Is there a way to reduce the frequency of Time Machine backups?

My external drive is whirring and clicking constantly completing hourly backups that I don't need. Is there a way to set backups for just once a day and skip the hourly routine? I could shut off Time Machine and manually back it up from time to time but a daily automated backup would be ideal and ensure I don't forget to do it.

iMac 21.5″, macOS 11.2

Posted on Mar 14, 2021 6:35 AM

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Mar 14, 2021 7:20 AM in response to Scott Watson4

It sounds like either your backup hard drive is failing or there is some other problem. That is one of the catch-22's about Time Machine. If you notice that it is running and make an effort to interfere with it, chances are you really, really are going to need it soon.

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Is there a way to reduce the frequency of Time Machine backups?

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