Mike,

I use an Intermatic heavy duty grounded timer for two 430 watt lights and
another maybe 160watts of power. I'm guessing it cost maybe $10 or $12. I
think it's rated for 1600 watts.

Bought it years ago (maybe 5 or 6) at Menards, a home improvement chain in
our area (MN-WI).

The timer is not in my growing area so is not subject to constant humidity.

It is plugged into a GFI protected 20 amp outlet.

I'd vote for the 15 amp timer.

You probably dropped a couple hundred plus for the light, I wouldn't skimp
on the timer, though maybe I did?

Bob


"Mike" wrote in message
m...
Can anyone provide guidance on how large a timer I need for a 400W
metal halide grow lamp? The vendor suggested a 15 amp grounded
outlet, the stated he likes 20 amps ones. However, I recently ran
across some nice, grounded 10 amp, outdoor timers ( Intermatic . On
the side they list capcaity as 1200 amps R Resistive or 1200 amps
Tungsten. I know that Metal halides are different, but do I really
need a 15 amp timer or will these 10 amp ones work?

Thanks
Mike