An outdoor kitchen is more than just a backyard upgrade, it’s a game-changer for entertaining, cooking, and enjoying times outdoors. To ensure that everyone can have a great time in your new outdoor space, you need to ensure it is properly put together. The last thing you want is faulty wiring to cause your stove to be on the fritz or worse. That’s why proper electrical planning is so important for your outdoor kitchen, it makes sure your new communal space is safe, efficient, and compliant with building codes. Continue reading to learn all the necessary preparations you need to take to bring your outdoor kitchen ideas to light.
Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen Layout
Creating the perfect outdoor kitchen starts with picking the right location. First, you need to position your outdoor kitchen near your existing power source. This will prevent extensive electrical work to power your outdoor space and creates easier access to utilities like water and gas. You will also need to keep all electrical outlets, wiring, and appliances at a safe distance from grills, open flames, and water sources to ensure everyone’s safety from shocks or electrical fires. Outdoor kitchen layouts can help with this through the following three designs:
- The straight-line design is ideal for small patios or balconies and places all appliances and outlets along a single wall.
- The L-shaped or U-shaped design allows for better workflow by separating cooking, prep, and service areas.
- The island design uses built-in electrical outlets to create a convenient cooking station.
Before finalizing your outdoor kitchen layout, you’ll need to check your local building codes and permit requirements for outside electrical work. These regulations specify outlet placement, wiring methods, and clearance distances to ensure safety. Consulting with a licensed electrician can also help you navigate these requirements and avoid costly mistakes.
Electrical Needs
You may have plenty of outdoor kitchen ideas involving various kinds of appliances and setups but remember that all of those devices need to be safely powered. Appliances that use a lot of power, for example, need their own dedicated circuits to prevent overloading and power loss. Similarly, you’ll need to install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets to protect yourself from electrical shocks which are more likely to happen outside where water is present. All outdoor outlets will also need to be protected from the elements with weather-resistant covers. Your outdoor kitchen should be a relaxing and enjoyable space, which is why you need these protective measures in place.
Outlet Requirements
Keeping your outdoor kitchen safe from electrical risks starts with outlet placement. This is a crucial step in your design process as you need to easily access your outlets while also keeping them a safe distance from water and fire. Luckily, there are many outdoor kitchen ideas that offer a wide range of outlet placement strategies. For example, installing outlets directly into your kitchen outlet can be very convenient. On the other hand, if your outdoor kitchen is connected to an exterior wall, you could install the outlets there to keep the countertops clear. Alternatively, pop-up outlets integrate these receptacles directly into the countertops but keep them hidden when not in use. This not only created a sleek look, but it also prevents any water or debris from getting into your outlets.
Installing Outdoor Lighting
If you’re going to use your outdoor kitchen in the evening or early morning, one external porch light isn’t enough to let you see what you’re doing. Every kitchen needs task lighting, or bright, focused lights that lets people cooking see what they’re doing. While this is essential, you should also consider decorative outdoor kitchen lighting. This will help create a cozy feel for your outdoor space and comes in a variety of options like LED string lights, sconces, and even recessed lighting. If you don’t want to add a completely new light fixture, but still needs better lighting, consider changing out your current external porch light for an LED bulb. Not only do these lightbulbs lower energy use, but they also create brighter light so you can see more clearly.
Safety Considerations
All electrical systems require maintenance, but outdoor kitchen systems need even more. They are directly exposed to the elements everyday which can damage wiring, loosen connections, and cause corrosion over time. In addition to checking for these signs of wear and tear, you can use weatherproof boxes and outlet coverings to protect your wiring from the elements. It’s also best to use three pronged outlets in your outdoor kitchens as they include a grounding wire that prevents shocks and fires which can be extra dangerous outside.
Ready to Bring Your Outdoor Kitchen Ideas to Life?
Designing an outdoor kitchen is an exciting project, but proper electrical planning is essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and long-term functionality. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. Landis Electric is here to help with all your electrical needs, including installing appliances and outdoor kitchen lighting. Call to schedule a consultation today and get started turning your outdoor kitchen ideas into reality.