Window covering: controls, motors & power
There are numerous motorized window covering platforms available today, all which provide both convenience and functionality for residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. These motorized systems allow users to control blinds, shades, or curtains with ease, often integrating with smart home or building control systems. The challenge is determining which system is best for your project AND MORESO, what options are available to you at different stages of the construction process.
At GiCor, we are not a ONE TRICK PONY which means that we carry a wide range of products, each offering a unique benefit in terms of suitability to the project. This is most important when addressing motorized shading options in new construction versus a completely finished home. If completely finished, the BIG question is always “How to get wiring to each of the window openings”? Timing is EVERYTHING!
Here is a brief overview of the different types of shading motors & control systems available:
Wired Motors / DC – Low Voltage
- Description:Wired motors are connected to a power supply via cables, which may require installation of electrical outlets or additional wiring in behind the walls. Should be done early in the construction process.
- Advantages:
- More reliable with consistent power supply.
- Ideal for permanent installations.
- Typically quieter and more powerful.
- Many are now “Matter” compatable.
Battery – Powered Motors
- Description: Battery-powered motors are powered by rechargeable or replaceable batteries, making them easier to install without the need for wiring.
- Advantages:
- Easy to install with no need for electrical wiring.
- Flexible for locations where wiring is not practical.
- Rechargeable options are available for convenience.
- Best For: Smaller windows, retrofit installations, and areas where wiring is difficult or impossible.
- Examples: Somfy Li-ion RTS, Lutron Triathlon (battery-operated), or Hunter Douglas Powerview with rechargeable wands.
- Control options: include remotes, wireless wall switches, smart phone apps, home automation systems & voice control.
- Many are now “Matter” compatable.
Solar – Powered Motors
- Description: These motors are powered by solar energy, often using a solar panel installed near the window or on the roof.
- Advantages:
- Energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
- Great for homes or buildings with abundant sunlight.
- Eliminates the need for a power outlet or battery replacement.
- Best For: Areas with ample sunlight exposure, green buildings, and eco-conscious users.
- Examples: Somfy Solar Solutions or Hunter Douglas Solar Power supplies.
- Control options: Include remotes, wireless wall switches, smart phone apps, home automation systems & voice control.
Alternating Current (AC) Motors
- Description: AC motors are larger and typically more powerful than DC motors, and they require a constant power supply. This category only includes NON smart motors (aka Dumb motors). Should be done early in the construction process.
- Advantages:
- Can handle much heavier window coverings and larger windows.
- Often more durable for commercial or industrial applications.
- Best For: Large commercial installations or heavy-duty applications, such as large drapes or high-traffic areas.
- Examples: Gaposa 50 series or Somfy Sonesse 50.
- Control options: Include remotes, wireless or wired wall switches, sun sensors, wired control panels, group relay panels, smart phone apps, home automation systems, building control systems, SOLATRACK automation systems & of course voice control.
Alternating Current (AC) Smart Motors
- Description: These AC motors are larger and typically more powerful than DC motors, and also require a constant power supply. These new smart motors offer a huge advantage to their less intelligent counterpart as they can be configured & programmed to treat entire homes, offices or office towers. Should be done early in the construction process.
- Advantages:
- Can handle much heavier window coverings and larger windows.
- Often more durable for commercial or industrial applications.
- Can be networked into home & building automation systems.
- Can be controlled throughout entire office towers with simple contact points & unique addressable individual control.
- Best For: Large commercial installations or heavy-duty applications where more robust control options are required.
- Examples: Mecho Zigbee plus, Somfy Sonesse 50 Animeo motors.
- Control options: Include remotes, wireless or wired wall switches, sun sensors, wired control panels, group relay panels, smart phone apps, home automation systems, building control systems, SOLATRACK automation systems & of course voice control.
Wi-Fi or Smart Home Integrated Motors – typically DC – Low Voltage Solutions
- Description: These motors integrate with smart home ecosystems, allowing you to control window coverings via voice commands, home automation systems or smartphone apps through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Should be done early in the construction process.
- Advantages:
- Integration with home automation systems like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
- Remote control from anywhere (if connected to Wi-Fi).
- Scheduling and automation features (e.g., open/close based on time of day or light levels).
- Best For: Smart homes, tech-savvy users, and those who want automated or remote-controlled window treatments.
- Examples: Somfy TaHomA, Lutron Caseta, and ALTEX Coulisse shading motors.
- Control options: Include remotes, wireless wall switches, sun sensors, smart phone apps & home automation systems & of course voice control.
- Many are now “Matter” compatable.
Zigbee or Z-Wave Motorized Window Treatments – AC or DC solutions
- Description: Zigbee and Z-Wave are wireless communication protocols used for home automation. These motors allow integration into home automation systems using these protocols for reliable and secure communication. Should be done early in the construction process.
- Advantages:
- Can be controlled via third-party smart home hubs (like SmartThings or Hubitat).
- Secure and reliable communication for remote control.
- Can be programmed to work with other smart home devices (e.g., light levels or temperature).
- Best For: Home automation enthusiasts who have Zigbee or Z-Wave hubs in their homes.
- Examples: Somfy Zigbee or Lutron Serena (Z-Wave).
- Control options: Include remotes, wireless wall switches, sun sensors, smart phone apps & home automation systems & of course voice control.
Key Considerations
- Power Supply: Wired, battery, or solar options all depend on where the window treatments are located (access to power sources) and how often you want to deal with battery replacements.
- Smart Integration: If you want to integrate window coverings into a smart home system, consider Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave-compatible motors.
- Noise and Efficiency: If you need quiet operation, especially in bedrooms or offices, look for low-noise DC motors.Typically the lower the voltage the louder the motor is (but not always).
- Customization: Some motor systems are more suited for large, heavy drapes or commercial applications, while others are ideal for smaller windows or specific styles (e.g., roller shades, venetian blinds). Make sure the motors that you purchase are rated for the size and weight of the shade / treatment being controlled.
Motorized window coverings have grown in popularity due to the increased comfort and ease of use they provide. Depending on your needs and the type of window coverings you’re installing, selecting the right motor option can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your space. Remember that it is critical to contact us well in advance if the shading requirements require pre-wired solutions (BEFORE DRYWALL). Call 1-866-664-4267 or email to info@gicor.com
control Brochures
power Brochures
Brands We Carry
