Heat Pumps: Heat pumps are great for hot climates, but they can have problems keeping a house warm enough when the outside temps get below freezing. If you run into this issue, temporarily switch to emergency heat (usually labeled “Em Heat” on your thermostat). You may want to turn Em Heat on at night if you know it’s going to get really cold. But remember to switch it back once the outside temperature warms up the next day…the Em Heat setting uses heat strips like old-fashioned electric heaters and it will run up your electric bill very quickly.
Sprinkler System: If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, please winterize it (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, and 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 couple of 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 Ewing Irrigation on 2410 in Harker Heights for sprinkler socks. For the really cold days or several freezing days in a row , covering it may not be enough.
To drain it…
Instructions here: https://www.stillhouseridge.com/info/sprinkler-winterization/