Technological advancements have transformed our lives, including how we manage our homes on a daily basis. For those ready to embrace the latest innovations, smart blinds and automated window coverings offer an exciting starting point. At Bazaar Home Decorating, we’ve noticed a surge of interest in this topic, and our team is eager to answer the top questions our clients ask!
Defining the Terms: Motorization, Smart & Automated
You may have heard many terms for motorized window coverings, from smart blinds to automated shades, and from remote control blinds to power blinds. We will help you distinguish between the operating systems for motorized window treatments so you can make a more informed choice for your home.
Motorized
Any window coverings that are operated with a motor fall under this category. This includes the individual motorization of the SoftTouch system and any control options with Hunter Douglas PowerView shades, blinds, shutters and drapery. If a motor controls it, it’s motorized.
From Motorized to Smart
One of the most popular options, our remote control blinds, can be considered motorized with the option to be smart. Smart blinds are those that can be controlled with a phone, iPad or tablet. The reason we say they could be motorized OR smart is because you can choose to control them with a remote, but you also have the ability (with the latest innovations) to control new PowerView shades with a device. It’s “simple” smart control that allows you an extended amount of control beyond what you get with a traditional remote control.
Automation
Smart home integration is the ultimate in control. This allows you to go beyond simple phone control and into smart home automation. There is communication within the smart home eco-system that creates adjustments based on time, temperature and intentional atmosphere. With smart home integration, you’ll enjoy voice-controlled smart shade adjustments, using Alexa, Google, or other smart platforms for enhanced privacy, energy efficiency, and convenience. Hunter Douglas has worked diligently to ensure compatibility among other smart home systems.
How Does the App Work?
Hunter Douglas PowerView Automated shades are highly rated. This is partly because of their user-friendly app. The app is regularly updated to ensure seamless access to your shades’ features. Check it out to see how easy it is to use:
Smart Home Features
Here’s the fun part: how smart are your shades? With window shade automation, you can do so much more than open and close them with a remote. Hunter Douglas PowerView integrates with your favorite smart home system, giving you the freedom to adjust shades with an app or voice command, create scenes for the perfect lighting throughout the day, and set schedules that save energy by blocking heat or letting in sunshine at the right times.
IFTTT: If this, then that
Do you know IFTTT? That’s control that customizes your home. It stands for “If This, Then That.” And, it’s transforming homes. Your smart shades will be in the right place every time. Interior temps high enough that the AC kicks on? Your shades close to block out the sunshine. Time for a beautiful sunset? Only the correct shade adjusts for you to take in the gorgeous landscape. It’s the intuitive technology we thought only existed in futuristic shows. But, it’s here. It’s easy. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy.
Which Window Treatments Can Be Motorized?
In short, any type of window coverings can be included, from blinds and shutters to shades and drapery. Did you know that smart shutters were a thing?
We offer the full collection of Hunter Douglas window treatments, and almost the entire collection is available with motorization. Discover your favorite roller shades, roman shades, woven shades, cellular shades, drapery, vertical blinds and more!
Installation
Installation is a bigger deal than many people realize. Window shade automation isn’t a quick DIY project you can tackle with a screwdriver on a Saturday afternoon. These shades are precision products designed to last, and proper setup ensures smooth function for years to come.
At Bazaar Home Decorating, we work with Hunter Douglas PowerView Automation, which requires expert installation. Our certified professionals take care of all the tricky details, from wiring to programming, so you don’t have to worry about crooked shades, electrical mishaps, or hard-to-reach windows. With us, you can skip the stress and go straight to enjoying your new shades. Style matters just as much as function. When comparing brands, always check the quality of both the fabrics and the installation. With motorized shades, even small misalignments can cause uneven rolling or wear and tear. That is why calibration is key.
Are Remote Control Blinds Loud?
The motors in smart shades are known for their “whisper-quiet” operation. They emit a low hum as they adjust to your preferences. After being adjusted, you don’t hear a sound! At our Bazaar Home Decorating showroom, you can see and hear Hunter Douglas shades in action. With their smooth, nearly silent operation, you’ll barely notice them moving. It is one of those small luxuries that make a huge difference.
How Are Smart Blinds Powered?
Motorized window coverings can be powered in three ways: hardwiring, batteries and solar.
Battery Power
Battery-powered shades are super convenient, which is why many homeowners choose them. Remote control blinds use minimal power, with AA batteries needing replacement every year or two if adjusted daily. For a more sustainable option, consider Hunter Douglas’ rechargeable battery wand. It is designed to fit within the headrail of motorized shades, eliminating the need for disposable batteries!
Hard-wired Shades
Hard-wiring is convenient during home construction, allowing for the installation of low-voltage wiring. While hard-wiring is efficient for those who wish to avoid batteries, it may not always be the most practical option.
Solar Power
This is the newest way to power your motorized shades. The solar power comes from sunlight at the window, with a device attached to the frame or the glass of the window. This is even an option in low light windows, making it a great solution for most homes.
How Long Do Motorized Shades Last?
If we are talking about battery life, we usually explain that AA batteries last 1-2 years depending on the usage. But, when it comes to discussing how long the shades themselves last, that’s another question entirely. Motorized blinds and shades typically experience less wear and tear compared to manual ones, resulting in longer-lasting conditions.
How Much Do Motorized Shades Cost?
Cost is a common question when it comes to smart blinds. While investing in home automation can be a bit pricey, it’s important to budget for each project. Hunter Douglas window treatments, known for their top quality, can increase your home’s value, especially when automation is involved. Factors affecting the cost include:
- Number of window coverings needed
- Type of window shades selected
- Chosen automation method (individual window/wand, smart home integration, remote control)
- Additional features like top-down or dual shades
Smart home integration may require additional components. However, this depends on the brand. Hunter Douglas shades are compatible with systems like Control4, Elan, and Logitech, and can be easily controlled via Alexa and Siri.
Don’t Miss “Hidden Savings” for Smart Blinds
When discussing motorized blinds, we highlight significant savings. This encompasses both time and money savings. Clients often find automated shades an essential piece to their home, noting benefits such as:
- Effortless temperature control with scheduled or instant adjustments
- Time savings from adjusting multiple windows
- Easy adjustments for hard-to-reach shades
- Enhanced security through automatic adjustments while away
- Convenience of natural light instead of overhead lights
Final Considerations
Moreover, we know that you can purchase remote control blinds from different brands. However, using a reputable brand and trusted company is crucial. Navigating new technology is a challenge, but our team at Bazaar Home Decorating is here to help. We provide comprehensive support, from installation day to long after. Contact us to schedule your FREE consultation and experience the future of home automation today!
