Summary:
A high-pitched squeal near the shade’s top or bottom limit is typically caused by low voltage from depleted batteries or an unstable power supply. Replacing the batteries or ensuring a steady 18 V DC source usually resolves the issue.
Applies To:
Legacy PowerView® (prior to Fall 2022)
1. What You’re Hearing
2. Symptoms and Details
3. What Causes It
4. How to Fix It
5. How to Prevent It
What You’re Hearing
If your shade makes a sharp, high-pitched squeal or whine during movement—especially right before stopping—it’s likely due to low battery voltage.
Symptoms and Details
Audible squeal or whine: A high-frequency tone begins just before the shade stops, lasting 1–3 seconds
Progressively louder: Noise becomes more frequent or shrill as batteries drain
Happens at end-travel: Noise is most common at the top or bottom of shade movement, where motor torque peaks
Note: Some motors may emit faint clicking or buzzing instead. These are still caused by the same voltage issue.
What Causes It
When the motor slows at its travel limits, it draws the highest current. If the power supply can’t meet that demand, the motor struggles—causing a squeal.
This can happen due to:
Depleted or aging batteries
Shade size or fabric weight increasing power draw
Alkaline batteries losing voltage faster under load
Unstable plug-in power not supplying full 18 V
How to Fix It
Replace all the batteries at once using fresh, high-quality AA alkaline or approved lithium batteries
Don’t mix old and new batteries
Confirm that all batteries are installed in the correct direction
Restore power and run a full open-to-close cycle to reset motor calibration
Record the battery replacement date for future tracking
Most shades will return to quiet operation immediately.
How to Prevent It
Replace batteries as soon as the PowerView App alerts you to low battery
For large or frequently used shades, consider upgrading to an 18 V DC power supply for consistent performance
Replace batteries annually if you don’t use the app