Timers are great. However, they do use power too (usually very small amounts). I've noticed this when I hook up my block heater in winter. I have it on a timer and when I put a kill a watt on it I can see the power being used even if I don't plug the block heater in. Are there more/less efficient timers?
Speaking of timers, I did just pickup a Belkin timer. It works a little different than most timers. This one works off the push of a button. You set the timer on the side of the unit for 1/2 hr, 3hrs, or 6 hrs. It turns the outlet on for that amount of time, then shuts the power completely off. While it is on it has a light on it to show you. I liked this idea because there isn't even the standby losses of the timer keeping its clock going. However, you do have to press the button on top to turn the outlet on.
F7C009 Belkin Conserve Socket™
