Winterizing Your Outdoor Kitchen

Introduction

An outdoor kitchen is a significant investment that provides years of enjoyment, but the harsh transition into winter can wreak havoc on appliances, plumbing, and surfaces if they aren’t properly protected. Even if you plan on doing some “cold weather grilling,” a full winterization of your peripheral systems is essential to prevent costly repairs come springtime.

1. Plumbing and Water Lines: The Top Priority

The most critical step in winterization is protecting your plumbing. Water expands when it freezes, which can burst pipes and ruin expensive outdoor faucets.

• Shut off the Water: Locate the indoor shut-off valve for your outdoor water lines and turn it off completely.
• Drain the Lines: Open the outdoor faucets to drain any remaining water. If your system has a “bleeder” valve indoors, open it to ensure the line is completely empty.
• The Sink: Clear the drain of any debris. If possible, cover the sink to prevent moisture and leaves from accumulating.

2. Appliances: Fridges and Ice Makers

Outdoor refrigerators and ice makers are not designed to operate in sub-freezing temperatures.

• Power Down: Turn off and unplug all outdoor appliances.
• Clean Thoroughly: Remove all food and drinks. Clean the interior with a mild soap and water solution to prevent mold and odors.
• Dry it Out: Ensure the interior is completely dry before closing the door.
• The Ice Maker: Disconnect the water line and ensure it is fully drained. If your ice maker has a storage bin, empty it and dry it.

3. The Grill: Deep Clean and Protect

Your grill is the heart of the kitchen. While many people grill year-round, a deep clean before winter prevents grease and carbon from hardening.

• Burn-Off: Run the grill on high for 15-20 minutes to carbonize any remaining food particles.
• Scrub the Grates: Use a high-quality grill brush to clean the grates while they are still warm.
• Oil the Grates: Once cool, apply a light coat of high-smoke-point oil (like grapeseed or canola) to the grates to prevent rust.
• Clean the Interior: Remove the grates and flavorizer bars to vacuum out any ash or grease buildup from the bottom of the firebox.

4. Surfaces and Cabinetry

• Stainless Steel: Apply a fresh coat of stainless steel cleaner and polish. This creates a protective barrier against moisture and salt.
• Countertops: Clean your stone or granite countertops and apply a sealer if it’s been more than a year.
• Cabinets: Wipe down the interior and exterior of your cabinets. Ensure they are closed tightly to prevent pests from nesting inside.

5. The Final Step: Covering Up

Invest in high-quality, breathable, and waterproof covers for your grill and other major appliances. Avoid cheap plastic tarps, which can trap moisture and lead to corrosion. Ensure the covers are secured tightly to withstand winter winds.

By taking these steps now, you’ll ensure that your outdoor kitchen is ready to fire up the moment the first warm breeze of spring arrives!