Winter is coming! Thankfully here in Southern Virginia, we don’t get the harsh winters that our friends up North do, but it’s still important to prep your outdoor kitchen equipment for cold weather and the occasional freezes. Generally, December thru March are the months that have the highest likelihood of a freeze in the coastal Mid-Atlantic area. (https://climate.usurf.usu.edu/reports/freezeDates.php?ntwk=GHCN&sSubmit=Select&acronym=US&sSubmit=Select&g_state=VA)
Taking these steps in mid to late fall will ensure the longevity of your outdoor appliances, grills, counters, cabinets, and cooktops and reduce the need for costly springtime repairs.
Clean it!
Thoroughly scrape, clean, buff, and polish your grill, outdoor refrigerator, cabinets, countertops, and other appliances. Remove stains, crumbs, and spills with the appropriate cleaner, then follow up with good polishing or sealing for any stainless or stone surfaces.
Seal it!
If you have stone countertops, make sure to give them a thorough sealing before the cold weather sets in. Water that seeps in and freezes can cause cracks and chips. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of surface you have so you use the appropriate sealer. If you have wood surfaces, invest in a durable waterproofing sealer or epoxy coating.
Shut it Off!
Before a freeze sets in, shut the main water off that supplies the kitchen. Any water left in pipes that ends up freezing can cause them to burst. This is one costly mess you don’t want to deal with.
Drain the Lines!
After shutting off the main water line, allow all secondary piping to drain. This includes refrigerators, outdoor sinks, ice makers, and don’t forget the kegerators. Leave valves open so any residual water drains out and won’t cause freezing issues.
Power it Down!
Turn off the power to all appliances and electrical units. This is best done by totally unplugging them or turning off the main circuit breaker if possible.
DON’T Cover It!
It may seem odd, but don’t cover outdoor refrigerators and ice makers. Doing so can trap moisture under the cover and damage interior and electrical parts. It can also be helpful to leave the refrigerator open a crack, so mold doesn’t grow. However, defer to your manufacturer’s recommendation for your particular outdoor kitchen equipment.
DO Cover It!
Outdoor kitchen covers for grills and ovens can be crucial. Not all brands will require them, but if the manufacturer recommends them, they fit snuggly for the best protection. Also, cover drain openings to keep out water and debris that will clog up pipes.
Remove It!
Sink faucets should totally be removed and brought indoors to protect the inner workings. Small amounts of water can stay trapped and end up cracking the pipes, fittings, and washers.
A custom outdoor kitchen is one of the best ways to add value to your home and create a useable outdoor entertaining space that the whole family can enjoy. Keeping these tips in mind will protect your investment and keep your kitchen in top shape for years to come.