CABAC | Minute Mechanical Timer 3-Wire 240V 5A | Programmable 1–60 Minutes
The CABAC HNS440TM is a 3-wire programmable minute timer rated 240V AC 50Hz 5A, designed for fans, motors, and incandescent loads with adjustable time delays from 1 to 60 minutes. The HNS440TM includes both timer and no-timer modes: a quick button tap activates timer operation, while a sustained 2-second press enables continuous run without timeout. Time is programmed by holding the button for 10 seconds to enter setup, then tapping once per minute of desired delay; the unit retains all settings after power loss and ships with a 30-minute factory default.
Bathroom and laundry exhaust fans are the primary application. Tradies specify the HNS440TM to prevent fans running indefinitely when occupants forget to switch them off. Timers prevent energy waste on unattended spaces and extend equipment lifespan by eliminating needless runtime—a recurring job cost in rental properties, retirement facilities, and commercial installations. The dual-function design gives occupants flexibility: spaces can run on automatic timer operation during peak hours or switch to manual continuous mode other times. The compact 51mm form factor fits standard wall boxes. The HNS440TM suits wire-wound transformers and fan motors without derating—a constraint many mechanical timers cannot match. Installation is straightforward: wire Active, Neutral, and Load lines to the three screw terminals, clip on the appropriate button (HPM or Clipsal), and program via push button. Multi-way switching is supported via the remote button (HNS020RB) or a standard mains-rated momentary switch, with remote wire runs up to 50 metres.
Licensed electricians value the HNS440TM for its configurable power-up behaviour (ON or OFF after mains loss) and motion detector compatibility with HNS050MD and HNS060MD motion sensors. In automatic lighting setups, the timer works as the cut-off stage behind a motion sensor, turning loads off after occupancy is no longer detected. The blue LED indicates device status and provides an expiry warning 10 seconds before timeout, helping occupants know when the load is about to switch. The LED can be set to always-on for locating the switch in dark spaces.
Features
- Programmable 1–60 minutes — set run time in 1-minute increments by tapping the button, with 30-minute factory default retained through power loss and easily adjusted without a phone app or external tool.
- Timer and no-timer modes — quick tap activates timed run; sustained 2-second press enables continuous operation with manual off-tap, giving flexibility for spaces with mixed use patterns (timed evenings, manual daytime).
- Rated for wire-wound transformers and fan motors — handles 500VA core ballasts, 500VA LED/CFL, 1200W incandescent/heating, and 500VA fan loads without derating, making it ideal for exhaust fans, heat lamps, and motor-driven appliances where electronic dimmers fail.
- Blue LED status indicator — shows device operation and gives expiry warning in the last 10 seconds before timeout, with optional always-on setting for locating the switch in dark spaces.
- HPM and Clipsal 30 series wall plate compatible — retrofits existing installations without wall plate replacement. (Not compatible with Clipsal Iconic)
- Screw terminals suit 0.5–1.5mm² cable — standard stranded wire; bootlace terminals recommended for reliable termination in residential and light commercial installs without risk of corrosion or loose connection.
- Motion detector compatible — works seamlessly with HNS050MD and HNS060MD motion detectors in automatic lighting and ventilation setups, with the timer serving as the scheduled cut-off stage.
- Multi-way switching capable — remote button (HNS020RB) or momentary mains-rated switch wired across Active and Remote, with no limit on remote switches provided total remote wire length does not exceed 50 metres.
- Configurable power-up behaviour — can be set to power up ON (factory default) or OFF after mains loss, useful for applications with master switches or intermittent power supply where occupancy should determine startup state.
- Indoor use only — not rated for outdoor or damp exposed installations; use wall-mounted enclosures or weatherproof alternatives for external locations or high-humidity bathrooms.
Where to use
- Bathroom and laundry exhaust fans — the most common application; timers stop fans running after occupants leave the room, preventing energy waste and equipment wear on fixtures left on unintentionally.
- Spa and pool air pumps — timed operation suits periodic activation; the dual-mode design lets owners run the pump manually during daytime or on a timer overnight for temperature control.
- Heat lamp circuits — outdoor patios, sauna rooms, and commercial spaces; prevents lamps left on accidentally and extends halogen globe lifespan by reducing runtime.
- Commercial kitchen exhaust fans — runs for a set period after kitchen close to clear residual heat and odour, then cuts power automatically without staff remembering to switch it off.
- Rental properties and retirement facilities — reduces maintenance callbacks from tenants or residents forgetting to switch off fans or heat lamps; contractors often install multiple units across a property for consistency.
- Motion-detector-triggered lighting and ventilation — works as the cut-off stage behind a motion sensor (HNS050MD/HNS060MD), turning loads off after occupancy is no longer detected and time expires.
- Under-cabinet and accent lighting — timed operation for kitchen under-cabinet LED or task lighting; the HNS440TM eliminates the need for manual switching and extends LED lifespan by limiting hours of operation.
The HNS440TM is not suitable for wet areas, outdoor installations, or locations subject to splash or high humidity without additional protection. It is designed for indoor wall-mounted switch positions only and requires a protective enclosure if used in damp environments or temperatures outside the 0–50°C operating range.
Verified Sparky Direct customer reviews: CABAC Minute Mechanical Timer (HNS440TM)
"Quite small form factor, very good quality, nice feel, decent capacity." — Tom
"Great timer for Bathroom fans that keep getting left on. Easy to install." — Steve
"Easy to install and program. Tied in with a heat lamp to prevent lamp being left on." — BK