Employee Spotlight – Dane Boller

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At Young’s Mechanical Solutions, we are proud to highlight Dane, whose commitment and enthusiasm truly embody our family-oriented culture.  One of Dane’s favorite aspects of working with us is the genuine family environment that fosters collaboration and support among colleagues.  This camaraderie makes every day feel rewarding and encourages everyone to thrive.

Dane has made remarkable contributions during his time here, with his greatest achievement being the successful boiler change-out at Martha Jefferson House.  This challenging project showcased his technical skills and dedication, and it positively impacted the facility’s efficiency and comfort.

Outside of work, Dane cherishes his time spent outdoors.  While he enjoys a variety of activities, golfing holds a special place in his heart.  Whether perfecting his swing on the greens or soaking in the beauty of nature, he finds immense joy in these moments.  Additionally, he values quality time with his family, creating lasting memories and strengthening those bonds.

We are grateful to have Dane as part of our team, and we look forward to seeing his continued growth and success at Young’s Mechanical Solutions!!

What Facility Managers Should Know Before a Major HVAC System Replacement

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At some point, every commercial HVAC system reaches the end of its useful life. When that time comes, the decisions you make before the project starts will have a bigger impact on cost, timeline, and long-term performance than almost anything that happens during installation.

Whether you’re managing an office building, a retail space, a healthcare facility, or a school in the Shenandoah Valley, a major system replacement is a significant capital investment. Here’s what you should be thinking about before the work begins.

Repair vs. Replace: When Is It Time?

The decision to replace a commercial HVAC system is rarely straightforward. Equipment doesn’t always fail all at once—it degrades gradually, with increasing repair frequency, declining efficiency, and rising energy costs. A few key indicators suggest replacement may be the better path: the system is 15–20+ years old, repair costs are escalating year over year, parts are becoming difficult to source, energy bills are climbing despite consistent usage, or the system can no longer maintain consistent comfort throughout the building.

If you’ve been keeping service records—especially through a maintenance agreement—you’ll have the data to make this decision with confidence rather than guesswork.

Full Replacement vs. Phased Approach

Not every replacement needs to happen all at once. Depending on your building’s layout, the number of systems involved, and your budget, a phased replacement approach may make more sense. This allows you to spread capital costs over multiple budget cycles while addressing the most critical equipment first.

A full replacement, on the other hand, can be more efficient from a project management standpoint—one mobilization, one set of permits, and a single coordinated installation. Your mechanical contractor should be able to walk you through both options and help you evaluate what makes the most sense for your situation.

Budgeting Beyond the Equipment

One of the most common mistakes in a system replacement is underestimating the full scope of the project. The cost of the equipment itself is only part of the picture. You should also account for demolition and removal of existing systems, ductwork modifications or replacement, electrical and controls upgrades, structural considerations for heavier or larger units, permitting and inspection requirements in Virginia and West Virginia, and temporary cooling or heating solutions during the transition.

A good mechanical contractor will help you identify these costs upfront so there are no surprises once the project is underway.

Minimizing Disruption to Building Operations

For most commercial buildings, the facility can’t just shut down while HVAC work is completed. Tenants, employees, patients, students—whatever your occupancy looks like—expect the building to function. Planning for minimal disruption should be a central part of your replacement strategy.

This means working with your contractor to schedule work during off-hours or low-occupancy periods, staging the replacement so parts of the building remain operational, planning for temporary heating or cooling during transition periods, and coordinating with other trades if the project involves broader construction.

Experienced commercial mechanical contractors plan around your operations, not the other way around.

Choosing the Right Mechanical Contractor

A major system replacement is not the time to go with the lowest bidder without understanding what you’re getting. The contractor you choose should have deep experience with commercial HVAC systems—not residential. They should be able to demonstrate in-house capabilities including ductwork fabrication, mechanical piping, and controls, carry proper licensing for your jurisdiction, provide references from similar commercial projects, and communicate clearly about timelines, costs, and any issues that arise during the project.

Young’s Mechanical Solutions brings over two decades of commercial mechanical experience, in-house fabrication, and a team that includes sheet metal crews, piping crews, plumbing crews, and controls technicians—all under one roof. We’re licensed in both Virginia and West Virginia.

Thinking Long-Term: Efficiency and Technology

A system replacement is also an opportunity to upgrade. Today’s commercial HVAC equipment offers significantly better energy efficiency, smarter controls, and improved indoor air quality compared to systems installed even ten years ago. If your current system was designed for a different building use or occupancy level, a replacement gives you the chance to right-size and optimize for how the building is actually used today.

Investing in higher-efficiency equipment and modern controls can reduce operating costs for years to come—making the upfront investment easier to justify.

Start the Conversation Early

The best time to start planning a major HVAC replacement is before the old system forces your hand. If you’re seeing the warning signs—rising repair costs, declining performance, aging equipment—now is the time to bring in a commercial mechanical contractor to assess your options.

Contact Young’s Mechanical Solutions to schedule a consultation. We’ll evaluate your current systems, walk you through your options, and help you develop a replacement plan that fits your budget and timeline.

Phone: 540-214-2745

Email: info@youngsmechanicalsolutions.com

Service Area: Harrisonburg, VA and the Shenandoah Valley | Licensed in Virginia and West Virginia

How Service Agreements Reduce Emergency Calls and Protect Your Operating Budget

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Every facility manager knows the feeling. It’s a Monday morning in July, the building is full, and a rooftop unit goes down. What follows is a scramble—phone calls, emergency service rates, disrupted tenants, and a repair bill that wasn’t in the budget. It doesn’t have to work that way.

A commercial HVAC service agreement is one of the most practical tools a building owner or facility manager can use to stay ahead of mechanical failures, control operating costs, and reduce the frequency and severity of emergency service calls. Here’s how it works—and why it matters for your bottom line.

What a Commercial HVAC Service Agreement Actually Includes

A service agreement isn’t just a promise to show up when something breaks. It’s a structured plan for keeping your commercial mechanical systems operating reliably throughout the year. A well-designed agreement typically covers scheduled preventative maintenance visits, priority response when issues arise, documented inspection and repair history for each piece of equipment, filter changes and belt replacements on a set schedule, and seasonal system checks before heating and cooling seasons.

At Young’s Mechanical Solutions, our service agreements are built around your facility’s specific equipment and usage patterns. We use technology-driven scheduling with repair history tracking, so our technicians arrive knowing your system’s history—not starting from scratch every visit.

Fewer Emergencies, Lower Costs

The most expensive HVAC service call is the one you didn’t see coming. Emergency repairs often come with premium labor rates, overnight parts shipping, and the indirect cost of building downtime. A service agreement flips that equation by catching problems early—before they become emergencies.

During a routine maintenance visit, a technician might identify a failing compressor, a refrigerant leak, or worn bearings on a blower motor. Addressed early, these are manageable repairs that can be scheduled at a convenient time. Left unchecked, they become emergency calls at the worst possible moment.

For facility managers responsible for multiple buildings or large commercial spaces in the Shenandoah Valley, the math is straightforward: the cost of a service agreement is predictable and budgetable. Emergency repairs are not.

Priority Scheduling When You Need It Most

One of the most valuable—and often overlooked—benefits of a service agreement is priority response. When a facility with a service agreement calls in with an issue, that call goes to the front of the line. During peak heating and cooling seasons, when HVAC contractors across Virginia and West Virginia are stretched thin, that priority access can mean the difference between a same-day repair and waiting days for a technician.

Young’s Mechanical Solutions serves commercial clients within approximately one hour of Harrisonburg, VA, and our service agreement customers are always our first priority when urgent needs arise.

Extending Equipment Life and Protecting Your Investment

Commercial HVAC equipment represents a significant capital investment. Rooftop units, chillers, boilers, and air handlers are designed to last, but only when they receive consistent maintenance. Skipping routine service doesn’t save money—it accelerates wear, reduces efficiency, and shortens the useful life of your equipment.

A service agreement keeps your systems running at peak efficiency, which translates directly into lower energy costs and fewer premature replacements. For building owners focused on long-term operating costs, this is where the real return on investment lives.

Documented History That Supports Better Decisions

Over time, a service agreement builds a detailed record of every inspection, repair, and maintenance visit for your equipment. This history is invaluable when it comes to making capital planning decisions. Rather than guessing when a system might need replacement, you have real data showing trends in repair frequency, performance, and cost.

This documentation also supports warranty claims, insurance requirements, and compliance reporting—all areas where having organized records makes a real difference.

The Right Fit for Your Facility

Not every building needs the same level of service. A small office building has different mechanical demands than a healthcare facility, a school, or a manufacturing plant. The best service agreements are customized to your building’s equipment, age, usage patterns, and operational requirements.

Young’s Mechanical Solutions works with facility managers and building owners across the Shenandoah Valley to design service agreements that make sense for your specific situation—not a one-size-fits-all package.

Take Control of Your Mechanical Maintenance

If you’re managing a commercial facility in Virginia or West Virginia and you’re tired of reacting to equipment failures, a service agreement is the most effective step you can take. It’s a straightforward investment that reduces emergency calls, extends equipment life, and gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your building’s mechanical systems are in experienced hands.

Contact Young’s Mechanical Solutions today to schedule a consultation and learn how a service agreement can work for your facility.

Service Area: Harrisonburg, VA and the Shenandoah Valley | Licensed in Virginia and West Virginia

The Skills Schools Try To Teach—and the Mechanical Industry Depends On

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Technical training teaches pipe sizing, duct layout and equipment selection, but the
mechanical industry depends equally on soft skills. Problem‑solving, adaptability
and communication are critical to successful HVAC and plumbing careers.
Technicians often encounter unexpected conditions in older buildings in Harrisonburg or
Staunton, requiring quick thinking and collaboration with other trades. Clear
communication with project managers and facility owners ensures that everyone
understands challenges and solutions.

At Young’s Mechanical Solutions, we invest in these skills by fostering teamwork and continuous learning. Our
dedicated team combines decades of experience and expertise to deliver unmatched
HVAC and plumbing services. Crews debrief after each project, sharing lessons
learned and discussing how to improve. We encourage field staff to use digital tools for
service documentation, BIM coordination and equipment commissioning. For individuals
transitioning from the field to the office, we provide mentorship in budgeting, scheduling
and customer relationship management.

We also emphasize community involvement and leadership. Some of our of our employees
volunteer with local organizations like Fire or Rescue departments. They develop leadership and communication skills that
serve them well on the job. We recruit apprentices from local technical centers in helping to build a skilled workforce that
remains in the Shenandoah Valley and Charlottesville area. If you’re interested in a
career that combines technical expertise with soft‑skill development, explore our
Careers page.

Employee Spotlight – Trevor Staton

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We’re excited to highlight one of our dedicated HVAC Service Technicians,  Trevor Staton, whose commitment to learning and teamwork makes a strong impact every day.

Since joining the company, he has taken pride in growing his knowledge and expanding his skill set in the field. That dedication has paid off—he’s been promoted in a short amount of time, a reflection of his strong work ethic and eagerness to improve.

What first attracted him to the company was the opportunity to work on large projects and the ability to promote from within—and those opportunities are exactly what continue to keep him here. He appreciates the company culture most, noting that everyone gets along and is always willing to help each other, which makes even challenging jobs go more smoothly.

When asked what advice he’d give to new employees, his answer is simple but powerful: don’t be afraid to reach out for help or ask questions. Learning from others is key to success in this field.

Outside of work, he enjoys restoring classic vehicles, a passion that started early—fun fact: he put together his first vehicle before he could even drive!

He describes the company’s mission as providing quality work in a timely manner to ensure customers’ equipment operates at its best, a value he clearly lives out in his day-to-day work.

We’re proud to have him on the team and look forward to seeing his continued growth and success!

Building a Career in Commercial HVAC & Plumbing: Why Skilled Trades Matter More Than Ever

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For those who value hands-on work and long-term stability, the skilled trades offer compelling career opportunities. Trade employers across America are actively hiring, offering competitive wages, accelerated training programs, and signing bonuses to fill critical roles in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and related fields.

Several factors are driving this demand: nearly one-third of the skilled workforce is over 50 and nearing retirement, hands-on repair and installation work cannot be automated or outsourced, and significant investment in infrastructure and building systems is creating sustained demand. Skilled tradespeople today enjoy competitive pay, strong benefits, and the freedom to choose employers who value their expertise.

 

The Numbers Tell the Story

Federal labor data confirms the opportunity. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers (HVAC technicians) will grow 8% from 2024 to 2034, adding approximately 40,100 job openings per year. Employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow 4% over the same period, with about 44,000 annual job openings.

These trades offer competitive median wages—$62,970 for plumbers in 2024—and provide recession-resistant employment. Unlike jobs vulnerable to outsourcing or automation, you cannot remotely fix a malfunctioning chiller or install commercial piping systems from overseas.

Building Your Career at Young’s Mechanical Solutions

Young’s Mechanical Solutions, founded by Jake and Darla Young, is a family-owned and operated mechanical contractor based in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Serving commercial and industrial clients throughout Virginia and West Virginia, the company specializes in design-build mechanical services including HVAC, plumbing, piping, sheet-metal fabrication, and building automation controls.

As a family-owned business, Young’s Mechanical Solutions understands that employees are the foundation of quality service and long-term success. The company invests in training and career development, creating pathways for both experienced professionals and those new to the trades.

Opportunities for Every Skill Level

Whether you’re an experienced technician or just starting out, Young’s Mechanical Solutions offers positions including:

  • HVAC service technicians
  • Plumbers and pipefitters
  • Welders
  • Sheet-metal fabricators
  • Project managers
  • Estimators

For those new to the trades, apprenticeship opportunities provide the chance to earn while you learn through on-the-job training alongside experienced mentors.

More Than Just a Paycheck

A career in the skilled trades offers meaningful work. Technicians solve complex problems, work with advanced building automation and energy-efficient systems, and see the tangible results of their efforts every day. The work is varied, the challenges are real, and the skills you develop become more valuable over time.

As experienced workers retire and demand continues to grow, now is an excellent time to enter or advance in the skilled trades. Young’s Mechanical Solutions is committed to building careers, not just filling positions.

Visit the  careers page to explore current openings and join a team that values integrity, teamwork, and service excellence. Your career in the mechanical trades starts here.

Employee Spotlight On Danny!

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Danny Altland Employee Spotlight

Young’s Mechanical is proud to feature Daniel Altland as our employee spotlight! Danny has been with Young’s Mechanical since the company was founded and is a supervisor of one of our sheet metal crews.  I asked Danny to share a few things about himself and why he chooses to be a part of the YMS team.  Danny shared that some of his greatest accomplishments are the quality of work and the owners having the trust in him to do what he does. He also has learned more about things outside of his trade labor by working in a smaller company.  He feels this additional knowledge helps him be a better asset to the company and to the other team members.  The reason he decided to work for YMS was because of the owners.  Danny feels as though he is treated as a value to company rather than just a number.  When asked what he liked most about the environment and culture of Young’s Mechanical, his answer was trust!  In Danny’s spare time, he enjoys spending time with his new grandsons and a fun fact about Danny is that Robert E. Lee was his great uncle x5!  Danny also shared that ‘good values’ is what he would say to describe the mission of Young’s Mechanical.

Thank you, Danny, for your hard work each day!  We are blessed to have you as part of our family!!

Joining the Young’s Mechanical Family: Careers in HVAC & Plumbing

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The mechanical trades offer stable careers, opportunities for advancement and the satisfaction of working with your hands. Young’s Mechanical Solutions is growing and looking for dedicated professionals to join its team. The company was founded on the idea that a contractor should be a true partner to clients, and that philosophy extends to its employees. At Young’s Mechanical Solutions, people are the backbone of success.

Why Work at Young’s Mechanical Solutions?

The company offers a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent. Benefits include:

  • Competitive pay that reflects experience and expertise.

  • 401(k) matching plan to help employees build for retirement.

  • Health insurance and access to wellness programs.

  • Company vehicle and gas card for service calls.

  • Ongoing training and certification opportunities so employees stay current with industry trends.

  • Paid holidays and time off.

  • A supportive, family‑owned environment where teamwork is valued and employees are treated with respect.

In addition to these tangible benefits, employees enjoy working on cutting‑edge HVAC systems and controls. The company invests in modern tools and technologies, giving technicians and plumbers the opportunity to grow professionally.

A Culture Rooted in Service

Founders Jake and Darla Young established the company with 20 years of experience in the commercial mechanical industry and a passion for excellent customer service. They understood that true success lies in creating strong relationships—not only with clients but also with employees. Young’s Mechanical Solutions promotes teamwork, open communication and professional development. Apprenticeships and mentorship programs help new employees learn from seasoned professionals, while continuing‑education programs keep experienced staff up to date.

Opportunities Across the Trades

Current openings include roles such as commercial HVAC service technicians, sheet‑metal mechanics, plumbing foremen and helpers. Each position offers hands‑on experience and the chance to work on a variety of projects, from new construction to service and repair. Candidates with experience reading mechanical drawings, troubleshooting equipment and collaborating with other trades will find a home at Young’s Mechanical. Even if you’re new to the industry, the company’s training programs can help you build a rewarding career.

Ready to apply? Interested candidates can reach out through the employment application or call the office at 540‑214‑2745. With a headquarters at 1043 S High St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801, Young’s Mechanical Solutions is easy to find—and ready to welcome the next generation of mechanical professionals.

View Current Employment Opportunities Here

Honoring a Legacy: Golf Tournament Supports the Kyle Puffenberger Memorial Scholarship

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At Young’s Mechanical Solutions, we believe in standing by our team—and our community—through everything. Recently, members of our YMS crew participated in a local golf tournament with a special purpose: raising funds for the Kyle Puffenberger Memorial Scholarship.

This cause is close to our hearts. Kyle was the brother of one of our employees. To honor his legacy, the community created a scholarship fund in his name. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to an outstanding athlete from Pendleton County High School—someone who embodies the determination, sportsmanship, and spirit that Kyle was known for.

We’re proud to support this effort and to celebrate Kyle’s life by helping future athletes chase their dreams. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the organizers, participants, and supporters who made the tournament a success.

At YMS, community isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we show up for.