POD 10/8/17: Universal Brand Appliances

[frigilux]

Don't recall any Universal dealers in the area where I grew up.  The automatic washer must be a rebadged Apex with its bouncing tub.  The brand offered everything from TVs to dehumidifiers, as shown in the ad.  The dehumidifier looks like a cross between a small iron lung and a pet carrier.

 

They also offered an upscale single-unit side-by-side washer and dryer called the Manor House model.  Can you imagine having to move, install, and service that unwieldy behemoth?!  Would make a great addition to John's museum, though.

 

[lesto]

There was an old Universal window air conditioner just like the one in this ad in my high school algebra classroom. It was a circa 1947 model.

 

[combo52]

One Piece Universal Washer-Dryer

Wow Eugene, I never really noticed this appliance before, it sure is nice looking and would eliminate any problems with the washer walking, but as you mentioned it would be difficult to move and I imagine hard to work on.

 

Would love to find one, I can imagine there is one somewhere stuck in a basement that was remolded around it.

 

John L.

 

[brucelucenta]

LOL

That would probably be about right too!!! Stuck in a basement and so heavy it would take several men to move! From what I understand about Universal washers, they are the same as the Apex with the bouncing basket. Those machine have to be one of the most entertaining machines ever made for a washing machine. Of course my favorite, Kelvinator, were that entertaining too.

 

[hilovane]

My grandmother had the same Universal range as the one pictured.

 

[toploader55]

"Manor House Series".

The Stereo/Home Console Entertainment Center of Washers and Dryers.

 

[cornutt]

I found this old thread

Reply #9 contains a good rundown on the history of Universal.

Cool Universal range with pull out butcher block

Never seen this before. Pretty cool. Already found it a good home.

www.automaticwasher.org