Sunday, April 17, 2011

Good product, but be sure to read wiring instructions carefully

The timer works as most people have already discussed in their reviews, and is great because no other timer I have found will control compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL's). However, please be VERY careful wiring it.

A distinction that should be clarified is that this TI070 model must have a load OVER 40 watts in order to function. If you are controlling CFL's (as I am) that is more than 3 bulbs since a 60W incandescent equivalent draws just 13 watts. I actually had to add a fourth bulb to bring the total load from 39 watts to 52 watts (slightly wasteful). However, the TI071 model can handle loads less than 40 watts according to the instructions. But, apparently that model requires a neutral wire, which the TI070 model does NOT.

So, to summarize:

TI070 model: Needs a load of at least 40 watts, does NOT need a neutral wire connection
TI071 model: Can handle a smaller load below 40 watts, DOES need a neutral wire connection

Hope this is helpful!

UPDATE (8/1/10): I also recently bought a TI071 model (for loads below 40 watts) and it also works great. I am very pleased with these products because they can control CFL bulbs, and with our high electric rates here in CA, that is important.

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