What Are Tubular Motors for Blinds? Benefits, Uses & Options
Definition
Tubular motors are cylindrical electric motors installed inside the roller tube or headrail of a blind, allowing the blind to move at the touch of a button, remote control, wall switch, app or smart home system. They are most commonly used with roller blinds, roof blinds, large shading systems and automated window coverings where smooth, reliable operation is required.
What Does a Tubular Motor Mean in Blinds?
A tubular motor sits hidden inside the blind’s tube, so the operating system remains neat and discreet. When activated, the motor rotates the tube to raise or lower the fabric or, in some systems, adjust the position of slats.
Because the motor is concealed, tubular motor blinds offer a clean finish without visible cords or chains. This makes them popular for modern homes, commercial spaces and hard-to-reach windows.
Key Benefits and Functions of Tubular Motors
- Convenient control: Operate blinds using a handset, wall switch, timer, app or voice assistant where compatible.
- Neater appearance: Removes the need for visible looped chains or cords on many blind types.
- Ideal for large blinds: Helps control heavier or wider blinds more smoothly than manual operation.
- Improved accessibility: Makes blinds easier to use on high, awkward or difficult-to-reach windows.
- Smart home integration: Some motors can connect to home automation systems for scheduled or remote operation.
- Consistent movement: Provides controlled raising and lowering, helping protect fabric and mechanisms from rough handling.
Types of Tubular Motors for Blinds
| Motor Type | How It Works | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Hardwired Tubular Motor | Connected directly to the mains electrical supply and usually operated by a wall switch or control system. | New builds, renovations, commercial projects and permanent installations. |
| Radio-Controlled Tubular Motor | Operated wirelessly using a remote control, wall transmitter or compatible hub. | Homes wanting convenient control without visible manual chains. |
| Rechargeable Tubular Motor | Powered by an internal rechargeable battery, reducing the need for nearby wiring. | Retrofit installations, bedrooms, living rooms and rented properties. |
| Smart Tubular Motor | Connects to smart home systems through an app, hub or voice-controlled device where compatible. | Automated homes, energy management and scheduled privacy control. |
| Solar-Assisted Tubular Motor | Uses a small solar panel to help charge the motor battery. | Bright rooms, conservatories and windows where regular charging is less convenient. |
Common Applications for Tubular Motors
Tubular motors are widely used in roller blinds because the motor fits neatly inside the blind tube. They are also suitable for many roof blinds, blackout blinds, electric screen systems and larger made-to-measure window coverings.
They are especially useful in rooms with multiple blinds, such as bi-fold door areas, conservatories, offices and open-plan living spaces. With the right control setup, several blinds can move together for privacy, glare reduction or temperature control.
Tubular Motors and Child Safety
Motorised blinds can improve child safety by reducing or removing the need for looped cords and chains. This is particularly valuable in bedrooms, nurseries, playrooms and family living spaces.
In the UK, internal blinds with cords, chains or looped controls must be supplied and installed in line with child safety requirements, including BS EN 13120. Choosing a tubular motor system can help minimise accessible operating loops, although every blind should still be professionally specified and fitted with safety in mind.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Tubular Motor
The right motor depends on the size, weight and type of blind. Larger blinds may require a motor with greater torque, while retrofit projects may benefit from rechargeable or radio-controlled options.
You should also consider how you want to control the blind. Some customers prefer a simple handset, while others want app control, voice control or automated schedules for light, privacy and energy efficiency.
Expert Tip from Homefair Blinds
Expert Tip from Homefair Blinds: Always match the tubular motor to the blind’s size and weight, not just the window size. An underpowered motor may struggle over time, while a correctly specified motor gives smoother, quieter and longer-lasting operation.