Virtually any type of blinds or other window treatments can be turned into remotely-operated motorized blinds if we attach a motor and a remote control to command the motion. More sophisticated systems may include light sensors or timers, in order to create the so-called intelligent electric window treatments. Usually, the motor is inserted into the head rail or the top panel of the blinds, therefore it’s not visible from the outside. The sensor which communicates with the remote control is somewhere in there, too.

When the IR or RF sensor detects a command coming from the remote, meaning that you’ve pressed a button, this command is transmitted to the motor. The motor starts to move in the indicated direction, triggering the movement of the blind, shade or curtain via a mechanism that transmits the motion.

There’s another variant of automated blinds: instead of having an IR / RF sensor and a remote control, the control switch can be placed on the wall, just like the light switches are. The advantage here is that you can’t lose the re mote, but you’ll have to get out of bed to adjust your blinds. Besides, if the system operates via wires, you’ll have to bury those wires into the wall, therefore that’s something to install when you renovate or when you build a home and not with all furniture and carpets in place.

How Are Automated Blinds Powered?

The power for such motorized shades can be either taken from the main power supply or from a set of batteries. The remote control operates on batteries, which can be AA or AAA or some special, flat models which are smaller and last longer. In case you fear of plugging your windows to the electricity supply, you can have the whole system running on batteries. In this case, as the voltage is low, such window blinds are safe for using in spaces with high humidity such as bathrooms, laundry rooms or kitchens.

As of the types of blinds and shades that can be motorized, you should know that pretty much all styles and models are suitable for getting this automation system. Maybe the most common ones are the electric roller blinds, but also Venetian blinds, vertical blinds or Roman shades can be added a motor.

Advantages of Motorized Blinds

There are multiple advantages that make motorized blinds an excellent option for both domestic and commercial use.

• First of all, in a home with children or pets, those cords that hang on the common window treatments are dangerous, because they could easily tangle and suffocate a child or a curious cat.
• Automated electric blinds move smoothly and evenly, so you’ll never have to level them again. This also minimizes the chances of your blinds getting broken and increases their lifespan.
• In case of very high windows, to operate them manually means to have a very long wand or cord, or both. This is not a very aesthetic thing to have in a home. Besides, it can be difficult to operate the crank for those conservatory roof blinds. Skylight windows are also problematic, as most of the times you have to pay extra for extension cords, so you can operate them from your height. Electric powered, remote controlled blinds are much better for skylights and roof windows.

Remember that it’s not always about the money. Sometimes it’s better to pay an extra amount and get significantly higher level of comfort. Motorized blinds fall in this category.

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