Pool Light Timer That Adjusts To Changing Sunrise/sunset Times?

[dogfriend]

Maybe I’m just dreaming, but I’m nonetheless curious...

Has anyone heard of a pool light timer that adjusts to changing day lengths (sunrise/sunset times)? I have some of these kinds of in-wall timers in my house and they are really convenient for exterior lights.

The timer that controls the pool light now is the original from 1991 (Intermatic, I think) that grinds away but still does its duty without error.

Anyone know of newer, reliable timers that will automatically adjust as the days become longer or shorter (depending on your region of the United States as you set it in the timer)?

Thanks-

[Pool Clown]

Not if your using just Intermatic timers (to my knowledge). If you want to run the light from dusk to dawn, you can get light sensors that will do the job. You could even wire it so it would come on at dusk (sensor), then the timer could shut it off at a set time, or just let it run all nite till the sensor shuts it off in the morning.

[dogfriend]

Thanks for the response. I'm reluctant to leave the light on all night because that means replacing the bulb probably every six months or so! Ack! The expense isn't so bad, it is the draining, etc. that is deadly.

The pool is about 18 yrs. old and the fixture is about 2.5' below the water line. Plus, the niche attachment bracket is worn out so I have to use an ever-larger (each time) stainless steel sheet metal screw to secure the top of the fixture. Pain. I swear...that niche (Pentair I think) has got to be the most stupidly designed piece of junk since my brother's 1975 Fiat Spider! When I put in a new niche (have the pool re-plastered), I'm gonna ensure that the new niche is right/sensible or have a professional welding fella I know make it right for me before it is installed. Seriously, life is too short for allowing such stunningly shoddy product onto my property. Puhleez!

[Pool Clown]

Thanks for the response. I'm reluctant to leave the light on all night because that means replacing the bulb probably every six months or so! Ack! The expense isn't so bad, it is the draining, etc. that is deadly.

If you wire it as follows: breaker, time clock, light sensor, pool light. You have it come on at dusk (sensor) then set the off tripper for say 10pm (or whenever you want the light to go off), then set the on tripper for say 3pm or so (light wont come on at 3 because the sensor is not activated till dusk!

Normally you don't need to drain the pool to get the light out. Don't you have a wet suit for winter time repairs? LOL.

When you take the light fixture out of the niche, normally there should be enough cord for you to bring it up and set it on the deck. You should be able to reach the set screw from the deck. 2 1/2 feet down is about normal. Need long arms

the niche attachment bracket is worn out so I have to use an ever-larger (each time) stainless steel sheet metal screw to secure the top of the fixture. Pain. I swear...that niche (Pentair I think) has got to be the most stupidly designed piece of junk since my brother's 1975 Fiat Spider!

Actually that is a good niche, as long as the plasterer used the correct screw (the first time) and not a sheet metal screw when he looses the original one.

When I put in a new niche (have the pool re-plastered), I'm gonna ensure that the new niche is right/sensible

When you have it re plastered, have them put a light ring or plaster ring in. That is a new slot for the bottom and a new hole (set screw) for the top. No need to chip out the old niche. Very slick, and a LOT less money.

or have a professional welding fella I know make it right for me before it is installed.

Would'nt do that, as any weld will begin to rust about 15 min (est.) after water hits it. Never seen any welding (or brazing) hold up under water in a pool, without leaving a headache sized rust stain on the plaster.

Seriously, life is too short...

AMEN!