Pool pump and timer question

[MidwestMama]

I'm starting to believe that a timer would be a handy addition. I bought a plug in outdoor timer, like what I'd get for Christmas lights. I was going to post to see if I was ok to hook it up as our pump said to rinse it each time you start it. I see several posts about specific brands and it makes me question my purchase. Does this make a difference? What do I look for? I have a Pentair sand filter.

Thank!

 

[crokett]

that timer may not be strong enough to handle the pool pump. How many amps is it rated for? What is the amperage rating on your pool pump? Intermatic makes a good pool pump timer. I have one, but mine is hard-wired - it was free. They do make a plug-in version though. Rinse what? the pump or the timer?