Winter is almost here. Your outdoor kitchen served you well all summer. Now it wants a little care before the cold settles in. Taking some simple steps in December keeps everything safe. It makes opening up next spring a breeze.
Here, we will prepare your high-end outdoor kitchen designs for their winter rest.
Clear everything out
Start by emptying all cabinets and drawers. Remove plates, utensils, and any cooking tools. Bring all food items inside. Cans, bottles, and spices can freeze and burst. Leaving nothing inside stops mice and insects from moving in.
Give appliances a good clean
Clean your grill and other appliances inside and out. Scrub the grates to remove grease and food bits. This stops corrosion during winter months. For propane grills, turn off the tank valve and disconnect it. Store the tank outdoors and away from your house.
Shut off the water
Find the shut-off valve for your outdoor water lines. Turn it off. Then, open the outdoor taps to drain any water left in the pipes. This one act stops pipes from freezing and cracking. It saves you from costly repairs.
Protect your surfaces
Dry off countertops completely. Cover fixed grills and counters with a strong, waterproof cover. Secure the cover with straps or bungee cords. This shield keeps out snow, ice, and winter sun. It keeps your surfaces looking new.
Store furniture and accessories
Do not leave cushions, rugs, or soft items outside. Store them in a dry place like a garage or shed. Move portable furniture indoors or use heavy-duty covers. This prevents mold and weather damage. These are the simple ways, you can protect your furniture and accessories effectively.
Do a final safety check?
Look around one last time. Ensure all gas lines are off and power is disconnected. Check that cabinet doors are latched so wind does not bang them. This final check gives you peace of mind all season long.
Finish your work with a hot drink. You have done a great job. Your outdoor kitchen is now tucked in for winter. It will be waiting, safe and sound, for your first spring barbecue.
