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Hardwired or Battery Powered Motors Explained

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Written by: SOM Blinds Team

How to decide on a battery or electric motor for curtains and blinds

Motorised and automated curtains and blinds are becoming increasingly common in luxury Melbourne homes, making it easier than ever for homeowners of all abilities to operate their window furnishings. Whether you choose hardwired or battery-powered motors, enjoy the convenience of automation without pulling cords or lifting heavy shades manually. Integration with your property’s automation system can also improve energy efficiency, increase security and add interior design sophistication. 

Selecting battery-powered or hard-wired electric motorised window treatments for your Melbourne home

Blind and curtain automation systems operate using a motor, either battery-powered with batteries placed inside the motor, or electric, with wiring connected to a power source. Both types of motors are convenient and easy to use. However, choosing the best one depends on the home’s design, window location and access to electricity. This guide explores the operational features of each motor type and the considerations that may affect your selection.

Why automated curtains and blinds are a smart choice

Why choose to automate and motorise your shades and curtains in the first place? Automated window furnishings simplify your daily routine and enhance comfort for family members of all ages and abilities. Modern technology also means motors run smoothly and reliably, and are easily controlled in your home or on personal devices. 

Operate your blinds effortlessly with the touch of a button. Adjust your window coverings using wall mounts, remote controls or smart technology. Integrate the motor with your home smart system and use voice control for a hands-free option.

Tailor installations to your home design features, from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking your garden to compact, decorative windows in your stairwell or bathroom. Different styles of window treatments, such as curtains, blinds and shutters, can be easily automated using motors from trusted suppliers. Talk to us about the brands we recommend. 

Protect your interiors from direct sunlight and overheating during warmer months, and help keep heat inside when it’s cooler. In summer, you can program blinds to automatically close during the hottest part of the day to keep indoor temperatures low and reduce air conditioning use.

Motorised window furnishings have no cords or chains, so are safer for households with pets and small children. Set timers while you’re away to close blinds after sunset, blocking visibility into your home for added protection.

Upgrading your home with motors for blinds and curtains can help increase its overall value by adding convenience, energy savings and elevated style.

What are the pros and cons of hardwired motorised window furnishings?

Electric hardwired motors deliver dependable performance with minimal upkeep.

Benefits of hardwired electric motors for curtains and blinds

Hard wired electric motors for curtains and blinds are durable and reliable. In new homes, it’s best to install the wiring needed during the building phase, as it can be difficult and possibly even more expensive to add wiring once the home has been plastered and is nearing completion. If you are considering hard-wired motorisation or even automation for your window furnishings, we recommend letting your architect, builder and electrician know immediately. Talk to us about this in your window furnishing design consultation. 

Easily operate heavy blinds and curtains

Electric motors have greater lifting power than battery-powered options. Speak with your electrician and our team about the size and weight of your window treatments to determine how much power you need.

Ideal for hard-to-reach windows

Hardwired options are perfect for windows located high up or in inconvenient areas where recharging batteries can be difficult, such as in stairwells, voids, above doors, second storey levels and on balconies. Without hardwiring, you will need to climb a ladder or scaffold to recharge the batteries.

Save time charging and replacing batteries

With a reliable power source, electric motors function uninterrupted without the need for charging, shifting furniture or disrupting your living arrangements.

Link multiple blinds to a single motor

Our exclusive SOM Blinds SOM60 motorised blind system can be used to link three large blinds up to three metres wide, allowing them all to be operated by one powerful SOMFY motor.

What are the drawbacks of hardwired electric blinds and curtains?

At SOM Blinds, we generally recommend electric motors for most homes because they have fewer downsides. However, consider possible limitations before selecting the best motor for your home.

You will need to engage a licensed electrician to supply power to your windows at an additional cost. Depending on the degree of difficulty this may also be time-intensive, and therefore more costly. Ask us to recommend a reliable electrician if needed.

Without a backup power supply, your hardwired electric blinds may stop working during a blackout, as do many other household appliances.

If you are renovating, implementing hard-wired motorisation for blinds and curtains will involve some rewiring, and possibly even creating some wall openings or additional construction, resulting in increased costs and inconvenience. However, many clients have asked us to retrofit hard-wiring as they become frustrated with the hassle of continually charging multiple battery-powered blinds.

Pros and cons of battery-operated motors for curtains and blinds

Using batteries to power curtains and blinds offers several advantages, along with some drawbacks that may affect everyday use.

The advantages of battery-powered motors

Battery-run motors are easy to set up and are a good choice for windows with limited power options.

Easy to install

Battery-operated window blinds and curtains don’t need electrical wiring, so they are quicker and easier to install, potentially saving you time and money. Some manual blinds can even be retrofitted with battery blinds if the tube is compatible.

Ideal for places that cannot be wired

Battery-powered motors are useful for homes with construction restrictions, such as heritage buildings, structures with double brick walls, or for skylights and other windows where your electrician can’t get wiring to.

Moveable and renovation-friendly

Renting or planning to revamp your home? Battery-powered curtains and blinds can be moved more easily, and there is no complex wiring that can interfere with construction. You may be able to use existing motors with curtains or blinds in the new location or updated home.

Limitations of battery-operated motors

For larger homes, maintaining window treatments that run on batteries is not always practical. Smooth functioning depends on battery upkeep, and some window locations may not be easily accessible.

Batteries must be recharged regularly, which can take time and effort in homes with multiple installations.

Windows in hard-to-access locations, such as stairwells, voids or the exterior, may be difficult to reach without a ladder or scaffold to charge the batteries. If you’re unable to do it yourself, you may need to pay a technician to come and do this for you, an added expense or inconvenience that you need to consider.
The size and weight of your curtains and blinds may be limited if you decide to use battery motors. They aren’t always strong enough to be fully functional with large, heavy window furnishings.
Motor speed typically slows down as battery life diminishes. Low power means heavier blinds on larger windows can struggle to operate, leaving you unable to use them without regular recharging. Just like your phone battery, the power in motor batteries diminishes with time.

Installation considerations for motorised window furnishings

Whether using battery-operated or electric motors, planning ahead will help ensure seamless placement and avoid costly revisions. First, consider the pros and cons of motorised and manual operating styles to determine if automation is the best option for you, before you decide on the type of motor and wiring requirements. This saves time and expense, while ensuring smooth operation from the start.

Plan motorisation early in your build or renovation

Discuss motorisation with your architect early in the planning process and contact SOM Blinds for a window furnishing design consultation during the design phase. Our team works closely with architects, builders and interior designers to customise window furnishings and find the best automation solution for your home.

Assess window locations and installation restrictions

While some window locations may be difficult to get wiring to, they will also be difficult to reach for recharging batteries. If you really need a blind or curtain on a difficult-to-access-window, determine which inconvenience is going to work better for you in the long term. Discuss the options with your builder and electrician before deciding.

Look to the future

Consider whether you would like to install external blinds at a later date. If so, ensure the correct wiring is put in place while you’re building or renovating, and keep a record of where it is by taking photos before cladding. When you’re ready to install your external blinds, the wiring will be ready.

Establish automation compatibility

Most motors will integrate well with home automation systems, but different models use different communication protocols. Consult with your electrician and our team to ensure the motor you are considering is compatible.

Should I choose hard-wired or battery powered motors for the window furnishings in my Melbourne home?

Consider energy supply, window location and construction and renovation plans before deciding on battery- or electric-operated motorised blinds and curtains. Each offers different advantages.

Width of window coverings

When hard-wired electric motors work best

  • You have multiple windows and/or large blinds
  • There is a reliable electricity source
  • Windows are difficult to access
  • You don’t have time or capability to recharge batteries

Ideal circumstances for battery-run motors

  • Electrician cannot get wiring to reach your desired window location
  • Blackouts are a common occurrence
  • You want a straightforward, non-invasive installation

Long-term performance with electric motors for curtains and blinds

Hardwired electric motors are known for their reliability and performance. SOM Blinds recommends electric motors when wiring to the window location is feasible. Our partners at Somfy offer a wide range of premium motors with innovative features, compatible with most home automation and smart systems. If wiring is not possible or you don’t have a dependable power source, a battery-operated motor makes an excellent alternative.

Motorise your window furnishings with battery-powered or hardwired motors

For over 20 years, SOM Blinds has worked with Melbourne homeowners to enhance properties with motorised custom window furnishing solutions. By collaborating with architects, builders and interior designers, we ensure that every design and product is tailored to your home, operates smoothly and looks great! Our team will help you to select the best option for your home, whether you opt for hardwired or battery-operated window blinds and curtains. Book your custom design consultation or call SOM Blinds on 03 9808 1807 today.

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SOM Blinds Team

25 Years Experience

SOM Blinds collaborates with Melbourne homeowners, builders, architects and interior designers to provide premium custom window furnishings. From sleek motorised blinds to stylish curtains and retractable awnings, we customise our range to match your home and lifestyle needs. We understand that every detail matters. That’s why we’re happy to help you select the right blinds and curtains with a simple, stress-free process. Whether you’re renovating a beloved heritage home or creating a new dream space, our articles will inspire you to transform your home into attractive, comfortable and functional areas, starting with the perfect windows.

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