What to Do If Your Fridge Display Blinks After a Tornado in St. Louis

Unplug your refrigerator for at least ten minutes, then plug it back in to reset the display. If the blinking continues, check for visible damage around the fridge and outlet. If you still see blinking or any signs of damage, call a professional appliance repair service.

 

Ensure Safety First

 

Before touching anything, turn off the breaker or unplug the fridge from the wall. Tornadoes can cause hidden electrical damage that may lead to shocks or fires. Always make sure the power is completely off.

 

Inspect the Power Cord and Outlet

 

A blinking display often means the fridge is not getting stable power. Look for:

• Frayed or cut insulation on the power cord
• Bent or damaged prongs on the plug
• Cracks, discoloration, or burn marks on the outlet face

If you see damage, do not plug the fridge back in. Replace the cord or outlet first, or call an electrician.

 

Reset the Refrigerator’s Control Board

 

Most modern fridges have a small computer (control board) inside. A sudden power surge or power cut during a tornado can make this board glitch. To reset it:

• Unplug the fridge and wait at least ten minutes.
• Plug the fridge back in and wait for the display to come back on.
• Watch to see if the blinking stops or returns.

If the display stays steady for 30 minutes or more, the reset worked.

 

Check for Internal Water or Debris

 

Tornado conditions can let water or debris enter the fridge’s vents or coil area. Moisture or leaves can cause short circuits or sensor errors.

• Look in vents at the back and bottom for dust, dirt, or bits of insulation.
• If you find debris, gently vacuum or brush it away.
• Check inside the fridge for wet spots around vents or electrical panels.

Keep the area dry and clean before plugging the fridge back in.

 

Monitor Temperature and Performance

 

After you reset and clean the fridge:

• Listen for the compressor to start (you’ll hear a low hum).
• Check that the interior lights stay on without flickering.
• Use a fridge thermometer to make sure it cools below 40°F (4°C).

If the fridge maintains temperature and the display stays solid, you’re all set.

 

Call a Qualified Repair Service if Needed

 

If blinking continues, any part feels hot, or you smell burning plastic, it’s time to call professionals. Our full-service residential and commercial teams serving St. Louis and Nashville have trained technicians ready to diagnose control boards, replace damaged wiring, and restore your fridge safely.