This Simple Hack Lets You Override Your Hotel’s Thermostat Temperature

Taking a vacation means you should be able to do everything your way, from choosing where to stay and eat to deciding what to do. You’d think you can select the temperature in your hotel room, too, but that’s not always the case.

Many properties use automated temperature controls to keep guests from setting their air conditioning too low. Want to see it in action? Just head over to your room’s thermostat and try to lower the temperature past 70 degrees. Odds are, you can’t. Or, at least you think you can’t. But if you like to keep your room frosty, the internet has a solution. All you need to do is get to VIP mode. 

Your Mileage May Vary broke down the many ways to access this feature across an array of thermostats found in hotels, including the Alerton, Amana, Carrier, Ecosmart, GE, Honeywell, HotelTech, and Inncom systems. 

For example, the website shared in a video that for the Inncom system you must hold down the “display” button, press the “on/off” option, release, and then hit “up.” It should then display either “DON” or “VIP,” giving you full control over the temperature system. 

The same steps work for many other systems, but when in doubt, Google the name of the system with “VIP Mode” to find a solution.

While it’s nice to have control over your own air, some hotel managers believe setting some parameters is a good idea. Controlling the in-room temperature and environment can lower the property’s risk of burst pipes or leaks and help hotels be more energy efficient. That’s because, as Technology 4 Hotels previously reported, “Guest rooms account for 90 percent of wasted electricity usage,” quickly racking up a larger carbon footprint.

However, it’s also a room you’re paying for, so if you’re uncomfortable, try the quick trick above. And if you still can’t find the sweet temperature spot, call the front desk and ask for assistance.