Colorado’s mountain resort towns and our most iconic hotels were designed decades ago for skiers, cool nights, and open windows. Air conditioning wasn’t part of the original plan. But today, warmer summers, longer shoulder seasons, and rising guest expectations have shifted the landscape. Hotels that once relied on crisp mountain breezes now face a competitive disadvantage when travelers expect quiet, efficient A/C as standard.

As our mountain temperatures rise, guest expectations and booking behavior raise the stakes.

The reality is our mountain temperatures are rising. Guests coming from hotter climates, in particular, expect air conditioning, whether they need it or not. Rooms without reliable cooling see lower comfort scores, reduced bookings, discounted rates or having to compensate after arrival, and poor review. In some cases, properties must walk guests to competitors. Even when nights cool off, rooms often trap the day’s heat. Add wildfire smoke, and “open the window” is no longer a safe or comfortable solution.

Retrofitting A/C in legacy buildings presents real challenges.
Tight electrical capacity, limited space for ducts or refrigerant lines, and historic façades complicate upgrades. Noise control is also critical. No one wants a rattling unit disrupting a luxury stay.

The good news: newer systems are solving these problems.
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems paired with dedicated outside air systems (DOAS) provide efficient, quiet cooling, improved humidity control, and filtered air. Water-loop heat pumps suit larger buildings with centralized systems.

And next-generation all-in-one (AIO) heat pumps, like those now available in Colorado from our company, Aim Air Conditioning, feature:

No outdoor condenser

Operate whisper-quietly

Turnkey installation

To remain competitive, air conditioning is no longer a “nice to have” amenity. It is essential, particularly for legacy luxury hotels who want to maintain standards.  

Aim AC understands the importance of maintaining occupancy levels and planning installations with as little impact as possible on operations and the guest experience. The Aim AC turn-key process includes:

Conducting a load and electrical assessment

Evaluating retrofit options and select a system that fits the building

Securing necessary approvals

Installing in shoulder seasons

Integrating with the property management system

Training staff for maintenance and guest support

Properties that invest in this upgrade will protect their rates, boost guest satisfaction, and unlock new summer revenue, while preserving the charm and luxury appeal that made these mountain icons special in the first place.

With a passion for indoor air quality and efficient AC and heating systems, Aim Air Conditioning (AC) was formed to simplify HVAC installation and service for businesses, hotels, and high-end residential properties. Over the past five years, its service-driven team and framework have ensured that each project, whether straightforward or complex, is executed with precision, clear communication, and attention to detail.

Aim AC acts as your own personal air conditioning concierge, working from start to finish with project managers to allow for a professional, outcome-driven approach, all with one point of contact. From the initial consult to planning to installation and post-service follow up and maintenance programs, Aim AC offers smart, streamlined solutions tailored to each space, bringing clarity, comfort, and control to every project. For more information about air conditioning options for your hotel and property, call 303-910-6898 or visit www.aimspg.com.