Laboratories make up approximately 50% of UBC’s energy consumption. One easy way to reduce energy is to turn equipment off when not in use.
Outlet Timer Contest
Join the OUTLET TIMER CONTEST!
The contest runs from February 25th to March 22nd, 2026. One form submission to apply for an outlet timer counts as an entry from your lab to win a free lunch for your lab!
Winners will be announced the week of March 23rd, 2026.
About Outlet Timers
Does your lab have equipment that could be powered down at night with an outlet timer? Outlet timers can shut down and start up equipment automatically at set times, cutting off the electricity to equipment when not needed. Outlet timers have shown to reduce equipment energy consumption up to 33%, resulting in energy cost savings. Timers can also reduce the fire hazard risk of having electrical heating equipment on when no one is in the lab.
You can now get a free outlet timer at the UBC Chemistry Store and participate in the contest to win a free lunch for your lab!
How to Participate
1. Identify Equipment
Identify equipment in your lab that is often left on but could be turned off at night without interfering with your research. Timers are particularly useful for equipment that needs to be set at a certain temperature before researchers arrive or after they leave. Examples include heating blocks, temperature-controlled water baths, and benchtop drying ovens.
2. Discuss with Lab Occupants
It is important that anyone using the affected equipment is aware of and on board with the changes. You can use this resource for tips on how to talk to your lab about using outlet timers. Test out different on/off schedules that meet everyone’s needs.
3. Request Timers
Fill out the form below to request an outlet timer and to be entered to win a free lunch for your lab! Equipment suitability will need to be verified with support from Green Labs, including equipment type, model, power controls, and wattage.
4. Collect & Install Timer
Once approved, collect your timer(s) from the Chemistry Store as per the provided instructions.
Installing the timer is a simple process. Please work with colleagues and your lab manager to determine the appropriate on/off schedule, and program the timer as per instructions to turn on and off at agreed upon hours. The timer must be plugged into a wall outlet, and the equipment is then plugged into the timer. Test the outlet timer functions as intended and adjust the timer settings as necessary. Please affix the postcard that you received with your outlet timer to or near your outlet timed equipment, with contact information for you or your lab manager.
ATTENTION: timers are not to be plugged into extension cords. Timers should not be used for equipment that may have dangerous consequences due to inaccurate timing. The electrical ratings of the equipment used shall never exceed the ratings indicated on the timer.
Once the timer has been installed, spot checks may be conducted to verify installation of the timer and contest entry.
6. Monitor
Every so often, check to ensure the timer is still in use and functioning, with the appropriate on/off times. If the timer is no longer needed, please let Green Labs know so it can be redistributed to another lab on campus.