KB Electric LLC recently installed motorized blinds for a new customer. In fact, the customer called in to tell us that FIVE electricians he called told him that they could not do this project. We were flabbergasted, to say the least! Let’s go over what motorized blinds are, the different types, and the best outlet placement for hardwiring power blinds.
Motorized Blinds – Installation
What Are Motorized Blinds?
Motorized blinds, also known as power blinds, are automatic window shades/blinds that lower and rise to open (aka “lift” for shades) or “tilt” to open (for blinds). The automatic control is powered with the press of a button on a remote control (or by voice control with something like Amazon’s Alexa). Power blinds come in all different brands, styles, and colors to meet your home’s specific decor.
Styles of Power Blinds
- Cellular Shades (your traditional honeycomb look)
- Pleated
- Roman
- Roller
Types of Motorized Blinds
Like mentioned, motorized blinds use some type of remote control and/or voice activation system to lower and rise. In order for this to happen, the power blinds come in different motor types:
- Battery Powered: rechargeable battery (needs charging within a few to six months, depending on the brand)
- Plug-In with wall outlet
- Hardwired: uses a low-voltage system with a wall outlet and sometimes a wall switch as well, but requires a licensed and insured electrician for installation.
- Solar-powered: motorized shade/blind that uses the power of the sun’s light to open and close.
Benefits of Motorized Blinds
- No dangling window blind cords for safety with children and pets.
- Great option for out-of-reach windows.
- Can control the opening and closing of the blinds from anywhere with a remote control or voice activated smart home system (think about laying in your bed and being able to open them with the click of a button!)
- Various styles and colors to meet your home’s specific style and decor.
- Control natural lighting within your home for energy-efficiency.
- Can open and close even when you aren’t home for security when connected to a smart app on your phone (depending on the specific kind you choose).
Benefits To Hardwired Power Blinds
Not just because we are electricians, but KB Electric highly recommends hardwiring your motorized blinds for various reasons:
- Aesthetically appealing (no exposed cords or wires!)
- No more worrying about recharging batteries.
- Can be controlled by a switch on the wall if preferred.
Best Outlet Placement For Motorized Blinds
When choosing the hardwiring option for your power blinds, the best outlet placement for motorized blinds would be in your attic, or ran on a line to a wall switch for control. The outlet in the attic or the line running from the switch to the blinds would be connected to your main electric panel on a dedicated line. If there is no attic, the next best place for an outlet to be installed for the motorized blinds would be at the top of the wall behind where the blinds hang so it is hidden (think aesthetic appeal!).
Licensed Electrician For Motorized Blind Installation
The best power option for motorized blinds or shades is the hardwiring option. You won’t have to worry about charging a battery or the eyesore of a dangling power cord. At KB Electric LLC, we provide top-notch power blind installation for any and all types of motorized shades. We are fully licensed and insured, an owner-managed business since 2004, and are family-owned and operated with faith-based practices. Call us today! (267) 467-3178