Can Shade Motors Be Reversed?

FAQ: DC shade motors - can the polarity be reversed with a simple switch?

To reverse our radio equipped blind and shade DC motors, you would use our RollerTrol™ multi-channel RF (Radio Frequency) remote controls (and you can add a ZWAVE home automation hub), so this article would not apply.

However, if you are using our non-radio DC shade motors for RV blind motor replacement (or window/skylight openers), the switches described here can be used to reverse polarity and activate the motor in either direction, providing full reversing capability.

Reversing DC motors requires a specific type of switch, namely a DPDT (double pole, double throw) switch (center off) wired in what is known as an 'H Bridge' configuration (pictured at right), so called because the current flow looks like the letter H when you look at a schematic diagram. The 4 upper and lower poles are cross-connected and the motor and power supply are attached as shown in the picture.

Due to heavy demand, this type of DPDT manual switch is now available for purchase in our online store: DC motor reversing switch

You can use slider switches or toggle switches, as shown here. A 'center off' position is also desirable so that you can stop the shade motor at any point. Please note that you should always allow the motor to stop before reversing direction. If you go directly from forward to reverse, it will generate a huge EMF pulse that is very harmful to any DC motor, and you will shorten the life of the motor considerably.

Here is a good video explaining all about DPDT switches:

A spring loaded 'center return' type is not the best choice because it would require that you stay at the switch until the blind or shade has reached its full excursion (RV rocker type is an exception).

This is not necessary as our motors will automatically stop when the travel limit in either direction is reached. This is an especially useful feature when the motors are used for really tall windows such as those found in an atrium or foyer (our motors are capable of unlimited turns between travel limits).

PLEASE NOTE: if you use manual switches, rapid switching of the motors from forward to reverse can damage the motors due to powerful counter-EMF forces. Please be sure to allow the motor to stop first, before changing direction. This is generally true of any DC motor.

We sincerely hope you enjoy using these advanced motors; if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at any time!