From cleaning patios and brickwork to getting a sparkling finish on your car, Kärcher pressure washers deliver fast, effective results. At the forefront of the industry, Kärcher is a pressure washer manufacturer trusted across the globe. The German firm combines state of the art technology with decades of industry knowledge to provide efficient pressure washers that are available with an array of accessories.
Which Kärcher pressure washer? do I need?
Pressure washers make short work of tough stains on patios, moss build-up on conservatory roofs, and so much more. A Kärcher pressure washer is a great investment for use at home and in the workplace. However, when looking for the best pressure washer for your needs, there are a few factors to consider:
Pressure rating
This looks at how much power is behind the water — the higher the pressure rating (which is measured in bars), the more powerful the machine. With an operating pressure of 80 bar, the Kärcher HD4/8 240v Classic Pressure Washer is an excellent all-rounder for domestic use.
For something more robust, the Kärcha HD5/12C Plus 240v Pressure Washer has a working pressure of 120 bar and can reach a maximum of 175 bar. This powerful pressure washer is ideal for commercial cleaning and keeping heavy-duty 4x4 vehicles in top condition.
Flow rate
You’ll also see that pressure washers are measured by their water flow rate. This describes how quickly water leaves the washer nozzle and is measured as litres per hour. A higher flow rate can help get cleaning tasks done more quickly. So if you’re looking for a tool to clean large areas in a short amount of time or need to clean multiple cars quickly, we recommend looking for a flow rate of 400 litres per hour or more.
The Kärcher HD4/10X 240v Classic Pressure Washer is perfect for an array of applications. Its 400 litres per hour flow rate, combined with a lightweight and compact design, makes it a versatile choice.
Meanwhile, with a flow rate of up to 560 litres per hour, the Kärcher HDS6/12C 240v Hot Water/Steam Pressure Washer is ideal for more heavy-duty jobs and extensive cleaning.
Temperature
The Kärcher HDS6/12C 240v Hot Water/Steam Pressure Washer also delivers temperatures of 80°C to 155°C.
Not all pressure washers use hot water, and this is an important distinction to make. If you’re using your washer outside, cold water will usually be sufficient. However, if you need to ensure a thorough clean that will kill bacteria, we recommend looking for a pressure washer with a hot water or steam function.
With this in mind, the Kärcher HDS7/10-4M 240v Hot Pressure Washer is another excellent option, which can also deliver a flow rate of up to 700 litres per hour.
How to set up a Kärcher pressure washer?
The exact setup for your Kärcher pressure washer will depend on the model, and it’s always best to look at the operating manual for details. However, as a general rule of thumb, you’ll need to connect your pressure washer to a water supply (usually a hose), making sure it’s secure.
You’ll also need to connect the pressure hose to the machine’s water outlet. If you’re using detergent, add the right amount of liquid to the water, as specified on your detergent packaging. Finally, you’ll need to plug your pressure washer in (using a transformer if it’s a 110v model) and switch it on.
How to use a Kärcher pressure washer
Once your pressure washer is all set up, you can squeeze the trigger on the lance to release the pressurised water. Depending on the washer you have, you may be able to adjust the flow, pressure, and temperature.
For more information, take a look at the manual supplied with your Kärcher pressure washer.
Kärcher pressure washer FAQs
Can you use a Kärcher pressure washer in the rain??
Because most Kärcher pressure washers are powered by electricity, we don’t recommend using them in the rain. Doing so is unsafe and can also damage your pressure washer.
What is the life expectancy of a Kärcher pressure washer?
As with any power tool, the life expectancy of a Kärcher pressure washer often comes down to how it’s maintained. Provided you use compatible detergents, empty the washer after use, and store it safely, your pressure washer should last 5-10 years or more.