Bring safe power outdoors
Providing power access outdoors is increasingly important, especially in seasonal or resort properties. Offering guests an opportunity to charge while relaxing outdoors—or making power for music or lighting easily accessible for event production—is a differentiation point for properties. It is important to take Mother Nature into account, ensure compliance with various codes to avoid complications, and bear in mind permanent solutions are safe solutions.
Water and electricity are never a good pair. Commonly utilized, temporary workarounds for bringing power to these spaces are either unsafe, not Underwriters Laboratories (UL)-listed for outdoor use, or temporary, causing myriad issues ranging from tripping hazards to rust and corrosion. Luckily, it is possible to deliver safe power access outdoors without interrupting carefully planned aesthetics. The simplest way to do so is to select solutions that blend seamlessly into existing landscapes. Safe, code-compliant, permanent outdoor charging access for guest use or outdoor events and entertainment reduces setup time and operational costs.
Empower guests with more control while reducing energy consumption
Per available room, U.S. hotel properties spend an average of $2196 on energy each year, representing about six percent of all operating costs. Across the country, energy codes are under review to reduce the amount of energy consumed by commercial properties such as hotels. By implementing products or controls to manage and increase energy efficiency onsite, hotel owners and operators can achieve cost savings that benefit the bottom line.
Keep comfort top of mind
The implementation of energy-efficient measures can improve operating costs. Designers and operators need to ensure the guest experience is not compromised, potentially reducing satisfaction and future bookings. Enhancements should be a continuation of the aesthetics offered by the property.
Systems that thoughtfully manage lights, HVAC, and power when guests enter and leave rooms create a welcome environment—lights on, perfect temperature—with the benefits of energy conservation.
Equipping rooms with dimmer lighting controls that allow guests to manage their own lighting levels—an especially welcome option with bright light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures—both reduces energy consumption and ensures guest comfort is not sacrificed. It is essential to remember:
- creating energy-efficient properties does not mean designing uncomfortable environments;
- greeting guests with smart lighting control systems that are easy and intuitive to use ensures a welcoming experience; and
- equipping guests with dimmers allows for pleasing, personalized lighting schemes.
Conclusion
Power and connectivity are crucial when specifying for hotel properties to ensure positive guest experiences. The minute guests step into a guest room, kick back in the lounge, or work up a sweat at the gym, they are seeking access to power and connectivity. Guest technology expectations are high and are only increasing, but if the teams that design, operate, and own properties seriously consider the ways in which their guests stay connected and charged, they will be able to anticipate guest needs. It is essential to create experiences that deliver unexpectedly intuitive, seamless, and delightful enhancements guests will seek out and look forward to in future visits.
Nancy Snyder is the senior manager of hospitality sales at Legrand North America. In her role, she leads market development activities and grows the sales of electrical products, lighting controls, and room management systems. Snyder establishes executive-level relationships with large hotel chains, as well as developers and owners of hotel properties and boutique brands, to transform the hospitality landscape and guest experience. She can be reached via e-mail at nancy.snyder@legrand.us.
