Levolor Cellular Shades are constructed from 100% polyester and offer multiple cleaning options to maintain their appearance. Proper installation, operation, and care are essential for ensuring years of performance and beauty. This article details the installation process, operational procedures, troubleshooting steps, and cleaning guidelines based on official Levolor documentation. The documentation references both standard and motorized lift shade models, as well as variations like Top-Down/Bottom-Up and Day/Night shades.
Installation Overview
The installation process begins with verifying the packing list and reviewing the instruction booklet. Necessary tools include flat and Phillips head screwdrivers, a level (laser level recommended), a measuring tape and pencil, a power drill with 3/32" and 1/4" drill bits, a 5/16" (8 mm) open-end wrench, and optionally, pliers. Fasteners appropriate for the mounting surface are also required. Levolor provides #7 Hex Screws with square drives, #6 Hex Head Screws (longer screws may need to be purchased separately for use with spacer blocks), #6 Flat Head Screws for end mounting, Speed Nuts and Screws for extension brackets, and recommends the use of drywall anchors when mounting into drywall.
The documentation specifies two sizes of installation brackets: one for 3/8" and 3/4" cell sizes, and a larger one for the 11/4" cell size. For end mounts, only two brackets are used for shade widths up to 72". The number of brackets included with an order corresponds to the shade width. Brackets must be level and aligned with each other for proper operation. A minimum depth of 2 1/4" is required for a fully recessed mount. When depth is limited, both winged screw holes should be used. The front lip of each bracket must be positioned in the front channel of the headrail during installation.
Mounting Types and Window Terminology
The documentation outlines various window and shade terminology. Mounting types are not extensively detailed beyond the need for appropriate fasteners based on the mounting surface. The documentation references terminology such as the shade bottom rail, top rail, and panels. Specific shade types mentioned include Top-Down/Bottom-Up, Day/Night, and standard cellular shades.
Installing the Shade
To install the shade, the headrail must be completely inserted into the installation brackets. If brackets are not correctly installed, the shade should be released and reinstalled. When using extension brackets, two screw holes per bracket should be marked, ensuring the rear of the brackets are flush against a flat mounting surface. Mounting on curved molding is not recommended. If the shade does not fit into the installation brackets, it is recommended to check bracket level and alignment, and shim the brackets if necessary. The heads of the screws should be flush against the installation bracket.
Operating the Shade
Operation varies depending on the shade type. For standard shades, the wand is pulled straight down or slightly outward to raise the shade incrementally. The wand should be allowed to retract after each downward stroke. Multiple strokes are used until the desired position is reached.
Day/Night shades utilize two wands: one for the middle rail and one for the bottom rail. The bottom rail must be lowered before the middle rail, and raised in the reverse order. If a shade is tilted when fully raised, it should not be pulled harder on the wand, as this may worsen the tilt. Instead, the shade should be adjusted.
Motorized Shade Operation and Programming
For motorized shades, a Micro-USB port is present for charging. The documentation references an InMotion app for initial setup if a hub is purchased. To program the remote, the programming button must be pressed and held for 10 seconds until the shade jogs twice. The documentation also mentions a magnetic charging cable and a charging adapter.
Troubleshooting
Several troubleshooting scenarios are addressed in the documentation. If a shade is hard to raise or lower, or will not raise or lower at all, it is recommended to ensure the shade fabric is not caught between the installation bracket and the headrail. Checking that the headrail and installation brackets are level and aligned is also advised, with shimming recommended if necessary. If the shade will not fit into the installation brackets, verifying bracket level and alignment is the first step.
Removing the Shade (If Necessary)
To remove a shade, it should be lowered approximately 4 inches. While holding the headrail, push back on the bottom tab of the installation bracket with a flathead screwdriver to release the bottom of the headrail. Then, roll the back of the headrail down and out from the bracket.
Cleaning Procedures
Levolor Premier Cellular Shades are made of anti-static, dust-resistant fabric. Regular light dusting with a feather duster is often sufficient for cleaning. For deeper cleaning, gentle vacuuming with a brush attachment is recommended, except for Oceanside fabrics, which should not be vacuumed. Compressed air or a hair dryer on a cool setting can also be used to remove dust and dirt.
Spot cleaning is not recommended for Harmony, Naturelle, Oceanside, or Sonora fabrics. The documentation explicitly advises against contact with window cleaning products, as improper cleaning may damage the shade and void the warranty. All Levolor Cellular Shades are made of 100% polyester.
Additional Information and Support
Levolor Customer Service can be contacted at 1-800-LEVOLOR (9:00 am – 6:00 pm EST) or through the website www.LEVOLOR.com. Additional or replacement parts can be ordered, and shades can be repaired or restrung through their repair center. The documentation also provides contact information for consumer support at 1-800-478-1538 for troubleshooting assistance.
Conclusion
Proper installation, operation, and maintenance are crucial for maximizing the lifespan and aesthetic appeal of Levolor Cellular Shades. The provided documentation details the necessary tools, procedures, and troubleshooting steps for both standard and motorized models. Adhering to the recommended cleaning guidelines will help preserve the shade’s appearance and prevent damage. The documentation emphasizes the importance of level and aligned installation brackets and cautions against using inappropriate cleaning products.