Outdoor kitchens are a major investment, and many homeowners use them to create an additional area for entertaining and spending quality time with their famliy. The designs are often connected to a patio with a separate dining area. Some of these kitchen concepts are large-scale and include a variety of appliances and cabinets.
When choosing an outdoor kitchen design, the homeowner must discuss maintenance tasks with their preferred contractor. The owner will need to set up appointments for major maintenance tasks such as pressure washing and gas maintenance. Some tasks they can complete on their own to keep the area clean and minimize the signs of wear and tear.
1. Keep All the Grills Cleaned Thoroughly
Outdoor kitchens are great places for setting up multiple grills whether they are installed permanently or are portable models. When maintaining the kitchen, it is critical for the owner to complete maintenance tasks such as cleaning the grills and keeping them sanitary. If the grills are not cleaned thoroughly each time they are used, germs and bacteria could build up and make the homeowner and their family sick.
The grills could become damaged because of the buildup and won’t perform as expected. If they don’t clean out the charcoal in portable grills, this could lead to corrosion in the bottom of the grills, and the homeowner will need to replace the grills before the end of their expected life span.
Gas grills must be cleaned properly to prevent damage and ensure that all gas connections are free of debris. If buildup happens around these connections, the gas may not flow through the appliance properly and increase the risk of fires and explosions. Homeowners who want to learn more about maintenance tips get started by reading more about outdoor kitchen appliances now.
2. Use Clean Rags to Clean Surfaces
A common issue that homeowners may face is debris buildup on their counters, stovetops, and other surfaces throughout the outdoor kitchen. Experts recommend using separate rags when cleaning each surface and using additional rags for dishes.
If the owner uses the same rag to clean all the surfaces and dishes, they could just transfer particles from one location to the next. Not only is this not sanitary, but it could also cause damage to the surfaces.
Excess grease and dirt buildup will damage countertops and may leave a film behind. This could make counters and the stovetop show signs of wear and tear sooner, and it could create aesthetically displeasing conditions.
An outdoor kitchen is an investment that requires proper cleaning and sanitation, and the property owner should clean each of these fixtures separately. This could cut down on debris and ensure that the area is cleaned according to the homeowner’s standards.
3. Don’t Cut Foods On Stainless Steel Surfaces
Stainless steel surfaces are durable and strong, but they are not designed for cutting up foods. Some homeowners choose stainless steel because of the aesthetics of the products, but just because it is strong doesn’t mean that it won’t become damaged or scratched easily.
Many homeowners make the mistake of cutting meats and vegetables on the surfaces with the belief that the knife won’t scratch up the surface or cause damage. This is not true, and if the owners use the surfaces for those purposes, they will need to replace the surfaces sooner rather than later. By using a cutting board instead, they won’t damage the stainless steel surfaces and will get far more use from the installations.
4. Move the Furniture During Storms
Homeowners take their time when selecting furniture for their outdoor kitchens, dining areas, and patio areas. It is imperative that they find products that are made for outdoor use that will not be damaged in different weather conditions. Designers recommend purchasing furniture that can be moved if a strong storm is predicted. This could give the homeowner time to bring the lighter furniture indoors and prevent it from damage during strong storms.
When evaluating furniture choices, they can review options that are lightweight or even furniture that can be anchored. Major appliances used in the outdoor kitchen will have enough weight to stay in place, and most are installed into countertops or connected to exterior walls. When choosing furniture, the owner must find durable products that won’t require extensive maintenance and is safe to use outdoors.
5. Have All Gas Appliances Inspected Each Year
Gas appliances could develop a variety of issues over time. Among the most common are leaks and worn gas lines. After a few years of use, the appliances will show signs of wear, and they need to be inspected for proper function and gas safety issues.
Homeowners are familiar with the risk of fires and explosions related to using gas to cook their meals. If there is a gas leak, it could go undetected in an outdoor space. If they schedule inspections each year, the homeowner can reduce the risk of fires and explosions.
Many gas and HVAC companies recommend carbon monoxide detectors for the home. These same devices could be installed near gas appliances used in the outdoor kitchen. The detectors will alert the homeowner any time that dangerous gas levels are present around the kitchen and gas appliances. While the appliances do not present the same risks as they would if they were indoors, a gas leak could still cause an explosion or fire that could spread to the property.
Property owners can invest in outdoor kitchens to add more living spaces to their properties. The installations give them a new place to entertain guests and schedule family gatherings. In warmer seasons, the homeowner could use the outdoor kitchen for cooking meals and get a chance to be outside more often.
Outdoor kitchens often include outdoor dining areas and major appliances. If the property has a large patio or a swimming pool nearby, the outdoor kitchen could come in handy and make life more convenient for the property owner. By performing proper maintenance for the outdoor kitchen, the homeowner gets a greater return on their investment.
