Universal Refrigerators
A consumer searching for Universal Refrigerators may run into some trouble. Our research found Universal branded
stoves, gas ranges, dishwashers, and even travel irons. There is a Universal Stove Company which made a variety
of appliances in Chicago in the 1940s and 1950s, but there is not, as far as we can tell, a brand of
refrigerators called Universal. Perhaps the most universal thing about refrigerators is that just about everyone
has one.
Universal Refrigerator Parts
While there may be no brand of "universal" refrigerators, there are universal or adaptable replacement parts that
will fit most refrigerator brands. Universal parts are usually used when a manufacturer no longer supplies
original parts. Often, a universal part will require some adjustment, say trimming a shaft, for example, to fit
into an existing fridge or other appliance.
The term universal can also mean designed to be accessible for people of all abilities - and disabilities.
Side-by-side refrigerators which have the freezer and refrigerator from top to bottom next to each other provide
the most universal access to both parts. Also, ice and water dispensers on the outside of refrigerator are more
universally accessible than those that are located within the refrigeration unit.