Honeywell TI070-3W Review

Honeywell T1070 Switch Review

Aube by Honeywell TI070-3W Review /U ECONO Switch Programmable Timer Switch

The timer works well and is great because several timers will not control compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL’s) nearly as well. Since we are moving in that direction in lighting, that is an important fact to consider.

A distinction that should be clarified is that this TI070 model must have a load OVER 40 watts in order to function. If you are controlling CFL lights that are more than 3 bulbs since a 60W incandescent equivalent draws just 13 watts. You would need to add a fourth bulb to bring the total load from 39 watts to 52 watts for it to work properly. However, the TI071 model can handle loads less than 40 watts according to the instructions. The T1071 model requires a neutral wire, which the TI070 model does not require. This could factor into older wiring installations but is not a factor in modern wiring systems.

The end result -Honeywell T1070 Switch Review – the TI070 model requires a load of at least 40 watts, but does not require a neutral wire connection and the TI071 model will effectively manage a smaller load below 40 watts, but it does require a neutral wire connection. This can be quite effective in reducing electrical energy consumption in the home.

One user reports using a few of these for many years and none have ever failed. The setup is straightforward and programming is reasonably simple for the average user. You can set this timer to control lighting automatically and adjust time on and time off for sunrise and sunset. You can leave the house at 4pm with lights off and come back at 9pm, the front lights are on.

A few people have commented about that programming was a bit difficult for them, while others would like more flexible programming, but that usually comes with complexity. These issues vary according to consumer capabilities. One user reports that it is very easy to install with the included easy to understand instructions that walk you through the process. The package comes with wire caps and the wires are labelled and pre-stripped also.

Aube makes quite a few models. Some are designed for more heavy-duty work and controlling motors and some target simple lighting. They now have models that offer additional programming options and higher wattage ratings. The T1034 for example, is perfect for porch lights. If your porch light happens to be wired with the front outside plug, you could also easily control external Christmas lights.

A brief summary provided by one user may assist you in your selection of the appropriate model.

Model Power Programming
TI032-3W 500 W @ 120 V, 40 W minimum 7 manual
TI032-3W-5 500 W @ 120 V, 40 W minimum 7 manual
TI034-3W 500 W @ 120 V, 40 W minimum Sunset/sunrise
TI070-3W 500 W @ 120 V, 40 W minimum 7 manual + Sunset/sunrise
TI073-3W 500 W @ 120 V, 40 W minimum 21 manual + Sunset/sunrise
TI033 2400 W max., 1 HP @ 120 V 7 manual
TI035 2400 W max., 1 HP @ 120 V Sunset/sunrise
TI071 1800 W @ 120 V, 0 W minimum 7 manual + Sunset/sunrise
TI072-3W 1800 W @ 120 V, 0 W minimum 21 manual + Sunset/sunrise

The 3W means 3-way. The -5 is almond color.

You can program sunrise and sunset by entering your city’s longitude and attitude. The operation appears to be quite accurate and even has bias settings in case you want it to turn on later or off earlier, when it may still be light out or if you want your lights to come on before it is into full darkness outside.

One small notable point is that you need to pull out a tab from beneath the timer to cut the circuit before you change the bulb. The directions state you should do this to avoid the possibility of shorting the timer out. It is very simply done. It’s handy that you can turn off or place the back-lit screen on low. When the lights are on, a small blue light in the lower corner is visible which is a great feature and is not distracting.

Honeywell T1070 Switch Review – This particular timer has a permanent memory for program and settings and does not require an additional battery for that job. Several other Aube timers in this price range list a backup power battery. The time and day of the week on the display are a nice addition. Great timer – one of the few you can use if your switchbox wiring is old and only has two wires, no neutral. Good looking, and with the sunset/sunrise setting you can set it one time and then you are on auto pilot.