Grass Valley-based plumbing, electric and HVAC company expands to Auburn

There is a new name in town. ABT Plumbing, Electric, Heat & Air is providing services to Auburn residents after Jeffco Plumbing owner Jeff Vizenor retired last summer. ABT founder and owner Andrew B. Twidwell bought the assets of Jeffco Plumbing in July, expanding his Grass Valley-based business. Twidwell was raised helping his father, a general contractor, which inspired him to open ABT in 2001. ABT has always serviced Auburn clients, but Twidwell said he has wanted to open a location in Auburn to increase convenience. Taking over Jeffco added about 25 percent to Twidwell's business and provides him "the opportunity to grow a lot more in this area." He said he foresees his Auburn business outpacing his Grass Valley location eventually. "We are primarily an emergency service type of business," Twidwell said. "We come in and our guys are trained on being nice and clean and on time." ABT offers 24/7 plumbing service along with its HVAC and electrical service. Twidwell said he saw an increase in home services business during the pandemic. "We are seeing a dramatic increase for calls for service as more people are home," he said. While ABT retained Jeffco's former employees, one of Twidwell's biggest challenges lately has been finding employees. The business currently has six open positions. ABT has a large presence in the Grass Valley non-profit scene, supporting organizations as a way to support the community. Twidwell said he looks forward to building a similar presence in Auburn. ABT recently joined the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and will host a float in the Festival of Lights parade in December.