Home automation has revolutionized the interior design industry, and smart home devices have changed the way we care for our homes. With the ability to control almost any device remotely, automated window treatments have become a popular choice for homeowners.

Deciding if automated shades are right for you can be a daunting task, but our design advisors have answered your most commonly asked questions:

1. What are automated shades, and how do they work?

Automated shades (sometimes called motorized shades) are window treatments operated by an electric motor and controlled with a remote, mobile device, or home automation devices such as Alexa or Google Home. This type of treatment can have a motorized lift function or a motorized tilt function. Automated shades are considered cordless since they do not need operational cords, making them a safer option for homes with children or pets.

2. How are Automated shades powered?

Our automated shades are often powered by lithium-ion batteries which are hidden inside the headrail. Some automated shades have external rechargeable battery packs. The lifespan of a battery pack on a single charge is approximately 500 up/down cycles, depending on the size of the shade and frequency of use.

Automated shade orders come with at least one 13’ charging cable, which can fully charge shades in 4-6 hours. Optional solar panels can be added to extend the battery life, but do not replace charging as a source of power. Additionally, homeowners can explore hardwired options to eliminate the need to charge their shades.

3. Can Automated shades be connected to my smart device?

Yes! By connecting your automated shades to the Bliss Home Bridge, you can control your shades from your smartphone by downloading the Bliss Automation by Alta app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Through the app, you can control precise shade positions, schedule your shades to raise and lower, or connect them to other smart devices such as Alexa and Google Home.

Pro-tip:
Schedule your shades to automatically raise or lower at sunrise and sunset.

4. Are AUtomated shades reliable?

Automated window treatments are just as reliable as traditional window treatments. While battery-operated shades will require periodic charging, the ease of use and flexibility to control your shades easily makes up for the charging requirements.

5. Are motorized blinds Loud?

Automated shades are designed to operate quietly, with a soft humming or whirring sound, around 46 decibels, comparable to a refrigerator or computer. Increasing the speed of the motor or sparsely furnished rooms may seem slightly louder. Bliss Automation motors are ranked as some of the quietest battery-powered options on the market.

6. Are Automated Shades easy to program?

Bliss Automated Shades are designed to be user-friendly and easy to use. We offer initial programming for all shades installed by Solana Shades and can revisit for additional programming as needed. Many homeowners find the management of automated shades as second nature as classic cordless shades. With easy instructions and intuitive remotes, using automated shades has never been easier.

7. Are motorized blinds worth it?

Automated shades are particularly useful for tall windows or windows that are difficult to reach. Rooms with many windows that need to be opened and closed regularly can also benefit from motorized shades. You can easily program your shades to raise and lower together, saving time and effort. Customers who upgrade to automated shades can expect an additional $200-360 per shade, depending on size and weight requirements.

Ready to explore Automated Shades? Explore all options here or schedule today with a Design Advisor to see how Automated Shades best fit your home.