Split Pea Soup (slow cooker)

¼ pound bacon, chopped
1 pound split peas, rinsed
2 C frozen hash browns 
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, peeled and diced
3 ribs celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/8 tsp pepper
1 pinch red pepper flakes
8 C chicken broth

Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Place bacon and remaining ingredients in slow cooker.
Low for 8 hours.