The 3 Best Aquarium Power Timers and Centers of 2023

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Updated on 10/21/22

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Fish in an aquarium. — Natal Ambarnikova / Getty Images

Aquarium power centers and timers are essential for efficiently controlling tank lights, pumps, and other electrical devices in a both saltwater and freshwater aquariums. Not only do they regulate day and nighttime conditions for your fish, but also they can power your other devices to prevent them from using too much energy or tripping an outlet.

To help you find the best one for your needs, here are the best aquarium power timers and centers to add to your set-up.

The Coralife Power Center combines 24-hour timer(s) and an eight-outlet indoor power strip for a seamless transition from dawn to dusk lighting conditions.

It has four timer-controlled (two daytime and two nighttime) and four constant-power outlets and will switch automatically between daytime and nighttime outlets sequencing daylight, actinic, and lunar lights for the ultimate reef lighting system.

The Single Digital Power Center has four constant-power outlets and four alternating timer-controlled outlets (two daytime and two nighttime). The enhanced digital feature allows the alternating timer to set the day-night cycle at different times of the day on different days of the week.

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Determine and replace energy-abusing aquarium equipment. Plug up to ten electrical devices into this smart power strip to monitor electricity use. The built-in surge protection keeps equipment safe while the large backlit LCD shows operating cost. Use the Kill A Watt PS 10 to forecast daily, weekly, monthly, or even yearly electrical expenses. The dimensions are 16.6 x 7.25 x 2.6 inches.

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Zoo Med Laboratories Aquasun Controller does double duty as a grounded, eight-outlet power strip or programmable timer. The convenient Timer Bypass Switch allows simple manual control.

Choose power strip mode (all eight outlets receive continuous power) or timer mode. There is a total of four-timer controlled and four continuous power outlets to suit your aquarium needs.

Use with aquarium light fixtures to customize 24-hour day and night light cycle for your fish. An easy-to-set analog timer features grounded outlets, a safety reset button, and a three-prong plug for operational safety.

The Zoo Med Laboratories Aquasun Controller is UL-Listed and is rated for 15 amps/1,875 watts.

Compatibility

Given the extensive amount of equipment aquariums need, you likely have many different types of plugs. Take a moment to observe what types you have and find a power timer and center that will accommodate each and every one. Also, consider the capacity of your outlets. You don't want to buy a power timer or center that will cause them to trip.

Protection

Whether you spill water during maintenance or your tank leaks, accidents can happen. To help you prevent your power centers from getting wet, look for one that has a splash-resistant cover or can be mounted on the wall. Also, consider finding one with surge protection to keep your equipment safe from burning out.

Versatility

Look for a power center that combines timed-outlets and constant-power outlets. This will help you maintain all your equipment in one spot, including the ones that need to be off during certain times of the day. Also, consider finding a power strip with separate power buttons for each plug. This can be especially helpful if you need to cut the power to one device without unplugging it, while the others stay running.