Runwise provides a smart building control platform that combines wireless hardware, sensors, and software to manage heating and other building systems. The platform is designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enable remote management of building infrastructure.
Runwise
Smart Boiler Controls
Wireless sensors and software to monitor and automatically adjust building heating systems
Description
Runwise's smart boiler controls use indoor temperature sensors, outdoor weather data, and software algorithms to automatically adjust boiler operation in real time. This enables more precise control of centralized heating systems, reduces energy use, improves indoor temperature regulation, and provides visibility into system performance and fuel usage. The system also detects issues such as leaks or failures early, allowing building teams to anticipate and address problems before they escalate.
Key Differentiators
Ease of integration - Runwise's Smart Boiler Controls update outdated boiler controls without requiring full HVAC or system replacement. Minimal system modifications and installation scope beyond the new Runwise control system
Minimally disruptive, quick installation - Fully wireless installation completed in one day or less
Easy to access insights - The system combines sensors, software, controls, and analytics into a single integrated platform, providing real-time monitoring and remote control, as well as real-time utility usage and system performance data
Real-time optimization - The system uses indoor temperature feedback and weather forecasting to dynamically optimize heating performance. Detects system issues instantly and sends automated alerts for faster response
Dedicated support - Includes ongoing professional monitoring and support to help ensure continued savings year over year
Use Cases
Reduce building energy/utility costs
Optimize the usage of HVAC equipment
Better visibility into real-time gas use
Regulate indoor temperature
Improve control over a centralized HVAC system
Improve/replace HVAC system
Use existing HVAC equipment more efficiently
Anticipate issues to equipment (e.g. HVAC) before they happen
Cost Savings
The system delivers approximately 20–25% heating energy cost savings through dynamic optimization using indoor temperature feedback and weather forecasting. It also reduces long-term operations and maintenance costs through remote system visibility, fewer boiler room visits, and early detection of system issues and alerts.
About
Decarbonization Impacts
Operational Emissions
Reduces heating energy use and associated carbon emissions, with current average portfolio-wide savings of 23%.
Platform also supports compliance with climate regulations and helps reduce exposure to emissions-related fines.
Project + Building Compatibility
Project Type
Existing building retrofit
Essential Building Characteristics
Buildings with centralized boiler or steam heating systems
Ideal Building Characteristics
Centrally heated buildings greater than 10,000 Square Feet, where heating systems can be optimized using sensors and controls.
Ideal Project Size
Above 6+ unit building.
Additional Considerations
Central heating systems (hydronic or steam)
Wireless sensor network and central control platform are required to operate the system
NY Contractor Availability
Installation contractor availability in New York is generally strong. Runwise uses both in-house installation teams as well as third party installation contractors for project implementation (usually one or the other, not both). They can also utilize MBE/WBE installation contractors if required for any specific project.
Other Screening Criteria
Square footage, number of residential units (for multi-family), annual spend to heat the property.
Example Installations
Installed By
The Related Companies; LeFrak; FirstService Residential; Windsor Management; Harlem Property Management
Case Studies
Resident Experience
During Installation
Installation is wireless and completed in one day or less, with no extensive wiring or major disruption
Post Installation
Improved comfort through more consistent indoor temperatures and fewer heating complaints; Faster response to system issues
Financing
NY Incentives/Financing Resources
Runwise online boiler controls qualify for ConEd prescriptive energy management system (EMS) rebates for MFEEB (market rate multi-family buildings) and AMEEP (affordable multi-family buildings). National Grid market rate and AMEEP rebates for online boiler controls/energy management systems are currently on hold due to funding limitations within the programs, although Runwise solutions previously qualified.
Upfront Costs
There is typically an upfront equipment + installation charge. The amount depends on the size of the building/system.
Ongoing Costs
There is typically an ongoing platform + management fee. The amount depends on the size of the building/system.
Payback Period
Systems often pay for themselves within the first year
Operations, Management, and Maintenance
Operations and Maintenance Requirements
Batteries for temperature sensors and signal repeaters may need to be replaced after 10+ years.
Ease of Operations
Platform enables remote control via phone or computer and reduces need for manual adjustments; training and support are provided
Service Support
24/7 support and technician service are provided by Runwise
Data + Performance
Dashboard provides visibility into heating activity, indoor temperatures, water usage, and system performance metrics in real time for building owners.
Future Proofing
Supports compliance with energy regulations and carbon limits, including Local Law 97; uses open APIs for integration with other systems
