HomeKit Not Working at All

I've been on with Apple support 4 times in the last 6 weeks about these issues without any luck.

Proble 1:

The biggest problem is I'm unable to add any devices most of the time. I scan the code and the HomeKit add recognizes the code, but when I click to add the device, the app spins for a couple minutes then says the device can't be added. I have done this dozens of times with 3 different brands of smart bulbs and 3 different brands of outlets, almost always with the same results. The last set of bulbs and outlets I bought were directly from Apple, but those have the same issue.

Support tried everything but no help.

One day I was suddenly able to add a lightbulb, but not again since then. I deleted the one bulb I could add and can't add any bulbs or outlets since then!

Problem 2:

I simply want to turn a lightbulb on and off at set times. I can set an on time but the only option for turning it off is a set number of hours with the maximum being 4 hours. So, there's no way of having my lamp turn on at 4 pm and having it turn off at 11 pm. I bought bulbs and outlets to avoid using primitive light timers assuming this was the most basic function imaginable. This ommission seems incredibly short-sighted on Apple's part. Nearly every other Apple product and apps I use have more well thought out functions than I can ever use.

If anyone can help me, I'd greatly appreciate it. I've wasted a lot of valuable time on this basic request.

Reagrds,

Paul