As the temperature drops, the calls start to flood into businesses like Ferro Plumbing and Heating in Yonkers.

"Broken pipes are a No. 1 cause phone calls to us," said Michael Ferro.

He offered these tips:

- Insulate pipes, especially those outside or in the garage

- Check your home to see if it's properly insulated

- Keep your thermostat at a constant temperature day and night

- Run faucets,  the running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing

- Remove garden hoses from hose bibs and cover the bib with Styrofoam

- Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing

If your pipes do burst or crack, a plumber can help.

Ferro said in some cases he uses a standard heat blower to heat up the home and thaw pipes.

He can also use an electrical charge on copper pipes to thaw frozen pipes.