Now, you can open and close your shades using simple voice commands like, “Alexa, open primary bedroom shades.” Motorized shades, also called smart, electric, or power shades, come with an electric motor that allows remote operation. When connected to Amazon Alexa or Google Home, these shades become an integral part of your smart home.
You can easily manage shades in individual rooms, groups of rooms, or your entire home with voice commands like, “Google, set nursery shades to 50%” or “Alexa, open all shades to 75%.” This makes adjusting your shades a seamless experience anytime you want.
In addition, you can set up personalized ‘Routines’ and ‘Scenes’:
- Routines allow shades to open or close automatically at certain times. For example, “Alexa, good morning” can raise all the shades at once.
- Scenes coordinate your shades with other smart home devices. You might say, “Alexa, start movie night,” and the shades will lower, the lights will dim, the thermostat adjusts, and your TV turns on.
Key Features & Benefits
Beyond voice control, motorized shades offer enhanced functionality when connected to Alexa or Google Home:
- Remote Access: Using Alexa or Google Home apps, you can control your shades from anywhere—whether you’re home or away. You can also schedule them to adjust at specific times.
- Hands-Free Operation: No more remotes or switches—voice commands make it easy for everyone in the household to adjust the shades, especially those with limited mobility.
- Energy Savings: Automating your shades helps regulate indoor temperature, reducing HVAC usage and lowering energy costs.
- Enhanced Security: Schedule your shades to move when you’re not home, giving the appearance that someone is there and adding an extra layer of security.
If Acadia has already installed motorized shades for you or you’re thinking about adding them, here’s what you need to know. To use voice control, a ‘smart hub’ or ‘gateway’ is required to connect your shades to Alexa or Google Home. This hub enables communication between the shades and your home network.
Your Sales Consultant will help determine the right hub for your system, but please note that Acadia only provides guidance on where to purchase the hub. You’ll need to set it up yourself to integrate it with your smart home. The required hub and app depend on the type of motor in your shades:
- Z-Wave Motors: You’ll need the Bond Bridge and Graber Motorization App. The Bond Bridge costs between $120 and $380 on Amazon, and the app is free for both Apple and Android devices.
- RTS Motors: You’ll need the Somfy TaHoma Hub, which is available for around $280 on Amazon, and the free Somfy App on Apple and Android.
Motorized shades are a stylish and convenient choice for modern homes, offering features that traditional window treatments can’t match. To explore automated window coverings, schedule your free consultation with one of our experts today!