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Karen Youso

Columnist/Reporter | Fixit

Phone: 612-673-4407

Karen Youso writes Fixit, a column that answers readers questions on any subject; and also writes feature stories on consumer issues, especially about the house and yard.

Recent content from Karen Youso

Spider problem isn't so itsy-bitsy
Q We have a big spider problem. They cover the deck and siding with their webs and leave dark stains. It's unsightly and the spots are difficult to remove. How do we stop spiders from targeting our house?
Oct 5, 2008
Fixit: Heat pump may not be right choice
Q Are heat pumps a good thing to have for heating or cooling in Minnesota?
Oct 3, 2008
Vitamin D cannot penetrate windows
A reader asks: Does one get any vitamin D benefits from the sun through window glass? How about through car windows?
Oct 1, 2008
Low-cost measures for reducing heat bill
A reader writes: I'm worried about the cost of heat this winter. Are there one or two things to do that could help and that don't cost an arm and a leg, like replacing the windows?
Sep 30, 2008
Anode rod helps protect water heater
Why, when we are gone for several days and not using hot water, does a gray-purple fine sediment discolor the hot water?
Sep 28, 2008
Fixit: Try these ideas on yellowed white shirts
Q I have several white shirts that have yellowed over time, including a few that were laundered some time ago and not worn since.
Sep 26, 2008
Fixit: Succession a thorny issue in elections
Q What would happen if either a presidential or vice presidential candidate were to die between now and the election? I remember the upheaval after the plane crash killed Paul Wellstone, and that was just for a senator.
Sep 24, 2008
Fixit: Vacuum, spot-clean pleated window shades
Q We're renting a house that has pleated shades on all the windows. How do I clean them?
Sep 22, 2008
Church isn't the place for political signs
A reader asks: There is a campaign sign for a candidate for the Minnesota House of Representatives in front of an Assemby of God church. The candidate is the pastor there. Is it legal to have campaign signs on church property?
Sep 21, 2008
Fixit: Reroofing was paid for; bills still come
Q Recently I had my house reroofed. After paying, I received a receipt saying "paid in full." Now I am getting bills saying the materials have not been paid for. Can they hold me to it?
Sep 19, 2008

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