Arizona residents face unique challenges with heat gain and light control. Choosing between PowerView Automation and SoftTouch Motorization depends on how much technology you want in your daily routine. One system focuses on full home connectivity and pre-set routines, while the other offers a simple, cordless alternative to traditional manual shades. Arizona homeowners require intense sunlight management to protect interiors and maintain energy efficiency throughout the year.
Actionable Verdict: Which System is for You?
Both systems prioritize child and pet safety by removing hazardous lift cords. Your choice ultimately rests on your desired level of automation versus physical interaction.
| Feature | PowerView Automation | SoftTouch Motorization |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Interaction | Smartphone App, Remote, or Voice | Gentle Pull/Push on Wand |
| Best Product Fit | Duette® Cellular Shades | Silhouette® Sheer Shades |
| Automation Levels | Fully programmable daily schedules | Manual adjustment only |
| Remote Access | Control shades from anywhere in the world | Localized control only |
| Ideal User | Tech-enthusiasts and smart home owners | Seekers of simple, cordless convenience |
Advanced Automation for the Tech-Forward Home
The PowerView system is built for the tech-enthusiast who wants a “set-it-and-forget-it” lifestyle. This system allows you to schedule your shades to move with the sun, which is vital for keeping Scottsdale homes cool during peak afternoon heat. You can manage everything through a smartphone or a dedicated remote, making it the top choice for hard-to-reach windows or large expanses of glass. Because PowerView Automation enables scheduled shade movement, it acts as a proactive tool for managing solar heat gain without manual intervention.
Intuitive Simplicity with Tactile Wand Control
SoftTouch is the ideal solution for homeowners who prefer simplicity over apps. It replaces dangerous cords with a sleek, battery-powered wand. You simply pull down to close or push up to open the shades. It offers the safety of a cordless system without the need for a smart home hub or Wi-Fi configuration, making it perfect for guest rooms or for users who want immediate, localized control at the window. SoftTouch Motorization provides tactile wand control that responds instantly to physical interaction, ensuring every family member can operate the treatments with ease.
Smart Home Integration & Control Deep Dive
PowerView Automation transforms window treatments into active smart home components. By using the PowerView Hub, your shades gain full compatibility with major platforms like Amazon Alexa integration, Google Assistant control, and Apple HomeKit compatibility. This allows you to close the blinds using only your voice or incorporate them into broader “Away” scenes for improved security. The PowerView Hub connects to Amazon Alexa to bridge the gap between your windows and your digital assistant, while the PowerView System integrates with Apple HomeKit for a unified iOS experience.
In contrast, SoftTouch remains a localized system. It does not connect to the internet or voice assistants, focusing instead on providing a responsive, motorized experience right at the window frame without the complexity of external networks. The SoftTouch Wand operates via localized physical interaction, meaning the control stays exactly where the shade is located.
Sustainability and Power Solutions
Modern motorization now includes eco-friendly options to reduce maintenance and environmental waste. The Hunter Douglas Solar Charger is a compact, energy-efficient panel that mounts directly to the window glass. It continuously tops up the motor’s charge using the abundant Arizona sunlight, virtually eliminating the need for manual recharging. This Solar Charger harnesses natural ambient light to provide a sustainable power source for desert homes.
For windows with less direct sun, Rechargeable Battery Wands offer a significant upgrade over standard alkaline batteries. The Rechargeable Battery Wand eliminates disposable AA batteries, creating a more sustainable home environment. Additionally, lithium-ion technology maintains consistent motor power, so your shades move at the same speed regardless of the remaining battery percentage.
- Waste Reduction: One rechargeable wand replaces dozens of disposable AA batteries over its lifespan.
- Consistent Power: Lithium-ion technology ensures the motor runs at full speed even when the charge is low.
- Fast Charging: Wands reach a full charge in under three hours using a single or dual charging station.
- Sleek Profile: The wand hides discreetly behind the headrail to maintain the clean look of your window treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are these systems safe for homes with pets? | Yes, both systems are cordless, which eliminates the risk of entanglement for pets and children. |
| Can I use solar power for my shades? | Yes, the Hunter Douglas Solar Charger uses ambient light to keep motorized shades powered sustainably. |
| How long do rechargeable batteries last? | A single charge typically lasts up to one year depending on how often you move the shades. |
| Do I need Wi-Fi for SoftTouch? | No, SoftTouch operates locally and does not require a Wi-Fi connection or a smart home hub. |
