Navigating Smart Building Technology: Insights from Bennett Mayrock of Runwise

We’re excited for our upcoming Mid-Market Summit on Thursday, May 29, and took the opportunity to speak with bar sponsor Bennett Mayrock from Runwise ahead of the event.

Kiser Group: Bennett, “smart buildings” is a big buzzword right now. What does Runwise specifically offer in this space, and how does it benefit multi-dwelling unit (MDU) housing?

Bennett Mayrock: At Runwise, our focus is on bringing true intelligence to building operations—particularly heating and cooling systems. While “smart building” can encompass a lot, we specialize in practical smart controls that are easy to use and deliver tangible results. This isn’t just about remote access; it’s about optimizing system performance to significantly reduce energy consumption and operational headaches.

Kiser Group: You mention cutting energy costs by 20%. How does Runwise achieve such substantial savings with smart boiler controls?

Bennett Mayrock: Our system integrates feedback from indoor temperatures, outdoor temperatures, and future forecasts—along with knowledge of how the building heats and cools—to allow operators to set target temperatures and have the system run against them as efficiently as possible. This eliminates unnecessary boiler, chiller, and cooling tower run time, which is a major source of wasted energy. This intelligent approach consistently leads to energy cost reductions of 20% or more for our clients.

Kiser Group: Many property owners are budget-conscious. How does Runwise make these smart boiler control systems accessible, especially with the mention of rebates?

Bennett Mayrock: We understand that upfront costs can be a barrier. That’s why we have a dedicated team that claims energy efficiency rebates on behalf of our clients—and we pass those savings through directly. These rebates help subsidize the cost of installing our smart boiler controls. The payback period on this investment is surprisingly short. Our system is designed to be low-cost and installable in just one day. Given how much a typical building spends on utilities, the 20% savings typically result in a one-year payback period. After that, the system becomes a profit driver for the building.

Kiser Group: Beyond cost savings, what impact do smart boiler controls have on environmental sustainability, specifically regarding CO2 emissions?

Bennett Mayrock: The connection between reduced energy consumption and lower CO2 emissions is direct. By cutting energy waste, our smart controls reduce the amount of fossil fuels burned for heating or cooling, which in turn lowers a building’s carbon footprint. For property owners looking to meet sustainability goals—or simply contribute to a greener future—investing in smart boiler controls is an effective way to significantly reduce CO2 emissions. It’s a win-win for both the bottom line and the environment.

Kiser Group: Finally, let’s talk about control and insights. How does Runwise create a better control system within a building, offering benefits like knowing when a boiler is down, spotting return line leaks, and making remote adjustments?

Bennett Mayrock: This is where the “smart” in smart boiler controls really shines. Our system offers unparalleled visibility into boiler operations. Through real-time data monitoring, property managers can:

• Know instantly if a boiler is down: Our system sends immediate alerts in case of a malfunction, allowing for quicker response times and minimizing resident discomfort. 
• Spot return line leaks: By analyzing pressure and temperature differentials, our controls can detect subtle anomalies that indicate leaks—often before they escalate into major issues. This proactive detection saves water, energy, and prevents costly damage. 
• Make remote adjustments: Property managers can access and adjust boiler settings from anywhere, at any time, via a user-friendly interface. This eliminates the need for on-site visits for routine changes and allows for fast responses to shifting weather conditions or resident needs. 

Essentially, we transform the boiler from a black box into a transparent, manageable asset—giving property owners and managers unprecedented control and peace of mind.