Timers

Being on time is a lot harder than keeping time. And, though there might not be a timer to physically get you somewhere on time, there are plenty of options reminding you how much time has passed, how much time is left, and how to manage time.

A timer is just that – a time manager. We rely on timers everyday, whether we realize it or not. How else would we wake up in the morning? Counting on music or a buzzer to wake us is a lot more reliable than the proverbial rooster.

Types of Timers

There are several different types of timers including mechanical, digital, and electronic.

Mechanical – first kitchen timers, like the popular egg version, that need to manually set

Digital – rely on small batteries and can be programmed to perform easy tasks

Electronic – using batteries or an electric source and can be programmed to perform multiple options with multiple cycles.

Where Timers Are Used

Timers are used all over the house and workplace. Time clocks often verify when we begin work, and depending on the workplace, a whistle or horn set with a timer blows notifying us when lunch begins and ends. The kitchen timer, whether it is a freestanding manual or digital tool, is used for cooking and other tasks in and around the kitchen. We set timers when we cook or heat things up in the microwave.

Some digital timers come equipped with a stopwatch and clock and can be used for athletic training and events. Sometimes we set our cell phones to alert us when we've used up allotted minutes. Timers remind our children how long two minutes really is when they brush their teeth and how long to remain in time out when they've been bad.

Electronic Timers

Electronic timing units can be used in various settings. The simplest electronic timers can be plugged into a wall outlet and control lamps and other electronic equipment around the house. These are great for vacations since they can be set to go on and off during the day and night to make it seem as if someone is home, deterring burglars and thieves. Electronic timers can also be used to monitor watering systems in the yard. These programmable units save water by setting up watering cycles when installed with sprinkler and drip systems. Fairly new to the market are outdoor lighting timers that can be programmed to control outdoor lighting fixtures and holiday lights.

Energy Savers

Some might say that the most valuable aspect of timers is their ability to save energy. Timers connected to energy sources such as hot water heaters, computers, and other electronic equipment can be set to turn on and off at set times, conserving this finite resource.

By Sophia Markoulakis