Smart home systems are technological advancements that have enabled homes to become fully automated. The possible appliance is now hooked to high technology system home system whenever an appliance is deemed to be compatible with a particular smart home system. Whether it’s Alexa, Google Home, or Homekit, every possible part of the house is made to link with these systems. Motorized curtains are no exception.
Some can now be linked to any high technology home system that your home may have. After all, automation means convenience. Who wouldn’t want to be able to open and close curtains with just a simple voice command or touch of a button? Better is the option of programming a timer so that these curtains can open and close at a given time every single day.
There are many choices available for smart curtains that can confuse your part. Knowing the things you have to consider when deciding what kind of motorized curtain to buy will help you pick one that will match your home and lifestyle.
Should you go for a side-opening curtain or one that opens from the middle?
Smart curtains can open either from the side or from the middle. Some can open from either the side or middle as well. What’s important is how your old curtains open for your new curtains to match the old one’s mechanism. If you aren’t sure how your old curtains work, it would be better to choose the ones that can open from either side of the center.
Size
The nice thing about smart curtains is that they come in a wide variety of sizes. You will be able to find one that can match your window’s size. The size of your window may not match the usual sizes that can be seen in the market. In this case, you can have custom-made curtains to fit your window.
Should you get a professional to install your motorized curtains?
If you are who like doing things on your own, installing a motorized curtain should be a cinch for you. That said, installing motorized curtains can take some time. If you are the type who comes with a packed schedule, then seeking the help of a professional installer will probably work better for you.
Quality and Durability
Spending on motorized curtains is no joke. Many of them do cost a lot so you wouldn’t want to dole out so many bucks to find out that these won’t even last as long as you expect them to. To make your money’s worth, one thing you have to check before you buy your curtains is the maximum weight that your curtain system will allow. Ensure that you don’t exceed the maximum weight so that the mechanism doesn’t give way. It is especially true for floor-length drapes that tend to be long and heavy.
Price
If the price is right. No matter what kind of purchase one makes, price is always an issue. Of course, it is normal for you to make every penny worth what you pay for. You would also want to look for products where you won’t have to shell out but still, get your money’s worth. In this case, you may want to check out new products from name brands and see if they have any introductory offers. If you are looking into a budget though, do take note that the more features there are in the curtain’s mechanism, the more pricey it will get.
What are the things that I should think of if I’m getting new curtains? If I’m retrofitting curtains, what pointers should I look out for?
Are you planning to place smart curtains in your new home or are you planning to replace your old curtains with smart ones? This will, of course, matter as you try to decide on which curtain to buy.
Buying new ones for an entirely new place gives you more freedom to choose, compared to choosing curtains meant to replace old ones. If you are planning to replace your old curtains, try to find ones that will match your old curtains in size and type of opening. You might even want to consider choosing curtains that will match the style of your old ones.
Smart Home Hub Integration
There are different ways in which motorized curtains can be automated. There are motorized curtains that can be controlled using a remote that may have features, such as a timer so that you can program the curtains to open and close at a given time. Some may even be automated through voice control.
If your home is equipped with a smart home system, you can check for motorized curtains that can integrate with your smart home system. Some can integrate with Alexa or Google Home, enough for you to be able to control the curtains through a smartphone app.
Smart curtains make life a little bit more convenient. In today’s busy lifestyle, every bit of convenience means so much. As long as you make the right choice, having these in your home will be a great addition that can make you feel more relaxed. It’s a choice that you won’t regret.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are motorized curtains installed?
Installing motorized curtains isn’t rocket science. Upon purchase, these curtains come with instruction manuals and videos. Follow instructions to the letter and you’ll be finished in two hours max! You won’t even need any special equipment to install motorized curtains since all accessories are provided by the manufacturers. The curtain rod that comes with the set is fully adjustable so it can surely match the width of your window. From your end, all you’ll need is a screwdriver and a pair of scissors then you’re all set to go!
What makes these motorized curtains work?
Technology has come up with great ideas in terms of automation. The curtain track in smart motorized curtains comes with sensors that can connect to wifi signals. The track is also connected to a motor that can move these curtains. Signals from the sensors are received by either a remote control, wall switch, voice assistant, or even a smartphone so that you can easily control the curtains through any of these mechanisms.
Are motorized curtains expensive?
Prices of motorized curtains range anywhere from $220 to $1000 a piece. As to be expected, the fancier the features, the higher the price tag.
Can I convert my old curtains to make them motorized?
This depends on the type of opening that your regular curtains have. Most motorized curtains work as horizontal hook-on curtains so you will probably have to check if your regular curtains are hooked in the same manner.
Can I integrate my smart curtain with a smart home system like Alexa or Google Home?
Some curtains can be integrated into smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home. If you find that your smart curtain cannot get linked to Alexa, you can always use third-party apps that will help you hook your smart curtain to Alexa.
