When Boston’s Winter Storms Strike: Why Battery Backup Systems Are Essential for Your Automated Window Treatments

Boston homeowners know all too well the challenges that winter storms bring. Winter weather — including snow, ice, and freezing rain — accounted for 23% of weather-related outages, and Massachusetts has experienced significant power disruptions, with outages peaking around 20,000 customers during recent storms. When these inevitable blackouts occur, your smart home features shouldn’t leave you in the dark—literally or figuratively.

The Reality of Boston’s Winter Power Challenges

Winter storms are notorious for causing power outages, with blackouts lasting hours or days. Heavy snow and ice can accumulate on power lines and tree branches, causing them to snap or collapse under the weight. Icy winds add to the risk by knocking down poles and transformers, resulting in widespread blackouts. The Northeast experienced 350 weather-related outages from 2000 to 2023, making power reliability a genuine concern for Massachusetts residents.

Snow and ice damage can weigh down power lines, poles, and even trees, leading to physical damage and power interruptions. High winds from winter storms often bring strong wind gusts that can topple trees and power lines, causing damage that can take days or even weeks to repair in some areas. Freezing rain coats everything it touches with a layer of ice, making it easy for even strong infrastructure to collapse.

Why Battery Backup Matters for Automated Window Treatments

Your automated window treatments are more than just a luxury—they’re an integral part of your home’s energy efficiency and security system. Shades can be powered with rechargeable battery packs and plug-in transformers, and you’ll either choose a direct connection, a battery tube (that may be rechargeable), or, in some cases, a solar charge kit.

During power outages, battery-powered motorized shades continue functioning when traditional electrical systems fail. The local remote can also still be used in a power outage or if your Wi-Fi connection is disrupted. This means you can still control natural light, maintain privacy, and optimize your home’s insulation properties even when the grid goes down.

Types of Battery Backup Solutions

Rechargeable Battery Systems

Rechargeable battery packs charge completely in five hours and last for about a year. These batteries can go up to six months between charges, then just connect the charger to the blind, and you’ll be ready to go in just a few hours. This makes them ideal for Boston homeowners who want reliable backup power without frequent maintenance.

Solar-Powered Options

Solar lift uses a small solar charger to power the motorized shades, ideal for skylights or sun-facing windows. It is an eco-friendly option that reduces the need for batteries or electrical connections. The motorized lift converts sunlight into energy, so it will continue to work even if there’s a power outage. PerfectTilt™ G4 motorized shutters operate on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that connect to an integrated solar panel for extended battery life. The discreet exterior solar panel keeps your shutters operating for longer periods without recharging.

Whole-Home Battery Integration

For comprehensive power security, homeowners can integrate their automated shades and blinds Boston systems with whole-home battery backup solutions. Advanced whole home power backup solutions can combine two portable power stations with a double voltage hub, with a combined output and storage capacity of 7200W, allowing you to fully power the average home for 1-2 days.

Winter-Specific Benefits

With a battery backup system, you can enjoy an uninterrupted power supply, even during extended outages. This is especially important in the winter when maintaining heat and electricity is critical for comfort and safety. Your automated window treatments can continue optimizing your home’s thermal efficiency by:

• Automatically closing during nighttime hours to provide additional insulation
• Opening during sunny winter days to capture natural solar heat
• Maintaining privacy and security even when you’re away during storm conditions
• Allowing you to raise your shades from the coziness of your own couch—especially on cold, overcast, winter days, when daylight is at a premium

Professional Installation and Local Expertise

When considering battery backup solutions for your automated window treatments, working with experienced local professionals is crucial. Mohawk Shade & Blind Inc. is a locally owned and operated company with over 30+ years of industry experience. They offer a variety of commercial and residential window covering installs, specialize in blinds, shades and indoor shutter installation, pride themselves on the quality of their work as well as their commitment to outstanding results, and look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction.

Mohawk Shade & Blind is Boston’s trusted expert in custom shades, blinds, and motorized solutions. Since 1986, they’ve been crafting window solutions that transform houses into homes, helping customers choose the perfect fit for their space. It’s more than just décor—it’s about creating harmony and comfort for you and your family.

Planning for the Next Storm

If you already have a battery backup system, it’s important to ensure it’s functioning at full capacity before winter storms hit. Proper preparation can prevent unnecessary disruptions and keep your home or business powered when you need it most.

For homeowners considering an upgrade, now is the perfect time to consider adding a battery backup system. Upgrading or installing a battery backup system offers several benefits that go beyond just keeping the lights on during a storm.

Boston’s winter storms are inevitable, but being left without functional window treatments doesn’t have to be. By investing in battery backup solutions for your automated window treatments, you’re ensuring year-round comfort, security, and energy efficiency—regardless of what Mother Nature throws your way. Backup power options provide peace of mind during severe weather. By planning ahead, you can ensure your home is ready for any unplanned outages and focus on the things that matter most this winter.