Deep Freeze Defense: Prevent Burst Pipes & Boiler Breakdowns

Brooklyn winters can be beautiful — but they can also be brutal. When freezing temperatures hit New York City, your plumbing and heating systems work overtime to keep you safe and warm. Unfortunately, that’s also when the risk of burst pipes and boiler breakdowns skyrockets.

At Franco Belli Plumbing & Heating & Sons, our family has spent more than 50 years protecting Brooklyn homes and buildings from winter damage. Here’s your Deep Freeze Defense Checklist to ensure your plumbing and heating systems survive the season in top shape.

❄️ 1. Insulate Pipes in Unheated Areas

The first line of defense against frozen pipes is insulation. Focus on exposed plumbing in:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages
• Near exterior walls

Use foam pipe sleeves or heat tape to keep temperatures steady. For multi-unit buildings, ensure maintenance teams have access to these vulnerable areas.

Pro Tip: Even a tiny bit of airflow — like cold drafts near an unsealed window — can freeze pipes overnight. Franco Belli’s Brooklyn plumbing experts can identify and insulate high-risk areas before temperatures drop.

💧 2. Keep a Steady Flow of Water

Running a slow trickle of water through faucets during extreme cold can help prevent freezing in vulnerable pipes. It may slightly increase your water bill, but it’s far cheaper than repairing burst plumbing.

Also, make sure all occupants — especially in multi-family buildings — know where the main water shut-off valve is located in case of emergency.

🔥 3. Schedule a Mid-Winter Boiler Service

Your boiler is the heart of your home’s heating system, and it works hardest during January and February. A mid-winter boiler inspection ensures it’s operating safely and efficiently.

During a Franco Belli boiler maintenance visit, our licensed technicians will:

• Check for leaks or corrosion
• Test pressure and safety valves
• Clean burners and heat exchangers
• Confirm proper water levels and circulation
• Identify any signs of wear before they cause a breakdown

A proactive check can help you avoid no-heat emergencies and extend your boiler’s lifespan.

🧾 4. Check Water Pressure Regularly

Low water pressure can be a sign of frozen pipes, leaks, or a failing boiler. On the other hand, high water pressure puts stress on your system and increases the chance of a burst pipe.

If your readings seem off, call a licensed Brooklyn plumber right away. Franco Belli’s team can inspect your pressure valves, adjust your boiler system, and ensure your plumbing is safe from winter damage.

🏢 5. For Property Managers: Create a Winter Readiness Plan

If you oversee multiple units or commercial properties, it’s crucial to have a winter plumbing and heating checklist. Make sure tenants know how to:

• Report heating issues immediately
• Locate shut-off valves
• Keep thermostats above 60°F
• Allow cabinets under sinks to stay open for airflow

Franco Belli Plumbing & Heating & Sons offers custom maintenance schedules for property managers — including Local Law 152 gas inspections, TASK 87 compliance, and seasonal heating checkups to help you stay ahead of NYC’s toughest months.

🧰 6. Know the Warning Signs of Trouble

Call for professional help if you notice:

• Water spots or frost on interior walls
• Unusual banging or gurgling from radiators
• A boiler that frequently shuts off
• Ice buildup on exterior plumbing

These could indicate frozen pipes, poor circulation, or an impending boiler issue. The sooner you act, the better your chance of preventing a costly repair.

🏠 Stay Warm, Stay Safe, Stay Ready

When it comes to protecting your property during the deep freeze, prevention is everything. From insulating pipes to mid-winter boiler service, Franco Belli Plumbing & Heating & Sons is your trusted Brooklyn partner for reliable, code-compliant, year-round comfort.

👉 Schedule your boiler maintenance or winter plumbing inspection today at francobelli.com.

Your comfort is our family’s tradition — and we’re proud to keep Brooklyn warm, one building at a time.