Possible Freeze in the City of Katy
Possible Freeze - Protect Your Backflow Preventer
Step 1: Turn off the shut-off valve - On most residential backflow devices, there are two shut-off valves. These are typically covered in blue rubber and are located before and after the actual backflow device.
Step 2: Release the water pressure - Now that you have shut off the water valve, you must release the water that is in the device so that it doesn't expand when it freezes and crack the device. With a flat head screwdriver, loosen the two bleeder valves (#3 and #4 as illustrated). The bleeder valves are usually located just under the plastic top of the backflow. Sometimes, they have rubber inserts you have to remove before you can see the flathead screw. When opening these, be aware that the water will spew out for a few seconds and your hands will get wet. NOTE: If the water doesn't stop spitting out after a couple minutes, you haven't fully turned off the water in step 1.
Step 3: Leave the smaller bleeder valves open - This will allow the water to expand and freeze without being hindered and causing damage.
Step 4: Insulate your Backflow - At almost all home improvements stores, they carry backflow preventer insulation materials.