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£3.75
Unit price per£3.75
Unit price perThe Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer is a 24-hour segmental mechanical timer designed to handle the high starting load produced by a single compatible 600W HID lighting ballast.
Purpose-built for lighting control, the Loadstar timer provides a straightforward way to automate daily light and dark periods without requiring a separate contactor when operating 1 x 600W HID ballast.
The mechanical dial operates over a repeating 24-hour cycle and is divided into 15-minute timing intervals. This provides 96 individual switching segments across each day, allowing the required lighting period to be set quickly and easily.
Once configured, the selected schedule repeats every 24 hours, making the Loadstar Heavy Duty Timer a practical solution for single-light installations requiring consistent automatic control.
Why choose the Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer?
Automatic 24-hour lighting control
Consistent light and dark periods are an important part of managing many crops under artificial lighting. The Loadstar Heavy Duty Timer automates this process, removing the need to manually switch the lighting system at the beginning and end of each cycle.
The timer dial represents a complete 24-hour period and is divided into 15-minute segments. These segments are used to select when the connected lighting system should operate.
Once the current time and required operating periods have been set, the timer progresses through the programme and repeats the same schedule each day.
Designed for the demands of HID lighting
HID lighting places particular demands on switching equipment. When an HID ballast starts, its electrical characteristics can place considerably more stress on timer contacts than would be expected from looking at running wattage alone.
For this reason, a standard household timer should not automatically be assumed suitable for controlling an HID ballast simply because its stated wattage rating appears high enough.
The Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer is specifically designed to control a single compatible 600W HID ballast, allowing the ballast to be switched directly without requiring a separate contactor for this specified application.
Ideal for single 600W HID lighting systems
The Loadstar timer is particularly suited to installations where one compatible 600W HID lighting system needs to operate on a consistent daily schedule.
It provides a compact and straightforward alternative to a larger multi-way lighting control system where only one ballast needs to be controlled.
For installations using several HID ballasts, an appropriately rated multi-way lighting contactor or dedicated lighting controller should be used instead of attempting to switch multiple ballasts through a single timer.
Simple 15-minute segment programming
The mechanical dial is divided into 96 individual 15-minute segments. These segments allow the required operating periods to be selected directly on the timer.
This makes it suitable for commonly used daily lighting schedules as well as custom programmes that operate in quarter-hour increments.
Mechanical programming also makes the timer easy to check at a glance. The selected operating periods are visible directly around the dial without needing to navigate menus or access a separate controller.
Setting up the Loadstar Heavy Duty Timer
Always follow the instructions supplied with the timer and the electrical requirements specified by the manufacturer of the connected ballast and lighting equipment.
Lighting timer safety & load management
The Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer is specified for one compatible 600W HID ballast. Its suitability for this application should not be interpreted as approval for multiple ballasts or other high-load electrical equipment.
Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer product details
| Brand | Loadstar |
|---|---|
| Product type | Heavy-duty segmental mechanical lighting timer |
| Timer cycle | 24 hours |
| Timing interval | 15 minutes |
| Switching segments | 96 per 24-hour cycle |
| Specified HID capacity | 1 x 600W HID ballast |
| Separate contactor required | No, when controlling the specified single compatible 600W HID ballast |
| Control type | Mechanical segmental timer |
| Schedule type | Repeating 24-hour programme |
| Manufacturer warranty | 12 months |
| Outer case quantity | 50 timers |
Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer FAQs
What is a heavy-duty lighting timer?
A heavy-duty lighting timer is designed to switch electrical loads that can place greater stress on timer contacts than ordinary household appliances. This Loadstar model is specifically designed for controlling a single compatible 600W HID ballast. What is the maximum HID lighting load for this timer?
The Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timer is designed to control 1 x 600W HID ballast. Larger or multi-light installations should use appropriately rated lighting control equipment. How accurately can I set the lighting times?
The mechanical dial is divided into 15-minute intervals, allowing switching times to be adjusted in quarter-hour increments across the 24-hour period. Can I set more than one on and off period during the day?
Yes. The segmental dial allows multiple operating periods to be selected within the same 24-hour cycle, provided the required switching times follow the timer's 15-minute intervals. Does the timer need programming every day?
No. Once the current time and required operating segments have been set, the mechanical programme repeats on a 24-hour cycle. Will the timer keep the correct time during a power cut?
The mechanical clock relies on the mains supply to advance, so a power interruption can leave the timer behind the actual time. Check and correct the dial following a power cut where necessary. Can I use this instead of a lighting contactor?
For the specified application of controlling a single compatible 600W HID ballast, the timer is designed to operate without a separate contactor. Multi-light installations require appropriately rated control equipment. Can I use the timer for an 18/6 or 12/12 lighting schedule?
Yes. The 24-hour segmental dial can be configured for commonly used daily schedules such as 18 hours on / 6 hours off or 12 hours on / 12 hours off. What is the advantage of a mechanical timer over a digital timer?
A mechanical timer is particularly straightforward where the same schedule is required every day. Switching periods are set directly on the dial, making the programme easy to view and adjust without navigating digital menus. Where should the Loadstar timer be installed?
Install the timer in a suitable dry location where it and its electrical connections are protected from water, irrigation spray and excessive moisture while remaining accessible for inspection. Should I check a mechanical lighting timer regularly?
Yes. Periodically check that the dial shows the correct current time, the required segments remain correctly set and the timer, plug and socket show no signs of damage or overheating. How many Loadstar Heavy Duty Lighting Timers are in an outer case?
The outer case quantity is 50 timers.
£85.00
Unit price per£85.00
Unit price perThe 20 Way + 4 + Heater MDF Lighting Timer Board is a high-capacity centralised power and lighting control system featuring 20 timed lighting sockets, 4 constant auxiliary sockets and a dedicated heater connection.
Designed for larger professional lighting installations, the board brings multiple lighting outputs and supporting environmental equipment together on a single organised, wall-mounted MDF control board.
The 20 timed sockets allow multiple compatible lighting systems to follow the same automatic schedule, while 4 constant auxiliary sockets provide continuous power for compatible equipment such as extraction and circulation fans.
A separate heater connection provides additional flexibility for environmental management, making this configuration particularly useful where lighting, ventilation and heating equipment need to be managed from one central location.
Why choose the 20 Way MDF Lighting Timer Board?
20 timed sockets for large lighting installations
The main section of the board provides 20 timed UK sockets. These allow compatible lighting equipment to be connected to a central switching system rather than relying on numerous separate plug-in timers.
The integrated contactor system handles the switching function, allowing the timer to control the lighting schedule without the lighting load passing directly through the timer contacts.
This type of arrangement is particularly valuable with larger lighting installations, where simultaneous switching can place substantial demands on ordinary domestic timing equipment.
The actual lighting equipment connected to the board must be suitable for the electrical supply and installation. Total circuit loading should be calculated as part of the electrical design rather than assuming that every socket can automatically be operated at a particular wattage.
4 constant auxiliary sockets for fans & equipment
In addition to the 20 timed lighting outlets, the board provides 4 constant auxiliary sockets.
These outlets are useful for compatible equipment that needs to remain powered independently of the lighting schedule. Typical applications include extraction fans, intake fans, circulation equipment and environmental control devices.
Separating constant-power equipment from the timed lighting circuit means ventilation can continue operating when the lighting switches off, where that is required by the environmental control strategy.
Dedicated heater connection
This version of the MDF timer board also includes a dedicated heater connection, distinguishing it from standard lighting and auxiliary-only configurations.
Heating can be particularly useful during lights-off periods, when the heat generated by horticultural lighting is no longer contributing to the growing environment.
The heater outlet provides a convenient connection point for compatible heating equipment as part of the overall installation. The electrical requirements and control method of the specific heater should always be checked before connection.
Why use a contactor timer board?
Switching a large number of lighting systems is very different from controlling a single low-load appliance. Lighting equipment can produce significant starting loads, particularly with HID and other ballast-based systems.
A contactor allows the timer to control the switching operation while the contactor itself handles the larger electrical load. This is a much more appropriate architecture for multi-light installations than attempting to place the complete lighting load through an ordinary plug-in timer.
Bringing the timer, contactor system and socket outlets together on one board also creates a cleaner and more manageable installation, making connections easier to identify and access.
Professional fixed installation
A 20-way timer board is a substantial piece of electrical distribution and control equipment and should be treated accordingly.
The board should be securely mounted in a suitable dry location with sufficient access for operation, inspection and maintenance. It should be protected from irrigation water, spray, condensation and other sources of moisture.
The electrical supply, protective devices, cable sizing, circuit arrangement and total connected load must all be appropriate for the installation.
Installation and electrical supply arrangements should be assessed and completed by a suitably qualified electrician.
20 Way + 4 + Heater MDF Lighting Timer Board product details
| Product type | MDF lighting contactor and timer board |
|---|---|
| Timed lighting sockets | 20 |
| Auxiliary sockets | 4 constant-power sockets |
| Heater connection | 1 dedicated heater connection |
| Board specification | 100A |
| Lighting control | Integrated timer and contactor switching |
| Auxiliary operation | Constant power, independent of the lighting timer |
| Mounting format | MDF board |
| Approximate dimensions | 60cm x 41cm x 13.5cm |
| Typical application | Large multi-light horticultural installations with associated ventilation and heating equipment |
| Outer case quantity | 4 boards |
20 Way MDF Lighting Timer Board FAQs
What does 20 Way + 4 + Heater mean?
The board provides 20 timed lighting sockets, 4 constant auxiliary sockets and a separate connection for compatible heating equipment. What is the difference between the timed and auxiliary sockets?
The 20 lighting sockets operate according to the timer schedule. The 4 auxiliary sockets provide constant power, making them useful for compatible equipment that needs to continue operating independently of the lighting cycle. Why does a large lighting installation need a contactor?
A contactor provides heavy-duty electrical switching for the connected lighting circuits. The timer controls the contactor rather than carrying the complete lighting load through its own switching contacts. Can the auxiliary sockets be used for extraction fans?
Yes. Compatible extraction, intake and circulation fans are typical applications for constant-power auxiliary sockets because they can remain powered when the timed lighting circuit switches off. Does the heater socket switch off with the lights?
The heater connection is separate from the main bank of timed lighting sockets. The operating arrangement should be checked against the board configuration and the requirements of the heating equipment during installation. Can I use all 20 lighting sockets at the same time?
The number and type of lights that can operate simultaneously depends on their electrical characteristics, the board specification and the electrical supply. Total connected load should be assessed as part of the installation rather than determined by socket count alone. Can this timer board be used with LED lighting?
It can be used with compatible lighting equipment where the electrical characteristics of the fixtures, drivers and switching system are suitable. The connected load and any starting or inrush current should be considered when specifying the installation. Where should an MDF lighting timer board be mounted?
It should be securely mounted in a suitable dry location, protected from irrigation water, spray and excessive moisture while remaining accessible for operation, inspection and maintenance. Does a 100A board mean I can automatically draw 100A from the mains?
No. The 100A figure is the board specification and does not determine what the premises electrical supply can provide. Available supply capacity, circuit protection, cabling and connected load must all be assessed for the individual installation. Does this need to be installed by an electrician?
A high-capacity multi-way lighting control board requires an appropriately designed electrical supply and protection. Installation and supply requirements should be assessed and completed by a suitably qualified electrician. Why use one central timer board instead of multiple extension leads?
A purpose-designed timer board centralises lighting control, contactor switching and auxiliary connections in one organised installation. It is designed for multi-light control rather than building a large system from numerous independent domestic extension leads and timers. How many 20 Way + 4 + Heater timer boards are in an outer case?
The outer case quantity is 4 boards.
£59.95
Unit price per£59.95
Unit price perThe 16 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board provides centralised switching and power distribution for larger lighting installations, combining 16 timed lighting sockets with 2 auxiliary sockets for compatible fans and supporting equipment.
Rather than controlling numerous lights with individual plug-in timers, the board brings the lighting connections together around a single timer and contactor-controlled switching system.
The 16 timed UK sockets allow compatible lighting equipment to operate from the same automatic schedule, while the 2 auxiliary sockets provide separate connections for compatible ventilation or environmental equipment.
Components are mounted together on a rigid MDF board, creating an organised central control point for larger horticultural lighting installations.
Why choose the 16 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board?
16 timed sockets for centralised lighting control
The main section of the board provides 16 timed UK sockets, allowing multiple compatible lighting systems to follow the same automatic operating schedule.
Centralised switching helps maintain a consistent lighting cycle across the installation and avoids having numerous individual timers that each need to be set and checked separately.
This is particularly useful where all lighting within an area needs to switch simultaneously at the beginning and end of each programmed lighting period.
The total electrical load must always be considered when specifying the installation. Socket count alone does not determine the number or wattage of lights that can safely be connected.
Contactor-controlled switching
Larger lighting installations place much greater demands on switching equipment than a single low-load appliance. Lighting systems can also produce significant starting or inrush currents depending on the technology and control gear being used.
The timer board uses a contactor-controlled arrangement. The timer determines when the lighting should operate, while the contactor system performs the switching of the connected lighting circuit.
This separates the timing function from the high-load switching function and provides a more appropriate arrangement for controlling multiple lighting systems than attempting to place the complete load through an ordinary domestic timer.
2 auxiliary sockets for fans & supporting equipment
Alongside the 16 lighting outlets are 2 auxiliary sockets intended for compatible supporting equipment such as ventilation fans.
Providing separate auxiliary connections makes it easier to integrate equipment that may need to operate independently from the main lighting schedule.
Typical applications can include compatible extraction or intake fans, circulation equipment and other environmental devices, subject to their electrical requirements and the design of the installation.
A central control point for larger installations
As the number of lights increases, power distribution can quickly become difficult to manage if it is assembled from numerous individual extension leads, timers and separate connections.
A dedicated timer board provides a much more organised approach by locating the lighting sockets, auxiliary connections, timer and switching components together.
This also makes the installation easier to understand and inspect because the principal lighting connections are located in one central area rather than distributed across multiple independent timers.
Professional fixed installation
A 16-way lighting timer board forms part of a substantial electrical installation. The available electrical supply, connected equipment, circuit protection and cabling must therefore be considered as a complete system.
The MDF board should be securely mounted in a suitable dry location with sufficient access for operation, inspection and maintenance. Keep the complete assembly protected from irrigation water, spray, condensation and excessive moisture.
The electrical supply and installation requirements should be assessed and completed by a suitably qualified electrician.
16 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board product details
| Product type | MDF lighting contactor and timer board |
|---|---|
| Timed lighting sockets | 16 |
| Auxiliary sockets | 2 |
| Socket format | UK sockets |
| Lighting control | Integrated timer with contactor-controlled switching |
| Mounting format | MDF board |
| Primary application | Centralised control of larger multi-light installations |
| Typical auxiliary applications | Compatible ventilation fans and supporting environmental equipment |
| Outer case quantity | 4 boards |
16 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board FAQs
What does 16 Way + 2 mean?
The board provides 16 sockets for the main timed lighting circuit plus 2 additional auxiliary sockets for compatible supporting equipment such as fans. Why use a lighting timer board instead of individual plug-in timers?
A timer board centralises the lighting connections and switching system. This makes a larger installation easier to organise and allows the connected lighting circuit to follow one common schedule rather than relying on numerous separately programmed timers. What does the contactor do?
The timer determines when the lighting should switch, while the contactor handles the electrical switching of the connected lighting circuit. This separates the timing function from the higher-load switching function. What can the two auxiliary sockets be used for?
They are intended for compatible supporting electrical equipment, with ventilation fans being a typical application. Always check the electrical requirements of the equipment before connection. Can I use all 16 lighting sockets?
The usable lighting capacity depends on the electrical characteristics of the connected equipment and the supply available to the board. The complete connected load must be assessed rather than assuming capacity from the number of sockets alone. Can this timer board control LED lighting?
Compatible LED lighting can be used where its drivers, total connected load and starting or inrush characteristics are suitable for the electrical installation and switching equipment. Is a timer board only for HID lighting?
No. Timer boards can be used with compatible lighting technologies where the electrical characteristics of the connected equipment are suitable. The installation should be specified according to the actual lighting equipment being used. Will all connected lights switch at the same time?
Lights connected to the same timed circuit follow the board's common timer schedule, allowing the lighting installation to switch together rather than relying on independently programmed timers. Where should the MDF timer board be installed?
Mount the board securely in a suitable dry location protected from irrigation water, spray, condensation and excessive moisture. It should remain accessible for operation, inspection and maintenance. Does this board need professional electrical installation?
The board forms part of a high-capacity multi-way electrical installation. The supply, circuit protection, cabling and connected load should be assessed and installed by a suitably qualified electrician. How do I know how many lights the board can safely operate?
This must be determined from the actual electrical characteristics of the lighting equipment, including running load and any starting or inrush current, together with the board and electrical supply specifications. Socket count alone should not be used to calculate electrical capacity. How many 16 Way + 2 timer boards are in an outer case?
The outer case quantity is 4 boards.
£49.99
Unit price per£49.99
Unit price perThe 12 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board provides centralised control for multi-light installations, combining 12 timed lighting sockets with 2 auxiliary sockets for compatible fans and supporting equipment.
Designed to provide a more organised alternative to using numerous individual plug-in timers, the board brings the lighting outlets, mechanical timer and contactor switching together on a single rigid MDF mounting board.
The 12 timed UK sockets allow compatible lighting equipment to follow the same automatic schedule, while the 2 auxiliary sockets provide separate connections for compatible ventilation or environmental equipment.
This makes the board particularly useful for medium to larger horticultural lighting installations where reliable centralised switching and straightforward equipment organisation are required.
Why choose the 12 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board?
12 timed sockets for multi-light control
The board provides 12 UK lighting sockets controlled by the central timer, allowing multiple compatible lighting systems to operate from the same programmed schedule.
This simplifies the management of larger lighting installations because the daily switching cycle can be controlled centrally rather than setting and maintaining a separate timer for every light.
Lighting connected to the timed circuit can therefore switch together at the beginning and end of the programmed lighting period.
The number of available sockets should not be confused with electrical capacity. The actual number, type and wattage of lights that can be connected depends on the electrical characteristics of the equipment, the timer board and the supply feeding it.
Contactor-controlled lighting
Switching multiple lighting systems can place significant demands on electrical control equipment, particularly where ballasts, drivers or other control gear produce substantial starting or inrush current.
The timer board uses a contactor-controlled switching arrangement. The mechanical timer determines when the lighting should operate, while the contactor handles the switching of the connected lighting circuit.
This is a more appropriate arrangement for multi-light control than attempting to pass the entire connected lighting load directly through an ordinary plug-in timer.
2 auxiliary sockets for fans & supporting equipment
In addition to the 12 timed lighting outlets, the board includes 2 auxiliary sockets for compatible supporting equipment.
Ventilation fans are a typical application, allowing extraction, intake or circulation equipment to be incorporated into the same organised power distribution area.
The electrical requirements of any equipment connected to these outlets should be checked before use. Equipment requiring dedicated thermostatic, speed or environmental control should still be connected through the appropriate controller where required.
A cleaner approach to multi-light power distribution
As a lighting installation expands, using numerous individual timers and extension leads can quickly make power distribution difficult to organise.
A dedicated MDF timer board provides a clear central point for the main lighting connections and associated equipment. This can make the installation easier to understand, inspect and maintain.
It also means the lighting schedule is controlled from one location, reducing the possibility of individual timers being set to slightly different times.
Installation & electrical planning
A 12-way lighting timer board forms part of a substantial electrical installation. The electrical supply, circuit protection, cabling and connected equipment therefore need to be considered together.
The board should be securely mounted in a suitable dry location and kept protected from irrigation water, spray, condensation and excessive moisture. Sufficient space should be maintained around the board for safe operation, inspection and maintenance.
The electrical supply and installation requirements should be assessed and completed by a suitably qualified electrician.
12 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board product details
| Product type | MDF lighting contactor and timer board |
|---|---|
| Timed lighting sockets | 12 |
| Auxiliary sockets | 2 |
| Socket format | UK sockets |
| Lighting control | Integrated mechanical timer with contactor-controlled switching |
| Mounting format | MDF board |
| Primary application | Centralised control of multi-light installations |
| Typical auxiliary applications | Compatible ventilation fans and supporting environmental equipment |
| Outer case quantity | 4 boards |
12 Way + 2 MDF Lighting Timer Board FAQs
What does 12 Way + 2 mean?
The board has 12 sockets for the main timed lighting circuit plus 2 additional auxiliary sockets for compatible supporting equipment such as ventilation fans. What is the advantage of controlling all the lights from one timer?
A central timer keeps compatible lighting on one common schedule. This avoids having to programme numerous individual timers and reduces the chance of different lights switching at slightly different times. Why is a contactor used on the timer board?
The contactor performs the electrical switching of the lighting circuit while the timer determines when that switching occurs. This avoids placing the complete multi-light load directly through the timer contacts. Can the two additional sockets be used for extraction and intake fans?
Compatible extraction, intake or circulation fans are typical applications for the auxiliary sockets. Any separate fan speed or environmental control requirements should still be considered when planning the system. Does having 12 sockets mean any 12 lights can be connected?
No. Socket count and electrical capacity are different. The connected equipment's running load, starting or inrush characteristics and the capacity of the electrical installation must all be considered. Can the timer board be used with modern LED plant lighting?
It can be used with compatible LED lighting where the drivers, total connected load and inrush characteristics are suitable for the switching equipment and electrical installation. Can HID and LED lighting be connected to the same timer board?
Potentially, but the complete electrical characteristics of the connected equipment must be assessed. Different lighting technologies can have very different starting and inrush behaviour even when their stated running wattages are similar. What happens if one light is unplugged?
The remaining equipment connected to the timed circuit can continue following the common timer schedule. Individual sockets provide separate physical connections while the switching schedule is controlled centrally. Where should the MDF lighting timer board be mounted?
Mount it securely in a suitable dry location protected from irrigation water, spray, condensation and excessive moisture, while retaining sufficient access for inspection and maintenance. Why is the board mounted on MDF?
The MDF panel provides a rigid mounting surface that keeps the sockets, timer and switching components together as one organised control assembly. Does this require professional electrical installation?
The board forms part of a substantial multi-way electrical installation. The available supply, circuit protection, cabling and total connected load should be assessed and the installation completed by a suitably qualified electrician. How many 12 Way + 2 timer boards are in an outer case?
The outer case quantity is 4 boards.
