoswitch also supports multiple modes of light settings that you can switch between.
Pros
- Enables managing and scheduling lighting as needed
- Saves on your power bills
- Integrated with a 3-button interface
- Easy to install
- Ideal with different lights
Cons
- Programming is a little tricky at first
9. FosPower Timer Outlet
Finding a budget-friendly yet good quality timer for your grow lights isn’t at complicated as it might seem in the beginning. The FosPower Timer Outlet is a testament to just that and allows you to make the maximum use out of the product without any issues.
This outlet timer gives you complete free reign on how you can fix the light and then operate and schedule them according to your needs. Also, from the random settings to a full range of customizations, it offers you everything you need for superior functionalities.
Aside from the basic scheduling and timer settings, the product comes with 10 pre-defined programs that you can choose from or you can customize your own. Doing this gets rid of the need to program the timer every day or every week.
The integrated random function is another reason why the product is worth spending your coins on. With this, you can automatically switch on and off the timer between set timings to keep the risks of burglary at a minimum.
The outlet timer also offers you control over two devices at a time, which means that you can integrate more than just one grow light in it. The product is also backed with a limited lifetime warranty, which is another reason why you wouldn’t regret purchasing it.
Pros
- Comes with 10 pre-defined programs
- Integrated random function for safety
- Can control two devices at once
- Automatic switch on and off
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Requires manual overriding
10. Mosthink LED Plant Grow Light Strips with Timer
Why would you just buy a timer when you can get yourself a timer and a grow light strip with it? Sounds promising, doesn’t it? The Mosthink LED Plant Grow Light Strips with Timer is just what you need if you are starting with grow tents.
The product comes with three light strips and a timer that can coordinate each and all of them together, making it an option worth considering. The timer in this is programmed to last up to 3, 6, 9, or 12 hours, depending on what the plants in your grow rooms need.
Aside from the timer functions, even the grow lights come with adjustable levels of brightness that you can manage. Every part of the grow lights comes with the tools you’d need for the installation process, making it one worth every penny you spend.
As for the power cord, it is 68 inches long, so you have ample space to sort things out according to your needs. The only downside is that it doesn’t come with the required warranty details and compatibility.
Pros
- Comes with 3 strips of grow lights
- Timer settings are adjustable
- Brightness settings are adjustable
- Long power cord
- Accommodates the growth of plants in each stage
Cons
- Doesn’t come with the required warranty details
11. myTouchSmart Outdoor Programmable Timer
When it comes to grow light timers, there are a number of brands of late which are making their presence felt in the markets. myTouchSmart is one such name – and their timer is one of the better options if you are looking for a smart and programmable timer. It gives you a wide variety of features and allows you to fully automate your lighting. This timer is great for your grow lights, but you can also use it for indoor and outdoor lights and decorative lights.
The timer has got two buttons that allow you to adjust the time with ease. It is very simple to operate, which is perhaps the best thing about it. You will come across many timers which look rather complex and confusing, but this one’s got a very easy operation. You can choose to set in your custom on-time and off-time, or you can choose from the presets such as sunrise and sunset based on and off times.
Furthermore, if you want to customize it only for the evening hours to provide extended lights, you can set it up from evening to 12 am (a setting that is good for the flowering phase as that gives about 10 hours of dark). There’s also an option to set your custom programs and store them and access them later. Basically, this is one of the best grow light timers out there which allows you to set multiple custom programs.
In addition to that, one of the best things about this timer is that it comes with two plug points which allow you to hook two lights to it at the same time. This timer is great for those who are growing marijuana plants or other indoor/outdoor plants, but also works great for those who wish to use it for their decorative lighting during Christmas, Halloween or other such festive occasions.
The light supports up to 8 custom on/off settings, which ensure that you can set unique schedules and personalize all your lighting needs. There’s also a built-in SunSmart technology which recognizes the sunrise and sunset time for your region and automatically schedules the lights based on that. All said and done, this is indeed a ‘smart’ timer – truly what the name suggests.
Pros
- Smart detection of sunrise and sunset time
- Battery backup ensures your settings don’t reset in case of a powercut
- Allows connecting two grow lights at the same time
- Easy to control and set your time of lighting
Cons
- Limited troubleshooting help
An Ultimate Buying Guide For Grow Light Timers in 2022
When you are on a journey of starting your own grow room in your house, you will start it with a grow tent, grow light and then move on to the grow light timer. These are markedly important enough for you to ensure that your plant is getting the optimal amount of light that they need to grow and prosper without any hindrances along the way.
However, this is where things get a bit tricky. Since grow light timers are now abundantly found in the market, choosing one can become a tedious and challenging task. You have to look out for a lot of factors that make an option truly worthy of your money.
For your convenience, we have sorted out just those pointers that you should be looking out for.
1. Start with the design
It goes without saying that when you are buying a grow light timer to manipulate the light cycles in your grow room, you want an option that is sturdy, well-designed, and worth the hype and efforts. You need to look into the design without any questions asked. You need to assess the durability of the product, the kind of portability it brings, and the ease of functionality it brings along. So, when it comes down to you, we’d recommend you start from there as well.
2. Look into the functionality
Once you are sorted out with the design and have shortlisted a few products based on the design and the structure, the next thing worth looking into is the functionality. The majority of indoor growing plants come with a set of preconceived requirements when it comes to temperature, light exposure, and environment. So, when you have a grow light focused right on the plant strain, we’d recommend that you focus on the options that come with adjustable light settings.
These light settings should mimic the requirements of the plant depending on which phase of growth it is in. This suggests that a strain that is in its vegetative stage will need a different intensity as opposed to the one in its flowering stages.
So, when it comes to the grow light timer, you want the functionality to be likely in the same prospect so it meets the growing needs of the plants inside the grow room. Some grow light times even come with separate programmable settings that you can set in according to the needs.
3. Consider the user interface
So, the grow light timer you are considering has all the features that you likely need. However, you have no idea how to use them. All of this sounds pretty confusing, doesn’t it?
Well, this is one of the biggest factors that you need to look out for. You want to ensure that the user interface is easy to handle and without any kinds of complications that would reflect in your usage on a daily.
Also, find a timer that comes with a large and expansive LCD so you don’t have any issues keeping up with the timer readings and the associated user experience. The buttons should be large enough to be pressed individually as well. Some timers even come with automatic switch on and shut off functions that save a lot of battery.
4. Assess and compare the price
Grow light timers aren’t too expensive. They are generally under $100 and that itself is a far reach. Typically, the common options are priced between $30-$50 depending on what you deem the best for your needs. Just ensure that you focus on comparing the price with the other purchases too.
Since you have so many different brands and types of products already available, finding the one that best aligns with your needs and budgets shouldn’t be as difficult to find.
5. Compatibility
Last but not least is the compatibility of the remote. Always make sure you buy a remote that is compatible with your existing LED grow light set. If that isn’t the case, your entire purchase will go to waste.
You should be able to get an idea about the functionality and compatibility of the products without needing to deep dive into the individual features. The purchase page should have details about the compatibility, so check that.
FAQs
1. What are the benefits of grow light timers?
If this is your first time using grow lights for your grow room, there are chances that you will have to keep a check on the factors before buying the timers. Some of the most important factors in the list include convenience, safety, and security of the timer and the budget as well.
2. What are the best types of grow light timers?
While choosing a grow light timer can be a little easy to manage, there are chances that you will not necessarily know about the types. There are a few different types that you can consider buying. There are primarily three different types of grow light timers including mechanical, digital, and manual timers. We’d always suggest you get the digital ones with the battery backup function for a seamless user experience.
3. How long should the grow lights stay on with the timer?
The primary reason why the grow light timers are used is that people don’t want to switch the lights on and off every other hour. If you are buying the grow light timers, make sure that you find the easily programmable ones. As for the duration of the grow lights, you must keep a check on the types of plants that you have in the grow rooms.
4. Can I grow my plants without using timers?
Yes, marijuana plants can be grown without using timers too. People generally use timers to ensure that the lights are being provided to their plants on time. There are days when you might not be at home, or simply just too busy with your work to switch your lights on or off. Having a timer will make sure that you don’t have to worry too much about it as the whole process can be automated based on the on/off time that you have entered. Some of these timers are also programmable based on the sunrise/sunset times so your plants get artificial lighting during the night time and use the natural light during the daytime.
5. Where can I buy the best grow light timers?
Grow light timers can easily be found at any store that sells grow lights or equipment for growing plants. You can actually find a lot of programmable timers at shops that sell lights and lighting fixtures. However, most shops and stores usually have some 8-10 brands at best because these are very niche products. If you plan on going through a really large range of products, we suggest checking out Amazon for that. We have linked all the products we’ve reviewed with the Amazon web store. Another major benefit of buying from Amazon is that you get some great deals and discounts on them, as well as easy returns.
6. How much do grow light timers cost and how often do I have to buy them?
The best thing about timers are that they aren’t really an expensive product. You can get most of them priced around $20 to $50 – there are some which come for even less. The not-so-great thing about these timers is that they don’t really last you for a long time. Most timers that you get in the markets will last you anywhere between eight months to a year and a half. Timers are gentle beings – they have a small lifespan and even a small electric surge tends to damage them.
Conclusion
The yield from grow rooms can only be increased when you have the right accessories for indoor gardening. So, if you are looking for ideal settings for your grow rooms, you must keep a check on the best product in the market before buying it. We have recommended the best available options in the market, so try and look through the features and reviews before you end up finding out the best one for you.
A rotating team of writers and editors dedicated to providing reliable information for the readers of American Promise. We’re all passionate about cannabis and actively engaged in this “budding” industry.
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