It’s a smart, smart world. If you’re embracing the latest innovations, or feel like you should, step into the world of smart blinds and other automated window coverings with us! This is probably one of the most talked about–and questioned–topics that our clients have. Today, the experts of At Home Blinds & Decor are sharing the top questions and answers with you!
Which Window Coverings Can Be Automated?
In a nutshell, all of the categories of window coverings can be created with automation…Blinds, Shades, Shutters & Drapery! (Yes, there are even smart shutters!) This is one of the reasons you’ll hear so many different names for window covering automation, from smart shades to motorized drapes–and many, many more.
What’s the Difference Between Them All?
See one of our recent articles for a better understanding of the difference between smart shades, remote control blinds, automated shutters and drapes. They have a lot in common–they all have motors that operate the adjustments, and they cannot be manually adjusted. After that, it’s the capabilities of the features that create the differences. The control options range from simple push button or instant adjustments, all the way to voice commands through your smart home device.
How Does the App Work?
Part of the reason Hunter Douglas PowerView Automated shades have such high ratings is the user-friendly way the system is set up. They continually update the app to make sure you can easily access the features of your shades in a simple and effective way. Watch how easy it is:
Are They Plug In?
The two ways to run power for automated window coverings are by hardwiring them or using batteries. Hardwiring the motorized blinds is very convenient when your home is under construction, since the low voltage wiring can be run. Running the electrical can be an efficient choice if you don’t want to use batteries, but it isn’t always practical to run electrical.
What about Battery Powered Shades?
Most homeowners choose the ease of battery power. Remote control blinds use very little power, so you can expect to change the batteries every one to two years if your shades are adjusted every day. For a more sustainable choice, Hunter Douglas created a rechargeable battery wand that’s made to fit with the headrail of motorized shades. This eliminates the need for disposable batteries.
How Long Can Motorized Shades Expect to Last?
Since motorized shades and blinds aren’t handled as often as manually controlled window treatments, they tend to stay in good condition longer.
Are Remote Control Blinds Loud?
The sound of the motor is described as whisper quiet. You should expect to hear a low humming sound as your smart shades adjust.
How Much Do Motorized Shades Cost?
One of the most frequently asked questions, the cost of motorized shades is an important factor when determining which operating features work best for you. Investing in your home can be costly, so it’s wise to budget for each and every project. Window treatments, from a top quality brand like Hunter Douglas, will increase the value of your home if you decide to sell–even more so if they are automated. There are a number of factors that contribute to the cost of automated shades:
- Which type of automation (individual window/wand, remote control, smart home integration)
- The amount of window coverings you need
- The type of window shades you choose
- Added features (top down, dual shades)
Depending on the brand, you may need additional components if you choose smart home integration. Hunter Douglas has worked hard to ensure their automated shades are compatible with the most common smart home systems, like Control4, Elan, Logitech and more. You can easily control them with Alexa and Siri.
Don’t Miss Out on the “Hidden Savings” of Smart Blinds.
This is something we like to share when talking about the cost of motorized blinds–the savings are a valid consideration. When we talk with past clients, the first thing they say is they don’t know how they lived without automated shades. And then, they mention these valuable factors:
- How easy it is to maintain interior temperatures with scheduled or instant adjustments
- The time they save adjusting multiple windows
- Hard-to-reach window shade adjustments are a breeze
- The increased security they feel at night or on vacation with automatic adjustments
- How simple it is to bring in natural light instead of using overhead lights
The Most Important Considerations?
In today’s world, you can buy remote control blinds in a variety of places, from any number of brands. But, we’ve been in this business for a long time. One thing we can tell you–if you’re investing in your home, make sure it’s with a brand you know, provided by a company you can trust. Dealing with any type of technology increases the chances that you might need help along the way. If you have questions, if you’d like to know more information, or if something goes wrong, you should know that there is going to be someone there to support you. The professional installers from At Home Blinds & Decor get you set up the day of installation with all of the features. We walk you through the process. But, we are also there for you long after we leave. Get started today with a free in-home consultation.
