How to Wire an Intermatic Timer Without a Ground

Install an intermatic to control overhead lights.

An intermatic timer installs in the wall in place of a standard wall switch and allows the light or ceiling fan to operate automatically on a set schedule. Ground wires connect to the ground and act as a backup wire in case the timer or switch wires fail. Ground wires decrease the risk of electrical shock, but an intermatic timer switch can function normally without one. Even if the previous switch is connected to a ground, the intermatic timer can be installed without it.

Things You'll Need

• Flat-head screwdriver
• Philips-head screwdriver
• Wire strippers

Instructions

1. Locate the circuit breaker panel within the home and shut off the breaker that controls the area in which you plan to work.

2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the screws of the current light or fan switchplate and unscrew them. Remove the switchplate. Pull the switch out from the wall, unscrew the twist connectors from the wires and disconnect them.

3. Grasp the dial on the face of the intermatic and pull it and the control panel components from the intermatic timer. Set them aside.

4. Pull out the wires from the wall and confirm that the tips are stripped a half inch with the wire strippers.

5. Twist the two wall wires to the black wires extending from the back of the intermatic timer. Screw supplied twist connectors onto each connection, until tight. If there is a ground wire extending from the wall, secure it to the metal box or timer to keep it out of the way.

6. Shove the wires into the wall to make room for the intermatic timer body. Insert the timer into the wall with the dial connection area facing outward, insert the two supplied flat-head screws into the holes and screw them through the timer into the mounting box.

7. Insert the switch plate over the timer, confirming that the intermatic timer light pokes through the top hole.

8. Place the control panel over the switch plate, so that the center of the timer goes through it. Insert the supplied control panel screw into the hole at the bottom of the control panel and screw it through the control panel, through the light switch and into the timer. Confirm that the screw is snug. Firmly press the dial onto the knob shaft, which extends from the timer through the control panel.

9. Flip the circuit breaker switch to the “On” position to reinstate the flow of electricity to the timer.

References

• Intermatic: Indoor Wall Switch Timer Manual