Controlled Release Technologies

Built to Solve Real Maintenance Problems.

Since 1985, Controlled Release Technologies has developed controlled-release solutions for HVAC/R, drainage, water treatment, and facility maintenance applications with a focus on long-lasting performance, practical design, and real-world reliability.

Meet Our Team Our Story

Controlled Release Technologies facility in Shelby, North Carolina

Who We Are

Practical innovation rooted in real operating conditions.

Controlled Release Technologies is a manufacturer based in Shelby, North Carolina. We formulate and produce maintenance solutions for HVAC/R systems, drainage, water treatment, and surface restoration applications.

Our approach has remained consistent since the beginning: identify a real maintenance problem, understand why existing options fall short, and develop a solution that is reliable, practical, and easier to use in the field.

From preventative drain pan treatments to specialty coatings and water management products, our goal is to help customers reduce recurring issues, lower maintenance demands, and improve long-term system performance.

What Sets Controlled Release Technologies Apart

Field-Tested Innovation

We develop products around real maintenance challenges observed in the field, then refine them through testing, formulation, and practical feedback.

Controlled-Release Performance

Our controlled-release technologies are designed to perform over time, helping reduce maintenance frequency and improve consistency in demanding environments.

Practical by Design

We focus on solutions that are easy to apply, reliable in use, and built for real service conditions where access, time, and labor are limited.

Quality, Compliance & Support

From manufacturing standards to technical guidance and regulatory awareness, we work to ensure dependable product performance and responsive customer support.

Leadership

Meet Our Leaders

The people guiding Controlled Release Technologies bring experience, technical knowledge, and a hands-on commitment to the future of the company.

Rachelle Wright

CEO, Owner

Rachelle’s journey with Controlled Release Technologies began in her teenage years, starting in the mailroom and growing through multiple roles across the company. Her broad operational knowledge and long-term commitment to the business led to her becoming owner and CEO in 2020.

As the company’s public-facing leader, Rachelle has represented Controlled Release Technologies through client relations, trade shows, educational videos, and day-to-day business operations. Her leadership reflects both continuity and forward momentum, with a strong focus on innovation, quality, and long-term growth.

Scott Rinaldo

Partner, President

Scott plays a central role in leading the company’s daily operations. His approach is hands-on, collaborative, and focused on building efficient systems that support growth while serving both management and frontline staff.

Scott has helped modernize internal processes, improve fulfillment speed, and strengthen the company’s operational foundation. He also places strong value on teamwork, operational consistency, and building systems that support long-term growth.

Dr. Joe Serpico

Partner, CTO, Director of R&D

Dr. Joe Serpico brings deep scientific expertise to Controlled Release Technologies. As CTO and Director of R&D, he oversees research, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, manufacturing protocols, and the development of new products.

With a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry, Dr. Serpico has played a key role in advancing the company’s technical capabilities and product innovation. His leadership continues to help shape the science and long-term direction behind its solutions.

Our Story

From one recurring maintenance problem to decades of practical innovation.

Controlled Release Technologies began with a persistent challenge: HVAC condensate drain pan overflows that were causing property damage, repeat service calls, and unnecessary frustration for maintenance teams. Existing options were often inconsistent, short-lived, or simply not solving the problem well enough.

In response, our founder developed PanGuard using controlled-release technology to deliver longer-lasting treatment across the drain pan surface. That practical, problem-solving approach became the foundation of the company and shaped the way we continue to develop products today.

Since then, CRT has expanded into HVAC/R maintenance, specialty coatings, drain care, water treatment, and surface restoration. While the product line has grown, the mission has remained the same: solve real-world maintenance problems with solutions that are effective, reliable, and built for the field.

Key Milestones

A few defining moments in our history

1985

Controlled Release Technologies Founded

CRT was founded after the development of PanGuard, a controlled-release solution created to address recurring HVAC drain pan overflows.

1990s

Product Expansion

Building on its success in preventative maintenance, the company expanded into water treatment, specialty coatings, and additional HVAC/R solutions.

2006

Shelby, NC

Controlled Release Technologies moved to Shelby, North Carolina, where it continues to manufacture and grow today.

2020

New Ownership

Rachelle Wright became owner and CEO, continuing the company’s legacy with fresh leadership and a forward-looking vision.

2022

Women-Owned Certification

Controlled Release Technologies was certified as a Women-Owned Small Business.

Today

Ongoing Innovation

CRT continues to expand its product development, manufacturing capabilities, and customer support across multiple maintenance categories.

Industries We Serve

Solutions designed for real operating environments

Food Processing

Drain care solutions designed to help reduce buildup, pooling, and sanitation concerns.

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Farming

Evaporative cooling treatments that help reduce mineral scale and improve equipment longevity.

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Beverage Dispensers

Targeted cleaning support for drip pans and drain areas in beverage service environments.

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HVAC

Preventative HVAC/R maintenance products for coils, drains, corrosion control, and long-term system performance.

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Refrigeration

Solutions that help protect coils, improve cleanliness, and support drainage performance.

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Sanitary Drains

Water-activated products for drain maintenance across commercial and industrial environments.

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Management

Meet Our Managers

Jenny Gillelan

General Manager

Mike Rinaldo

Director of Business Development

Stacey Partain

Client Service Director

Jennifer Hallman

Creative Director

Work With Controlled Release Technologies

Looking for a more reliable maintenance solution?

Explore our product lines or contact us to find a practical, long-lasting fit for your application.

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