Motorized Window Treatments: Power Sources and Controls

You might be surprised by the versatility of motorization when it comes to window treatments.

Nearly any type of window treatment can be motorized, from shades to blinds to draperies and beyond. Vitalia Inc has the answers to all your motorized window treatment questions.

When we talk about motorized window treatments, there are, as you can imagine, many considerations and options available, and choosing the appropriate motorization features can feel overwhelming.

One distinction you should know about when choosing motorization features is the difference between the power source - what runs the motor for the motorized window treatment - and the method of operation - how you control the motorized window treatment.

Power Sources for Motorization

Battery Power

When considering motorized window treatments, you have essentially two options - battery operated or hardwired.

In the above picture, this Hunter Douglas motor is being powered by a battery wand. The battery wands can come in two ways - attached to the head rail, which is an all-in-one unit, or a satellite wand. Advantages of being attached to the head rail, there are no wires to contend with.

However, if your window isn’t deep enough, it won’t accommodate both the head rail and the battery pack.  In that case, you will likely need to go with a satellite battery pack.

This means the battery pack is attached to the head rail via wires. This will require that the battery pack be ‘hidden’ somewhere, such as behind a valance or drapery panel. 

Hardwired Power

Hardwired motorized window treatments can be slightly more complicated and require far more coordination among the involved parties - but can pay off in the end. A hardwired motor is inside the head rail, and is wired directly into the house.

When considering which motorization power option would be best for you, remember the depth of your window and the type of window treatment might make the choice for you.

A shallow window may mean you’ll need a satellite battery pack and a good hiding place.

And a heavier window treatment may not function well with the limited power offered by a battery.

Control Options for Motorized Treatments

Remote Control

Once you’ve powered your motor, now you need to control it. One of the ways of controlling your motorized window treatment is via a remote control. The first is literally a remote control, much like a TV remote.

There is no need to ‘point and click’ with these hand held remotes as they run on radio frequency. The second option is a wall mounted switch, just like a light switch it’s attached to the wall. Just press the switch to adjust your shades.

Smart Home Integration (Alexa, close the blinds)

In the age of technology, is it surprising that there’s an app for that? Well, there is an app for your motorized window treatments. Just touch the shade on your phone and position it just the way you want with just a touch!

This is also an amazing tool for those who are frequently gone from their home - like snow birds. This feature allows them to appear home, when in fact they are on a beach in Tampa.

Choosing to use the phone app option can allow you to give the illusion of being home, even when you’re not, with just the swipe of your finger.

Check out episode #105 of Window Treatment Friday Live for more motorization tips!

Motorization can be complicated! We've seen it all, installed it all, and made all the mistakes - and learned from them - so you don't have to. We would love to support you on your next motorization project.