How are motorized blinds and shades powered?

Still, you might be wondering how motorized blinds are powered - besides pure magic, of course. There are actually a number of effective options for powering motorized blinds so you can enjoy privacy at the touch of a button. Let’s take a look at just what they are and the pros and cons of each type so that you can find the perfect power source for your needs.

Battery Powered

Battery-powered motorized blinds and roller shades are the simplest option. Rather than being connected to a string, motorized blinds have a tube installed up top that lifts the shade up. The battery fits above that and connects to a motor for power. If you’re concerned about the look of your motorized blinds, batteries are the most elegant option, as their placement makes them unnoticeable. They are also easy to install and won’t take up outlet space. Batteries are an especially convenient option for windows that are in hard-to-reach windows or far away spaces that aren’t close to an outlet or where a wire wouldn’t be advisable (as in a wet area like a bathroom).

Simple AA batteries can do the trick, though they’ll have to be replaced relatively frequently. Lithium batteries have a significantly longer life. Still, there’s no doubt that the biggest downside when it comes to powering motorized blinds with batteries is replacing them.

This is one reason why Somfy offers rechargeable battery options for motorized blinds and roller shades. Create a convenient smart home when you can easily plug in your shade to recharge the battery. No more removing and replacing batteries, rechargeable battery-powered options allow you to control your window coverings with a remote control with fast and easy recharging when the batteries get low. 

Hardwired

If replacing batteries sounds like a drag, then hardwiring your motorized blinds is the option for you. There are a number of different kinds of motors that can operate using different voltages, and of course, they must be able to reach a wall outlet. This is generally a less expensive option than batteries in terms of how much you’ll pay in energy costs.

The installation on some of these units isn’t as easy as you’ll need an electrician to do the job for you, but it is well worth the investment. Other units are easier to install on your own. You’ll most likely need an electrician if you’d like to operate your blinds from a power distribution panel, which centralizes power control and distributes it to multiple blinds throughout your house.

Solar Powered

The nice thing about blinds and shades is that they’re actually right next to a natural power source: sunlight. All you’ll need to go this route is a solar panel system, which you’ll mount behind the shade facing outwards to catch the sunlight. The unit then connects to the motor in the same way as battery-powered and hardwired options.

Of course, not all windows receive an equal amount of sunlight, so solar-powered motorized blinds and window treatments may be more effective in southern or westward-facing rooms that receive a lot of light. You’ll also want to make sure the windows you choose for solar-powered blinds aren’t covered by awnings, roof overhangs, or trees.

DC Power Adaptor

Motorized blinds and shades powered by a DC power adaptor are another convenient and relatively energy-efficient option. As with hardwired blinds, the DC power adaptor will plug into an outlet. This means that you’ll never need to replace it as you would with batteries. Unlike hardwired blinds, the installation with a DC power adaptor is next to nothing. There’s no additional wiring: you’ll just hang your blinds, plug in your power, and then you’ll be good to go. The only downside here is that you may find the wires unsightly. Also, you’ll need to stick close to a power source.

While there are many different ways to power your blinds, roller shades, or other window treatments, whatever you choose should suit your personal lifestyle and decorating choices. Before you know it, you’ll be kicking back on the couch and adjusting those blinds with the touch of a button to block out the blinding sun. Creating a smart home has never seemed easier!

Ready to get started with smarter window treatments? Connect with a Somfy Dealer in your area today.