Like regular window treatments, smart blinds and shades provide privacy, block out sunlight and other sources of heat, and can help cut your energy bills. But unlike traditional blinds and shades, most motorized versions are equipped with the technology to connect over the internet and communicate with your other home automation devices. That means you can open and close them using an app, a voice assistant like Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri, or even via your smart speaker, and they can do it without you having to get off the sofa or lift a finger.
Indianapolis Smart blinds and window treatments operate one of two ways: some plug into an outlet or can be hard-wired into your home’s electrical system, while others use battery power to run their motors. Both methods have their pros and cons. Hard-wired models can be more cost-effective than the pricier battery-powered alternatives, but you’ll need an electrician to wire them. Battery-powered ones work well, but you’ll have to replace them every few months and may need to install a charger.
Most manufacturers offer both types of smart blinds. The most popular are powered by rechargeable batteries, which have the disadvantage of requiring you to climb a ladder to change them out. Most of these are rated to run for about a year before they need replacing, but you’ll likely want to invest in lithium AAs — which are typically $35 per pack — for best results.
Among the most affordable options are Ikea’s Smart Blinds, which come in eight preset sizes ranging from 23 to 48 inches wide. They’re easy to install and feature a simple interface, but you’ll need a hub or bridge (available separately) to connect them to your smartphone and enable their smart capabilities.
The smartest of the bunch are Lutron’s Serena Smart Wood Blinds, which look great, function reliably, and are a pleasure to operate. The standout feature is Natural Light Optimization, which automatically opens and closes the slats of the blinds throughout the day to account for the movement of the sun. You can also create and schedule customized room scenes through the app, and you can sync them with your other smart home devices through the Lutron Caseta Smart Hub.
Most motorized smart blinds are compatible with other home automation systems, including lights, thermostats and security systems. For example, many of Eve’s and Lutron’s PowerView shades are compatible with Apple HomeKit and other smart-home ecosystems. And their motors can be integrated with your voice assistant, allowing you to control them simply by saying “Hey Alexa, turn on the kitchen lights.”
Indianapolis blinds can be an ideal solution for busy families or frequent travelers who want to give their homes the appearance of being occupied when they’re away. Plus, you can set them to a schedule that automatically opens and closes them each day, blocking out the sun at certain times and letting it in at other times to keep your air conditioner and heating from working too hard.
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