Came without instructions. how do you operate the timer

Go to the manufacturers web site and download the instructions.

Globe analog plug-in timer:
Copy following link for instructions by experimenting with timer features.
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-set-timers.html

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Post question with clear description of timer, and what timer is used for.

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http://www.legrand.us/passandseymour/timers/7-button-preset-digital-timer/rt1w.aspx is the link to follow for operating instructions...only thing I could find that was related...hope it helps!

Open following link for T1906 wiring and programming instructions, replacement part numbers, and copy of manual:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-wire-T1906-Intermatic-timer.html

Open following link for troubleshoot checklist:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-Intermatic-timer.html

Add a comment for more help.

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Double check your slide switch.
For timer: set switch to TIMER
For thermostat: set switch to ON
If slide switch does not operate, then Autocirc may be defective

Laing (800) 554-6853
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Laing-E1-E3-E10-install-instructions.pdf
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Auto-circ-manual.pdf
http://waterheatertimer.org/Water-heater-recirculation-system.html

1) Household AC wiring will not affect the timer.
You can check your outlet using cheap circuit analyzer from home center.
The clock rotates one direction and the pins push small lever down which turns motor on-off.
When the OFF pins pass, the small lever snaps back and the motor turns ON.

I cannot immediately find operation manual for the E-1 model.
Typical ACT303 auto circ manual says following:

2) If timer controlled operation is desired, set timer and move slide switch to TIMER:
Manual says: tabs/pins are outward for ON times.
Another sentence says UPWARD, so I don't know which way the pins are set for sure.
So if you want timer ON for 2 hours, you would set 4 consecutive pins outward or upward.
ON for 6 hours, set 12 consecutive pins outward or upward.
If the timer turns ON in reverse of instructions, then set the pins that way.
Autocirc does not make the timer, they buy timer modules from clock-makers like Grasslin, Intermatic, etc.

3) To operate Autocir thermostatically without the timer, slide switch to ON position.
The clock dial will continue rotating

Timer wiring instructions shown on following page:
http://waterheatertimer.org/GE-timers-and-manuals.html#15071

You connected the white wire and red wire together, and that is why lights are clicking on-off.
I test timers and have done this intentionally during testing.
Follow instructions shown on link above, and GE timer will work correctly.
Same wiring applies to Tork, Swilight, Utilitec, Woods, Leviton, Intermatic non-battery operated timers.
Instructions are different for Aube, Brinks, UPM and Intermatic battery operated

You posted under Woods 59204
If this is not your timer, add a comment

Open link below to view all Woods timers and manuals, to identify product:
http://waterheatertimer.org/Woods-timers-and-manuals.html

Several folks have been writing in about Woods timers that don't come with instructions.
Or instructions say click switch and there is no switch.

Woods 59204 is dial-type timer has tiny segments located around edge of dial.

Segments pushed out = timer ON
Segments pushed inward = timer OFF
> Dial rotates as time passes
To set current time, rotate dial clockwise until current hour lines up with arrowhead located on inner dial.
Small switch is located in upper right, above dial.
Move switch to timer ON for timer programs to operate.

If your timer does not have switch, I suspect this could be promotional timer.
Woods sells different timers packaged under different numbers & brands.
Try timer without 'switch' and then add a comment with information to assist others with same problem.

You posted question under ST01C timer.
ST01C is battery operated.
It has black blue red and green wires
I have tested this timer a little bit
If you have your blue and black wires reversed, then it will produce the symptoms you describe.
ST01C will not operate programs if blue and black wires are reversed
Remember the red wire is capped off in the ST01C
http://waterheatertimer.org/ST01C-program.html
http://waterheatertimer.org/Intermatic-st01c.pdf

ST01C programming:
ST01C instructions are long and complicated
When I have this kind of instruction manual, I start writing out the parts that seem critical
I think if you try this technique, it will work as long as timer is not defective.



What if you have another brand timer?
Timers without a battery have to wired correctly or things will not work
These timers usually have black white red and green
If the red and black are reversed, you might not get power to the display
I have not tested these timers thoroughly yet

Review your wiring with all in-wall and plug-in timers
Write out the instructions

If this information was not specific enough, please re-post your question showing brand and model number so the answer can be more specific

Here ya go:
http://www.intermatic.com/~/media/files/intermatic/products/instructions/timers/ej500c%20-%20english.ashx