Is there a timer??

I want to have my exterior lights on my detached garage turn off on a timer if possible.
There is a sub panel in the garage.
Anyway to do this??
Cheers
JP

 

You need to provide more information than what you have.

How are the lights presently controlled? Is there a switch? Are they motion sensor controlled? How many lights are there? How many circuits? What kind of timing do you want? The same timing every day? Different timing on weekends?

Timers are available which can replace a normal 2-way or 3-way switch. However, depending on the wiring this type of switch may not work if you have a motion sensor. You can also install a timer which will need to be spliced into the electrical wiring.

 

Here's some more info.
2 each exterior lights, not motion,1 each switch, 1 circut.
The switch for these lights are in a three gang box with other switches.
The timer that replaces the switch sounds the easiest to install.
I would want to adust the time that the lights come on.
Thanks
JP

 

If the current switches are in the same box then you could replace both switches with a single timer switch, or you could use two timer switches. If the switches are in different boxes then you would most likely have to rewire to use a single switch.

Timer switches are available at the various big box stores, or you can go to an electrical supply store. There are many different types, depending on your needs.

Some require a battery for the timing. The advantage here is that a power outage does not mess up the timing. Another advantage is that this type works with any kind of load, or even no load (which a burned out lamp bulb would cause).

Another type does not require a neutral to be present in the switch box, and does not need a battery. These work by passing a small amount of current through the circuit all the time to power the timer. The disadvantage here is that the load (bulb) must be a certain type. Flourscent bulbs, for example, don't work in these fixtures.

Finally there are types that require a neutral to be present in the switch box, to provide for power to the timer. These type do not require any special type of bulb.

I suggest you decide what kind of timing you want, analyze the wires in the switch box, and then see what is available.

Questions to answer for yourself: Do you want one on/off time per day? Do you want different times depending on the day of the week? Do you care about battery backup for the timer? Is there a neutral in the switch box? Finally, how much do you want to spend?