clarification about timers and hid lights

[fenderstrat]

do any normal timers work well with 600 watt hps ballasts? like say 14 amp timers for christmas lights, those will work fine or? sorry for the stupid question, i may have just been mislead i think. :rastasmoke:

[gainesvillegreen]

Well, use a little physics and figure out what you're working with. P=IV. That's power (in watts) = current (in amps) x voltage. Assuming a 120v house power point, 600=I x 120, I solves for 5, or 5 amps in your circuit.

So if your power supply is 120v, then you'll be pulling 5 amps (or 2.5 if a 240v system). A 14 amp timer would work just fine.

[GaGrown]

Go with the Intermatic at home depot. It's reated at 1525 watts. Has 2 plugs,like the hydrofarm timers. So easy to use.If you are worried that it won't work for you? Then this is the one to use.

Ga Grown!

[stinkyattic]

The timer that GaGrown shows is the exact one I use. I had it wired onto my main panel in the basement, on a dedicated circuit to a normal-looking outlet in my attic. It's a nice burly timer that can handle a large load SAFELY and will last forever.