Timed outdoor socket supply

Steve T · Nov 9, 2019

Hi
I’ve got a standard double outdoor socket that has been installed for some time, and I’d like to make the supply to it timed to run some lights in the garden in autumn/winter only.
I’m planning on using a greenbrook mechanical timer, which is rated at 16a resistive and 2a inductive. I will install this after the FCU that currently supplies to socket. However my question is:
I only need a timed supply for 2-3 months in the year, and for the rest of the year I would need constant power to the socket for lawnmower/pressure washer use etc.
I know this could be achieved by setting the timer to the constant ON setting, but is it ok the leave it like this for most of the year even though the timer will still be constantly rotating?
Thanks for any replies!

Midwest · Nov 9, 2019

Why not replace your existing outdoor twin socket, with something like this;

Masterseal Plus Timer Socket - IP66 - Grey - Due 121th April | MK (K56485GRY)

It has a manual override as well. PS you can buy it elsewhere

Steve T · Nov 9, 2019

Thanks for the suggestion, but unfortunately it won’t work as I need the two socket outlets in the outdoor socket and those timer sockets only have one outlet. Would it be safe to use the hardwired timed though, as I had planned?

snowhead · Nov 9, 2019

Stick a timer socket on as well as the existing twin, you'll have timed and not timed available.

As above , cheaper versions available elsewhere, not same make tho;