The Westinghouse outdoor timer is an easy-to-use device that helps automate your outdoor lighting and decorations. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to help you set it up and use it effectively to save energy and enhance your home’s ambiance.
Are you looking to add a touch of magic to your garden or make your holiday lights shine automatically? Using an outdoor timer is a fantastic way to do just that, without a fuss. Sometimes, new gadgets can feel a little intimidating, but don’t worry! Setting up your Westinghouse outdoor timer is simpler than you might think. We’re here to walk you through every single step, making sure your lights turn on and off right when you want them to. Get ready to enjoy perfectly timed outdoor illumination with ease!
What is a Westinghouse Outdoor Timer and Why Use One?
Think of a Westinghouse outdoor timer as your own personal assistant for your outdoor electrical devices. Its main job is to turn things like lights, sprinklers, or holiday decorations on and off automatically based on a schedule you set. This is super handy for a few reasons:
Convenience: No more rushing out in the dark to switch off the porch lights or forgetting to turn on the garden path lights as dusk falls. Your timer handles it all.
Energy Savings: By ensuring devices are only on when needed, you can significantly reduce your electricity bill. This is great for your wallet and the planet!
Security: Having lights automatically turn on as it gets dark can make your home look occupied, potentially deterring unwanted visitors.
Ambiance: Create a welcoming atmosphere with landscape lighting or showcase your seasonal decorations without manual effort.
Westinghouse timers are known for their durability and ease of use, making them a popular choice for homeowners wanting reliable outdoor automation.
Types of Westinghouse Outdoor Timers
Westinghouse offers a few different types of outdoor timers, each with slightly different features:
Mechanical Timers: These are typically the most straightforward. They have physical pins or tabs that you push in or pull out to set your on/off times. They often have a simple, rugged design.
Digital Timers: These offer more flexibility. You typically program them using buttons and a small LCD screen. They can often handle more complex schedules, like specific days of the week or countdown timers.
Smart Timers: While not exclusive to Westinghouse in general, some modern outdoor outlets with timer functions might integrate with smart home systems. These allow control via smartphone apps and voice commands. For the purpose of this guide, we will focus primarily on the common mechanical and digital types that are widely available for general outdoor use.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before you plug in your Westinghouse outdoor timer, gather a few things. This makes the setup process smooth and easy.
Essential Tools and Items:
Your Westinghouse Outdoor Timer: Of course! Make sure it’s the correct type for your needs – mechanical or digital.
The Device You Want to Control: This could be outdoor string lights, a garden spotlight, a holiday decoration, or even a small water feature.
A Standard Outdoor Electrical Outlet: Ensure it’s a grounded outlet designed for outdoor use. If you’re unsure about your outdoor outlets, it’s always best to consult a qualified electrician. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using timers can help save energy.
Clear Weather Conditions: It’s best to set up your timer on a dry day to ensure safety and proper handling of the electrical components.
(Optional) A Small Flathead Screwdriver: Some mechanical timers might have a small adjustment screw, though most use finger-adjustable pins.
How to Set Up Your Westinghouse Mechanical Outdoor Timer
Mechanical timers are wonderfully simple. They work by having a dial that represents 24 hours, with little pins around the edge. Each pin represents a time interval, usually 30 minutes or 1 hour. Pushing a pin in means the outlet is ON during that time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Locate the 24-Hour Dial: You’ll see a circular dial on the front of your timer with markings for each hour of the day.
2. Identify the Pins: Around the edge of the dial are small pins. These control whether the outlet is on or off.
3. Set Your Desired “ON” Times: To set a period when you want your device to be ON, push the corresponding pins IN. For example, if you want your lights to come on at 7:00 PM and turn off at 10:00 PM, push in all the pins between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM. The dial usually has a mark or arrow indicating the current time of day. Remember to account for AM and PM.
4. Set Your Desired “OFF” Times: To set a period when you want your device to be OFF, ensure the pins are pulled OUT. Most timers have a default where pins staying out means “off.”
5. Plug in the Timer: Insert the Westinghouse outdoor timer firmly into your outdoor electrical outlet. It’s designed to be plugged directly into the wall.
6. Plug Your Device into the Timer: Plug the cord of the device you wish to control (lights, etc.) into the socket on the Westinghouse timer.
7. Ensure the Timer is Set to “ON” or “AUTO”: Most mechanical timers have a small switch or a way to override the pins. Make sure it’s set to the timed operation, often indicated by “AUTO” or simply by the nature of the pins being set. If there’s a manual override switch, ensure it’s in the timed position.
8. Adjust the Current Time: Locate a small knob or wheel, often at the center of the dial. Gently turn this knob to align the current time with the indicator mark on the dial’s edge. As the dial automatically rotates throughout the day, it will naturally follow the programmed pins.
Pro-Tip: Before setting your pins, check the timer’s dial. Many have markings showing the hours and sometimes half-hour increments. Pushing in a pin for a specific time segment means the outlet will be activated during that segment.
To illustrate, let’s say you want your porch light to be on from sunset to sunrise. If sunset is at 6:00 PM and sunrise is at 6:00 AM:
- Push in all the pins from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM on the dial.
- Ensure the pins for 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM are pulled out.
- Make sure the dial is set to the current time.
How to Set Up Your Westinghouse Digital Outdoor Timer
Digital timers offer more precision and programming options. Instead of physical pins, you use buttons to set the time, AM/PM, and the on/off schedules, which are then displayed on a small screen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Plug in the Timer: Connect the Westinghouse digital timer directly into your outdoor electrical outlet.
2. Plug Your Device into the Timer: Connect the device you want to control into the socket on the digital timer.
3. Set the Current Time and Day:
Look for buttons labeled “Clock,” “Set,” “Hour,” “Minute,” and “AM/PM” (or similar).
Press and hold the “Clock” or “Set” button.
Use the “Hour” and “Minute” buttons to set the correct current time. Pay close attention to AM/PM.
Some models may also have a “Day” button to set the current day of the week.
Release the “Clock” button once the correct time is displayed.
4. Program Your “ON” Times:
Find buttons like “Program,” “Schedule,” “On,” or “Set On.”
You’ll typically select a specific time you want your device to turn ON.
Again, use the Hour and Minute buttons and select AM/PM carefully.
Some digital timers allow you to set multiple ON/OFF cycles per day or even specify which days of the week an event should occur. If your timer has this feature, follow its prompts to set it for your needs (e.g., weekday schedule, weekend schedule).
5. Program Your “OFF” Times:
Similar to setting ON times, find the “Program,” “Schedule,” “Off,” or “Set Off” buttons.
Select the time you want your device to turn OFF.
Ensure the AM/PM is correct and that the OFF time logically follows the ON time within a 24-hour cycle or across midnight if the ON time is late in the evening.
6. Activate Timer Mode:
Look for a button or switch that controls the operating mode of the timer. This is often labeled “Auto,” “Timer,” or “Manual.”
Ensure the timer is set to the “Auto” or “Timer” mode for it to follow your programmed schedule. If it’s set to “Manual ON” or “Manual OFF,” it will override your settings.
7. Save Your Settings: Some digital timers require you to press a “Save” or “Enter” button after programming each event. Others save automatically after a few seconds of inactivity. Consult your specific model’s manual if you’re unsure.
8. Test Your Timer: You can usually test your timer by advancing the clock past your set ON time or by having a manual override function to quickly cycle through the modes.
Important Note: Always refer to the specific instruction manual that came with your Westinghouse outdoor timer. Models can vary in their button layout and programming sequences.
Common Timer Settings and Ideas
Here are some popular ways people use their timers to make life easier and gardens more inviting:
Table: Popular Timer Settings
| Setting Purpose | Mechanical Timer Technique | Digital Timer Technique | Benefits |
| :———————- | :————————————————————– | :———————————————————————————— | :————————————————- |
| Evening Ambiance | Push pins for 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. | Program ON at 6:00 PM, OFF at 10:00 PM. | Welcoming look, energy saving. |
| Security Lighting | Push pins to cover nighttime hours (e.g., 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM). | Program ON at dusk (if sensor available) or 7:00 PM, OFF at dawn or 7:00 AM. | Deterrence, peace of mind. |
| Holiday Decorations | Push pins to cover specific evening hours for several weeks. | Set specific ON/OFF times daily, or use advanced features for week-long schedules. | Festive look, no manual switching. |
| Garden Sprinklers | Push pins for early morning watering (e.g., 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM).| Program ON at 5:00 AM, OFF at 6:00 AM. Consider setting for specific days. | Efficient watering, conserves water. |
| Random On/Off | Not easily achieved with mechanical. | If digital model has a “random” or “vacation” mode, activate it for unpredictable lighting. | Simulates presence when away. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best timers, you might run into a hiccup now and then. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them.
Common Problems & Solutions:
Device Not Turning On:
Check Power: Is the timer plugged in securely? Is the outlet working? Test the outlet with another device.
Check Timer Settings: For mechanical timers, are the ON pins pushed in for the current time? For digital timers, is the current time correct, and is the timer in “Auto” mode?
Check Device: Is the device itself working? Try plugging it directly into a working outlet.
Overload: Ensure you aren’t exceeding the timer’s wattage or amperage limit. Check the manual for specifications.
Device Not Turning Off:
Check Timer Settings: For mechanical timers, are the OFF sections correctly set with pins pulled out? For digital timers, is the programmed OFF time set correctly, and is the timer in “Auto” mode?
Manual Override: Some timers have a manual override that might be stuck. Ensure it’s set to “Auto.”
Timer Not Following Schedule:
Erratic Behavior: For digital timers, low batteries can sometimes cause issues. Replace them if your model uses them.
Power Interruptions: Significant power outages can sometimes reset digital timers, requiring you to reprogram them. Mechanical timers are generally unaffected by short outages.
Incorrect Time Setting: Double-check that the current time is set correctly. This is crucial for schedules to function.
Weather Damage:
If a timer appears damaged, cracked, or wet: Unplug it immediately and do not use it. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Contact Westinghouse or a qualified electrician for advice. Always ensure your timer is rated for outdoor use and kept as protected from direct elements as possible, even if it’s rated to be “weather-resistant.”
Safety First!
Working with electricity, even low-voltage outdoor lighting, requires caution. Always prioritize safety.
Read the Manual: Every Westinghouse timer comes with specific instructions. Reading these is the first step to safe and correct usage.
Dry Hands: Never touch electrical cords, timers, or outlets with wet hands.
Outdoor Rated: Ensure your timer and the device you are plugging into it are specifically rated for outdoor use. Look for “Weather-Resistant” or “Outdoor” labels.
Grounded Outlets: Always plug outdoor timers into a grounded electrical outlet. If you don’t have one, consult a professional to install one. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides comprehensive guidelines on electrical safety.
Avoid Overloading: Do not plug in more devices than your timer or outlet can handle. A common cause of issues is an overloaded circuit.
Protect from Elements: While outdoor timers are designed to withstand some weather, avoid prolonged exposure to direct rain, snow, or intense sunlight. Consider using a covered outlet box for extra protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How do I set multiple on/off times on a Westinghouse digital timer?
- Most digital timers have a “Program” or “Schedule” button. You’ll typically cycle through options to set specific “ON” and “OFF” times for different events throughout the day or week. Pressing a button like “Set” or “Enter” after each time should save it. Refer to your model’s manual, as the exact process varies.
- Can I use my Westinghouse outdoor timer with sprinklers?
- Yes, many Westinghouse outdoor timers are perfect for automating garden sprinklers. Ensure the timer can handle the power requirements of your sprinkler system’s pump or valve, and always check the timer’s wattage/amperage rating against your device’s needs.
- My mechanical timer pins are hard to push in. What should I do?
- While they should be firm, they shouldn’t require excessive force. Ensure you are pushing the correct pins (for the ON setting). If they are still very stiff, try wiggling them gently. If they feel jammed or broken, the timer might be defective and should be replaced.
- How do I make my lights turn on at sunset and off at sunrise automatically?
- This feature is often called “Dusk-to-Dawn” or “Photocell” activation. Some digital timers have a built-in light sensor that automatically adjusts ON and OFF times based on ambient light. If your timer doesn’t have this feature, you’ll need to manually set the times based on expected sunset and sunrise times for your location and season, or use a separate photocell timer.
- What happens if the power goes out?
- Mechanical timers will continue to run from where they left off once power is restored, as they are essentially clockwork-driven. Digital timers may require you to reset the current time and reprogram your schedule if the power interruption was prolonged or if they don’t have battery backup.
- How do I know if my Westinghouse timer is working correctly?
- The simplest way is to set it up for a short period (e.g., turn on in 5 minutes, turn off in 10 minutes) and observe if your device powers on and off as programmed. For digital timers, check that the clock is accurate and the “Auto” mode is active.
- Is it safe to leave my timer plugged in year-round?
- Yes, provided the timer is rated for outdoor use and is installed in a way that protects it from excessive moisture and extreme temperatures. Many people leave their landscape lighting or holiday timers connected for extended periods. However, for safety and longevity, unplugging it during severe weather or when not in use for long stretches (like winter if only used for summer lights) is a good practice.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Setting up your Westinghouse outdoor timer is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your home’s appeal, security, and energy efficiency. Whether you’ve chosen a simple mechanical model or a more advanced digital one, by following these instructions, you’re well on your way to enjoying perfectly timed outdoor illumination. Remember to always prioritize safety, consult your specific manual if needed,
