How to Put Your Outdoor Kitchen to Use, All Winter Long

Nothing beats the smell of a sizzling, fresh burger on the barbeque in the summer — but what if you could enjoy one in the winter too? This may sound unrealistic based on our long standing nickname “Raincouver”  — but there’s many ways to make use of your outdoor living space this season while also protecting it for years to come. Winterizing your home takes some extra time and effort, but it’s absolutely worth it for anyone who values their patio space. In this article, we will be going over some of our favourite tips to keep your outdoor kitchen up and running all winter long.

 

Protect Your Patio

Cold weather in the Lower Mainland comes with a unique set of challenges, including outdoor maintenance. If you’re looking to get long term use from your outdoor living space, it’s highly suggested to invest in winterizing your home. With some extra time and care, most components of an outdoor kitchen are safe to use in their typical fashion during winter. Here are a few examples of common things you can do to protect your outdoor kitchen space from the harsher elements: 

1. 1. Any BBQ, or other appliance will need to be protected from the cold with a cover, especially if you’re expecting hard freezes. An exception for this rule are any appliances that run when you’re not using them, such as a refrigerator.
   2. Fire elements such as heaters, fire pits or fire tables that haven’t been used over the summer will need to be tested to make sure they still function accordingly. Be sure to clean the equipment properly before using them for the first time after their long hibernation! 
   3. Since temperatures are likely to decline to freezing in the winter, it’s important to prepare your water lines for the season. Turn them off, drain all pipes, and check your drain valves. Don’t forget any water lines that run into appliances, such as an ice maker or refrigerator.

 

Stay Warm While Cooking

One of the most common reasons someone may have an outdoor kitchen is to have the opportunity to barbecue or cook outside for friends and family. Typically, this activity is done in the summer, but you can BBQ all year round if you have what’s needed to last in the cold outside! Investing in reliable measures to keep you warm while cooking is the key to utilizing your outdoor kitchen all year long — it will pay off in the long run for years to come.

A temporary windscreen does wonders for warmth. It’s one of the most effective ways to block wind while cooking outside. The BBQ itself will let off heat which can help as well, but the windscreen will really do the trick. Additionally, a portable heater or patio heater would be a great solution. With these effective ways to stay warm while cooking, you can still enjoy those mouthwatering BBQ smells in the winter. Don’t forget to layer up your clothing too!

 

Fire Is Your Best Friend 

On a cold winter’s night, a warm, crackling fire is the best way to cozy up and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you own a sit-around fire table, a classic fire pit, or a fireplace, fire is perfect for attracting company back to your outdoor space. Take advantage of daylight savings darkness by roasting s’mores, sharing stories, and huddling over the heat together. From quality family time, to get-togethers with friends, your fire area can host anyone, anytime. If you have the extra space, it’s recommended to store your patio furniture in a safe, dry place to protect it’s longevity for years to come. Alternatively, if extra space isn’t available, investing in good quality furniture covers can help your items last through most winter conditions.

 

Pizza Night Anyone?

If you’ve ever thought about getting an Italian pizza oven installed, this winter may be the perfect time. It’s a fun, interactive and simple dinner idea — they’re perfect for family nights. Not only does a pizza oven provide delicious, authentic food, but it also exudes extra warmth when you’re standing near it. This is an extremely beneficial bonus, and makes the oven a perfect outdoor kitchen accessory, especially in the winter. 

When owning a pizza oven in the colder seasons, be sure to close any doors that are not in use. Doing this will prevent any possible snow or ice build up. If precipitation does somehow build up in your oven, you can scrape off any loose bits and turn your oven on to slowly melt the rest. We think you’ll love the convenient nature and portable design of these ovens — especially when you have the help of a company like Gas Guys, who offer top-tier pizza oven technology and can work under any budget or amount of space.

 

Although the colder months can be stressful, it’s also an opportunity to find new, creative ways to upkeep your outdoor living space, and possibly add some new additions to your appliances! Whether your winters are quite extreme or more forgiving, it’s necessary to prepare your outdoor space for anything, so your patio can continue to attract great company and unforgettable memories all year round.