Motorised blinds have become an increasingly popular choice for homes and offices in recent years. As the name suggests, these are blinds that can be raised, lowered, tilted, or angled using a remote control or smartphone app, allowing you to adjust lighting and privacy with the simple push of a button.
How Do Motorised Blinds Work?
Motorised blinds incorporate small electric motors with automated lift systems inside the blinds’ headrail. Power options for the motors include:
- Hardwired – Permanently connected to electrical outlets to enable continuous operation. Professional blind installation may be recommended.
- Battery Packs – Removable batteries inside the headrail allow portable, wireless functionality. Standard or rechargeable batteries last 1-3 years depending on usage.
- Solar Power – Integrated solar panels charge the battery packs during daylight hours for maintenance-free operation.
The lift mechanism connects the motor to the bottom rail which raises or lowers the blinds. Tilt functionality uses a secondary motor to adjust the angle of slats on Venetian or adjustable blinds.
Wall-mounted switches, handheld remote controls or smartphone apps synchronise with receivers inside the headrail during installation for ease of use. Timers, automation triggers and voice assistants can also customise blind movement.
What are the Benefits of Motorised Blinds?
There are many reasons motorised blinds have grown in popularity:
Convenience
No more fussing with cords to adjust blinds. With the click of a button, you can raise or lower blinds to the desired height. This makes it easy to control lighting and privacy anywhere in the room.
Timers and automation integration allow you to set blinds to operate on schedules or in response to environmental triggers like sunlight. This removes the need to manually adjust blinds daily.
Flexible Control
Remote controls give you wireless control to adjust blinds from across the room. No need to go to each window when you want to raise or lower blinds.
Smartphone apps allow you to control blinds even when away from home through an Internet connection. Adjust lighting and privacy whether you’re at work or on vacation.
Improved Safety
Motorised blinds eliminate dangling cords, reducing hazards for children and pets. Without cords, blinds can be safely left down when not in use.
Energy Efficiency
Auto-tilting blinds can track the movement of the sun, adjusting slats to allow in natural light while blocking heating direct rays during warmer months. This reduces reliance on air conditioning.
Insulated blinds with double or triple lining also limit heat transfer through windows for improved temperature regulation.
What Should I Consider When Buying Motorised Blinds?
While electric blinds make operation convenient, there are a few variables to consider depending on your needs:
Type of Blinds
Motorisation is available for many popular blind styles:
- Roller blinds offer flexibility to control light filtering and blackout capabilities. Simple operation makes them ideal for motorisation.
- Venetian blinds allow you to control slat angles to direct sunlight as needed. Tilting or raising/lowering multiple blinds is easier with motorisation.
- Vertical, Roman, pleated, and cellular blind styles are also options depending on your aesthetic tastes and lighting needs.
Power Options
- Battery-powered units offer simpler installation but require periodic battery replacement. Hardwired options provide continuous power but may require professional installation.
- Solar-powered units absorb solar energy during the day to recharge batteries, reducing battery maintenance.
Control Features
Consider compatibility with smart home platforms for voice or app control. Timer and scheduling functions can also customise automation.
Size
The size and number of blinds can impact motor capacity and battery requirements. Measure windows carefully and check manufacturer specs.
Pro Tips
Here are some additional professional recommendations for enjoying motorised blinds:
- Schedule regular battery replacement every 1-2 years to prevent failures at inopportune times.
- Use blackout cellular shades in bedrooms for complete darkness and noise buffering.
- Group multiple blinds based on room use or sunlight exposure to operate as one zone.
- Utilise timers and smart technology integrations to fully automate blind movements each day.
At Paul James Blinds, we have extensive experience properly measuring, installing, and servicing every style of motorised blind on the market. Our consultants consider your unique needs like room utilisation, window styles, and sunlight conditions to recommend the right made-to-measure blinds for your residential or commercial space. With customised advice and professional service, we make the selection and installation process simple from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are motorised blinds expensive?
Motorisation does add cost compared to standard manual blinds, but improved convenience and technology integration adds value that typically justifies the price for many homeowners.
Are motorised blinds difficult to operate?
Not at all. Motors allow simple remote-controlled raising, lowering, and tilting without complicated routines. Even advanced automation functions offer preset modes like “sundown” that trigger at the appropriate times.
Do motorised blinds require special maintenance?
Battery replacement is the main regular service motorised blinds need. Dusting and fabric care depend on material but are similar to standard blinds. Review power and connectivity features annually to catch any potential issues early, particularly for hardwired installations.
Do motorised blinds require special maintenance?
The main service needs are battery replacement and occasional dusting/cleaning. Annual power and connectivity checks also help.
What warranty comes with motorised blinds?
Most manufacturers provide at least a 1-year warranty. Extended warranties of up to 5 years may also be available. Always review policies before purchasing.
How long do batteries last in battery-powered blinds?
The typical lifespan is 1-3 years depending on the type and frequency of use. Lithium batteries generally last the longest.
Can outdoor blinds be motorised?
Yes. There are motorised exterior blinds designed to withstand weather and engineered for outdoor installation.
What fabrics are best for motorised blinds?
Light filtering or blackout fabrics like vinyl, polyester and acrylics work well. Avoid heavy or rigid fabrics that can strain motors.
Ready to enjoy the unmatched simplicity and performance of automated window shades? Paul James Blinds offers complimentary consultations to provide smart motorised blind recommendations tailored specifically for your space. With quality products expertly measured and installed, we make upgrading to advanced blinds an easy choice that fits your lifestyle needs and budget. Contact us today to schedule your free design meeting!
