Why American Hotels Often Keep Common Areas and Meeting Rooms at a Cooler Temperature

The room temperature in American hotels, especially in common areas and meeting rooms, can often be quite cool, necessitating layers of clothing to remain comfortable. This is a multifaceted issue influenced by a combination of practical and cultural factors. Let's explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and the implications for both hotels and their guests.

Comfort for Varied Preferences

One of the primary reasons for keeping the temperature relatively low is to cater to the diverse comfort levels of guests. A cooler environment is generally more universally acceptable, especially for those who prefer cooler temperatures. This approach can help ensure that the majority of guests are comfortable without the need for extensive temperature customization.

Humidity Control

Air conditioning in hotel spaces serves not only to cool the air but also to control humidity levels. Maintaining a lower temperature helps prevent excessive moisture in large, enclosed spaces. This is crucial for both the comfort of guests and the preservation of hotel furnishings. Keeping the temperature lower can help maintain a more comfortable and luxurious environment.

Equipment Cooling

Meeting rooms and common areas often contain audiovisual equipment that can generate a significant amount of heat. By maintaining a cooler temperature, hotels can effectively manage the heat generated by these devices, ensuring that technology functions properly during events. This is particularly important in spaces where these devices are used regularly.

Dress Code and Professionalism

Many hotels maintain cooler temperatures in meeting rooms and common areas to align with formal dress codes and a professional atmosphere. Guests often come dressed in formal attire for business meetings and events, and a cooler environment is seen as more appropriate for such settings. This practice enhances the overall professional ambiance of these spaces.

Energy Efficiency

In some cases, maintaining a cooler temperature can be more energy-efficient in large spaces. This is particularly true if the building is designed to retain heat. By setting the thermostat to a lower temperature, hotels can reduce their energy consumption while still maintaining a comfortable environment.

Cultural Norms

There is a cultural norm in the hospitality industry to keep spaces cooler. This standard is often adopted by hotels without much variation, even if it does not always lead to optimal comfort for all guests. This practice can be deeply ingrained in hotel policies and may be difficult to change.

A recent trend in some hotels is to install properly designed, installed, and controlled HVAC systems that can respond appropriately to the demand. Instead of making temperature adjustments that may not satisfy all guests, these systems aim to balance comfort and efficiency. The traditional approach of setting a lower temperature is not always the best solution, and hotels that can address the cooling load more effectively can provide a more comfortable and pleasant experience for their guests.

For hotels aiming to maximize customer satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth, it is in their best interest to consider both the practical and cultural factors involved in maintaining room temperature. While a single temperature setting may not cater to everyone, balancing comfort with efficiency and professionalism can lead to a more satisfying guest experience.