To simplify and automate their everyday life, people constantly invent new devices. These include electric curtain rods, which are placed in apartments, private houses, and office premises.

Light green curtains on an electric curtain rod
Electric curtain rods allow you to adjust the position of curtains from a distance

Electric curtain rods: brief description, operating principle, features

It is recommended to install an electric curtain rod for home and office curtains in spacious rooms with high ceilings and large panoramic windows, since the structure will clutter up a cramped space.

Black chandelier in living room with high ceiling
In a room with high ceilings, an electric curtain rod will be very useful.

The standard structure of this type of automation looks like this:

Electric curtain rod device with belt drive
The electric curtain rod consists of a motor, a supporting rail and a curtain control mechanism located in it.
  • Depending on the chosen interior style, the weight of the curtains, the supporting rail will be aluminum, plastic, stainless steel. Plastic is suitable for light curtains, metals - for heavier curtains. Prices for different materials also vary.

    Aluminum curtain rod with electric drive
    The electric curtain rod bus is a profile inside which the runners and control carriage move with the help of a torso or belt.
  • A strong cable or thin chain runs inside the supporting profile. This is the main part "working" with curtains. The element has high wear resistance, low stretchability, resistance to changes in humidity and temperature.
  • A compact motor is mounted on the side, controlling the structure that moves the canvases when necessary.

    Fastening an electric curtain rod in a ceiling niche
    The power of the motor determines how heavy the curtain rod can move.

The curtain electric fixture is mounted on the ceiling using a special bracket or clip, and is made as a single piece or sliding one.

Double row curtain rod with electric drive on one track
When choosing a curtain rod with an electric drive, do not rush. You need to understand the functional capabilities of the models and the possibilities of equipping them with additional elements.

Types of electric curtain rods

Electric curtain rods differ in the way the sliding system is controlled:

  • simple – switching on and off is done by pressing the central control button by hand;

    Wall-mounted control panel for electric curtain rod
    The easiest way to control curtains is with a stationary remote control located in a convenient place.
  • wireless – a remote control is used, a radio or infrared signal is sent to the device;
  • combined – especially convenient in case of sudden power outage.

The main advantage of electric curtain rods is that they can withstand several thousand cycles without compromising the full operation of the structure. The connection of the product is made in accordance with the diagram to a regular electrical network, and the shape of the product can be either straight or rounded.

The strongest models of this type of cornices can withstand the weight of curtains over 65 kg. There are options suitable for bay windows, dormer windows, arches.

Forms of electric curtain rods when made to order
The shape of the guide rail can be selected to suit a window of almost any configuration

Electric curtain rods Somfy

The advantages of Somfy curtain rods with electric drive are obvious:

  • The drives of this manufacturer are completely silent, which is important for bedrooms and children's rooms;

    Photo of a compact curtain drive from Somfy
    Somfy electric drives have two power options marked 35 and 60, which corresponds to the weight of the curtain they move.
  • a powerful electronic system will allow you to adjust the position of any curtains in hard-to-reach places. Even a heavy curtain can be easily moved by pressing the keys on the remote control, smartphone - in a special application;
  • cornices are suitable for all kinds of interior styles - loft and electric, classic and baroque, country and minimalism;

    The place of fastening of the electric motor on the Somfy curtain rod bus
    The curtain rod has a modular design, allowing you to replace the motor if necessary.
  • The branded design is easy to install - does not require electrical wiring, has a battery that will last for a long time;
  • the curtains will always be clean, as there is no need to touch them with your hands;
  • it is possible to automatically close the window with curtains if the street light becomes too bright, or alternatively – according to a pre-set time saved in the device’s memory;

    Green indicator light on the motor housing from the electric curtain rod
    The product bodies are made of high-quality plastic.
  • the tightness of the structure and its high quality allow such a cornice to be installed in damp, cold rooms – bathrooms, verandas, etc.

But there are some disadvantages: the product is suitable mainly for classic curtains, and cheap fakes bought from unreliable sellers on the market will not last long.

Popular models

  • Glydea Ultra 60e RTS – has normal and quiet modes, is compatible with the latest two-way protocols, fits well into most modern projects. Available in lengths up to 12 meters, bent, straight or tandem. The product comes with an international certificate, a five-year warranty.

    Photo of a curtain rod with an electric drive from Somfy
    The Glydea Ultra 60e RTS model is capable of radio-controlled movement of curtains weighing up to 60 kg
  • Movelite 35 RTS – elegant, convenient, affordable. It is made straight or curved, it can withstand curtains up to 35 kg. Manual control, end positions are adjustable.

    Lightweight fabric curtain on an electric rod
    The model is suitable for motorization of small-sized classic curtains

Advice: It is strongly recommended to purchase electric curtain rods only from an authorized representative.

Features of operation of electric curtain rods

Before buying curtains with an electric drive, you should decide on the type of design: straight or curved, simple or with a special lift, multi-layer. Financial costs will depend on the size of the cornice, the speed of lifting the curtain, the method of switching on and off (stationary version, smartphone, remote control), additional functions, design.

Electric curtain rod with additional power module
Products with autonomous power supply are equipped with a removable battery
Electric arc curtain rod on white ceiling
If necessary, you can order the required shape of the supporting profile

The operation of electrically controlled structures is very simple - even a child can easily figure it out. After deciding to purchase an electric curtain rod, it is recommended to invite a surveyor who will not only clarify all the parameters, but also help decide on the design and shape of the product.

Advice. If any malfunctions occur during operation (noise, inability to fully open/close, complete inoperability of the product, etc.), do not apply force to the device, do not try to disassemble it yourself - you need to invite a repairman for such products, warranty service.

Examples, photos of electric curtain rods: the best options

In the photographs, both regular, straight and roller blinds are attached to the electric curtain rods. The electrically controlled structure is neatly integrated into the existing interior, being almost invisible - a small motor is hidden behind the curtain, and there are plugs at the edges of the curtain rod system. The curtains are moved apart from the center or raised all at once.

Conclusion

Electric curtains for classic curtains are a practical, convenient way to simplify and modernize your home life, keep your curtains clean, and create a luxurious atmosphere in the room. All automatics from Somfy are highly reliable and impeccable, making them an indispensable element of a smart home system.

Remote control of curtains in the office space
It is easy to move a couple of light curtains by hand, but when it is necessary to control an entire system of curtains, it is better if they are equipped with an electric drive.

Video review of the Dooya DT360 Wi-Fi electric curtain track