Keep Your Historic Hotels Up To Date With POTS Replacement
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Historic hotels have a timeless charm that keeps guests coming back, from the grand staircases and antique decor to the rich sense of place that modern, cookie-cutter hotels can’t replicate. But behind the elegance, many of these properties still rely on aging infrastructure, including copper analog POTS lines, to power their essential systems.
With the copper sunset underway and telecom providers actively retiring these lines, it’s more important than ever for hotel operators to modernize their communication infrastructure without compromising the integrity of the property. That’s where Ooma AirDial comes in: A seamless, code-compliant solution that brings legacy hotel systems into the present.
The Hidden Problem with Historic Charm
Many legacy hotels were built long before fiber internet, VoIP, or wireless connections. Their communications infrastructure often runs on Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines, which telecom providers have been phasing out for years, ever since the FCC introduced Forbearance Order 19-72A1.
Historic hotels often grapple with integrating modern technology due to:
Structural Constraints: The original design may not support extensive rewiring without significant alterations.
Preservation Mandates: Regulatory guidelines might restrict modifications to maintain historical authenticity.
Outdated Systems: Many critical systems, like fire alarms, elevator phones, and security setups, depend on POTS lines, which are becoming obsolete.
Transitioning to contemporary communication methods without disturbing the hotel’s historic fabric is delicate.
These copper lines still support a surprising number of critical systems, including:
Guestroom phones
- ATMs
While these systems may appear functional today, their dependence on outdated analog technology puts them at risk. As copper networks become increasingly dismantled, the services that rely on them will fail. You don’t want to be left in their wake when that happens.
The Risks of Doing Nothing
The FCC’s Forbearance Order 19-72A1 has allowed telecom carriers to begin shutting down copper-based networks. Many already have, and AT&T has announced plans to discontinue traditional landline service entirely by 2029.
For hotels, this creates multiple risks:
Compliance Violations: Elevator phones and fire alarm systems are often required by law to maintain a working phone connection.
Guest Safety Concerns: If emergency systems go offline, guests could be unable to call for help when it matters most.
Unexpected Downtime: Sudden service loss can disrupt hotel operations and lead to negative reviews.
Rushed, Costly Repairs: Emergency system failures typically result in last-minute fixes that cost more and take longer.
The longer a hotel waits to address its analog phone lines, the greater the chances of operational disruption.
How Ooma AirDial Modernizes Your Historic Hotel Without Disruption
Ooma AirDial offers a reliable, plug-and-play solution that replaces copper phone lines without requiring new wiring or major renovations, making it ideal for historic hotels that need to modernize carefully and cost-effectively.
Here’s how AirDial supports your property:
Preserves Legacy Equipment: Ooma AirDial connects directly to your existing analog devices. There’s no need to replace fire panels, elevator phones, or intercoms that still work. Rather, you can simply update the connection behind them.
Compliant and Reliable: AirDial is built with life-safety systems in mind and is designed to comply with UL, NFPA 72, ASME A17.1B, and HIPAA guidelines. It also features battery backup to keep critical lines operational during power outages.
Low Impact Installation: No trenching, drilling, or remodeling is involved. This is especially valuable for historic hotels, where preserving original architecture is a priority.
Remote Monitoring and Alerts: AirDial includes a cloud-based portal where hotel staff can check system status, receive alerts, and manage lines across multiple locations, all from one dashboard.
Reduces Costs: Analog lines are becoming increasingly expensive, often costing $100 or more per line each month. AirDial offers predictable, flat-rate pricing that can dramatically reduce monthly telecom bills.
Embracing Modern Solutions While Honoring Tradition
Historic hotels stand as testaments to bygone eras, offering guests a unique blend of nostalgia and luxury. However, to continue delivering exceptional experiences, addressing the practicalities of modern communication needs is crucial.
Ooma AirDial provides a path to modernization that respects and preserves the historical significance of these establishments. By integrating this solution, historic hotels can confidently navigate the challenges of the copper sunset, ensuring their legacy endures in the digital age.
Contact us to get started with POTS replacement for your hotel.