The Simple Ventilation Timer Switch is designed to control bathroom exhaust fans or other ventilation fans, with added functionality for continuous minimum runtime. It’s often used by builders as part of their strategy to achieve Energy Star certification for homes.
Follow these steps to get your switch up and running.
1. Confirm it’s the right fit
The Simple Ventilation Timer Switch is a single-pole switch. This means it is designed specifically for fans controlled by a single switch.
Popular locations: Bathrooms (exhaust fans), laundry rooms
Not a good fit: Hallways, stairwells, or any fixture controlled by multiple switches (3-way or 4-way circuits)
If your fan is controlled by just 1 switch, the Simple Ventilation Timer Switch will work correctly.
If your fan is controlled by two or more switches, the Simple Ventilation Timer Switch will not work correctly.
2. Install the Simple Ventilation Timer Switch
Grab the faceplate and pull it off to remove the existing switch’s faceplate.
Pull the blue tab on the backplate to release the old switch (this mechanically and electrically disconnects it), then remove the old switch.
Insert the Simple Ventilation Timer Switch into the backplate.
Gently push the switch in while pushing the blue tab back in to lock it in place and connect it electrically.
Snap the faceplate back on to complete installation.
That’s it — no tools, breaker shutoff, or electrician required.
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3. Using the Simple Ventilation Timer Switch
Press the 10, 30, or 60 minute buttons to run the fan for that amount of time. The fan will shut off automatically when the time is up.
Press the top of the rocker to turn on the fan using the last selected duration.
Press the bottom of the rocker to turn the fan off immediately.
Press and hold the top of the rocker to turn the fan on continuously until you turn it off manually.
4. Adjusting the Minimum Runtime Dial
The Simple Ventilation Timer Switch includes an adjustable dial on the bottom of the switch (only accessible when the switch is removed from the wall).
This dial sets a minimum runtime per hour, between 0 and 60 minutes.
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Example settings:
0 minutes: The fan will only run when you manually turn it on.
15 minutes: The fan will run for at least 15 minutes every hour, 24/7.
60 minutes: The fan will run continuously.
This feature is primarily used by builders to help homes meet Energy Star ventilation requirements.
Troubleshooting
Switch is unable to control the fixture and no LEDs light up after installation.
First, verify the switch is installed in a single-pole location (one switch only controls the fan/light).
If confirmed single-pole, the most likely cause is a wiring issue in that location. The best next step is to try the switch in another single-pole location in your home.
The original switch may have worked fine because it is more forgiving when it comes to incorrect wiring. The Simple Ventilation Timer Switch requires the load conductor matched to the load port and the line conductor matched to the line port on the backplate for proper operation.
If the issue follows the switch, contact Deako Support for further assistance or a replacement.