Most homeowners in the Greater Philadelphia area learn the hard way that standard cooking gear cannot survive a Pennsylvania winter. The freezing cycles and high humidity will quickly rot cheap metals and short out delicate electronics in a matter of months. When you invest thousands into a patio or deck, the last thing you want is a pile of rusted steel and broken cooling units that ruin your ability to host family and friends.
Choosing the wrong gear destroys your long-term property value and forces you to pay for expensive replacements every few seasons. You need hardware designed to withstand extreme temperature swings while providing professional cooking power. Gerhard’s Appliances provides the local expertise and high-end brand selection to make sure your investment stays functional and beautiful for years to come.
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Shop Outdoor AppliancesPlanning Your Perfect Outdoor Kitchen Layout
A smart outdoor kitchen layout starts with deciding which outdoor kitchen appliances will do the most work. Built-in grills, outdoor refrigeration, side burners, outdoor sinks, and outdoor ventilation should usually come first because they make the space functional for cooking, storing, prepping, and cleaning outside. Planning these essentials early also helps you place gas, water, and electrical lines before cabinets, counters, or stonework are installed.
Once the core outdoor kitchen appliances are set, you can decide which extras are worth the space and budget. Pizza ovens, outdoor ice makers, smokers, and outdoor warming drawers can make entertaining easier, but they should support the main setup instead of crowding it. The best layout gives you the appliances you will use every week first, then leaves room for upgrades that match how you like to host.
5 Essential Outdoor Kitchen Appliances for Every Chef
Selecting the right equipment requires a focus on durability and raw cooking power. These five categories form the backbone of a functional outdoor space that can handle everything from a quick Tuesday dinner to a massive holiday party.
Built-In Grills
The grill is the centerpiece of any luxury backyard setup and needs to be built from 304-grade stainless steel to resist rust. Unlike portable units, built-in grills are designed to be permanent fixtures that offer massive heat output and specialized features. Many high-end models use infrared burners for searing steaks at 1,000 degrees and ceramic briquettes to distribute heat evenly across the entire surface. This engineering prevents cold spots and makes sure every burger cooks at the same rate.
➥ Featured Grill: DCS Series 7 2-Burner Stainless Steel Built-In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Shop the DCS Series 7 2-Burner Stainless Steel Built-In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
The DCS Series 7 is a heavy-duty powerhouse designed for homeowners who take their grilling seriously. It features a patented Grease Management System that channels oil and fat away from the burners to prevent dangerous flare-ups. The 304-grade stainless steel construction is thick enough to hold heat during a snowy Pennsylvania winter, allowing you to grill year-round. With 50,000 BTUs of power and ceramic radiant technology, this grill provides the most consistent heat distribution in its class. It is the perfect choice for a permanent island installation.
Top Features
- Grease Management System: Channels oil away from the flames to reduce flare-ups and simplify the cleanup process.
- Ceramic Radiant Technology: Uses ceramic briquettes to provide intense, even heat across the entire grilling surface.
- Double-Sided Grates: Features one side for delicate items and a pointed side for creating professional sear marks.
Outdoor Refrigeration
Keeping drinks and ingredients cold in the summer sun requires a compressor much stronger than what you find in a standard indoor fridge. Dedicated outdoor refrigerators are UL-rated to operate in high ambient temperatures while maintaining a food-safe 37 degrees. Many homeowners opt for beverage centers with glass doors to show off their selection, but these must have UV-resistant coatings to prevent the sun from warming the interior. These units are built to be rainproof and sealed against insects.
➥ Featured Outdoor Fridge: Lynx Professional 24" 5.3 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Outdoor Compact Refrigerator
Shop the Lynx Professional 24" 5.3 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Outdoor Compact Refrigerator
The Lynx professional series sets the standard for high-end backyard cooling with this 24-inch compact unit. It offers a massive 5.3 cubic foot capacity, giving you plenty of room for marinating meats and chilling a large variety of beverages. The forced-air cooling system keeps the internal temperature consistent from top to bottom, even when the outside heat is pushing 90 degrees. This refrigerator is UL-listed for outdoor use and features a fully wrapped stainless steel exterior that looks beautiful and resists the corrosive effects of rain and summer humidity.
Top Features
- Forced-Air Cooling: Circulates cold air throughout the cabinet to prevent warm spots and protect perishable food.
- Digital Controls: Offers a precise temperature display that allows you to adjust settings with the touch of a button.
- Sealed Interior: Protects the electrical components from moisture and pests to make sure the unit lasts for years.
Side Burners
A side burner allows you to finish an entire meal outside without having to run back to the indoor stove. These are perfect for simmering sauces, boiling corn, or sautéing vegetables while your main course is on the grill. If you enjoy deep-frying or using a heavy wok, look for a power burner that offers higher BTUs than a standard range. This addition turns your patio into a full-service kitchen that can handle complex recipes and large side dishes easily.
➥ Featured Outdoor Side Burner: Coyote 12" Built-In Liquid Propane Stainless Steel Double Side Burner
Shop the Coyote 12" Built-In Liquid Propane Stainless Steel Double Side Burner
This Coyote double side burner is a vital addition for anyone who wants to cook full multi-course meals outside. It features two independent 15,000 BTU burners that provide enough power to boil a large pot of corn or simmer a delicate balsamic glaze. The stainless steel cover protects the burners from debris when they are not in use, making sure they ignite reliably every time. This unit is built from the same high-quality 304 steel as the Coyote grill line, providing a matching look for your outdoor kitchen layout.
Top Features
- Dual 15,000 BTU Burners: Provides high-output heat for fast boiling and low-simmer control for delicate sauces.
- Stainless Steel Cover: Keeps rain and dust out of the burners to prevent clogs and ignition issues.
- Push-and-Turn Ignition: Offers a reliable start every time without the need for matches or external lighters.
Outdoor Sinks and Prep Stations
Adding a sink transforms your grill island into a sanitary workspace for handling raw meat and washing produce. Outdoor sinks should be made of heavy-gauge steel to prevent denting and should include a high-arc faucet for filling large pots. Pairing a sink with a dedicated prep station gives you a place to dice onions and season steaks without using your dining table. Having running water outside makes the cleanup process much faster once the meal is over.
➥ Featured Outdoor Sink: XO 24" Stainless Steel Pro Grade Luxury Apron Sink and Faucet
Shop the XO 24" Stainless Steel Pro Grade Luxury Apron Sink and Faucet
Adding the XO luxury apron sink to your patio brings the convenience of a full-service kitchen to your backyard. This 24-inch sink is deep enough to handle large platters and Dutch ovens, making it the perfect cleanup station for big parties. It is crafted from thick 16-gauge 304 stainless steel, which is significantly more durable than the thin metal found in standard outdoor sinks. The included high-arc faucet provides plenty of clearance and is designed to withstand direct exposure to the elements without leaking or losing its finish over time.
Top Features
- 16-Gauge Steel: Uses thicker metal than standard sinks to prevent denting and provide a quiet, solid feel.
- Apron Front Design: Adds a modern, professional look that serves as a focal point for your kitchen island.
- Complete Faucet Kit: Comes with a weather-resistant faucet designed specifically for the unique demands of outdoor plumbing.
Outdoor Ventilation
If your cooking area is located under a roof or a pavilion, you need a high-CFM outdoor range hood to pull smoke and grease away. Outdoor ventilation prevents soot from staining your ceiling and keeps smoke from blowing into your guests' eyes. These hoods are wider and deeper than indoor versions to account for the crosswinds and the high smoke production of outdoor grills. Using a proper hood also helps cool the cooking area by pulling hot air away from the chef.
➥ Featured Outdoor Hood: Zephyr Pro Collection Spruce Stainless Steel Outdoor Insert Range Hood
Shop the Zephyr Pro Collection Spruce Stainless Steel Outdoor Insert Range Hood
The Zephyr Spruce range hood is a mandatory addition for any kitchen built under a pavilion or covered porch. It features a powerful 1,200 CFM blower that pulls thick smoke and grease away from your ceiling before it can cause damage. The directional halogen lighting allows you to see exactly what you are doing on the grill after the sun goes down. Built from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, this hood is designed to handle the moisture of Pennsylvania summers while keeping your outdoor air clean and comfortable for your guests.
Top Features
- 1,200 CFM Blower: Offers professional-level airflow to remove smoke from high-heat grilling sessions quickly.
- Stainless Steel Baffles: Traps grease effectively and can be removed for easy cleaning in your dishwasher.
- Directional Lighting: Provides bright, focused light on your cooking surface to improve safety and visibility.
Visit Gerhard’s Appliances to Build Your Dream Backyard
Building a backyard space that lasts requires a focus on strong materials and a smart layout that separates your prep and social zones. By investing in durable appliances, you avoid the cost of replacing rusted gear and make sure your patio stays functional for decades. Our team can help you map out your utility lines and select the best outdoor kitchen appliances for your specific cooking style.
Stop by Gerhard’s Appliances to see the difference that professional-grade equipment makes for your home. We offer 75+ years of family-owned expertise and professional installation services to make sure your project is handled correctly from start to finish. Visit our Pennsylvania showrooms to see high-end brands like Lynx and Hestan grills in person and talk to our experts about your vision.
Outdoor Kitchen Appliance FAQs
The best material is 304-grade stainless steel because its high chromium and nickel content prevents rust and corrosion. This metal is specifically designed to withstand the freezing rain and humidity found in the Greater Philadelphia area.
You should not use an indoor refrigerator outside because the compressors are not powerful enough to handle high heat. Outdoor units have extra insulation and waterproof seals that prevent electrical failure when exposed to the elements.
304 stainless steel contains nickel, which makes it much more resistant to rust than the cheaper 430 grade. While 430 steel is often used on low-end grills, it will likely pit and corrode within a few seasons if left outdoors.
An outdoor grill requires a vent hood if it is installed under a combustible roof, porch, or pavilion. The hood pulls away grease and intense heat to prevent fire hazards and keep the seating area clear of smoke.
You must turn off the water supply and drain all lines to prevent pipes from bursting during the first freeze. Clean the surfaces thoroughly, remove any perishable items, and use heavy-duty covers to protect your units from snow and ice.
The most vital pieces are a built-in grill and a dedicated outdoor refrigerator for keeping drinks and ingredients cold. These two items provide the core functionality needed to host a party without taking up too much patio space.
Why Trust Gerhard’s Appliances
Gerhard's Appliances stands as the appliance store of choice in the greater Philadelphia area, boasting an extensive array of home appliances, stunning showrooms, BBB accreditation, Price Match Guarantee, and a steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction.
With over 75 years of being family-owned and operated, Gerhard's Appliances has built a solid reputation as a reliable and trustworthy appliance retailer. Our long-standing presence in the industry demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent products and customer service. Gerhard's Appliances offers a wide range of appliances including refrigerators, dishwashers, as well as cooking, outdoor, and laundry appliances. Whether customers are looking to upgrade their kitchen with a high-performance range or simply need a reliable washing machine, Gerhard's has over 80 top-quality brands to choose from. Shop with us today!
Shop Outdoor Appliances at Gerhard’s
Discover a world of premium appliances and exceptional service at Gerhard's Appliances today! Visit our showrooms in Pennsylvania to explore the latest innovations from top brands. For nearly eight decades, our family-owned business has been unwaveringly committed to delivering top-notch appliances and exceptional service. Our friendly team of appliance professionals are always on hand to help you outfit your backyard. Start your journey now by exploring our online catalog or calling our friendly team at 215-268-3779.
→ Learn more: Top 4 Brands for Outdoor Grills