Best Smart Circuit Breakers for Home Automation: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics
The concept of a 'smart home' has finally reached the consumer unit (fuse box). For years, homeowners have asked me how to monitor their energy usage circuit-by-circuit or how to remotely isolate power to a garage or outbuilding. Standard MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) protect wires, but they don't offer data or remote control.
However, a word of warning before we start: fitting these devices involves working inside a live consumer unit. In the UK, this is not a plug-and-play task like changing a smart bulb. It requires competency/qualification to ensure you don't compromise the IP rating of the enclosure or bypass essential RCD protection. In Leeds, where I see many older installations, adding smart components often highlights existing earthing issues that need fixing first.
In this review, I'm looking at three 'smart circuit breakers' (technically smart DIN rail switches) available on the market. I've categorised them into a budget option for simple switching, a quality option with the robust eWeLink ecosystem, and a problem-solving 32A unit perfect for specific heavy loads.
Live in Leeds?
Thinking of upgrading your consumer unit?
Don't take risks with electricity. Get a free quote from OR Electrics.
Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "DIY Installation / "Easy Retrofit""
"Marketing often claims these can be clipped in by anyone in minutes without tools."
This is dangerous advice. Working inside a consumer unit requires safe isolation procedures. Furthermore, busbar alignment varies between brands (Wylex, Hager, MK). These generic smart devices often don't align with standard UK busbars, requiring custom wiring by a pro.
The Spec: "Circuit Protection (MCB Replacement)"
"These devices claim to replace your existing circuit breakers entirely."
I rarely recommend swapping a certified Type B MCB for a generic smart breaker as your *primary* safety device. I prefer installing these *in series* (after) a standard trusted breaker or RCBO. This way, you get the smart features, but the safety tripping curve is guaranteed by a reputable brand.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Shophubio Smart Circuit Breaker 63A with WiFi and Voice Control
Shophubio
This Shophubio unit offers an affordable entry point into smart energy management. Rated up to 63A, it's beefy enough to handle a sub-main feed to a garage or garden office. It integrates with Tuya/Smart Life apps, which is standard for this price point.
The Good
- Very affordable price point
- High current rating (63A) suitable for sub-mains
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
The Bad
- Plastic feel is less robust than premium brands
- Marketing claims of 'leakage protection' should be treated with caution - rely on a proper RCD
Installer Tip:
Use this as a local isolator for a specific zone, like a garden bar or workshop. It allows you to kill the power remotely if you think you've left the heater on, but ensure it's protected upstream by a certified RCD in your main board.
Priced at £11.78 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazoneWeLink WiFi Smart Circuit Breaker 1-63A with Metering
Generic
For those serious about home automation, the eWeLink ecosystem is generally more robust than standard Tuya options. This unit stands out because of its energy metering capability. In a time of high energy bills, being able to see exactly what your immersion heater or EV charger is pulling is invaluable.
The Good
- Reliable eWeLink app integration
- Energy metering allows for cost monitoring
- Adjustable current settings (on some models)
The Bad
- More expensive than basic relay switches
- Requires good WiFi signal at the consumer unit location (often in cupboards/under stairs)
Installer Tip:
If you're a landlord with a student HMO in Leeds, fitting these (with professional help) on shower circuits gives you incredible data on usage patterns and costs. Ideally, install a WiFi repeater near the consumer unit to ensure the connection never drops.
Priced at £29.09 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonDin Rail Circuit Breaker Smart WIFI Switch (32A)
Dioche
The 32A rating on this Dioche unit is the 'Goldilocks' size for standard UK ring finals or radial circuits like electric showers and immersion heaters. It features excellent timing modes (countdown and cycle), making it perfect for automating appliances to run during off-peak tariff hours.
The Good
- 32A rating matches standard UK ring main protection
- advanced timing modes for Economy 7/Octopus Go tariffs
- Coloured indicator lights for quick status checks
The Bad
- Not suitable for higher loads (showers >7.5kW might be tight)
- Still requires a qualified electrician to install legally/safely
Installer Tip:
I often recommend this specifically for immersion heaters. By setting a schedule on the app, you ensure the water only heats when electricity is cheapest, rather than relying on an old, ticking mechanical timer that always drifts.
Priced at £20.63 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my main switch with a smart breaker?
Do I need an electrician to install a smart circuit breaker?
Will these work if my WiFi goes down?
Are smart circuit breakers safe?
Why use a smart breaker instead of a smart plug?
How much does a professional consumer unit upgrade cost in Leeds?
Need Professional Consumer Unit Upgrades?
Our team at OR Electrics specialises in Consumer Unit Upgrades across Leeds.
Get a free quote for professional installation.
View Our Consumer Unit Upgrades Service