I use the black outdoor timer myself. I replace them yearly, because of near misses I've had with my coral reef tanks(salt is VERY conductive).I had 2 surge protectors blow and blaze up.Thankfully,while I was at home.Needless to say,I am parnoid of fires now.I keep my ballasts outside of the grow rooms. They are put on metal stands and sit on tile like those used for wood stoves.Cords and surge protectors I use industrial type made for outdoor use.Now, I can go off to work with a peace of mind. At first I was so freaked, I thought about making a restraunt style suppression unit for the whole operation. Hey Latewood, could I pick your brain for some input on some lighting? I need to fab an adjustable pedestle to hold a mogul base.Thanks