Stovetop brewing has its challenges. Monopolizing the kitchen for a day and making a sticky mess can destroy domestic tranquility. The heat and condensation can also be unpleasant. You usually need to compromise your process, too, because of limitations on what your stove can reasonably bring to a boil.
Taking it outside addresses those problems: there’s more space, cleanup is just a hose length away, and a propane burner can handle a full keg boil if necessary. The downside is that you have to deal with the bounty of nature. Unless you live in some mythical Eden, you’ll have to contend with pests, weather, and climate.
Fortunately, insect repellant and screen covers for your kettle will block out most pests, but you may have to adapt to handle any extreme temperatures and weather that your part of the country throws at you. Don’t worry, though, we’ve got some tips for you, starting with cold weather brewing.