Outdoor Entertaining Electrical Setup: Power, Lighting & More
Australian summers are made for outdoor entertaining. Whether you're planning a simple patio setup or a full outdoor kitchen, getting the electrical right from the start makes all the difference.
At Power Amp Electrical, we've helped hundreds of Melbourne homeowners create amazing outdoor spaces. Here's our complete guide to outdoor entertaining electrical.
Planning Your Outdoor Electrical
Before running any cables, think about how you'll use the space:
Questions to Consider
- Cooking: Will you have an electric BBQ, outdoor kitchen, or just a gas setup?
- Entertainment: TV? Speakers? Projector for movie nights?
- Heating/Cooling: Outdoor heaters? Ceiling fans?
- Lighting: Functional lighting? Ambient mood lighting? Both?
- Charging: Need USB outlets for phones?
- Pool/Spa: Nearby equipment that needs power?
Pro tip: Plan for more outlets than you think you need. It's much cheaper to install extra during initial work than to add them later.
Outdoor Power Points
Weatherproof Requirements
All outdoor power points must be:
- Weatherproof rated (minimum IP54, ideally IP65)
- Protected by safety switches (RCDs)
- Installed by a licensed electrician
Common Locations
| Location | Typical Uses |
|---|---|
| BBQ area | Electric BBQ, rotisserie, outdoor fridge |
| Outdoor kitchen | Rangehood, cooktop, appliances |
| Alfresco/patio | Heaters, TV, speakers, fans |
| Pool area | Pump, lights, automation |
| Garden | Lighting, water features, tools |
| Garage/shed | Power tools, EV charging |
How Many Do You Need?
BBQ/Kitchen Zone: 2-4 double power points Seating/Entertainment Zone: 2-3 double power points Pool Area: 1-2 dedicated circuits Garden: 1+ for maintenance equipment
Don't forget to consider USB power points for convenient device charging.
Outdoor Lighting
Lighting transforms outdoor spaces. The key is layering different types:
Functional Lighting
Essential for safety and usability:
- Cooking areas: Bright, direct light over BBQ and prep areas
- Pathways: Enough light to walk safely
- Steps and level changes: Prevent trips and falls
- Entry points: Security and welcome
Ambient Lighting
Creates atmosphere:
- String lights: Festive, casual vibe
- Pendants: Statement pieces over dining areas
- Wall washers: Highlight textures and features
- In-ground uplights: Dramatic tree and plant lighting
Accent Lighting
Highlights features:
- Garden spotlights: Feature plants and sculptures
- Water feature lights: Dramatic night effects
- Architectural lighting: Emphasize building features
Learn more about outdoor lighting design: Lighting Design Melbourne
Smart Outdoor Lighting
Modern outdoor lighting can be:
- Dimmable: Adjust brightness for different occasions
- Colour-changing: Set different moods
- App-controlled: Adjust from your phone
- Automated: Timers, motion sensors, sunrise/sunset schedules
Consider smart home integration for the ultimate control.
Outdoor Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are essential for covered outdoor areas in Melbourne's heat.
Outdoor Fan Requirements
Not all ceiling fans are suitable for outdoors:
| Rating | Location | Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Dry-rated | Indoor only | No moisture |
| Damp-rated | Covered patios | Indirect moisture |
| Wet-rated | Fully exposed | Direct rain contact |
For most alfresco areas, damp-rated fans are suitable. Fully exposed pergolas need wet-rated fans.
Popular Outdoor Fan Features
- Rust-resistant finishes: Essential for longevity
- ABS or composite blades: Won't warp in humidity
- DC motors: Energy efficient, quiet operation
- Remote control: Convenient for high ceilings
- Light kits: Combine lighting and cooling
See our complete guide: Ceiling Fan Installation
Outdoor Entertainment Systems
TV Installation
Outdoor TVs need special consideration:
Weatherproof TVs
- Purpose-built for outdoor use
- Handle temperature extremes
- Anti-glare screens
- Higher brightness
- More expensive ($2,000-10,000+)
Indoor TV with Protection
- Regular TV in weatherproof enclosure
- More affordable option
- Must be fully protected from weather
- Still needs proper ventilation
Power Requirements
- Dedicated power point nearby (hidden)
- Surge protection essential
- Consider a UPS for power stability
Learn more: TV Installation Services
Audio Systems
Outdoor speakers should be:
- Weather-resistant (IP65+ rating)
- UV-stable (won't degrade in sun)
- Positioned for even coverage
- Powered by a proper amplifier
Options include:
- Wired speakers: Best sound quality, requires cable runs
- Wireless/Bluetooth: More flexible, easier installation
- In-ceiling speakers: Hidden, clean look
Projector Setups
Outdoor movie nights are popular. Requirements:
- Weatherproof power point for projector
- Screen mounting or dedicated screen
- Audio system for proper sound
- Consider a dedicated circuit for reliable power
Outdoor Heating
Electric outdoor heaters are popular for Melbourne's cooler evenings:
Types of Outdoor Heaters
| Type | Best For | Power Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Infrared radiant | Direct heating, wind-resistant | 1,500-3,000W per unit |
| Electric strip heaters | Covered areas | 1,800-3,200W |
| Heat lamps | Smaller areas | 500-1,500W |
| Electric fire pits | Ambiance + heat | 1,500-2,000W |
Electrical Considerations
- Dedicated circuits: Most heaters need their own circuit
- Multiple heaters: May require switchboard upgrade
- Proper installation: Must be installed by electrician
- Clearances: Minimum distances to combustibles
Outdoor Kitchen Electrical
Full outdoor kitchens need careful electrical planning:
Typical Requirements
| Appliance | Power | Circuit |
|---|---|---|
| Electric BBQ/grill | 2,400-3,600W | Dedicated 15-20A |
| Outdoor rangehood | 200-400W | Can share circuit |
| Bar fridge | 100-200W | Can share circuit |
| Outdoor sink (disposal) | 300-500W | Can share circuit |
| Induction cooktop | 3,600-7,200W | Dedicated 20-32A |
| Under-bench lighting | 20-50W | Can share circuit |
For full outdoor kitchens, plan for 2-3 dedicated circuits minimum.
Pool and Spa Electrical
If your entertaining area is near a pool or spa:
Safety Requirements
- All circuits RCD-protected
- Equipotential bonding of metal components
- Proper clearances from water
- Regular safety inspections
Common Electrical Needs
- Pool pump and filtration
- Pool lights (above and underwater)
- Heating (electric or heat pump)
- Automation systems
- Nearby power for entertaining
Pool electrical is high-risk work and must comply with specific Australian Standards.
Installation Process
1. Consultation & Design
We visit your property to discuss:
- Your entertaining vision
- Power point locations
- Lighting design
- Any special requirements
2. Quote & Planning
Detailed quote including:
- All electrical work itemised
- Cable routes identified
- Any switchboard upgrades needed
- Timeline for completion
3. Installation
Our team completes:
- Cable runs (often underground or through roof)
- Power point installation
- Lighting installation
- Fan and appliance connections
- Testing of all circuits
4. Handover
- Demonstration of all systems
- Smart control setup (if applicable)
- Certificate of Electrical Safety
- Warranty documentation
Typical Costs
| Work | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Single outdoor power point | $180-300 |
| Outdoor power point with underground cable | $400-800 |
| Basic outdoor lighting (4-6 fittings) | $800-1,500 |
| Comprehensive lighting package | $2,000-5,000+ |
| Outdoor ceiling fan installation | $300-500 |
| Outdoor kitchen electrical | $1,500-4,000 |
| Full alfresco electrical package | $3,000-8,000+ |
Costs vary based on complexity, cable runs, and fixture selection
DIY vs Professional Installation
What You Can Do
- Install battery-operated lights
- Set up portable speakers
- Use existing power points with extension leads (temporarily)
What Requires an Electrician
- All permanent wiring and power points
- Hardwired lighting installation
- Ceiling fan installation
- Any work near pools
- Switchboard modifications
In Victoria, all electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician. DIY electrical is illegal and dangerous.
Flexible Payment Options
Creating your dream outdoor entertaining area is an investment. Power Amp Electrical offers interest-free finance through Brighte.
- 0% interest payment plans
- Finance amounts from $1,000-$30,000
- Terms from 6 months to 5 years
- Quick online approval
Spread the cost of your outdoor electrical project with no interest.
Create Your Perfect Outdoor Space
Power Amp Electrical designs and installs outdoor entertaining electrical across Western Melbourne and Geelong.
Our outdoor services include:
- Weatherproof power points
- Outdoor lighting design & installation
- Ceiling fan installation
- TV and audio power setup
- Outdoor kitchen electrical
- Pool and spa electrical
- Smart outdoor control systems
Get started:
📞 Call Josh on 0473 344 634
We'll visit your property, discuss your vision, and create a plan to make it happen.
Power Amp Electrical is a licensed electrical contractor (REC-34500) serving Western Melbourne and Geelong. All outdoor installations comply with Australian Standards and include Certificates of Electrical Safety.
