Do line voltage timers blow transformers?

[charles-2007]

I have used the Intermatic ST01 astronomic timer which is rated for ballast and other significant loads (see specs on Intermatic site) -- the output is line voltage. I have seen other comments about such timers in the forum but I'm unclear what this would do to the longevity of the transformer.

The downside is this must be inside but the upside is it can be "up to" 100ft away from the load.

[sitelights]

The short answer is: no.

There is a thread in this forum: "Affordable Astronomic Timer" that details the Intermatic SS8 which is the earlier version of the ST01. There are minor differences i.e smaller, different battery and so on but they function the same.

The long answer is contained in a post replying to a reply and so on. This was popular topic and the posts continue on a second page. Near the bottom of the first page there is a very lengthy post containing the answer you seek in the 9th (!) paragraph; I note this to save time.

Timers and photocontrols for that matter are simple switches activated by something other than a forefinger. There is nothing about a transformer that would render it terminally inoperative by repeatedly turning the power on and off; this will eventually wear out the switch but leave the transformer unscathed.

Any member or guest that reads through the posts on a topic of interest will find many lengthy (too lengthy) essays by Sitelights.