As a homeowner, you know there are a million things to consider when it comes to protecting your home – from security systems to ensuring the HVAC is running efficiently. But have you ever thought about how you can use technology to make your life easier and save energy and money?
Homeowners focus on energy efficiency, privacy, and convenience. Hence, automated or motorized shades are becoming increasingly popular. If you’re considering installing motorized shades in your home, you probably have a few questions. Here are the most frequently asked questions about automated shades.
1. What Are Automated Shades?
Automated or motorized outdoor window shades can be opened, closed, and adjusted using a remote control, phone app, or smart home system. Motorized shades are convenient because they can be controlled without getting up from your seat or moving around furniture. They’re also great for hard-to-reach windows.
2. How Do Automated Shades Work?
Motorized shades contain a small motor that raises and lowers the shade fabric when activated by a remote control, phone app, or smart home system. Depending on your shade, the motor can be battery-operated or hardwired into your home’s electrical system.
Some of the common types are:
1) Battery-operated: These shades use a battery pack to raise and lower the shade. The battery life will depend on how often you use the shades. Some battery-operated shades can be plugged into an outlet to help extend the life of the batteries.
2) Hardwired: These shades are connected to your home’s electrical system and do not require batteries. Hardwired shades are a great option if you have large windows or plan to use the shades frequently.
3. What are the Benefits of Automated Shades?
Automated shades have several benefits.
1) They’re convenient – you can open and close them without getting up from your seat or moving around furniture.
2) They’re energy-efficient – they can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter by blocking out the sun’s rays.
3) They provide privacy – you can lower them when you want to block out the outside world.
4) They can be controlled remotely – you can adjust them even if you’re not at home.
5) They’re safe – they can be programmed to close in bad weather or a fire.
4. Are Automated Shades Safe?
Yes! Automated shades are safe for both children and pets. Most automated shade systems have child-safe features that prevent little fingers from getting caught in the mechanisms. If you have pets, look for a system that includes a pet-safe feature that keeps animals from being injured by the moving parts of the shade.
Other safety features include:
– Automatic stop: This feature stops the shade from moving if it encounters an obstacle, preventing damage to your walls or furniture.
– Limit switches: These switches prevent the shade from being opened or closed too far, which could cause damage to the shade itself.
– Temperature sensor: This sensor prevents the shade from overheating, which could be a fire hazard.
5. How Much Do Automated Shades Cost?
The cost of automated shades varies depending on the shade you choose and the size of your window. Roman and roller shades are typically less expensive than cellular shades and draperies. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 per window for an automated shade system.
6. How Long Do Automated Shades Last?
With proper care and maintenance, most automated shade systems will last for several years before needing to be replaced. Roman shades and roller shades tend to last longer than cellular shades and draperies because they have fewer moving parts that can wear out over time.
7. Do Automated Shades Require Special Maintenance?
No! Automated shades don’t require any special maintenance beyond regular dusting and vacuuming. To prevent damage, you should avoid placing furniture or objects too close to the shade mechanism.
Other tips for maintaining your automated shades:
-Regularly clean your shades with a soft, dry cloth.
-Vacuum regularly with the brush attachment to remove dust and dirt.
-Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, damaging the shade material.
-If the shade cord becomes tangled, gently untangle it by hand.
Conclusion
Outdoor motorized shades are a great way to protect your patio furniture and keep your home cool during the summer. However, you should keep a few things in mind before purchasing them. First, measure the area you want to cover and choose a shade that is the appropriate size. Second, read the product reviews before making your purchase to ensure that you get a quality product.