Motorized hurricane shutters are roll down shutters opened and closed by an electric or solar motor, controlled with a wall switch, remote or smartphone app instead of a hand crank or strap. They give the same storm protection as manual roll downs. The difference is convenience, and they have a higher cost. If the power goes out, a manual override or backup power lets you still operate them.
Roll down hurricane shutters are one of the most popular choices for storm protection in the Fort Myers, Cape Coral area and throughout Southwest Florida. They are one type of hurricane shutters that provide strong protection against hurricanes and severe weather. And there is a good reason why. They offer many other useful functions as well. These include security protection, insulation, and shade control. They also have the ability to cover large areas. This make them a popular choice to cover windows, doors, patios, pool areas and lanais. These hurricane shutters come in both non-motorized and electric versions. Non-powered shutters can be opened and closed with a hand crank or strap system from inside your house. Electric hurricane shutters, on the other hand are operated using an electric or solar motor. You can control the motorized storm shutters using either a switch, remote, or even an app on your smartphone.
Installing roll down storm shutters is an easy choice for many Florida homeowners. But deciding between electric roll down hurricane shutters and non-motorized ones can be a difficult decision. So what’s the better option?
Below we dive into the advantages of both options to help you determine which is the better choice for protecting your family and home.
If you are unfamiliar with roll downs then make sure you read our guide to learn more about the pros & cons of roll down shutters.
Key Takeaways
- Electric hurricane shutters, on the other hand are operated using an electric or solar motor.
- You can control the motorized storm shutters using either a switch, remote, or even an app on your smartphone.
- Motorized roll down shutter systems are manufactured to work (open and close) even if the power goes out.
- Manual roll downs offer the same protection at a lower cost, but they require manual operation.
Electric Hurricane Shutters – With Multiple Motor and Remote Control Options
What are electric storm shutters?
They may be called electric storm shutters, motorized storm shutters, or automatic hurricane shutters. Regardless of the name, they are motorized exterior roll down shutters. Electric or solar (usually tubular) roller shutter motors are used to automatically open and close them vs a crank or belt system. They are controlled by either a remote, switch system wired into your home, or a smartphone app. Because they do not require physical effort to operate them they are considered the most convenient type of shutter system available.
Roll Down Hurricane Shutters are really the only hurricane shutter system that operates with motors. This sets them apart vs alternatives as other storm shutter systems that require physical effort to open and close.
How do electric roll down hurricane shutters work?
Electric storm shutters have electrical or solar motors, which open and close them, as well as adjust the individual slats of the shutters. This makes them easier to control via a wall switch, remote control, or smartphone app. The small interior motor fits inside the housing unit of each shutter. And these motors allow the shutter to roll up and down with ease. In a power outage, there’s a manual override system (or a backup batteries/generator) to ensure you’re never vulnerable.
Motorized shutters are the preferred method of window and door protection for Floridians who value ease of use. These shutters offer ease and reassurance, enabling homeowners to act quickly when a hurricane is approaching. Additionally, they act as an additional layer of security when you’re away from home.
How do you open and close electric hurricane shutters?
You will have different options when it comes to controlling your motorized storm shutters. They can be operated with an electrical switch or even by using a mobile phone app, such as the Tahoma System App.
Why are automatic hurricane shutters so desired?
Motorized rolling shutters are the best of the best. They are commonly considered the most convenient storm and security shutters available today.
Benefits of motorized hurricane shutters:
- Ultimate convenience and speed: you can protect your home and family instantly with the touch of a button, literally.
- No hard work, stress or heavy lifting necessary
- You do not have to close each shutter manually, which greatly reduces the time it takes to prepare your home for a storm.
- They can be used and adjusted frequently for shade control and insulation of your home due to their effortless operation (vs. cranking each one).
- You can quickly deploy them for security protection at night or anytime you leave your home unattended.
- Backup systems are available, such as a backup power supply or manual override in case the power goes out.
What happens if the power goes out?
Wind gusts during hurricanes, tropical storms and other severe weather can cause power outages. So what happens to power shutters when the electricity goes out?
So, can electric hurricane shutters be opened and closed without power?
The answer is yes. Motorized roll down shutter systems are manufactured to work (open and close) even if the power goes out. They are equipped with a manual override, which gives you the ability to operate them without electricity when necessary. With the override you have the ability to open and close them with a hand crank, etc.
You can also opt to install a backup power supply, such as a generator. These back-up systems are convenient. But you should be aware that they will tack on additional costs.
How do motorized vs non-motorized hurricane shutters compare with repairs & maintenance?
Both motorized and non-motorized hurricane shutters should be used according to their recommended use & care guidelines. Similar to other storm shutters, and anything with moving parts, they do require you to take some simple, routine steps to keep them maintained. For instance, you should use them periodically (even if they are not needed), inspect them, clean them, and follow other maintenance best practices. But when they are properly used and maintained both your motorized and non-motorized shutters will last you a very long time.
What about repairs? Repairs for both types of shutter may be required. But this isn’t unique to just roll down shutters. Repairs may be needed for any type of hurricane shutter. For instance, they may suffer damage during a hurricane. Or, over time different components of your shutters may need to be adjusted, repaired or replaced.
There is one difference in terms of repairs when it comes to electric vs non-electric shutters. Electric hurricane shutters do have additional parts, such as the electrical motors and electrical components, which non-motorized ones do not have. So you may need to replace or repair these components over time.
How do they Compare to Non-Motorized Hurricane Shutters?
What are non-motorized roll down shutters?
Manual roll down hurricane shutters roll up and down (open and close) by use on a crank or other system. You operate them either with a hand crank system or a strap which you pull on.
They are commonly used for both storm protection and security protection (they serve as security shutters) as well as shade control and privacy. These are popular with both by homeowners and businesses in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, etc.
Do non-motorized shutters offer the same protection as motorized ones?
Yes. They serve the same function as the motorized version. In terms of protection there is no difference. They do just as good of a job protecting your home and family from severe weather, flying debris and wind gusts. The only difference between the two is the convenience of the motorized hurricane shutters.
Reasons to choose non-motorized shutters
Here are some reasons why you might choose non-motorized hurricane shutters over motorized ones:
- They are cheaper than motorized versions. You get the same protection and features at a lower cost vs. motorized ones.
- They will be used to cover a number of large spaces, such as patios, lanais, pool areas, etc. Choosing non-motorized option to cover the large square footage would be cheaper.
- You are capable and willing to physically open and close them.
- You have a relatively smaller home or a limited number of openings to cover
Motorized vs. Manual Shutter Cost
Motorized shutters cost more upfront than manual roll downs, and a backup power supply adds to the cost. Manual roll downs are the lower-cost option of the two, especially for large areas like patios, lanais and pool areas. For how hurricane shutter pricing works overall, see more details in our Hurricane Shutters Cost Guide
Motorized vs Non-Motorized Hurricane Shutters at a Glance
| Attribute | Motorized (Electric) Shutters | Non-Motorized Shutters |
|---|---|---|
| How they open and close | Operated using an electric or solar motor, with a switch, remote, or even an app on your smartphone | Hand crank or strap system from inside your house |
| Cost | More expensive upfront, but the added benefits and convenience may compensate for the added costs | Cheaper vs motorized versions |
| Effort and convenience | More convenience and speed | Require more time and effort vs motorized versions |
| Repairs and parts | Additional parts, such as the electrical motors and electrical components, which may need to be replaced or repaired over time | Do not have the electrical motors and electrical components |
| Best for | Florida homeowners who prioritize ease of use and convenience | Homeowners who need to cover large spaces such as patios, lanais and pool areas, or you are capable and willing to physically open and close them |
Electric Storm Shutters vs. Non-Electric Storm Shutters: Which is Better?
Power and non-electric storm shutters provide excellent protection. However motorized storm shutters come out on top in terms of convenience and ease of use. Non-powered roll down shutters require more effort and time. Power storm shutters are always ready for immediate deployment. Power storm shutters are more expensive upfront, but the added benefits and convenience compensate for the costs.
For powerful and efficient convenience and protection during hurricane season, contact Eurex Shutters. We offer superior power storm shutters with sleek, automated designs that can be controlled anywhere.
FAQs About Electric Shutters
Most power storm shutters have a backup battery or manual override option. This allows you to operate the shutters even during a power outage. For more information, contact Eurex Shutters. We can help you navigate shutter options and backup options that work in all circumstances and situations.
Professional inspections are recommended annually. It is especially helpful to have them serviced and maintained prior to hurricane season to ensure they work correctly when needed. Power storm shutters have motorized and electrical components, requiring routine maintenance to ensure smooth function. Regular, professional upkeep can detect minor issues before they become major, expensive problems you don’t need during hurricane season.
Yes! Power storm shutters can be custom-fitted to any window or door, including odd-shaped windows and patio or sliding glass doors. Eurex Shutters measures your windows and doors and creates custom shutter systems to ensure a snug fit for optimal performance and protection.
Typically, the installation process takes one to three days. It depends on the number of purchased shutters and the size and shape of your windows and doors. The larger your home, the more shutters you will need to buy, and the more time professional installation will take. But the hurricane shutter installation process is typically fast and straight-forward.
Power roll down shutters have an available smart home integration, enabling homeowners to connect via a smartphone app. If you’re away from your home when a hurricane hits your Florida home, you can tap a button to secure your shutters, ensuring protection.
Electric roll down storm shutters are like anything with moving parts. They require periodic maintenance for electrical integrity and long-term use. Professional inspections will keep motorized parts running smoothly, while you can self-inspect shutters for wear and tear bi-monthly (or after a storm). Clean the tracks with warm water and mild soap, lubricate moving parts, and test the motors and backup systems to guarantee safety and proper function before a hurricane.
They may be called electric storm shutters, motorized storm shutters, or automatic hurricane shutters. Regardless of the name, they are motorized exterior roll down shutters.
Yes. They serve the same function as the motorized version. In terms of protection there is no difference. They do just as good of a job protecting your home and family from severe weather, flying debris and wind gusts. The only difference between the two is the convenience of the motorized hurricane shutters.
Non-motorized roll downs offer the same protection at a lower cost, but they require manual operation. Electric storm shutters offer the highest level of convenience and functionality. But they come at a premium cost.
Conclusion: Motorized vs Non-Motorized Hurricane Shutters?
Roll down hurricane shutters are a great option for protecting your family and property in Cape Coral, Fort Myers and elsewhere. You can choose to install them either as motorized or non-motorized. Manual roll downs offer the same protection at a lower cost, but they require manual operation. Electric storm shutters offer the highest level of convenience and functionality. But they come at a premium cost. The right option for you will depend on your preferences and your budget.
If you need deciding on which option is right for you please give us a call at (239) 369-8600 or fill out the quick form below. We install both motorized and non-motorized hurricane shutters. We also can upgrade your old shutters, and repair and maintain your existing shutters.
The My Safe Florida Home Program offers eligible homeowners grant funding toward hurricane shutters, impact windows, hurricane screens, storm panels, and other storm-hardening upgrades — and any licensed Florida contractor qualifies, including Eurex Shutters. Contact our team to see if your project may qualify and get your free estimate.
Eurex Shutters offers financing through Regions Bank. Choose the option that works for you:
12-Month Same-As-Cash — no payments, no interest if paid in full within 12 months
9.99% APR, 12-Year Loan — fixed-rate financing over 12 years
Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.
