Winterizing Your Outdoor Kitchen: A Quick Checklist

Most people winterize their sprinkler system without thinking twice about it, but the grill and outdoor kitchen that sat outside all summer often gets ignored until spring. Whether you've got a full outdoor kitchen or a single freestanding grill, a little prep before the cold sets in goes a long way.

Should I clean my grill before storing it for winter?

Yes — this is the step people skip most, and it's the one that matters most. Grease and food residue left on a grill over the winter has months to bake on, attract pests, and cause rust, especially on cast iron components. It's a lot easier to clean a grill before a long stretch of sitting unused than after. If you're shutting your grill down for the season, get it cleaned first rather than last.

How do I protect the grill itself over winter?

• Turn off and disconnect the propane tank; store it upright, outdoors, away from any structure
• Clean the grates and interior thoroughly, then apply a light coat of oil to cast iron components to prevent rust
• Empty the grease/drip tray completely
• Cover the grill with a proper fitted cover — a tarp that traps moisture underneath can do more harm than no cover at all
• If your grill has a side burner or rotisserie motor, check the manufacturer's guidance on winterizing those separately

What about built-in outdoor kitchens?

Built-in components have a few extra considerations:

• Shut off and drain any water lines running to an outdoor sink
• Disconnect and properly store any portable propane tanks; have gas-line connections inspected if your outdoor kitchen runs on a fixed line
• Cover countertops and appliances, especially stone or tile surfaces that can be damaged by repeated freeze-thaw cycles if water gets trapped in seams or grout
• Clean and dry any refrigeration units before shutting them down for the season

When should I start winterizing?

In Colorado, the safest bet is before the first hard freeze, which can arrive earlier than people expect along the Front Range. If you know you're done grilling for the season, don't wait for the first snow — get it cleaned and covered while the weather's still cooperative to work in.