Keeping outdoor appliances clean and working

The appliances that keep a home running are not all indoors. In many Australian homes the hardest-working machines sit on the deck, under the pergola or beside the pool: the barbecue, the outdoor fridge, the pool pump and filter, ceiling fans under a verandah roof, patio heaters and the hot water system on an outside wall. They deal with sun, salt air, dust, leaf litter and the odd possum, so they need cleaning more often than the kettle does.

The barbecue

Burn off the grill plates after each use, then scrape them while they are still warm. Every few months, take out the plates and clean the drip tray and grease cup. Built-up fat is a common cause of flare-ups. For gas units, check the hose and connections for cracks, and brush soapy water over the joints to look for bubbles before the first cook of the season.

Outdoor fridges and bar units

Fridges in a covered alfresco area work harder in summer heat. Vacuum the condenser coils or vents regularly, because dust and pollen make the compressor run longer. Wipe the door seals so they keep closing tightly, and leave clearance around the unit so it can vent warm air.

Fans, heaters and lights

Fan blades under a verandah pick up grime and cobwebs quickly. Clean them with a damp cloth before summer. Patio heaters should be free of spider webs in the burner area, a common problem after winter storage. Electrical faults or damaged wiring outdoors are a job for a licensed electrician.

Pool equipment

Empty skimmer and pump baskets often, backwash or clean the filter as the manufacturer recommends, and keep the area around the equipment pad clear so motors can breathe. A pool enclosure or shade roof helps cut the debris load.

Thoughtful design can make all of this easier. Sheltered cooking zones, good airflow and easy access panels make maintenance quicker. Our FAQ and guides cover how roofs and enclosures affect the way an outdoor space is used.