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View Full Version : Halides and timers

docs911
11/19/2009, 03:58 PM
Can I run two 250 watt halides off of one timer without badness happening? It will run off of a different circuit thanthe rest of the tank. My problem is that the position of the oulet will allow one timer to be plugged in and not two. My thought was to run one timer and plug in an electrical strip to it. I would place the two timers on the strip
xxiprxx
11/19/2009, 04:33 PM
I wouldnt do it, IMO thats pulling alot of power from a small device. Check the specs on the timer though if its beefy enough it might be up to the job!
spw4949
11/20/2009, 07:24 AM
FWIW, I run my 2x250W fixture on a timer, no issues.....
baondayko
11/20/2009, 07:51 AM
Most cheap timers are rated for 15Amp. Check the back of the timer. You shouldn't have an issue, but if you simply don't want to use a cheap timer, buy a better one if it makes you feel more secure.
linnyesg
11/20/2009, 07:55 AM
My electrician friend says, stay away from plastic power strips. If they are overloaded they can over heat, melt and cause a fire. If you are going to use a power strip, metal encased power strips are much more safe. I'm not sure about timers. I would use one per halide to be safe.
leeit2me
11/20/2009, 08:51 AM
As long your ballast isn't pulling over 15 amps(standard rated for 110v outlets), you will be ok using two MH on one timer.
tinmanhouston
11/20/2009, 01:28 PM
Better be safe than sorry.
danceswithfish
11/20/2009, 01:50 PM
I run two 250 w off one timmer and 2 fans. I think the timmer is rated for 12 amps which is far more than I need. I think most metal halides draw around 3 amps each at start up peak then its less.
motoms
11/20/2009, 04:04 PM
I run 2x250 whats single ended it works fine
N-dog
11/20/2009, 05:22 PM
I would go with something like this

http://www.marinedepot.com/Zilla_Digital_Power_Center_(Day_Night_Timer_or_Wave_Maker)_Timers_for_Aquarium_Lighting-Coralife-ES01692-FILTACTM-vi.html
Jared J
11/20/2009, 05:27 PM
I would go with something like this

http://www.marinedepot.com/Zilla_Digital_Power_Center_(Day_Night_Timer_or_Wave_Maker)_Timers_for_Aquarium_Lighting-Coralife-ES01692-FILTACTM-vi.html

Thats the one I use. It's rated at 15A/1875 watts max.
http://akamai.f3images.com/IMD/250/ES01692/ES01692_1.jpg
docs911
11/20/2009, 09:18 PM
Thanks to all. I think I am going to buy that one from marine depot.