[Operto Connect] Installing Hardware In Occupied Units
It’s always best to try to schedule an installation when the unit is vacant, but we understand sometimes the only choice is to install while a guest is occupying the unit.
Below are logistical considerations to take into account:
- Try to begin installations in the morning in a pilot unit that is completely vacant, with no check-ins or check-outs that day. This is a great opportunity to work out the kinks and establish a system/workflow.
- After installing the pilot unit, you can piggyback the housekeeping slate to target unoccupied units with early check-ins first.
- Try to arrange installations in occupied units for sometime mid-day as that time would have the greatest chance of a guest being away from their unit. If the guest is currently occupying the unit, we have outlined a few best practices to follow below to mitigate guest disruption.
- Save vacant units for the end of the day, after all the other units have been completed.
Below are some best practice tips on installing hardware while units are occupied:
- Always give guests advance notice of the time frame for when the installation will take place.
- If a contractor is performing the install, try to have a representative from the property management company or hotel to escort the contractor to the occupied units.
- Create a list of all units to be installed for that day and make note of the room status (vacant, same-day turnover, check-in time, check-out time).
- Always knock and announce yourself before walking into any unit!!
- Try to limit the installation timeframe to 20 minutes or less. If it’s going to take longer to complete, consider breaking it up or coming back when the guest is out for the day.
- Be considerate of the guest’s personal space, and try to limit your exposure:
- Try to stay outside of the unit as much as possible. If you are not required to be inside of the unit to perform work, step outside.
- If you need to be inside the unit to perform work, try to stay near the door. Find an outlet close to the door to perform any device setup. Once the devices are set up, they can always be unplugged and moved to a final resting spot.
- Program the lock to turn off all sounds, so that the lock is silent when pushing the programming buttons [see lock program guide > turning off sounds].
- Limit the number of people in the unit. If the work can be performed by one person, it’s best to have only that person inside the unit.
- Working from the hallway
- Hub/Connect setup and lock pairing can be done from the hallway. As long as you are able to connect to the unit’s Wi-Fi, you can do most of the work from the hallway.
- If you don’t have access to a power outlet in the hallway that is close to the unit, a portable 120V power bank is the perfect alternative.
- Plug the hub into the power bank, connect to the unit wifi and run all firmware updates.
- If you have a Netatmo device, setup the device in the same way.
- Once everything is set up and paired, enter the unit to swap out the old lock for the new one and plug the devices into outlets inside of the unit.