Abstract: A two mode timing device is described for insertion between an energizing control switch and a load. The device enables the load to be controlled in either a timing mode or a continuous mode. Selection of the mode that the device operates in depends upon a novel use of the energizing control switch and, in particular, depends upon usage of the control switch to de-energize the device for either a long duration or a short duration. Upon re-energizing the device, the load is then controlled in either the selected timing mode or the selected continuous mode. The timed mode has two variations. One timed mode embodiment energizes the load immediately and upon expiry of an internal selectable timer will de-energize the load. The other timed mode embodiment initially leaves the load de-energized, and upon expiry of the internal timer then energizes the load. The selection of continuous mode operation simply energizes the load for as long as the device itself is energized.