HBN CP-U204LX Outdoor Light Timer, Photocell, Countdown, Grounded Outlet

The built-in photocell switches connected lights on at dusk and off at dawn, so outdoor lighting can follow changing daylight without daily manual adjustments. For a set evening schedule, choose a countdown period instead.

The HBN CP-U204LX offers four countdown durations—2, 4, 6 or 8 hours—along with always-on and always-off settings. Its single grounded outlet gives you one point of control for a compatible outdoor device.

A flat plug helps make use of a crowded outlet, while the weather-resistant housing is designed for indoor or outdoor use. For outdoor installation, mount the timer vertically at least 2 ft above the ground.

Usage tips

Plug in the device you want to control, then turn the dial in either direction to select the operating mode. Choose a countdown setting when you want lights to switch off after a defined number of hours. The photocell setting is suited to dusk-to-dawn operation, while always-on and always-off provide straightforward manual choices.

For outdoor use, position the timer vertically at least 2 ft above ground to support its waterproof performance. Its IP44 rating and weather-resistant design make it suitable for settings such as a porch, garden or backyard. The flat plug is useful when outlet space is tight, and the single outlet keeps the setup simple: one timer controls one connected device.

Specifications

• Model: CP-U204LX
• Type: Outdoor photocell and countdown timer
• Colour: Black
• Material: Plastic
• Dimensions: 7.1D x 14.2W x 6.9H centimetres
• Settings: 7, including four countdown durations, always on, always off and dusk-to-dawn photocell operation
• Outlets: 1 grounded outlet
• Rating: 125V, 60Hz, 15A/1875W for resistive or general-purpose loads, 8A/1000W for tungsten and electronic ballast loads, 1/2 HP
• Weather rating: IP44

Where it shines

This timer is a practical fit for seasonal string lights and landscape decorations when you want a predictable shut-off time or automatic dusk-to-dawn control. It can also control suitable outdoor equipment such as a fountain or pool pump, provided the connected load matches the timer’s ratings. Rather than using a basic plug-in timer with fixed daily intervals, the photocell option responds to ambient light, the countdown options offer a defined run time when that suits the setup better.

Buyers often describe the controls as easy to set, which suits a routine that should take little effort to adjust. Feedback on reliability and weather resistance is mixed, so the product’s intended installation matters: use the specified vertical mounting position outdoors and select a mode that matches how you want the connected device to operate.

Before you decide

How do the countdown settings work? Select 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours for the timer to switch the connected device off after that period. The separate photocell mode turns it on at dusk and off at dawn.

How should I position it outdoors? Mount the timer vertically at least 2 ft above the ground. Its IP44 weather-resistant design is intended for outdoor as well as indoor use.

What electrical loads can it handle? The stated rating is 125V, 60Hz and 15A/1875W for resistive or general-purpose loads, 8A/1000W for tungsten and electronic ballast loads, and 1/2 HP. Match the connected device to the applicable rating.

Buying verdict

For outdoor lights or other appropriately rated equipment, the CP-U204LX brings several useful control choices into one grounded outlet: set a countdown for a defined evening run, use the photocell for dusk-to-dawn switching, or select always on or off. It suits a straightforward installation where flexible scheduling and light-responsive control are the main priorities.