General Info
- What is the Solar Charger, and how does it work?
- How does the Solar Charger impact battery lifespan?
- Does it interact with the PowerView® App?
- How can I tell if it’s working?
- How long does it last?
Installation & Hardware
- Where can I access the Solar Charger installation guide?
- What are the Solar Charger’s dimensions?
- What color is the Solar Charger?
- Why are the window mounts always black?
Charging & Performance
- How long does charging take?
- Will it work in extreme temperatures?
- Does it work on tinted or UV-coated windows?
Compatibility
- Which products are compatible?
- Do I need one charger per shade?
- Can I use it with Palm Beach™ shutters?
- Can I use it with Duette® SkyLift™ shades?
- What does it look like from outside?
What is the Solar Charger, and how does it work?
The Solar Charger is an accessory that helps keep your shades charged using sunlight. Once installed, it continuously provides a low-power charge to the battery so you don't have to recharge manually as often—or at all in many cases. It works in both bright and low-light windows and is compatible with many Hunter Douglas motorized shades.
How does the Solar Charger impact battery lifespan?
Using a Solar Charger can actually extend the life of your shade’s rechargeable battery. Because the charger provides a steady, low-level stream of power (called trickle charging), it helps prevent deep discharges and keeps the battery healthy over time. This reduces how often you’ll need to recharge manually—and helps your battery last longer overall.
Does it interact with the PowerView® App?
No, the Solar Charger is not a smart device. It simply connects to the battery and charges it over time.
How can I tell if it’s working?
There’s no LED or light—it’s designed to work quietly in the background without adding visible lights in your room.
How long does it last?
You can expect reliable performance for 25–30 years.
Where can I access the Solar Charger installation guide?
Visit the Solar Charger IOC linked in the Reference Guide or scan the QR code included in the Solar Charger box.
What are the Solar Charger’s dimensions?
- Flush Mount / Jamb Bracket: 14" L x 2.75" H x 0.75" D
- Tall Window Mounts: 14" L x 2.75" H x 1.375" D
What color is the Solar Charger?
- Interior-facing side: Available in black or white. Can be painted to match décor.
- Exterior-facing side: Always black to match the solar panel.
- Mounting brackets: Window mounts are black. Jamb brackets match the charger color.
| White Solar Charger, interior-facing side | Black Solar Charger, interior-facing side | Solar Charger, exterior-facing side for white or black |
| Solar Charging Cables | Jamb Bracket |
Why are the window mounts always black?
The front (exterior-facing) surface of the Solar Charger is always black to match the solar panel material, which is only available in black. Because of this, the window mounts are also always black, designed to match the exterior view of the charger. These brackets—available in both flush and tall mount styles—snap directly onto the front of the charger and mount to the window glass. Once installed, they’re only visible from the outside. From inside the home, you won’t see the brackets at all. The charger is designed to remain permanently in place but can be temporarily removed for cleaning or window access.
| Flush Window Mounts | Tall Window Mounts |
How long does charging take?
The charger works continuously, slowly topping off the battery based on available light.
- In bright conditions: It may fully charge the battery.
- In low light: It helps preserve battery life and prevent depletion.
Tip: Connect the Solar Charger to a fully charged battery at installation for best performance.
Will it work in extreme temperatures?
Yes. The charger functions in very cold, hot, or humid environments. It passively collects sunlight without requiring active electronics.
Does it work on tinted or UV-coated windows?
- Lightly tinted or coated: Yes, it will still charge in most cases.
- Heavily tinted or shaded: May not fully charge the battery but will still help preserve battery life.
Which products are compatible?
Compatible with:
- PowerView® Gen 3 and Legacy PowerView® shades
- SoftTouch® shades
- Any shade using a Rechargeable Battery Wand or Internal Rechargeable Battery
Not compatible with:
- Aria™ Soft Blinds with internal batteries
- Palm Beach™ Shutters (unless using external battery wand)
Do I need one charger per shade?
Yes. Each shade requires its own charger. Do not attempt to share one charger across multiple shades.
Can I use it with Palm Beach™ shutters?
Not directly. Palm Beach™ shutters do not allow internal battery access for Solar Charger use. However, if your shutters use an external battery wand, the Solar Charger can be connected using:
- Rechargeable battery wand mount (PCN 1013213)
- Appropriate extension cable (15', 4', 10', or 20')
Note: Special attention needs to be paid to the satellite battery and solar charger placement so that the charging cable can connect without interfering with the louver operation. Below is an example of how the solar charger would connect to a rechargeable battery wand for other products where the battery wand is external.
Can I use it with Duette® SkyLift™ shades?
Yes, but it requires thoughtful planning. The charger must mount on the window while the battery wand is installed away from heat (often at the top of the shade). Work with your installer to choose the proper cable length and placement.
What does it look like from outside?
From the exterior, the Solar Charger appears as a sleek black strip along the window glass. It is low-profile and designed to blend with common window styles.