Best 6 Way Consumer Units for Garages, Caravans and Workshops
The top choice for a 6 way consumer unit is selected to balance safety, size, and ease of installation in spaces like garages and caravans. This guide highlights five practical options, each suited to different installation needs—from compact wall-mounts to IP65-protected models for outdoor use. Whether you need faster tripping, higher main ratings, or robust housing, these units help you compare quickly and choose confidently.
- Recommended for small spaces requiring reliable protection and quick wiring.
- Best for compact installations in caravans or tight garages.
- Offers IP65 protection for dusty or wet environments.
- Provides clear separation of circuits for safer distribution.
| Product | Main Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vanttokeey 4-Way Breaker Box Set | 63A 30mA RCD; 4 MCBs (2x6A, 20A, 32A); compact, lightweight; flame-retardant housing | Small garages or caravans needing a compact safety unit |
| PRO ELEC 6 Way Metal Consumer Unit | 100A Main Switch; 4 free spaces; top hinged metal front cover | Moderate-load installations with future expansion |
| Aurikall IP65 Enclosure 3 Way | 63A 30mA RCD; 3 MCBs (6A, 16A, 32A); IP65 protection; flame-retardant plastic | Outdoor or dusty/wetter environments |
| Sorandy 2 Way Consumer Unit | 40A 30mA RCD; 2 MCBs (6A, 16A); IP65 housing; flame retardant shell | Caravans, garages, or outbuildings requiring two circuits |
| BTSEURY 2 Way Consumer Unit | 40A 30mA RCD; 2 MCBs (6A, 16A); IP65 protection housing | Compact setups needing weatherproofing and straightforward wiring |
Vanttokeey 4-Way Breaker Box Set Consumer Unit
Best for compact installations where space is at a premium. This 4-way unit uses a 63A 30mA RCD with four MCBs (2x6A, 20A, 32A), delivering rapid fault tripping for safety in small workshops or caravans. Its lightweight, compact design simplifies mounting in tight areas. The flame-retardant and impact-resistant construction adds reliability in demanding environments. Choose this if you need a ready-to-install unit for limited spaces and straightforward circuit distribution. A limitation is its 4-way configuration, which may not leave room for future circuit additions without upgrading.
PRO ELEC 6 Way Metal Consumer Unit
Best for installations that anticipate expansion while prioritizing durability. This 6-way unit features a 100A main switch and four free spaces, with a top-hinged metal front cover for safety. Metal construction provides robust protection and long-term resilience in workshops or garages. Choose this if you want a sturdy, expandable option and don’t mind heavier hardware. A caution is that metal enclosures may require more careful grounding and mounting than plastic units.
Aurikall IP65 Three-Way Enclosure
Best for outdoor or dusty environments where weather resistance matters. The unit includes a 63A 30mA RCD and three MCBs (6A, 16A, 32A) in a flame-retardant, impact-resistant housing with IP65 protection. It suits caravans, garages, and workshops needing three circuits with solid protection. A potential limitation is the smaller 3-way capacity, which may require upgrades for additional circuits in the future.
Sorandy 2 Way Consumer Unit
Best for two-circuit needs in caravans or small outbuildings. This 2-way model offers a 40A 30mA RCD with two MCBs (6A and 16A) and IP65 housing. It’s a practical choice for straightforward, weather-protected installations where compact size matters. A caution is that with only two ways, you might need to upgrade if you plan to add more circuits later.
BTSEURY 2 Way Consumer Unit
Best for compact installations requiring weatherproofing and straightforward wiring. It provides 40A 30mA RCD with two MCBs (6A, 16A) and IP65 protection housing. This makes it suitable for garages or caravans in variable weather, offering a balanced blend of protection and simplicity. The main limitation is its two-way design, which offers less circuit distribution flexibility than larger units.
Aramox 2 Way Garage Caravan Unit
Best for diverse electrical needs in smaller setups or temporary installations. This 2-way unit provides 40A 30mA RCD with 2 MCBs (6A, 16A) and IP65 protective housing, suitable for garages, caravans, workshops, and outbuildings. It’s chosen for reliability and outdoor-capable design. A potential limitation is limited circuit count for future expansion.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations When Choosing a 6 Way Consumer Unit
What main rating do you need? A higher main switch rating supports more connected load and future expansion, but may be unnecessary for small caravans. Consider IP65 protection if installation is exposed to dust or moisture. For outdoor or damp locations, IP65 is often essential.
How many circuits are required now and later? If you anticipate adding circuits, prefer a unit with more spaces or a modular design. 4 to 6-way units offer room to grow without replacing the entire setup.
Do you need metal or plastic housing? Metal enclosures are sturdier and suitable for workshops but can require more secure mounting and grounding. Plastic housings save weight and may suffice in dry environments.
What safety features matter? Look for a reliable RCD rating (30mA is common for domestic use) and adequate tripping speeds. Flame-retardant materials enhance safety in busy or heated spaces.
What is your installation location? Indoors or in climate-controlled spaces require less protection. Outdoors or dusty areas benefit from IP65 or higher housing to prevent ingress.
FAQ
- What is the difference between a 4-way and a 6-way consumer unit?
A: A 6-way unit provides for more circuit connections than a 4-way, offering greater expansion potential and distribution options for more devices and outlets. - Is IP65 protection necessary for a garage unit?
A: If the unit is exposed to dust, moisture, or occasional splashes, IP65 protection helps prevent ingress and protects electrical components. - Can I install a consumer unit myself?
A: Electrical work should be performed by a qualified electrician following local codes and safety standards. Check local regulations before installation. - What size main switch should I choose?
A: Choose a main switch based on total expected load. A 63A to 100A main switch covers common garage or caravan setups and allows for some growth. - What is the advantage of a metal front cover?
A: Metal fronts provide rigidity and durability, especially in workshops, but require proper grounding and secure mounting. - Do all units require IP65 housing?
A: No. IP65 is mainly needed for outdoor or highly dusty/wet environments. Indoor installations can use standard housings.