Motorised Blinds and Curtains Buying Guide
Somfy & Acmeda Motors
Transform your home with motorised blinds and curtains that offer convenience, style, and smart control. This guide explains how to choose motorised options using top-quality Somfy and Acmeda motors. Perfect for new builds, renovations, or upgrades, motorised systems provide child-safe operation, energy savings, and easy control for hard-to-reach windows.
Quick Start: Choosing Your Motorised System
- The right motorised system depends on your window size, power access, and smart home setup. Battery motors suit most residential applications up to 3 metres wide, whilst hardwired options handle larger commercial-grade installations.Consider these key factors:
- Window dimensions and weight limits
- Available power sources near windows
- Integration with existing smart home platforms
- Installation method preference (DIY or professional)
- Budget including motor, installation, and accessories
Most Australian homes benefit from battery-powered motors due to easy DIY installation and lower overall costs.
Motor Brands Compared
Somfy Motors
Somfy leads the market with ultra-quiet operation and proven reliability across their range. The Sonesse 40 RTS delivers whisper-quiet performance with specially designed brakes, rotor, and gearbox to absorb sound sources.
Available torque options include 3Nm/30rpm and 6Nm/20rpm for the Sonesse 40 RTS, whilst the Zigbee-enabled Sonesse 40 offers 4Nm/30rpm, 6Nm/20rpm, and 9Nm/12rpm configurations. Both systems include soft start/stop features and 5-year manufacturer warranties.
The battery-powered Sonesse 30 WireFree Li-ion eliminates electrician costs whilst maintaining Somfy’s signature quiet operation. This rechargeable lithium-ion system integrates with the full RTS control range including Telis remotes and Tahoma smart home systems.
Acmeda/Rollease Motors
Rollease Acmeda’s Automate range offers mechanical limit, electronic limit, and wire-free motor options. The Automate E6 provides continuous power for blinds up to 3 metres wide by 2 metres drop, ideal for new builds with established wiring.
Key Automate features include impact detection for fabric preservation, ultra-quiet performance, and precision levelled positioning. The system supports Easy-Link technology, allowing three linked shades spanning up to 9 metres wide.
Battery options include the Automate wire-free motors with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, offering similar convenience to Somfy’s wireless range. All Automate motors work with stylish handheld or wall switch controls.
| Feature | Somfy | Acmeda/Rollease |
|---|---|---|
Noise Level | Ultra-quiet with sound absorption | Ultra-quiet performance |
Battery Option | Sonesse 30 WireFree Li-ion | Automate wire-free motors |
Max Width | Varies by torque | 3m (9m with linking) |
Warranty | 5 years | Varies by model |
Smart Integration | RTS, Zigbee protocols | Compatible with automation |
Power Options Explained
Battery-Powered Motors
Rechargeable battery motors revolutionise motorised blind installation with no electrician required. A single charge typically lasts 6-12 months depending on blind size and daily cycles, with charging via standard micro USB cable taking 2-3 hours.
Benefits include:
- DIY installation saves $200-500 per blind in electrician costs
- No visible wiring or power points needed
- Easy retrofitting to existing manual blinds
- Battery level indicators on remote controls
- Suitable for blinds up to 3 metres wide
Battery motors cost less upfront and eliminate ongoing electrical certification requirements. Most residential applications find battery power completely sufficient.
Hardwired Motors
Hardwired 240V motors suit large commercial installations or blinds exceeding 3 metres width. These require a 5-amp fused spur connection installed by a licensed electrician near each window.
Advantages include:
- Constant power without recharging
- Handles heavy-duty commercial applications
- Perfect synchronisation across multiple blinds
- Suitable for blinds over 25kg weight
- No battery replacement cycles
Installation typically costs $300-800 per window including electrician fees and cable concealment. Plan hardwired systems during construction or renovation for most cost-effective implementation.
Smart Home Integration
Compatible Platforms
Modern motorised systems integrate seamlessly with popular smart home ecosystems. Somfy’s Tahoma Switch enables control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT platforms, whilst newer motors support Matter protocol for universal compatibility.
Supported platforms include:
- Apple HomeKit: Via Thread-enabled motors and HomePod/Apple TV
- Google Home: Direct integration or Matter bridge
- Amazon Alexa: Voice control through Echo devices
- Samsung SmartThings: Matter-compatible models
- IFTTT: Advanced automation scenarios
The Automate Pulse 2 WiFi Hub connects multiple blinds to your home network, enabling smartphone control from anywhere. Most systems support scheduling, group control, and sunrise/sunset automation.
Setup Requirements
Basic smart home integration requires a compatible hub or bridge device. Thread border routers like Apple TV 4K, HomePod Mini, or Google Nest Hub enable advanced automation without proprietary bridges.
Installation steps:
- Connect hub to home WiFi network
- Pair motors using manufacturer app
- Link to smart home platform
- Configure voice commands and schedules
- Test automation scenarios
Most setups complete within 30 minutes per blind. Schedules store directly in motors, maintaining operation during internet outages.
Curtain Fabrics: Sheer, Blockout & Light-Filter
Choose from a selection of high-quality Australian-made fabrics:
Measuring for Motorised Blinds
Correct measurements are crucial for a perfect fit.
Accurate measurements ensure perfect fit and smooth operation. Motorised blinds require precise dimensions due to motor placement affecting roll diameter.
Measure width at three points (top, middle, bottom) and use the smallest measurement. For inside mount, deduct 10mm total for side clearance.
Consider motor position:
- Standard motors add 50mm to bracket projection
- Determine control side based on power access
- Allow 75mm minimum depth for inside mount
- Check window frame squareness
For face mount installations, add 50-75mm overlap each side for complete light blockage. Double-check all measurements before ordering custom-made motorised products.
DIY Install & Maintenance Tips
Curtain tracks and pencil pleat curtains are designed for easy installation:
DIY install steps:
- Measure and mark bracket positions
- Secure brackets to wall or ceiling using included fixings
- Clip in track
- Hang curtains using hooks and gliders
- Adjust pleating for even fullness
Most confident DIYers complete install in under 45 minutes per window.
Care & Maintenance:
- Dust tracks and curtain fabric regularly
- Machine wash or dry clean as per fabric care label
- Avoid harsh detergents or bleach
- Check gliders and hooks seasonally
Pricing Factors, Warranty & Child Safety
Motorised blind costs vary based on size, fabric, motor type, and installation method. Battery motors typically add $200-300 per blind, whilst hardwired systems cost $300-500 plus electrical installation.
Price influences include:
- Motor brand: Somfy commands premium pricing
- Power type: Battery motors cost less overall
- Blind size: Larger blinds need stronger motors
- Fabric selection: Blockout costs more than sunscreen
- Control options: Smart home integration adds $100-200
- Installation: DIY saves 30-50% versus professional
Example pricing for 1.8m x 2.4m roller blind:
- Manual blind: $250-350
- Battery motorised: $450-650
- Hardwired motorised: $550-750 (plus electrical)
Volume discounts apply for multiple blinds. Request quotes for complete home packages.
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FAQ
Can I order curved curtain tracks?
No, only straight single or double tracks are offered.
What curtain heading styles can I order?
Pencil pleat heading only—no eyelet, tab top or specialty headings.
How do I order online using my window sizes?
Just measure width and drop, select your fabric/track, enter details and get instant pricing before checkout.
Can I layer sheer and blockout curtains on one window?
Yes, choose a double track to independently control both layers.
How do I get free fabric samples?
Simply click “Order free fabric samples” on the product page, choose your favourites and they’ll arrive in a few days.
Are pencil pleat curtains easy to install?
Yes, tracks and curtains are designed for DIY with clear guides and all fixings included.
Are your curtains made in Australia?
Yes, all custom curtains and tracks are Australian-made to order.
How do I ensure the best fit?
Always refer to our measuring guide—or contact us for advice before ordering.
