I have a light at the top of my steps with a switch at the top and bottom of the steps to turn it off & on. My problem is that everyone has no problem turning the light on but it has a hard time getting turned off. I don't really want to put a motion sensor there because we'd be having the light going on and off during daytime hours. Is there a switch that has a timer in it that turns off the lights in a certain amount of time if they are left on?
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Most motion detectors only work when it's dark, so using one here shouldn't be a problem (unless it's always very low light in this area of your house). On some of the better ones, you can adjust the sensitivity as well as the duration of the "ON" time.
You can get timers that you substitute for the wall switch. You can get them at Radio Shack, Lowe's, Home Depot, etc. Make sure you get the type for two poles since you have two switches controlling the same light. This is also a nice solution for outdoor lights. The electronic ones are easier to use and take up a bit less space -- naturally they cost a bit more than the ones with a round dial on the front. The only disadvantage with the switch timer is you may have to reset them if the power goes out. PS: To have the lights turn on independently of the timer, you only need to press them on the front.
I usually install them on all of my outdoor light switches when I move into a new home so I feel more secure.
Also, the motion detector light is great for walk-in or other closets to be sure lights go out as needed.
