What to Do If Your Refrigerator Loses Power After a Tornado in St. Louis

In short, after a tornado cuts power to your refrigerator, keep the doors closed to trap cold air, check the interior temperature, throw out any food that’s been warmer than 40°F for more than two hours, clean and dry the inside, restore power when it’s safe, then confirm the fridge cools properly. If you’re unsure or the appliance appears damaged, contact a qualified electrician or appliance repair service right away.

 

Assess Safety and Power Status

 

Before you do anything, make sure the area is safe and the electricity is stable:

• Look for downed wires, sparks, or flooding around the refrigerator.
• If you see damage or smell burning, stay clear and turn off the circuit breaker for the fridge.
• Use a flashlight rather than a candle or open flame to inspect around the appliance.

 

Keep the Cold In

 

Every time you open the door, cold air escapes. To preserve what’s inside:

• Limit door openings—only check briefly when needed.
• If power will be out more than four hours, consider using ice packs or dry ice to maintain temperature.
• Group items together; tightly packed containers hold cold better than loose ones.

 

Monitor Temperature and Judge Food Safety

 

Food safety depends on temperature. Here’s how to know what to keep or toss:

• Place a thermometer in the fridge. Keep it below 40°F to prevent harmful bacteria growth.
• After two hours above 40°F, throw away perishable foods like meat, dairy, eggs, and leftovers.
• Frozen foods that still have ice crystals and feel cold (below 40°F) can be refrozen safely.

 

Clean and Sanitize the Interior

 

Once power returns or if the door stayed closed long enough to prevent spoilage:

• Remove all remaining food and unplug the fridge before cleaning.
• Wash shelves and walls with warm water and a mild dish soap solution.
• Rinse with clean water and dry every surface with a clean towel to prevent mold.
• Wipe door seals gently to ensure they close tightly again.

 

Restore Power and Test Operation

 

When electricity is back on:

• Plug the refrigerator in and listen for the compressor to start humming.
• Check the temperature after four hours; it should drop below 40°F in the fridge and 0°F in the freezer.
• Ensure lights turn on and the door seals properly.

 

Seek Professional Repair if Needed

 

If the refrigerator doesn’t cool or you notice odd noises, leaks, or damaged parts:

• A qualified technician can check electrical connections, the compressor, and coolant levels.
• Contact an appliance repair specialist or a licensed electrician to avoid safety hazards.
• As a full-service residential & commercial provider in St. Louis and Nashville, Hoffman Brothers can quickly assess and fix storm-related power or appliance issues.