Do I need a contactor for a 250w HPS used in the U.S.?

Hi everyone,

I recently stumbled on some posts of people saying that you must use a contactor to prevent burning out your timer prematurely. However, it seems most of the people I have seen saying this are in the U.K. . And all of the links provided of contactor/timer combos are businesses located in the U.k. Do I need a contactor in order to protect my timer while using a 250w HPS in the United States? I have been unable to find a conclusive answer. Thanks

Ive used a Plug And Grow timer for most grows without a contactor but id say its safer with a contactor and its better safe than sorry.

Im in the uk.

I use cheap appliance timers...there is no "code" regarding using low wattage lights indoors to grow weed...do what you want man...i have electric heaters that use 1500watts with thin cords on them...its not that much electricity

i have used the walmart $4 110 volt timer for my 1000 wtt hps ballast running 220 volts for a year with it ever going bad..