Nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ—friends gathered around, burgers on the grill, and music playing in the background. But before you plug in the string lights or fire up that electric smoker, it’s important to make sure your electrical setup is safe, reliable, and ready to handle the party.
Here’s what every homeowner should know to avoid electrical mishaps and keep the good times rolling.
Know Your Outdoor Outlets
Before setting up, check your outdoor outlets. They should be GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected—these shut off power automatically if there’s a short or water intrusion. If your outlets aren’t GFCI, they should be upgraded. It’s a small investment that adds major safety, especially around water and wet grass.
Also, make sure outdoor outlets have weatherproof in-use covers, even if they’re under a patio or awning.
Don’t Overload a Circuit
BBQs tend to have multiple devices drawing power all at once:
- Electric grills or smokers
- Outdoor refrigerators or coolers
- String lights
- Bluetooth speakers
- Fans or portable A/C units
Plugging all of these into the same circuit can cause it to trip—or worse, overheat wiring. If you’re unsure what your outlet can handle, keep heavier appliances like grills and mini fridges on separate circuits, and avoid daisy-chaining power strips.
Use Outdoor-Rated Extension Cords
If you’re using extension cords, make sure they are:
- Labeled for outdoor use (usually marked “W” or “W-A”)
- Long enough to avoid stretching or creating tripping hazards
- Free of frays, cuts, or exposed wires
Never run extension cords under rugs, furniture, or through doorways. If you find yourself needing one every time you host, it might be time to add more permanent outdoor outlets.
Light It Up—Safely
String lights can turn any BBQ into a summer night to remember, but they need to be installed correctly:
- Choose LED outdoor-rated lights to reduce power usage and heat
- Secure them with clips or hooks—never staple through the cord
- Plug into GFCI outlets or GFCI protected outlets
- Keep connections off the ground and shielded from rain
Consider solar-powered lights as a low-maintenance alternative that doesn’t draw from your home’s system.
Keep Water and Electricity Separate
If you have a pool, sprinklers, or even a kids’ splash pad nearby, be extra cautious. Keep all plugs, cords, and devices far away from water. That includes drink stations and coolers that may spill. Use cord covers or raise them off the ground if you expect heavy foot traffic or wet conditions.
Plan for Music and Entertainment
Bluetooth speakers, projectors, or outdoor TVs are great for entertaining—but make sure:
- Cords and outlets are kept dry
- Devices are rated for outdoor use or placed under cover
- You don’t run too many devices from a single outlet
You might want to consider installing weatherproof in-wall outlets or USB ports specifically for patio entertainment.
Consider a Permanent Outdoor Electrical Upgrade
If your summer gatherings are becoming a tradition, consider having a licensed electrician install:
- Outdoor-rated outlets and circuits
- Landscape lighting
- Ceiling fans for patios or pergolas
- Dedicated lines for electric grills or hot tubs
These upgrades not only make your space safer—they increase functionality and property value.
Ready to Make Your Backyard BBQ-Friendly?
We can help you power your summer safely and efficiently. Whether you need more outlets, GFCI protection, or landscape lighting, our team can help you create the perfect setup for backyard entertaining.
Contact us today for a backyard power inspection or upgrade consultation. Let’s get your outdoor space BBQ-ready!