Stylish window shade automation, blinds and shutters are no longer just the domain of high-end homes. Thanks to smart technology, automated blinds and shades are easier to install than ever, enabling homeowners to create the perfect home environment for any occasion. These smart blinds and shades can be controlled with a handheld remote, mobile app or voice assistant such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. They can also be scheduled to operate at set times of the day or in response to other conditions.
Smart window shades are available as new products or you can retrofit your existing blinds, shutters and shades with Gear to add automation for a fraction of the cost. They connect to your existing hardware and can be connected over Wi-Fi. Gear is easy to install and requires no tools or a degree in rocket science. It’s guaranteed to lift your existing window treatments, or your money back.
Shades and blinds that are powered by Somfy motors deliver the latest in convenience, energy efficiency, and advanced sensor options. The motors are battery-operated for energy-efficient designs or hardwired for maximum power and durability. Control them using a variety of hand-held remotes, wall switches, timers, and sensors or integrate them with your existing smart-home system.
A wide range of fabric choices let you personalize your style. Some motorized shades come with a built-in light sensor, which automatically lowers the shade when sunlight enters your room to help reduce cooling costs. Others include integrated UV protection to keep your furniture, artwork and flooring from fading. Many models allow you to schedule shades to open and close at prescribed times of the day or night for added privacy and energy efficiency.
Window shade automation isn’t just about saving time and effort, but it can also increase the value of your home. For example, a simple feature like having your shades automatically open and close at certain times of the day can make it look as though you’re home when you’re really away on vacation. This helps deter thieves, lowering your risk of property damage and boosting your home’s security.
Some models can even detect when you are away from home, automatically raising or lowering your shades to maintain the ideal room temperature and to prevent excessive solar heat and glare. They can also respond to a variety of other environmental conditions such as sunrise and sunset estimates, activity levels within your home or changes in the weather.
The best-selling automatic shades are often operated via an internet-connected hub, which can be accessed by a smartphone or tablet with the BLISS Automation by Alta app (or third-party apps that support it). They have a sleek metal design that makes them an appealing alternative to cellular or Bluetooth devices, and their batteries last for 500 up/down cycles. They’re also easy to expand and compatible with other BLISS products.