I bought a Karcher K7 Compact high pressure washer: I’ll tell you if it’s worth the money

Rating of the best high pressure washers

Which Karcher is best for car washing?

Mini-washers of the middle class are the most popular household sinks from Karcher

(
Kärcher
) for washing the car. The K 5 series is the best option for a family with one or two cars and a small amount of other mini-wash work. The productivity and service life of the devices is significantly higher than that of entry-level sinks.

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High pressure washers - design, operating principle

The main design elements of a car wash to produce a high-pressure water jet:

• electric motor;
• power cable;
• pump with automatic motor switch;
• water supply hose;
• frame;
• hose with high pressure gun;
• nozzles

The principle of operation of a high-pressure washer
The efficiency and service life of the device depends on the materials from which the pistons and piston chambers are made. Expensive models are equipped with pumps with several ceramic or steel pistons, while cheap ones have pumps with one piston with plastic parts.

The inlet and outlet pipes are connected to the pump of the hydraulic cleaning apparatus . The first is connected to a water source using a hose. This could be a barrel, a tank or a water pipe. A high pressure hose with a gun is connected to the outlet pipe.

During operation of the unit, it is impossible to protect the power cord from water getting on it, which is why high safety requirements are imposed on washing. A grounded socket must be used for connection .

The principle of operation is based on the destruction of dirt adhering to the surface with a high-speed jet of water under pressure that is created inside the pump. Due to pressure, the device easily removes dust and dirt.

Positive reviews

Although the device is a budget device and costs about 6 thousand rubles, for which it is very popular among many, it is based on a solid element base. Many point to the durability of the design - from power components to the smallest consumable components and accessories. Regarding working qualities, there are also mostly positive reviews. Karcher K 3 is praised for its good pressure and efficient operation of the foam generator. In addition, the owners of the unit note its light weight and optimized dimensions, which contribute to comfortable operation of the equipment.

How to connect a car wash to the water supply - some useful tips

It is not advisable to directly connect the sink to the water supply, even if the system is provided with high pressure. Since there are air bubbles , which constantly explode in the pump. This makes it deteriorate faster.

The car wash should be connected to the water supply using a hose , which is connected to the fitting located on the body. A filter with a fitting is connected to the suction pipe, to which a hose is attached using an adapter. The second end is connected to a water supply or tap. The last option is more correct, because at the entrance to the mini-wash you can adjust the jet pressure . If there is a valve on the fitting that is removed from the water supply, it also regulates the pressure.

Negative reviews

The model also has many weaknesses, as practice in its use has revealed. Most often, users complain about limited operational capabilities. There is, for example, reduced functionality that has to be compensated for by auxiliary devices and garden equipment. The model, unlike older versions, is not flexible enough in terms of connecting to communications and is sensitive to weather conditions. As emphasized in reviews of the Karcher K 3 washer, it works unstably at sub-zero temperatures, which is explained by freezing of the pump. Perhaps this is the only problem area of ​​the structure, due to which it is possible to contact repair shops.

There is no tap, but there is a container

For normal operation, the car wash can take both standing water and from the central water supply. Some people connect the sink through a hydraulic accumulator when drawing water from a well. It can also come from a well. If you don’t have a water tap, you need to buy a model that has a fence function . In this situation, the mini-wash is connected to a barrel or other container. If the equipment has to work in such conditions, it must have a high-power engine and a strong pump, since it will have to create its own pressure.

The diagram for connecting a high-pressure washer to a barrel, a bucket, to the suction pipe also includes the installation of a filter and a fitting to which the supply hose is connected. The second end is lowered into the container being used. To prevent it from jumping out when turned on, it is immersed in water and secured. First, they suck up the sleeve to fill it with water, then it will begin to collect the required amount on its own.

The sink is connected using a hose

Why does pressurized jet make things cleaner?

Let's start with the fact that water itself copes well with pollution, and there is a good scientific reason for this. Its molecules have a slight electrical polarity (one end is positively charged and the other negatively charged), so they tend to be attracted to things on their own.

Detergents (soaps, chemicals) help water do its job even better by breaking down oil and fat molecules. But some types of stains just won't budge, no matter how hard you try. Then a high-pressure apparatus will come to the rescue. It uses a narrow stream of high pressure hot or cold water to break down the structure of the dirt. Because water moves quickly, it hits the dirty surface with high kinetic energy, hitting the dirt and dust like thousands of tiny hammer blows.

Water breaks down dirt, but it does not damage even the hardest surfaces. However, it is usually always recommended to test the jet in a safe area. That is why Karcher has released a new series of Full Control mini-washers with a pressure regulator depending on the surface. The handle has surface-designated touch buttons, so your surfaces are now safe!

What happens to the mini-wash if the water suddenly runs out while the device is running?

When the flow of water into the operating device stops, the pump will begin to overheat. O-ring seals will also fail quickly. A water-cooled engine may also overheat. A car wash is considered good if it has a protective relay specifically designed to prevent dry running. This device monitors the flow or non-flow of water into the device. If it stops flowing, the relay automatically stops working. But even with such a model, it is not recommended to frequently test the performance of this device. It is advisable to supplement the contactless washing machine with a large tank .

Peculiarities

The presence of washing equipment allows you to wash at any convenient time. The cost of the device will be reimbursed in case of prolonged use. Since washing will be done with your own hands, this will require some effort from the user, but this process is very simple and can be quickly accomplished.

In addition, in this case there is no need to travel to the car wash and wait, so in most cases washing the car with your own hands is even faster than in a car wash.

Don't forget about filtering

Almost always, a hydraulic cleaning device is connected to process water , which invariably contains various impurities. When using such water, malfunctions in the operation of the sink and further breakdown of the device are observed. a filter before connecting the Karcher to the water supply . It is installed in front of the hose, which is connected to the inlet pipe. It is best to install a coarse filter first, followed by a fine filter.

Simple connection diagram

About the manufacturer

The largest German company Karcher produces household washing and cleaning equipment. Car washes are popular among Russian buyers. The assortment includes models both for use at home, in the country, in the garage, and in production, car washes. This is the company that was the first to start producing mini-washers. Karcher specialists even equip household appliances with professional parts, such as replaceable nozzles and steam generators for heavy soiling.

Karcher sinks are highly efficient

Top 5 high pressure washers with water intake from a tank:

It is not at all necessary to have a high-pressure washer in your home, garage or country house. But this device has many advantages, because of which it has gained great popularity. Using a mini-wash, you can contact-free clean and wash not only your car, but also paving slabs, concrete paths, garden furniture, and bicycles . The water jet is supplied over a long distance, so you can easily wash a car roof or a high fence. The device is easy to use.

Huter M135-PW, 135 bar

The sink is equipped with a standard nozzle and a metal pump. There is a carrying handle and transport wheels. It is possible to use detergent and draw water from the container. The kit includes: a spray gun, a foam generator, 2 nozzles, a 5 m high-pressure hose , an adapter for a garden hose, a needle for cleaning the gun from dirt.

power consumption – 1.65 kW;

productivity – 360 l/hour;

weight – 7.6 kg.

Prices in online stores

Bort BHR-1900-PRO, 150 bar

Device with standard nozzle . There is a standard nozzle, an automatic safety shut-off, a built-in detergent tank, transport wheels and a carrying handle. You can use detergent and draw water from the container. There is a holder for storing the high pressure hose.

power consumption – 1.90 kW;

productivity – 450 l/hour;

weight – 7.3 kg.

Prices in online stores

BOSCH EasyAquatak 120, 120 bar

The sink is equipped with a standard nozzle, a foam generator , and a carrying handle. Features: drawing water from a container, using detergent. The hose is stored on a holder. Equipped with a fixed fan tube and a rotary nozzle.

power consumption – 1.50 kW;

productivity – 350 l/hour;

weight – 5 kg.

Prices in online stores

KARCHER K 5 Compact (1.630-750.0), 145 bar

Available attachments include: standard and mud cutter . It is possible to use detergent and take water from the container. The model is equipped with a fine filter, a compartment for storing accessories, a carrying handle, and transport wheels. The cleaning agent is withdrawn through a tube. Method of storing a high pressure hose on a holder.

power consumption – 2.10 kW;

productivity – 500 l/hour;

weight – 13 kg.

Prices in online stores

How to use Karcher correctly - instructions for use, connection and care

It is difficult to imagine any modern cleaning or washing process without the use of such a convenient and practical device as a high-pressure washer. It is easy to use, affordable, and effective on large surfaces. By purchasing a mini-wash for private use, you get a real assistant who can facilitate any work related to cleaning the house and the surrounding area, cleaning the territory, washing a car, walls, roofs, facades, garden equipment and agricultural implements.

Choosing a mini-wash is a process that requires special scrupulousness and seriousness. It is no secret that German-made Karcher high-pressure washers are the most popular among consumers. They are so popular and widespread that many buyers call any washing unit from another company Karcher. A real Karcher is distinguished by its versatility and reliability. Such a machine is suitable for performing almost any task, so the demand for this equipment is growing every day.

The reason for its popularity is that Karcher specialists were the first in Europe to produce high-pressure washers, and therefore have extensive experience in developing new models. Over decades of productive work, they managed to study this issue thoroughly, introduce several patented technologies, and select ideal materials for the washing mechanism.

How to make the right choice of mini-wash

Karcher has several classes of sinks. Each model has a type designation: – K2, K3, K4, K5, etc. Also on the packaging of each sink there is a diagrammatic illustration of what can be washed with it. The classes differ from each other in performance, power, price, and, most importantly, the material from which the pump is made.

We will help you understand the main types of mini-washes from the renowned German manufacturer in order to find out their features and performance characteristics, because these indicators determine performance and determine their purpose.

There is a common opinion among users that they need to be guided by size. The small one washes small objects, the medium one washes, respectively, medium-sized ones (including a small and not very dirty car). And the big one - everything of size, including trucks and trucks, tractors and combines.

There is a grain of truth in this statement. But it’s better to look not at the size of the washing machine, but at its technical characteristics.

1. Entry-level mini-washers K2 and K3 are characterized by a low price and small body parameters. Their advantage is light weight, ease of storage and transportation. They are compact and fit in the trunk. But they don't wash well. K2 are suitable for garden equipment, benches, borders, bicycles. As a rule, they are purchased for rare and short-term work on occasional cleaning of small areas. K3 will wash both a motorcycle and even a car, but not too dirty. The pressure in such models does not exceed 100-110 bar. Classes K4 and K5 are the most optimal and popular among users. These devices are practical, easy to use, and designed to perform a wide range of tasks. They have a long working life and a durable aluminum pump. The outlet pressure can reach 120-140 bar, it is possible to work with any source of water, it can be connected to a tap or to an artificial reservoir, a water tank, or a barrel. This is the most optimal option for a mini-wash, including high technical characteristics and an affordable price. It is also worth noting that this class is equipped with:

• Quick connect system;
• forced cooling of mechanisms, which promotes long-term operation;
• hoses included, K-4 – 6 m, K-5 – 9 meters.

2. There are also high-class Karcher industrial units K6 and K7. They can work without interruption for cooling, that is, constantly on. This feature is important in large service stations, when washing large areas in enterprises. The speed and performance of such machines are worthy of respect; no other manufacturer can compare with them. The devices are large, heavy, and equipped with wheels for transportation. For a home there is no point in buying such a unit with such power, but for a business it is just right.

What is needed for a quality wash?

In order to choose the right model that will best satisfy your needs, you need to familiarize yourself with the features of each, the range of its operation, the rated power and the capabilities that it provides to the mechanism.

You will be able to use Karcher correctly only when the technical characteristics of the washing unit perfectly match the future volume of work.

The tips located on the box of each unit will help with this - the areas of application of the model that it can cope with are drawn here. Instructions for use of each device are included in the box; you should also read them carefully. The standard package of Kärcher miniwashers has everything necessary for the device to fully operate, but some models do not have a low-pressure hose. Sometimes it can be replaced with a garden hose of a suitable diameter.

The cleaning performance is affected by the material of the piston and pump. Karcher always has a steel piston, and regarding the design of the pump, its material comes in different types:

• Fiberglass. The strength is not bad, but it does not tolerate heavy loads. Installed in the lowest class, K2 and K3.
• Die-cast aluminum. Surprisingly durable and light at the same time. Does not rust. Resistant to deformation and loads. Used in classes K4, K5.
• Brass alloy. Combination of copper and inca. It is considered an “eternal” material that does not change its appearance for decades.

High-quality washing is also determined by the detergent; it must be special, designed for high-pressure washing.

Washing stages

The first stage of working with a mini-wash in a home or industrial environment is to clearly determine the source of water: a stationary water supply or a prepared container.

Connecting a Karcher sink to a water supply is the most popular method of using it. To enable it you need:

1. You need to attach a filter and fitting to the supply pipe. A filter is not a prerequisite, but water, even from a tap, is never absolutely clean. Therefore, it is better to protect the unit from damage.
2. Using an adapter, attach the hose. Ideally, the adapter should be quick-clamping, keyless, and even with an aqua-stop to stop the reverse flow of water.
3. On the other side, the hose is connected to a water tap. Here’s a simple way to connect to a centralized water supply. Before connecting the Karcher to a barrel or natural source, we do the same thing, only we hook the hose not to the tap, but lower it into a container. And we suck it in a little (like gasoline from a canister). It is very convenient when an outlet with a fitting is cut into a barrel or tank. Then the hose can be attached to it.
4. We check the clutch points, the possibility of water leakage and troubleshoot problems
5. Apply detergent to the contaminated surface. To carry out a touchless wash, detergent is applied to dry dirt.
6. After rinsing, the surface should be wiped if necessary.
7. It is worth noting that when using contaminated water, it is still necessary to resort to the use of special filters to purify the liquid. If we pull from a barrel, then the filter must also have a check valve (so that water does not leak out).

Common mistakes when washing a car

• When washing a car, mistakes are often made due to a careless attitude to the technology of applying shampoo (it is applied from the bottom up).
• Also, first the car is watered. This is wrong; shampoo drips from wet dirt, bringing no benefit.
• Errors in using nozzles are also common. The mud cutter is only for wheels, not for the car body. It can cause scratches.
• For some reason, some users confuse a mini washer with a pump. They lower the intake hose far into a pond or deep well, and sincerely wonder why the water does not flow. But a sink can pull water from a depth of a meter or two, no more. That is, the container with water should be at the same level as it, or slightly lower.

Dishwashing liquid, washing powder—what car enthusiasts don’t use to wash their cars. Remember, anything like this speeds up the breakdown of the unit, and the car will be dirty and streaky. Only chemicals for high pressure washing.

Expert advice

User errors are quite common, but they can be avoided by studying the advice of experienced professionals.

• It is advisable to wash the car step by step, from below. First one edge, then the other, leaving the roof and hood for the end.
• It is advisable to rinse off the detergent in the order in which it was applied - from bottom to top.
• If you don't follow these tips, you can create streaks on the surface of your car and leave a lot of dirt in hard-to-reach places.
• Be sure to use a filter. If it becomes clogged, it is easy to replace, and a damaged mini-wash costs incomparably more.
• The washing hose from the water tap does not have to be pulled through an open window or door; you can make a hole under the window sill.
• The most convenient way to turn it on is to pump water directly into the barrel. And ahead of time, insert a fitting with a control valve into this very barrel, and then connect the Karcher from it.
• It is convenient to buy chemicals for washing cars in special liter bottles; in some models of mini washes they are integrated into the overall design and can be changed with one click.

conclusions

The Karcher mini-wash is an excellent device for cleaning and washing cars, sidewalks and carpets. It is powerful, functional and convenient; its compact dimensions contribute to versatility of use and increase the comfort of storage. Many years of experience in developing devices of this type have allowed us to achieve high quality and reliability. This is why Karcher devices are the best high-pressure washers on the market today. Proper care of the Karcher mini washer and compliance with the connection rules will extend its operating time.

Where is the integrated fine water filter located and is an additional external one needed?

Answer: An integrated fine water filter is located inside the inlet pipe of any Karcher mini-wash. This is an emergency filter that can only retain a small amount of suspended particles present in the water. The integrated filter is designed to retain suspended particles in the event of a breakdown of the main external fine filter, which has a large throughput. The main filter is not included with mini-washers, but must be purchased separately. We strongly recommend purchasing an external fine water filter, especially if water will be supplied from open containers, because the device is very demanding on the purity of the water supplied to its inlet and the cost of the filter is nothing compared to the cost of repairing a mini-wash.

Question:

How to properly drain water from a Karcher mini-washer to store it in a cold room in winter?

Answer: You can drain the water from the device in the following order: with the device turned off, disconnect the hose supplying water to the mini-wash, press the gun lever and drain the water. Then disconnect the high-pressure hose from the device and turn on the mini-wash for a short time (no more than 1 minute), water will flow out of the outlet pipe. But even with this method of draining water, some of it may still remain in the device. Therefore, to store a mini washer at sub-zero temperatures, it is best to fill it with antifreeze.

Question:

What should be washed with a mud cutter?

Answer: A mud cutter , or otherwise a rotary nozzle, is designed for cleaning stone surfaces. Its main difference from a fan nozzle is the supply of a jet of water with rotation and a smaller spray angle, which provides a stronger impact. Using a mud cutter to wash a car, especially with mini washes of the K5 and higher series, is not recommended, since the very high impact of the jet created can form cracks or even destroy the paintwork of the car.

Question: