How do I connect a timer box to conduit?

Question

I recently bought a timer for my pool. There is a switch where I want to put the timer, but I don't know how to connect the timer box to the conduit that is coming out of the ground. It looks like the switch is glued into the conduit... I didn't install the switch, though, so I'm not sure what to do.

Answer 1

If your timer isn't built-in to its own box or enclosure you should just be able to take the cover plate off the switch, remove the switch from its enclosure, and install the timer into the existing enclosure.

If the timer is self contained in its own closure, you'll have to physically remove the existing switch enclosure.  By mentioning that it looks like it's "glued" to the conduit I'm going to guess that it's PVC.  If that's the case, you'll actually have to cut the PVC conduit just below the existing switch box, being careful not to cut the wires.  If your timer box is PVC, you just glue it on the PVC conduit.  If not, you'll have to get weathertight clamps/seals to connect it.  Then it's just a matter of connecting the wires.

Be careful with electricity.  Make sure the power to the ciruit is turned off before doing anything.  If you're not comfortable dealing with this, don't hesitate to call an experienced electrician.  It should be a quick and relatively inexpensive job.

Answer 2

There should be some electrical knockouts stamped on the timer enclosure, unless you had the timer made at a sheet metal company.  If knockouts are stamped, use a screwdriver and hammer to remove the stamped hole equal to the size of the conduit used, 1/2 or 3/4 usually.

Answer 3

Call a qualified professional electrician to do the work. You are clueless and it's dangerous near a pool.