Why UK switches often lack a neutral
In many UK homes, lighting is wired so the connections are made at the ceiling rose, and only a switched live runs down to the switch. There's no neutral there, because a normal switch doesn't need one.
Smart switches are different: they contain electronics that need a little power all the time, and many need a neutral to get it.
Your options
- Choose a 'no neutral' smart switch – but check it works with low-power LED bulbs
- Have an electrician run a neutral to the switch position
- Use smart bulbs with a normal switch left on
- Fit a smart module at the ceiling instead of the switch, where suitable
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The LED catch
No-neutral smart switches sometimes struggle with LED bulbs because they draw so little power. Lights may flicker or glow faintly when switched off. Some products include a small add-on to solve this. An electrician can advise on a combination that works reliably.
