How Much Does It Cost to Repair Electric Blinds, Drapes or Shades?

Electric Blinds Repair Cost Factors

Electric blinds, drapes and shades provide privacy for homeowners and make it easy to open and close electronically on command. You can set these systems on a timer for a hands-off schedule too. They also enhance home security while you’re away and boost your home's energy efficiency by letting in or blocking out the sunlight. Occasionally, these electronic shades develop a problem that requires a professional repair.

• Damaged slats and clips: $50 per window

• Motor replacement: $70–$200 or more per window

Professionals have repair knowledge of electric blinds, drapes and shades and their intricacies. Because of that, you can always rely on them for this type of work. Some of the most common repairs include replacing damaged slats and clips, the chain in the headrail and a broken motor.

Damaged Slats and Clips

The average cost of replacing damaged slats and clips is $50 per window covering, including the price of materials and labor cost. Chain replacement is a more involved process and requires more of a professional's time, typically costing $50 to $100.

Motor Repair or Replacement

If the blinds don’t move, you might need a new motor. A technician may need to inspect the blinds or shades beforehand to be confident of your diagnosis.

Motor replacement is the priciest type of repair. It requires several hours of work, and the motor itself tends to be the most expensive part of the window covering. Replacing the motor may cost $70 to $200 or more per window, depending on the model.

Electric Blind Repair Cost by Size

The cost to repair electric blinds, drapes or shades depends on its window covering size. The bigger the windows, the higher the price for its fix.

Smaller window coverings generally have fewer moving parts than larger ones. Small blinds may require one motor and 10 feet of chain. The average repair cost would then range from $120 to $300 per window covering. A more oversized shade with many slats requires three motors and 30 feet of chain and can range from $560 to $900 per window covering.

The cost of repairing electric blinds, drapes and shades also depends on whether or not the system is fully automated. Because there is more circuitry in the design, a fully automatic system costs more to repair. Repairing an electric blind made from premium material like hardwood or silk usually costs more than other types of drapes or shades.

Cost to Repair Electric Blinds Yourself

A professional installer should address some issues with electric blinds. However, there are two easy DIY fixes for problems that confident homeowners can perform themselves.

General Troubleshooting for Electric Blinds

Check remote controls for damage and missing buttons. Inspect and replace the batteries (typically AA at $3 to $6)–even if they're new. Check the wiring and circuit breaker for damage before using your blinds again. If your blinds still aren’t working, call a pro.

Replacing Slats and Clips on Vertical Electric Blinds

Homeowners can repair a broken slat or clip themselves. Remove a damaged slat from its clip or both the slat and clip from the headrail. Replace the blind's slat. While on top of the headrail, hook the new clip into place and press firmly to snap it into then onto the rail.

DIY Electric Blind Repair vs. Hiring a Pro

Homeowners can take care of some issues on their own, like replacing batteries, replacing motors and replacing damaged slats or clips. The total project cost can run as low as $3 and $150 on the high end per window covering.

Always turn to the pros when dealing with motor issues or blinds in high or hard-to-reach areas. This is to ensure your safety—working with electronics is dangerous work, and you shouldn’t put yourself at risk trying to fix something out of your reach, either. A pro repair person can run you $50 on the low end to $450 on the high end per window covering.

Here’s what you can expect to pay DIYing the project versus hiring a pro:

FAQs

How long do motorized blinds last?

Typically, if you operate electric window blinds twice daily, they will last up to five years.

How much do motorized drapes cost?

Much like the cost of regular blind installations, the cost for a motorized installation varies. There are many deciding factors such as the quality of material and capabilities when you compare automatic blind and drape installers. The average price for window treatments that offer a wide range of technology can be as low as $300 or up to $1,000 per window.

Are motorized blinds worth it?

Electric window blinds are a popular choice for tall or large windows. Unlike traditional blinds, there's a low risk of damage from heavy manual use. You can operate this specific window blind by using a remote or home automation apps and technology on your smartphone or tablet.

Are cordless blinds repairable?

Cordless window blinds are repairable. Some common fixes for cordless blinds include replacing a faulty switch or rethreading the cords. Tangled strings in blinds may also be an easy fix.