Installing an outdoor kitchen is one of the best decisions you can make when it comes to fully enjoying your property. Imagine yourself preparing a delicious meal watching the sun set from your outdoor kitchen and your family gathered around, slicing vegetables, shaking cocktails, and setting the table – it’s a dream come true!
When considering installing an outdoor kitchen, there are many factors that require your attention, including the outdoor kitchen electrical system. Usually, electricity and the natural elements don’t necessarily mix, especially if your area is prone to summer thunderstorms.
Fortunately, there are safety tips and practices you can follow during your outdoor kitchen electrical installation.
Outdoor Kitchen Electrical Safety Tips
You will always have to be aware of electrical safety when you have an outdoor kitchen. From the installation process to when it’s finished and you get to enjoy it, these electrical safety tips are essential to get the most out of your outdoor kitchen.
Use GFCI Outdoor Outlets
When installing outdoor outlets to connect your outdoor kitchen appliances, make sure they are ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets. These outlets are specifically made for outdoor areas and will automatically cut electric power if they come in contact with water.
When installing the electrical outlets for your outdoor kitchen, double-check that they are GFCI.
Only Use Outdoor Appliances
Not all appliances are made the same. Taking your normal kitchen refrigerator and placing it outside could result in damage to the appliance and electrical issues.
Buying appliances specifically for outdoor kitchens ensures they can withstand the elements and their electrical wiring is safe and efficient for outdoor power sources. This includes kitchen appliances, lighting, televisions, and ceiling fans.
Turn Off Power
When you aren’t using your outdoor kitchen, it’s always a good idea to cut the power and unplug devices. Not only will this save on your monthly electric bill, but it can avoid damage to the appliances and power surges.
Examples of times when to turn off the power to your outdoor kitchen are in the winter and colder months or when you go on vacation. Essentially, periods where you won’t be using your outdoor kitchen for days or weeks at a time.
Don’t Overload Circuits
With extension cords and power strips, it’s easy to accidentally overload a circuit. To avoid overheating and electrical fires, do not plug too many appliances into one outlet or circuit.
Instead, consider installing multiple outdoor outlets or using power strips with surge protection for your outdoor kitchen. It is also helpful to educate yourself on the electrical usage of your appliances to avoid tripping a circuit.
Hire a Licensed and Experienced Electrician
The best outdoor kitchen electrical safety tip you can follow is to hire a licensed and experienced electrician to complete the installation for you.
Electrical work, especially when done outside, can be extremely dangerous. Handling high-voltage wires without proper training and education could lead to harmful situations.
Before diving into DIY electrical projects, consider speaking with a licensed electrician to understand the full picture of the project and learn about the potential dangers.
Install Your Outdoor Kitchen Electrical Setup with Oak Electric
Your dreams of an outdoor kitchen are about to come true with the help of Oak Electric.
Our team of licensed electricians specializes in outdoor electrical setups for pools, outlets, and outdoor kitchens. From the beginning stages of planning the electrical setup to the actual installation, we’re prepared to install your outdoor kitchen electrical equipment safely and meet the NEC electrical codes for outdoor wiring.
Request a free estimate for your outdoor kitchen electrical project today!