JimM

The only thing you need to do is get a grounded timer, one with three holes instead of merely two. Chirstmas lights are usually lower voltage and often times are not grounded. So instead of a $5 timer, you'll pay $10. I've used mechanical and digital timers. The reason I prefer digital is that usually those come with a battery inside to keep the time accurate even if a power outage occurs. With mechanicals, you have to turn the dial to get them back on time if they were off for a small duration, since they will otherwise run your light period later because of the lost time / lag. Hope that makes sense.

More pictures. This one has a date on the front of the timer to remind me when I installed the metal halide (or VHO) bulb.

Thanks Marc,
That's just what I needed to know. Are there any articles that you can remember on what to do to ensure your electrical outlet strips remain dry that you could recommend? Just received a new light fixture and while working on the tank just a little water landed on one of the MH ballasts... fryed it suprisingly fast! Next project... rearrange the electrical to provide for more water safety.
???