The cold weather is coming tonight! Time to cover water faucets and plants. And if you have an in-ground sprinkler system, please read below (IMPORTANT!)

Most sprinkler systems have a backflow preventer section of pipe that sticks up above the ground about 18-24 inches. Because this is exposed to wind, it freezes very easily and can explode under pressure. When temperatures get to 35 or below, it’s strongly recommended to drain that section of pipe or cover it (or both). Draining it only takes a couple of minutes and a flat-head screwdriver. This can save you a lot of heartache and a $250-$300 repair bill.

To cover it, you have a few options. Wrap it with a few old towels, then cover the whole thing with an upside-down plastic Rubbermaid type of container. Or wrap it with insulation and duct tape a black plastic trash bag over the insulation. Or buy a sprinkler sock made for this purpose; they cost around $50-$100. Check Amazon or Ewing Irrigation on 2410 in Harker Heights for insulated sprinkler covers. For the really cold days, or several freezing days in a row , covering it may not be enough. To drain your system, click here: https://www.stillhouseridge.com/info/sprinkler-winterization/