A blank display after an outage does not establish that a control board has failed. First check whether power has returned to the home and whether the problem affects one appliance or several.

Check the controls before resetting

Record any code before clearing it. Consult the model manual for power loss messages, control locks and restart instructions. Reset procedures and waiting periods differ between appliances.

Some refrigerators restart automatically after a short delay. GE explains that its compressor protection can delay restarting after a brief outage. Repeatedly unplugging and reconnecting the refrigerator is not needed for that process.

If a breaker keeps tripping, leave it off and have the circuit and appliance assessed. A burning smell, damaged cord or water around electrical parts needs attention before another restart attempt. Do not handle a wet plug or stand in water to reach electrical equipment.

Keep track of refrigerator temperatures

Use an appliance thermometer and limit door openings. The FDA recommends a refrigerator temperature of 40°F or below and a freezer temperature of 0°F. Follow its food storage guidance while arranging repair rather than waiting for the appliance to cool again.

Check power protection compatibility

Use the power connection specified by the appliance manufacturer. A general purpose power strip or surge protector is not automatically suitable. GE’s refrigerator guidance explains why it does not recommend connecting its refrigerators to surge protectors.

For a repair request, include the model, outage timing, whether lights or controls work and any code that appeared.