Winterizing your outdoor kitchen does not take much work, but it is essential to avoid costly repairs.
An outdoor kitchen is an enjoyable amenity during spring and summer! They provide an excellent opportunity to entertain family and friends and help keep your home cooler by preparing and cooking meals outside.
However, when winter comes around, it is important to prepare your outdoor kitchen for a period of inactivity. Winterizing your outdoor kitchen does not take much work to keep it in good working order. However, this maintenance is essential if you want to avoid costly repairs and replacements for your outdoor kitchen. Keep reading for some tips on preparing your outdoor kitchen for winter.
Shut Off Water Supply
During the winter, water lines can freeze and damage the water lines and the connected appliances. First, locate and completely shut off the water supply leading to your outdoor kitchen. Use the indoor shutoff when you cut off the water supply, so you have no water running in any of the outside lines. Major appliances, such as icemakers or refrigerators, should be double-checked to ensure all water is drained from the pipes.
Clean Refrigerator, Freezer, and Sink
Any perishables leftover in your outdoor refrigerator and freezer should be moved indoors once winter sets in. Once clear, clean your fridge and freezer inside and unplug them. Before cleaning your freezer, you should wait a few hours so any extra ice can thaw first. Ensure your sink is clear of any items and all food is cleaned out, and give it a good polish. You don’t want any leftover residue and food sitting in your sink and appliances all winter.
Clean Your Grill
Your grill doubles as a safe, dry place for animals in the winter. So you want to remove grease and leftover food that might further entice them to make a home inside. To prevent water from freezing inside your grill, double-check that it is fully dry after cleaning it. If you don’t plan on using your grill during the winter, shut off and disconnect the gas.
Protect Your Cabinets
Winterizing your outdoor kitchen also means taking time to protect your outdoor cabinets. The cabinet material will determine how you winterize them. Stainless steel cabinets need a fresh layer of stainless steel polish. Wood cabinets must be oiled or sealed to protect them from outdoor winter weather. Be sure to empty your cabinets of any items or food and store them indoors during winter.
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Carroll Landscaping has over 30 years of experience with landscape construction, porch construction, deck building, and hardscape installation. Our award-winning landscape designers are passionate about providing customers with top-notch service and landscape design. Our landscape designers have a creative design outlook and work as a team with our installation crews to make your vision a reality. We are committed to providing every customer with the highest quality workmanship, professional and knowledgeable service, and creativity in design in order to surpass our clients’ expectations in every aspect of the project.
We serve residents throughout the beautiful state of Maryland including Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City, Eldersburg, Clarksville, Sykesville, Manchester, Westminster, and Woodstock. For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our expert designers, contact us online or give us a call at 410-922-2416.