Key Mechanical Co of Washington has been a leading force in commercial mechanical contracting since its inception in 1956. Founded by Bob Heisler and Lee Sandahl after their engineering studies at the University of Southern California, the company began its journey in Southern California, thriving during the post-World War II economic expansion. Expanding northward in 1975, Key Mechanical established a presence in Kent, Washington and subsequently broadened its lines of business to include commercial refrigeration services in the late 1980s, becoming an authorized dealer for Tyler Refrigeration, a partnership that solidified Key's reputation among regional supermarket chains.
The 1990s represented a phase of accelerated growth, with the opening of a Portland, Oregon location in 1998, followed by a branch in Livermore, California in 2002, allowing the company to cater to an even wider market. As the 2000s unfolded, Key navigated the dynamic landscape of the refrigeration industry, evolving with its suppliers and embracing new opportunities, including the development of a marine division to service government and private vessels.
Entering the new decade, Key Mechanical recognized the changing economic landscape, returning to Southern California in 2020 with a new branch in Chino, and acquiring Oregon Equipment Service Corp in 2021, which enabled an enhanced service offering in commercial food equipment installation and service.
Today, Key Mechanical stands resilient and forward-looking, guided by the foundational principles of respect, integrity, and professionalism that have characterized its operations for decades. The company continues to excel in service innovation, focusing on energy efficiency and client satisfaction through robust maintenance programs and skilled engineering. As it looks ahead, Key Mechanical is committed to maintaining its leadership role in commercial refrigeration and HVAC solutions across the Western United States.
