Posted on: Friday, November 1, 2002

HOME HANDYMAN
Pump will keep dishwasher water hot

By Glenn Haege

Q. Do you know about a valve that goes in the line to the dishwasher to keep the water hot? If so, please send me some information. We have just installed a Bosch dishwasher.

A. I would suggest the Grundfos water pump (www.us.grundfos.com). It is much easier to install. No return lines are required because the cooled water is transferred to the cold water side.

Q. I removed paneling from a wall. Some of the drywall paper facing came off. How do I repair the wall so I can paint it?

A. Cover the affected area with spackling compound, then sand smooth with a sanding screen. Prime the entire wall with an oil-base stain kill such as KILZ Ultra by Master Chem or Zinsser Cover Stain. Then complete the job by painting with a good latex paint.

Because the wall never will be as flat as you want, you might want to upgrade the paint to Muralo Ultra Ceramic Waterborne in a dead flat finish that hides defects.

Q. I sealed my driveway with a water-based product about three years ago. How long does it last? Is there an easy test to see if I need to reseal?

A. If water makes small beads on the surface it is still sealed. If large bubbles are present, it is time to reseal.

Glenn Haege writes for the Detroit News. Reach him at editor@flashcom.net, or visit www.masterhandyman.com.