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How to plumb an outdoor kitchen

Writer Sarah Silva

Run Supply Line

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

From inside your home, connect a supply pipe that is specifically designed to be used outdoors. Make the pipes slightly sloped to aid in draining them. Install shutoff valves that have drain plugs in the lowest place. Connect the pipes securely using two-hole clamps every 4 inches or so.

Connect the House and Kitchen

Connect the supply pipe to the wall of the home and then to the outdoor kitchen, extending across at the top of the sink or base cabinet. Make sure to use male threaded adapters that join with the supply tubes to the sink.

Install Additional Pipes

Install a PVC drainpipe, and adapter to drain trap. If you want to supply your barbeque with gas from natural sources, install a pipe that has been approved by code for gas lines exposed to the outdoors within your area. Certain barbecues might require a gas regulator. Install the trap and sink.

The Dig Dry Well

Dig a trench to create an uncontaminated well that is at least 10 feet from the deck or patio (check the local code). Make a trench that slopes away from the home. The drain line should be 1-1/2 inches PVC most likely will work within the trench. Verify that it slopes at the rate of 1 1/4 inches per foot.

Fill the well with water

Make an array of holes that is about 1/2 inch in width, into garbage containers. Place the garbage can inside the hole. Its top should be about 2 inches lower than the grade. Mark the place where the pipe is going to enter and cut a small hole to allow the pipe. Place the can back into the ground, place the pipe in the hole, and then fill the can with gravel.

Selecting the right materials

The codes for outdoor plumbing may vary from one area to another location (and even between towns in one area to another) Therefore, you should consult the local building department prior to purchasing any fittings or pipes. PVC is the preferred option for drainpipes. You might want to consider running a perforated drain pipe underground so that some water to flow out towards the well that is dry.