BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2024 November 29, Friday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
blairtoday@mail.com – Facebook
As winter approaches, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce recently highlighted a timely service from one of Blair’s newest businesses. O2 Plumbing, led by fourth-generation plumber Tyler Ostronic, is offering winterization services specifically tailored for Blair residents. We thought it was a good time to interview a local plumber – before it gets too cold to do anything about it!
So, while O2 Plumbing may be new to Blair’s business directory, Ostronic’s decision to establish his company here stems from both personal and professional motivations. “We chose Blair not just because we live here,” explains Ostronic, “but because we’ve heard from so many Blair customers about the challenge of finding a quality, reliable, and fairly priced plumbing service that’s available 24/7 locally.”
Drawing on his family’s multi-generational plumbing expertise, Ostronic aims to change how Blair residents think about calling a plumber. “Many people fear calling a plumber because of past bad experiences,” he notes. “We’re working to change that perception. If I wouldn’t put it in my house, I won’t put it in yours. We’re in the business to make a living, not a killing.”
This philosophy extends to O2 Plumbing’s approach to winter services. Ostronic emphasizes that their winterization services, while crucial for certain situations, aren’t always necessary. “Winterization only needs to be performed if the property doesn’t have heat or will be vacant for an extended period during the cold season,” he explains. The company offers comprehensive winterization services for both homes and irrigation systems, serving both commercial and residential properties throughout Blair.
“If it’s night or day, O2 Plumbing will be on the way,” Ostronic promises.
For Blair’s older homes, which make up a significant portion of the city’s housing stock, Ostronic identifies specific winter challenges. “Many older Blair homes have water pipes installed in or near exterior walls,” he explains. “Combined with older insulation and Nebraska’s cold temperatures, this can lead to frozen and broken pipes.” He offers practical solutions, such as opening cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation and running a small amount of water through faucets during extreme cold.
Another common issue Ostronic sees specifically in Blair homes is outdated hose spigots. “With Nebraska’s cold temperatures, freeze-proof hose spigots are a must,” he advises. His team can install valves that provide additional protection against winter damage, and he reminds residents about the importance of removing water hoses before winter sets in.
True to their commitment to community service, O2 Plumbing maintains 24/7 availability for Blair residents. “If it’s night or day, O2 Plumbing will be on the way,” Ostronic promises. He encourages local homeowners to reach out even if they just need professional advice, emphasizing their goal of building lasting relationships with Blair families rather than just securing one-time services.
Does Your Blair Home Need to be Winterized?
While not every Blair home requires winterization, O2 Plumbing suggests getting your property winterized if:
- Your home or property will be vacant during the winter months (such as a vacation home or rental property that will be empty)
- Your heating system is unreliable or you plan to keep your home’s temperature lower than usual during the winter months
- You have an older Blair home with pipes located in or near exterior walls, especially if your home’s insulation isn’t up to current standards
- You have outdoor plumbing fixtures or irrigation systems that aren’t rated for Nebraska’s extreme winter temperatures
- You’re concerned about your home’s current plumbing system and want a professional assessment before winter sets in
If you’re unsure whether your home needs winterization, O2 Plumbing encourages Blair residents to call for a professional consultation. As Tyler Ostronic notes, “We are a company who isn’t against the customer who just needs some advice from a professional plumber. Just call, we are here!”
Blair residents interested in winterization services or seeking professional plumbing advice can reach O2 Plumbing at (402) 427-9852.
