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This $5 Timer is Exactly What I Needed This Christmas

This little gadget kept my house festive even when I wasn’t home, and now I'll be using it all year.
Cyber monday timer deal
Photo: Bob Vila Team

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My family goes all out for Christmas. We’re that house with a tree in every room—I’m not exaggerating. With all the time and effort we put into decorating, we want the house to look festive even when we’re not home. 

Then, someone told me about an $5 plug-in timer that can automatically turn on your electrical devices, including your Christmas lights. The programmable timer is easy to install. Simply plug the receptor into the outlet and plug your device (lights!) into the receptor. After that, push down the pins to program the device for how long you want your lights to stay on. The timer will take care of the rest. Even better, the timers I use are on sale for Cyber Monday.

$5.52 Each

BN-LINK BND-60/U47 Indoor Mini 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer, 3-Prong, 2-Pack
ON SALE NOW

BN-Link Indoor Mini Outlet Timer, 2-Pack

While I love this plug-in timer for indoor use, it should come as no surprise that my outdoor decor is just as elaborate. For outdoor use, I like to use this heavy-duty grounded timer, which is on sale for Cyber Monday. 

41% Off

BN-LINK 24 Hour Heavy Duty Mechanical Timer, Outlet Timer
ON SALE NOW

BN-Link Heavy-Duty Mechanical Outdoor Timer

This outdoor timer features two 3-prong outlets and can be programmed in 15-minute intervals. Best of all, it’s waterproof for outdoor use and the cover provides protection from rain, snow, and ice. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it gadget unless you want to change the timing.

Prices listed here are accurate as of November 26, 2024.

 
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