The Powers that Be

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You’re thinking about adding motorized window treatments to your home. You know they need power but where does it come from? Maybe an electrician needs to run wiring to the window or perhaps there are some special batteries to power these motors. Fortunately, our Motorization Experts have outlined the power options and important considerations below:

Hardwired Power – Hardwired motorized shades are generally the fastest, smoothest, quietest and most reliable type of motorized window treatment. They require an electrician to run wiring concealed behind your walls/ceilings to your windows. This electrical labor can be more costly than battery powered systems, but the motors perform best and you’ll never need to worry about changing batteries.

Expert tip – make sure your window treatment provider is an expert not only at providing motorized shades but also at installing them, performing electrical work to support them and patching and painting any small holes created during electrical work.

Battery Power – For many years, battery powered motors were only suitable for very small and very lightweight shades. Today’s battery powered motors can power almost any size and type of window treatment. Battery powered blinds are the most affordable type of motorized window treatments because you don’t have to invest in an electrician to run wiring behind your walls/ceilings. You’ll eventually need to change batteries though so a bit of maintenance is required. Make sure to ask your window treatment provider how long the batteries are estimated to last. Premium brands such as Lutron, Qmotion and Hunter Douglas offer 3-5 year battery life.

Expert 3 A

Solar Power – Many motor fabricators such as Somfy Systems are developing motors with solar powered capability. Although a few are just reaching the market, they are not yet perfectly reliable and thus rarely used.

Rockville Interiors offers both hardwired and battery powered motorized window fashions. Visit our gorgeous new showroom in Rockville-MD which has the nation’s largest display of motorized window treatments. Interact with both hardwired and battery powered options while our experts explain the features and benefits of each system to you.

Questions? Email our Motorization Experts at motorization@rockvilleinteriors.com or call (240) 514-2263.