How Do You Know If a Refrigerator Is Safe After Flooding?

Look at the flood line on the outside of the refrigerator. If water rose above the bottom edge of the door or the kick plate at the base, it likely reached the compressor and electrical connections inside. Those parts are not designed to get wet, and even a little moisture can cause a short or a fire when you plug the unit back in.

Measure the height of the water stain on the wall near the fridge. Compare that to the height of the refrigerator's base. If the stain is higher than the bottom of the unit, assume water got inside the machinery. If the stain is clearly below the base and the floor around the fridge stayed dry, the refrigerator may be safe, but you still need to check other signs.

Open the refrigerator and freezer doors. Check the interior walls, shelves, and door gaskets for water stains, pooling, or a damp feel. Pay close attention to the bottom of the freezer compartment, where water often collects. If you see any moisture inside, the insulation around the cabinet may be wet, which can lead to mold and rust.

Smell the inside of the unit. A musty or sour odor means water entered the sealed compartment, and that smell will transfer to your food. Even if the interior looks dry, a lingering odor is a sign that the refrigerator needs professional attention or replacement. Wiping it down with a mild cleaner does not solve the underlying moisture problem.

If the water level reached the base of the refrigerator, or if you see any rust, corrosion, or odor, do not plug it in. An appliance repair professional can test the motor and electrical system safely. A local water damage pro can also check the floor and surrounding cabinetry for hidden moisture that may have soaked into the subfloor.

If you live in Chapel Hill and your kitchen flooded, you may want to have both an appliance professional and a water damage pro look at the area. The appliance pro checks the refrigerator itself, while the water damage pro inspects the floor, walls, and baseboards for trapped water. Replacing a refrigerator is often the simplest answer, but a professional can give you a clear verdict before you decide.

• Check the bottom of the fridge for rust or peeling paint
• Look for standing water under the unit after the flood recedes
• Test the door seal by closing it on a piece of paper
• Listen for unusual humming or buzzing when you plug it in
• Keep food cold with a cooler while you wait for a professional