> I asked the question because the timer I currently use works fine. At least up 'til a few days ago. I went looking for a new one and noticed that the packaging very specifically said the timers were for incandescent lights.
>
> This made me wonder if there were any problems in using the timer on my flourescent lights. I've had no problems but just wanted to be safe.
The electrical switching outputs of devices (such as timers) generally
have two ratings. On for resistive loads and one for inductive loads.
An incandescent light is a resistive load, while a florescent light is
an inductive load. The inductive load is always much lower because of
the strain it puts on the switching device. Using a timer designated
for incandescent loads only means it doesn't have the ability to
switch inductive loads like florescent ballasts. This will result in
premature failure of the switching device. You should look for a timer
with with both an inductive rating and a resistive rating. These are
typically refered to as heavy duty timers in the US. I'm not really
sure how they rate or refer to things in Canada.
later
Cary Hostrawser
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