Every Clock You Need To Change Around Your House For Daylight Saving Time

On Sunday November 3, 2024 most of America will be setting clocks back one hour. (Way to be rebels, Arizona and Hawaii.) It often reopens the annual questions, discussions, and debates around the purpose of Daylight Saving Time. Why do we even need it anymore? Isn’t it about farmers or something? Is it a clock-industry conspiracy to get us to buy timepieces we don’t need?

We don’t care about any of this. Our only focus is the sheer number of clocks that require changing. Credit modern technology with making the shift somewhat easier, since cell phones and computers update automatically. But there’s always other clocks around the house that need an old fashioned touch — often the same ones you have to reset when the power goes out.

We tried to identify every time-keeping device you might have that requires manual attention. Even if it’s as simple as flipping the “DST mode” switch to "on" or "off," think of this alphabetized list of 16 time-related items as a way to add a little more sunshine into your life.

Alarm Clocks / Clock Radio

This is probably the first clock you adjust in your bedroom, but what about the other rooms? You might even have one in the shower. Don’t let them feel left out.

Answering Machine

Yes, people still use these.

Car Clock

This used to be really simple back when a car clock was just a clock. Now you have to navigate menus, touchscreens, and obtain a degree in computer engineering. For the lucky few, your car’s time might update automatically. If that’s the case, ignore this tip and carry on down the list, your majesty.

Coffee Maker

For coffee lovers, this is very serious business. Do you really want to roll out of bed the weekend after losing an hour and not have your coffee ready Monday morning? Didn’t think so.

Indoor/Outdoor Light Timer

Don’t forget to make sure your lighting timers are set properly. Unless you have natural gaslights or perform a tiki lighting ceremony each evening and extinguish the flames at dawn. (If this is the case, we want to be your neighbor because you are awesome).

Microwave

As comedian Mitch Hedberg said, “I don't have a microwave oven, but I do have a clock that occasionally cooks [stuff].”

Oven

[Please refer to “Microwave” above.]

Pet Feeder

Don’t make your furry and fishy friends wait an extra hour for their food. These are quite popular as a way to regulate food portions and keep pets on a schedule.

Pill Dispenser / Medication Reminder

These helpful high-tech gizmos can be life savers, especially for those with complicated medication regimens.

Sprinkler System

Why would it matter if your sprinkler systems were off by an hour? Ask your soaking wet feet and legs.

Water Water Everywhere...

Speaking of water-based systems, one reader pointed out the following really helpful tip: There are several timers/clocks that need seasonal resetting or resetting so they don't interfere with sleep or appliance usage:

• Hot Tub Heater/Cleaner
• Water Softener/Treatment Resin Tank
• Dehumidifier/Humidifier

Doomsday Clock

Just checking to see if you’re still paying attention. However, if you have control over this DO NOT set it forward one hour.

Television

Some of the new Smart TVs connected to the internet might automatically update, but most still don’t. Or they require you to select “DST” from a menu, which is even more confusing than simply setting the time.

Thermostat/Home Security System

Group this in with any and all other forms of home automation that are high-tech but might still require old school clock setting.

Travel Clock

When traveling, most people use their phone or hotel alarm clock. But what if you don’t use your phone as an alarm and you’re not staying in a hotel? It’s scenarios like this that keep us up at night.

Wall Clocks

Don’t forget the battery operated clocks in your kitchen, basement, playroom, and other handy locations throughout the house. You’d think these would be a thing of the past, but if Bed, Bath & Beyond is still selling them they must be in demand.

Watches

If you wear a watch this is quite obvious. But what about the other ones you might have in a drawer? It’s also a good time to check the batteries.

Additional Household Tasks

Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Or you can wait until they start to loudly chirp at 4am, giving you and your family a collective panic attack. Your choice!

Check all your filters

HVAC, humidifiers, water, etc...

Update your Everplan!

(Hey, now's a good a time as any. Subscribers Login Here | Newbies Can Learn More About Us Here)

BONUS "CLOCKS YOU NEED TO CHANGE AROUND THE HOUSE" CHECKLIST

Usually our checklists and worksheets are only available to newsletter subscribers. However, it the least we can do to make up for the time difference. Click the photo above or this: Daylight Saving Time Checklist.

Did we miss any clocks? Let us know here.