Programmable light switch for house lights?

[Ray]

For various reasons 'dusk to dawn' sensors etc will not work for the outside lights on the house or garage. Does anyone know if there are light switches with a timer function that I can, for example, have the light come on at 6pm and go off at 11pm each day?

I've seen some that have a timer function but you have to set it each day for a certain number of hours. We would like one that I can "set and forget."

Thanks,

Ray

[first time builder]

Home depot and lowes has them , and all types and prices. They have some that replace a wall switch, I think thats what your looking for.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Honeywell-Econo-Switch-7-Day-Programmable-Timer-Switch-for-Lights-and-Motors-RPLS730B1000-U/202720655#.UomVTptbi3Y

Kenny

[frankeeski]

Ray, Intermatic sells a nice electronic programmable switch that fits in a standard single gang electrical box.
http://www.intermatic.com/en/Products/Timers/InWallTimers/Electronic_Timers/EI500_Series.aspx
We use the above one quite a bit. Takes some patients to program but worth the effort. Best part is, it can be overridden either on or off by simply touching the bottom pad of the switch. It automatically resets itself for the next cycle.

[BillJackson]

Programmable Timer Switch – RPLS530A, RPLS531A

* For use with incandescent and halogen lights up to 500 W. Requires 40 W minimum.
* 7-day programming (up to 7 on and 7 off times per week)
* Hidden programming buttons
* Sleek design mounts flush with wall plate
* Universal wiring (2-wire connection)
* Single pole (2-wire) or multi-switch (3-way) installation
* Manual override enables load to be turned on/off without affecting programming
* Built-in rechargeable battery
* Programming protected during power outages
* Can also be used like a conventional on/off switch
* Available in white or almond to match your decor
* Does not include wall plate

[Mike N]

Ray.

I have a couple of the Honeywell switches in the Home Depot link above. I like them because you can set them to your zip code and program them for dusk to dawn. You can also switch directly using the button on the switch. They do seem to have issues if they placed somewhere hot such as in a detached garage.

[68GT500MAN]

Ray, you will still have to adjust the timer twice a year for daylight savings. At work we also adjust the "on" time as the days get shorter the need for light gradually moves up to 5pm.
Doug

[Carlos C]

Ray:

If the light(s) can be turned on and off by more than one switch in the house, the main switch is the one that needs to be on all the time, and not the slave switch. The sensor also needs to be free from obstructions, but I'm sure you already knew that.

I have the programmable GE light timers with the digital display, which I bought from Lowe's. I have three of them: front porch, lanai, and driveway. They are set up for "dusk to dawn", except for the lanai, which is set up for specific times. They have a DST feature. I've never had a problem with them, and work as advertised. You can also turn them on/off manually right at the timer.