How to Operate a Pool Timer

A swimming pool timer is a mechanical device that allows you to automatically control the length of time each day your pool pump remains in operation. By cycling the pool's pump on and off at preset times, you can operate the pump only when you need it, allowing it to remain off during all other periods. Some newer electronic timers are available that operate pumps, control heaters and operate lighting systems for the swimming pool. Proper operation of a mechanical pool timer is easy to master and will save you many times its purchase price in annual savings if used accordingly.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers
• Dry rag
• Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

1. Check to make sure the electrical supply to the swimming pool timer is on by locating its circuit breaker. The circuit should be in the "On" position. Also, check to make sure the power is turned on to the swimming pool pump (its circuit breaker also should be in the "On" position.

2. Calibrate the swimming pool timer so that it is "reading" the current time. Do this by opening the pool timer cover (it is usually a plastic box mounted to the wall near the pool pump, with hinges on the left side). Swing open the cover, then look for the marking arrow located above the revolving clock face that represents the time (the clock dial will revolve beneath the arrow as time passes).

3. Pull the clock face directly toward you about 1/4 inch. It is spring-mounted and will pull easily. Rotate the clock dial clockwise until the time shown under the arrow is approximately the time of day you are performing this maintenance. Release the clock dial. It will snap back into place.

4. Locate the "Start" and "Stop" pins that are attached to the clock face. There are usually two of them (but some model timers have four). These dictate what time of day or night the timer will allow electricity to flow through the timer to the pool pumps by pushing against a control switch located beneath the clock face. Partially loosen the screw that retains the "Start" pin in place. Once the screw is loose, rotate the pin so that it resides above the time on the clock dial that you want the pool pump to be turned on. Tighten the retaining screw.

5. Repeat the pin setting process of Step 4 for the "Stop" pin as well. As the hours of swimming pool use increase during the warm summer months, you may need to adjust these pins accordingly. Generally, 6 to 8 hours of pump filtering time are adequate during winter months. Up to 12 hours per day may be used during times of heavy pool use in the summer swimming months.

6. Periodically check to make sure the set pins have not worked loose on your timer. If they do, simply tighten the screws a bit tighter with a Phillips screwdriver. Be careful not to over-tighten them, however, since the clock dial is usually made of thin sheet metal that is easily damaged.

Tips & Warnings

• Wipe any debris from the inside of the timer box to prevent accidental obstruction of the spinning clock dial. Don't forget to reset the timer after power outages.

References

• Stephen Allen: Energy Savings Through Automatic Seasonal Run Time Adjustment Of Pool Filter Pumps
• Wet Head Media: Intermatic Pool Timer Troubleshooting & Repair Guide