Digital Timer Switch Electrical Wiring Instructions

How to Wire a Timer Switch for Lighting: As described, the wiring will require four wires for the connections to the time switch.

Requirements for Most Digital Timer Switches
Electrical Question: I just bought a Pass & Seymour RT1W Digital Timer switch to replace my simple single-pole switch.

• My problem is that the installation instructions diagram doesn’t match my simple 1975 Constructed home,  switch-box configuration which is one wire set – white, black, unshielded ground connected to nothing in the box.

• My new switch comes with FOUR wires:
  • White (labeled Neutral)
  • Black (labeled HOT, power from circuit box)
  • Red (labeled LOAD, power to lamp or fan)
  • Green (labeled GROUND)

The ground is easy, but do I connect the other THREE(White, Black, and Red) RT1 switch wires to the TWO (Black & White) I have left in my old switch box?

Background: Ron, a Homeowner from Newberg, OR.
Additional Comments: I’m anxious to see how this site works out. If it is what it seems to be … this is really awesome !

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Ron.

How to Wire a Timer Switch for Lighting

• Ron, the digital time switch that you have requires a separate neutral wire.
• Your wiring configuration will not work with this timer unless there is a neutral wire in the switch box.
• As described above, the wiring will require four wires for the connections to the time switch.

I have provided the following that lead to fully detailed information on this website that will assist you with your Digital Timer Switch Project

• Light Switch Wiring
• Electrical Wire for the Home
• This link is helpful as a Homeowner
  • Do-It-Yourself Electrical
• Make sure not to miss these Resources for: Wiring Diagrams
  Wiring Diagrams

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter. Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution: Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring. Important: Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

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