An outdoor kitchen offers a great way to spend more time outside while enjoying grilled meals. These kitchens can have many of the same features as indoor kitchens, which provides you with convenience in preparing meals outside and cleaning up afterwards. When you’re thinking of adding a kitchen to your outdoor living area, it’s important to keep certain factors in mind. The following information can help you decide where to put your outdoor kitchen and what kinds of utilities you’ll need for it.

Utilities for Outdoor Kitchens

  • Outdoor kitchens require utilities in order for you to have electricity, running water for a sink and gas for cooking. Keep the following in mind while planning your kitchen:
  • Electricity: You’ll need electricity for plugs to conveniently power all of your devices, as well as for fridges and other appliances. Your kitchen will also require electricity for lighting fixtures.
  • Plumbing: Plumbing is needed for any water features that your outdoor kitchen has. You’ll also need plumbing for drinking water and for a sink, if you’re having one installed, for easy cleanup.
  • Gas: Your kitchen will need a source of natural gas for your grill. You’ll also need gas if you plan to install a fire feature, such as a fireplace or a fire pit.

Where to Locate an Outdoor Kitchen

Where should your outdoor kitchen go? When deciding on a location, you should take certain factors into consideration. These include the following:

  • Exterior placement: This depends on how far away your outdoor kitchen is from your kitchen door. The farther away it is, the more self-contained it will need to be for your convenience. This way, you won’t have to worry about needing to walk far to get what you need. For example, if it’s only 15 or 20 feet away, all you might need is a grilling station. Longer distances might require you to install a fridge and sink for your outdoor kitchen.
  • Ventilation: Your kitchen will need proper ventilation to prevent smoke from being a danger. You can either have your outdoor kitchen installed near the edge an enclosure or have a ventilation system installed.
  • Lighting: Your kitchen will need to have adequate lighting installed in order for you to be able to use it in the evening or at night. Proper lighting is especially important for older family members, or those with visual impairments.
  • Pipes and wiring: If you need to add pipes or wiring for your kitchen, plan on building it closer to your home. This helps you avoid having long runs of wiring and pipes on your property, which helps keep your budget down.
  • Proximity to neighbors: Avoid having an outdoor kitchen built close to your neighbor’s home. This helps prevent problems with smoke or noise when you’re using your kitchen.

If you’re planning on adding an outdoor kitchen, please contact Quality Craftsmen to get started. Our team of professional builders are Certified Aging in Place specialists, helping families through the East Cobb with all their renovation needs.