✅ Operating principle of a Karcher car wash

Pressure relief valve [7]

Karcher cleaning agent [10]

A cleaning agent is necessary to easily remove dirt from any surface.

High pressure outlet [9]

Under high pressure, a stream of water flows from the outlet hose into the high-pressure gun, and from the gun onto the surface being treated. I would like to remind you that in the new series of Full Control mini-washes, the guns have touch-sensitive operating mode switches, which greatly simplifies the operation of the mini-wash.

In the injector, water supplied under pressure is mixed with Karcher detergent and supplied to the outlet hose.

Pistons and valves

The system consists of three pistons, each of which works progressively, creating pressure in the pump. After which a stream of water under high pressure is supplied to the outlet.

The piston moves downward in a translational motion, thereby sucking in liquid and interacts with the suction valve [5], which creates pressure in the piston chamber, releasing a powerful stream of high-pressure water into the injector.

Pressure relief valve [7]

The pressure relief valve is needed to regulate and maintain smooth operation of the system.

Bearings [4]

Bearings transfer the rotational energy of the engine into translational mechanical work of pistons and valves.

Water cooling system [3]

The water cooling system used in Karcher devices protects the electric motor from overheating, which ensures its reliable and durable operation. Karcher, first of all, is German quality and reliability.

Water flow [2]

Input element for supplying water to the mini-wash. Typically, liquid is supplied by connecting a garden hose, but if there is no tap or other source of liquid supply under pressure, in Kärcher Full Control series mini-washes it is possible to draw liquid from a canister, bucket, or other container.

Electric motor [1]

An electric motor is an element of a mini-wash that drives the Karcher mini-wash pump by converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Ease of use . Even a child can handle the device: Karcher offers convenient and practical floor-standing devices that are easy to transport around the area.

How do Karcher mini-washers work?

Anyone who has ever used a mini-wash knows how it can be quite a fun activity. They can clean almost any surface around the house and it won’t take much time. But how does a high-pressure apparatus work? How does it work and what is the principle of its operation? Let's look at the mini-wash from the inside and take a trip to the Kärcher Plant in Obersontheim, where the Kärcher K 7 Full Control mini-wash is assembled.

How does a high pressure washer work?

An animation graph will show the operating principle of the Kärcher K 7 Full Control mini washer. It shows where the motor is located, where the water flows as soon as it enters the device from a garden hose, and how high pressure is created.

Example: ADV Karcher K 7 Full Control

The heart of each device is an electric motor that drives a pump [1] . In order for the pressure system to work correctly, water is needed, which is supplied using a garden hose [2] . Before the water passes through the valves to start coming out under pressure, it will pass through a double circuit around the motor and cool it [3] . This significantly reduces operating noise and extends the service life of the device.

The motor drives the oblique washer, which in turn drives 3 pistons that move up and down [4] . The K 7 Full Control high-pressure cleaner has a total of 3 pistons, each of which works to extract and supply water. The downward movement of the piston [6] draws water through the suction valve [5] and supplies it to the piston chamber cylinder. When the piston moves up it pushes water through the pressure valve [7] to the injector.

The cleaning agent [10] is supplied to the injector [8] if necessary. The water then passes through the pump [9] to the high pressure gun.

Of course, in real time, all this happens so quickly that as soon as you turn on the device, you can immediately pull the trigger to start cleaning. The mini washer shown in the picture is also equipped with an LED display on the high-pressure gun, which shows the selected pressure level, as well as an example of the application of this pressure. This allows you to correctly find the operating mode of the device in which the best cleaning result will be achieved.

Not to mention the incredible cleaning results that are achieved with the help of a pressure washer, you can save on drinking water, because when washing with a regular garden hose, about 3,500 liters of water will be spent per chat, while a high-pressure washer will use from 400 to 600 liters. The saving effect is achieved precisely due to the fact that high pressure speeds up the cleaning process.

Automatic toggle switch that stops engine operation

A water pressure sensor is an integral attribute of a modern high-pressure washer. It is installed on the output channel of the pump and regulates its activation. Look, when we want to start working with such a mechanism, we pull the trigger and wait for pressure, thereby starting the engine. When water is no longer needed, the trigger is released and the flow of liquid stops.

This is where the pressure sensor comes into play, which will prevent overheating of the engine, which functions even after the trigger is released. That is, when a critical pressure level is reached, it is triggered, thus preventing the power source from breaking. However, as already mentioned, unnecessary engine starts are detrimental to the engine, so popular brands of such devices have come up with another way to protect the engine from high pressure.

In this case, there is no shutdown as such, the sensor simply moves the water line to the outlet, allowing the liquid to circulate in a circle. Yes, electricity consumption will increase significantly, but the engine will be able to last much longer.

Unique innovative solutions implemented in devices from the world leader in the field of cleaning and cleaning allow increasing the efficiency of washing work, service life and maintainability of equipment, and impeccable service minimizes the risk of equipment downtime.

As you know, car washing is a very expensive business, associated with the consumption of large volumes of water and cleaning products, as well as significant labor costs to remove heavy contamination. The situation changes when a high-pressure apparatus with heated water comes to the rescue. In addition to the excellent quality of washing, especially in the difficult climatic conditions of our region, it is economically beneficial for both business owners and clients.

What ensures such cleaning efficiency?

It turns out that the formula for high cleaning efficiency is simple - it is the strong pressure of the water jet multiplied by its high temperature.

Heated water pressure washers can increase the water temperature from approximately 12 to 155 °C, with the maximum temperature depending on the specific model of the machine.

Calculation of costs for one washing cycle shows that “hot” washing is 18% more economical than cold water washing. In addition, at negative temperatures this figure is even higher and amounts to more than 20%!

Cleaning with hot water not only optimizes the process, but also has a number of compelling advantages. Let's list them.

• Improved cleaning result.

Hot water under pressure easily dilutes old oil contaminants and, as a result, allows you to quickly clean mechanisms and parts. Using hot water allows you to remove the most complex technical stains without chemicals or with minimal use. All this reduces vehicle downtime.

• Reduced consumption of cleaning products.

To dissolve oil, fat, resin and other contaminants, in most cases it is enough to simply treat them with hot water, and this is a direct saving of money and reducing the burden on the environment.

Washed warm surfaces dry faster after cleaning. This allows personnel to quickly begin further work with the object.

• Time saving. Cleaning with hot water speeds up the removal of dirt, which saves working time by up to 35% and increases the profitability of cleaning operations.

Since then, professional Kärcher water heating devices have long been widely used in the automotive business of European countries. They are used by all industry participants. In any area of business related to a car, the impeccable appearance of a vehicle is not only a reflection of the company’s status and evidence of its care for customers, but also a production necessity.

The company offers a wide range of high-pressure water heating devices of various classes, in different equipment and configuration options, among which every business owner can find the option that is optimal for him in terms of price and performance. Thus, HDS units from Kärcher provide significant benefits even when using cold water. And heated models have even deeper functionality.

Unique innovative solutions implemented in devices from the world leader in the field of cleaning and cleaning allow increasing the efficiency of washing work, service life and maintainability of equipment, and impeccable service minimizes the risk of equipment downtime.

There is no doubt that any auto business owner seeks to increase their competitiveness both by optimizing costs and by strengthening the company's reputation as the first to introduce new technologies, improve working conditions for staff and improve the level of customer service. Use this opportunity with an effective solution from a global expert in the field of cleanliness!

© 2009-2020 Clear LLC Karcher equipment store. St. Petersburg, Polikarpova alley no. 1 (metro station Pionerskaya)

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Answer: Karcher household mini-washers are divided into 6 series (K2, K3, K4, K5, K6 and K7). The basis for dividing into series is the main technical characteristics of mini washers (outlet pressure, productivity and power consumption).

Operating principle of Karcher Full Control series mini washers

Karcher cleaning agent [10]

A cleaning agent is necessary to easily remove dirt from any surface.

High pressure outlet [9]

Piston (engineer) [8]

In the injector, water supplied under pressure is mixed with Karcher detergent and supplied to the outlet hose.

Pistons and valves

The system consists of three pistons, each of which works progressively, creating pressure in the pump. After which a stream of water under high pressure is supplied to the outlet.

Piston [6]

The piston moves downward in a translational motion, thereby sucking in liquid and interacts with the suction valve [5] , which creates pressure in the piston chamber, releasing a powerful stream of high-pressure water into the injector.

Pressure relief valve [7]

The pressure relief valve is needed to regulate and maintain smooth operation of the system.

Bearings [4]

Bearings transfer the rotational energy of the engine into translational mechanical work of pistons and valves.

Water cooling system [3]

Water flow [2]

Electric motor [1]

An electric motor is an element of a mini-wash that drives the Karcher mini-wash pump by converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Operating principle of Karcher mini washers

We tried the water. We tried soap. We tried rubbing and scraping. We have tried strong chemicals that do not meet the stated requirements. So when will it be clean?

Discover Karher pressure washers! Nowadays it is difficult to find a person who does not know about Karcher mini-washers. And many of them have already tried this useful invention. Super-powerful hose, a powerful stream of water under pressure approximately 100-200 times higher than the air pressure around us. Now everything shines: courtyards, cars, country furniture, barbecues and everything that can be cleaned of dirt. Let's now take a closer look at how they work!

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.

Additional functions

The Karcher windshield wiper is a multifunctional device that can be used not only for washing window glazing. It is used for cleansing:

any smooth surfaces that can be wet cleaned: mirrors, kitchen countertops, painted walls, tiles in the kitchen and bathroom, shower frame;
automobile glass;
glass greenhouses and other outdoor surfaces.

With a Kerher machine, window cleaning, of course, does not turn into a holiday and pleasure. The gadget does not wash surfaces for you, but essentially collects liquid along with the dirt dissolved in it. But the labor-intensive process is greatly facilitated, and the use of physical effort is reduced. This device is especially a real boon for those who have to regularly clean high panoramic windows and large areas of quickly dirty surfaces.

Many people hesitate to purchase a device because they consider such an acquisition not particularly useful, because it will be used a maximum of several times a year. But those who have tried washing with a windshield wiper rarely return to the usual manual methods of cleaning glass.

Components of a Karcher high-pressure apparatus.

A high-pressure apparatus is simpler than you imagine when you hear its name. This is a water pump that is powered by an electric motor. The machine draws water from a regular tap, a pump accelerates the water under high pressure, and then injects it from a hose at speed through a hand-held spray gun. You can attach various accessories to the end of the hose to clean different things.

Petrol engine washers. Although pressure washers typically run on electricity, the larger ones are often powered by small gasoline engines. This allows the washers to operate autonomously, without being connected to power grids.

Now the main parts that you will find inside the pressure washer:

Water Pump: This is the heart of the pressure washer. It is driven at high speed by an electric (or gasoline) motor. The pump draws water from the faucet and pushes it out into another path under high pressure, creating the powerful stream we are familiar with. The pumps are designed to handle a water flow of approximately (4-8 liters) per minute.

It should be noted that the pump material depends on the series of your mini washer:

Starting from K2, K3, K4, a plastic composite is used.

In sinks of a higher class K5, K7 - silumin (an alloy of aluminum with silicon) pumps.

Precautionary measures

A home sink is a useful, but potentially dangerous device that can cause injury to the operator if not handled carefully. Before starting work with the installation, be sure to read the instructions for use. Here the manufacturer answers all questions that the user may have in the process of preparing the equipment for work or directly when washing the car with a Karcher. Particular attention should be paid to safety precautions. Compliance with them will ensure safety for the operator and protection for the installation from breakdowns.

Do not use items or materials that are incompatible with cleaning equipment. This includes toxic substances and flammable compounds. Otherwise, a fire or explosion may occur.
Use the equipment as intended. Do not direct the water flow towards animals and people. High pressure water can cause serious injury.
It is strictly forbidden to use the washing machine to wash electrical appliances. Also, do not direct the jet at the device itself. This will not only lead to failure of the washer, but also to electric shock to the operator.
You should not work outdoors if it is raining outside. There is a high probability of a short circuit.
Do not allow children, teenagers, or people who have not previously read the operating instructions to operate the unit.
Do not touch the power cable or plug with wet hands.
Does not turn on the unit if it is discovered that the power cable is damaged or the integrity of the hoses is compromised.

A high pressure washer is a useful household appliance. It will work for a long period without failures or breakdowns if it is used for its intended purpose and certain rules that relate to the process of washing, maintenance and repair of the installation are followed.

All about Karcher mini-washers - types, configurations and choice of device

Every car owner knows that keeping your car clean is not a whim, but a necessity. An easy way to clean your car is to use a professional stationary car wash. But using the service regularly is expensive.

Another common option is to wash the vehicle yourself using shampoo and a hose. In words it is convenient and cheap, but the process is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and the result is not brilliant. The third option, which combines the advantages of the previous two, is purchasing a high-pressure washer. Car enthusiasts use Karcher to wash their cars.

All the advantages of the device

A pressure washer can be used on a variety of surfaces. At the same time, it has a number of advantages.

Gentle cleaning . Despite the fact that the AVD removes even stubborn dirt from any surface, the water jet does not damage the base material. Therefore, high-pressure washers are used to clean cars: with their help, you can remove not only dirt, but also rust stains and layers of peeling paint. At the same time, the AED does not leave mechanical damage on the car body. The washer is used to clean garden sculptures and paths and remove graffiti from walls.

High efficiency . The high pressure washer allows you to complete an impressive amount of work in the shortest possible time. For example, professional cleaning of a car body and wheels may only take 8-10 minutes. At the same time, dirt is removed even from the most inaccessible places, and no streaks remain on the cleaned surface.

Contactless cleaning . The work does not require rags, sponges or special brushes. Only a high pressure washer hose that will clean any surface. And special attachments will help you reach even hard-to-reach and high places.

Ease of use . Even a child can handle the device: Karcher offers convenient and practical floor-standing devices that are easy to transport around the area.

Variety of attachments . The use of special attachments allows you to effectively clean seams and other hard-to-reach places, completely eliminating dirt, rust, plaque and fungus.

Comment: Fire washing, I bought it because I live in a private house. Works great! What can you say, a nickel, manage for a nickel! There are a lot of details about washing on YouTube, so I’ll keep it short! If you don’t mind 15,000, feel free to take it, you won’t regret it!

Principle of operation

A stream of water washes away contaminants: the dirt cannot withstand the pressure and is destroyed, while at the same time the flow removes small particles. Technically, the cleaning process is a little more complicated; To understand the nuances, it is worth understanding the design of the device. Its components:

electric motor – power source;
pump – provides the necessary pressure to the washer;
an automatic device that turns off the engine and prevents overheating;
hose, installed on a water supply or to an open container;
gun with pressure hose;
frame;
nozzle;
connection cable.

The fluid pressure in the pump increases, and water flows to the gun handle. When you press the button on the handle, the liquid sprays out. This non-contact cleaning minimizes the possibility of damage to the paintwork. When a car owner washes the car himself with a sponge or rag, dirt particles scratch the paintwork. Karcher sink eliminates this.

Often the Karcher mini washer is equipped with functional attachments. The best results are provided by detergents, such as special shampoo.

Advantages and disadvantages

Some advantages of the Karcher sink have already been mentioned above. Its key advantages:

Washing with Karcher saves time and water consumption.
This method is the least dangerous for the car, and the paintwork protects it.
The operating instructions will help to prolong the operation of the device as much as possible; a long warranty is often included, for example, Karcher devices have a warranty of up to two years.
The device is multifunctional. In addition to cars, it washes roofs, building facades, terraces, swimming pools, garden paths.

Despite the many advantages, there are a number of serious disadvantages:

Car wash pumps fail due to careless operation.
Karcher is a rather dangerous device. A pressurized jet can break car windows or mirrors and even injure a person. Therefore, before you start working with the mini-wash, you need to carefully study the manual.

The high cost of washing cannot be considered a disadvantage of Karcher. The device pays for itself within 1 year.

Questions about repairs and spare parts

How is Kärcher equipment repaired?

Repair work is carried out by Kärcher at fixed prices.

Benefits for the client:

Convenient, free for the client delivery of equipment for repair and its return
Fast repairs
No repair estimate required
One-year warranty on repairs
Honest, pre-known prices

In what cases can warranty claims be made?

Kärcher provides private purchasers of household products with a 2-year warranty starting from the date of purchase. The warranty covers any malfunctions caused by defects in materials of construction and manufacturing defects. To confirm the availability of warranty obligations, you must present a receipt (receipt) for the purchase.

Please note that the warranty becomes void if:

the device was not used for its intended purpose (for example, in the case of using household appliances for commercial purposes);
The device was opened in order to carry out repairs on its own.

How is warranty repair carried out?

Kärcher provides a 2-year warranty covering faults caused by defects in materials and workmanship, provided that the product is used for its intended purpose.

Based on the information about the device and the document you attached (for example, a receipt), our specialists will check the possibility of performing warranty repairs or the presence of other grounds for free troubleshooting. Please take into account our warranty conditions - see the answer to the question "In what cases can a warranty claim be made?"

Where can I buy spare parts?

All spare parts listed on the last page of the operating instructions can be ordered from our sales partners.

For safety reasons, replacement of other parts and assemblies should only be carried out by specialists from our service partners who have undergone special training. They have access to complete lists of spare parts and can advise you.

If you would like to replace a part listed in the instruction manual under warranty, please send us an email with a brief description of the problem and a copy of your proof of purchase. We will check whether such replacement is covered by warranty.

This is what the main components of a modern high-pressure washer look like. Of course, there is also a power cable that needs to be protected from the action of water and various “bells and whistles” such as nozzles for changing the type of jet, but there is no point in describing them, you’ll figure it out yourself! There will be a little zest for you.

Classification

Mini car wash involves a number of models, divided into classes:

Karcher entry level car wash. It is characterized by low cost, light body, small size. Suitable for those who do not plan to clean their car often.
A middle-class high-pressure Karcher with water intake from a tank is the best choice for owners of 2-3 cars.
Mini-wash of the highest class. It is considered a semi-professional unit, capable of quickly cleaning dirt from large surfaces.

Primary class

power from 1.3 to 1.5 kW;
unit productivity from 330 to 410 l;
pressure does not exceed 140 bar.

The jet pressure is weak even when connected to a water supply. When drawing from an open source, the pressure is reduced to a minimum, which negatively affects the quality of cleaning;
Suitable only for washing small cars.

It is recommended to operate an entry-level Karcher for no longer than 30-40 minutes, no more than 2 times a day, with intervals between switching on of 6-8 hours.

Among the advantages of the equipment:

compactness;
ease;
budget;
long service life if instructions are strictly followed.

The class models are varied. The body has a built-in compartment for chemical detergents, nozzles: mud and jet. The pump is made from polymer. Cost from 4000 to 8000 rubles.

Middle class

Features of middle class sinks:

power reaches from 1.7 to 2.1 kW;
productivity up to 420-510 l;
pressure - 120-145 bar.

The pump is made of aluminum, which increases its durability. Such Karcher car washes have high performance, so they are recommended to be purchased by owners of 2 cars.

The middle class device is equipped with a tank or injector for detergent. There is a water cooling function for the electric motor. As an additional advantage, they note the possibility of using a mini-wash to clean the facade of the house and paths.

it is necessary to purchase additional accessories: hose nozzles with a return valve, filters;
there is a possibility of the motor overheating when water is completely pumped out of the container;
high price;
small set of equipment.

The model base is widely represented. You can find a car wash with a gasoline engine that does not depend on the network. The set includes two nozzles. Equipment costs from 15,000 to 30,000 rubles.

Top class

Technical parameters of various class models:

high power of the unit - 2.5-3 kW;
productivity reaches 600 liters per hour;
pressure from 150 to 160 bar.

Specifications

Technical parameters that are relied upon when choosing Karcher:

Pressure. A pressure of 130 bar is considered sufficient for the operation of the units; the force of the jet depends on this indicator.
Performance. The parameter shows how much water the washers consume per hour or per minute. Country specimens consume from 10 liters of liquid per minute.
Pump power. The optimal power of the Karcher engine is from 2 kilowatts.

Other characteristics that influence the choice of mini-wash:

Equipment. The standard set for any Karcher class includes a pair of nozzles and oil for washing.
Filters. There are two options: a replaceable (disposable) filter and a filter designed for repeated use. Last option
The karcher car wash may have a composite engine. Such models are more expensive, but are cost-effective over long-term use. If the pump breaks down, you only need to replace the faulty part, which will seriously save money. These devices are considered in demand for professional car washes.
The type of electric motor cooling – air – is less efficient compared to water.
Length of pressure hose.
Water intake. It is important to see a specific figure from what depth liquid can be drawn from the tank.

The cost of the Kärcher K2 engine reaches 70% of the price of the device.

Key Features and Options

When choosing a mini-wash for a car, you need to take into account its technical parameters, which are discussed below.

Performance. This term refers to the volume of water pumped by a pump per unit of time. This characteristic determines the force of pressure.
Pressure. Quantitative characteristics of the impact of water flow on the surface. High pressure is required to clean heavily soiled surfaces, such as the underbody of a car. To do this, you should consider devices with a pressure of more than 100 bar, which allow you to wash the body of most types of contaminants.
Availability of a filter. This device serves to protect the pump from damage by microparticles contained in water, especially hard water.
Water intake. A car wash can consume water from a water supply or from a container, which is determined by the device’s ability to create water pressure. Mini-washers that do not have it are able to take water only from the water supply, since in this case only it can provide water supply under pressure. As is clear, such devices are characterized by low mobility. During operation, you can only move away from the water supply at a distance corresponding to the length of the mini-wash hose.

Availability of heated water. This is important for using a mini-wash during cold periods, since washing with cold water in such conditions can damage the paintwork.
Total Stop. This system automatically turns off the mini-wash motor when the gun handle is released and serves to save water. The principle of operation of the automatic shutdown system is that after releasing the trigger of the gun, excess pressure is created. Under its influence, the bypass valve rod presses the switch. This results in a power outage. After pressing the lever, events occur in reverse order.
Based on the above parameters, mini-washes are classified into the following classes: entry-level, mid-level, high and highest (or extra). It should be taken into account that some manufacturers develop their own, usually broader classifications of mini-washers.

Pump pump materials

Their strength determines the durability of the device; this is explained by the fact that the pump head is considered one of the most vulnerable elements of a mini-wash. This is due to the exposure of this part to maximum water pressure during operation of the device. Plastic heads have the least strength and therefore cost. However, their durability is predictable - the limit is up to an hour of continuous use. Longer use of the device leads to destruction of the plastic heads.

It should be taken into account that in the event of a breakdown, the cost of repair will be comparable to the price of a new mini-wash, so saving in this way is not advisable. Metal heads, which are made from brass or silumin, are more durable and expensive. At the same time, silumin heads are somewhat inferior to brass in strength, so the former are used in household mini-washers, and the latter in professional models.

Equipment

Production equipment of the Karcher sink:

high pressure apparatus;
hose;
pistol grip;
union;
pressure regulating nozzle.

Depending on the models, the Karcher kit can be supplemented with a dirt cutter and a cleaning container - a tank for cleaning agents. Car washing machines are equipped with a built-in mesh filter.

Some consumers complain that the standard configuration of the mini-wash is not enough, and the add-ons are unreasonably expensive. How to choose Karcher for car washing correctly and quickly? You should pay attention to the number of devices that increase its functionality:

a special brush for foam cleaning, which increases washing efficiency;
various accessories for the hose and hooks for storing it or for fixing the cable. Such details will allow you to vary the size of the hose and solve the storage problem;
detergent spray gun;
chemicals for car washing.

It is recommended to take into account that the Karcher equipment may be a marketing ploy. Parameters and averages: power 2 kilowatts, pressure 130 bar, water flow 500 liters per hour - the decisive factors of choice.

Selecting a device

The performance and ease of use of a Karcher machine for washing a car largely depends on the reliability and build quality of the installation itself. To ensure that the process of washing your car brings only pleasant impressions, take a responsible approach to choosing a car wash. The range of devices of this type is quite large. The market offers expensive branded units, budget models, as well as very cheap devices. Below are tips to help you choose a good vehicle care device.

Performance. For home use, the potential of models capable of producing up to 12 liters per minute is sufficient. Their power is up to 3 kW. More productive models are equipped with gasoline engines and are intended for professional use.
Pressure. To clean machines, a pressure of 70-150 bar is sufficient. The maximum value is 170 bar. If water is supplied under higher pressure, there is a risk of damaging the paintwork.
Pump material. Don't buy a sink with a plastic pump. It doesn't last long. Pumps made of silumin, aluminum or brass are more reliable. Ceramic pumps are used to equip premium segment models.
Filter. Manufacturers equip units with disposable and washable filters. The latter are more convenient because they have a large working resource.
Automatic motor stop. Overheating of the electric motor can lead to its breakdown. The automatic stop option prevents overheating, protecting the engine from premature failure.

Also, when purchasing a car wash for a garage or home, pay attention to the model’s equipment. It is convenient if the delivery kit includes different attachments for performing different operations. As a rule, manufacturers equip high-pressure cleaners with a flat, mud cutter, regular and rotary brushes. To make your choice easier, read reviews of popular models and read customer reviews.

How to choose Karcher

Decide on the washing class. If you have one small car and you are not going to clean it more than once a week, there is no point in choosing obviously expensive car washes with additional functionality. A low-class Karcher with a capacity of 360 liters per hour will be sufficient.
It’s not a problem if the Karcher mini-wash kit does not include a water supply hose. Can be replaced with a garden hose of convenient length and flexibility.
A filter for fine water purification would be useful. In its absence, dirt particles and small pebbles get into the sink, which quickly wears out the pump.
Pay attention to where and how the detergent reservoir is located. A Karcher household plastic sink with a shampoo container attached to the body is less convenient than one where the chemical tank is located in the body.

Precautions for use

When working with a Karcher steam generator, the following safety precautions must be observed :

Before each use, it is necessary to check the serviceability of the steam generator and its components - the housing, steam supply hose and power cord must be in good condition;
do not open the water tank until it cools down;
Do not turn on the device if there is no water in the tank;
do not direct the steam jet at nearby people and animals; due to the high temperature of the steam released, you can get a significant burn even through clothing;
during operation, hold the device only by the handle or gun at the end of the hose, do not touch the hose itself with your hands;
Do not remove the nozzles or disconnect the tubes when the steam supply mode is on;
Do not add detergents, solvents, or alcohols to the water tank; only water can be used;
During operation, it is prohibited to block the steam supply lever.

These measures will ensure long and safe operation of the steam generator.

Peculiarities

The Karcher car wash is a small-sized hand-held electrical appliance with a high-pressure pump, designed for self-washing cars. The unit is produced by the company of the same name, created in 1935 by the young German designer Alfred Karcher, which specialized in the production of heating equipment. However, already in 1950 the company produced the first high-pressure washer in Europe with a water heating function. Since 1974, the company has completely concentrated on the production of washing machines and changed their colors from blue to the world famous yellow , and since 1980, the plant has significantly expanded its range of equipment and entered the world market with it.

However, Karcher car washes became available to domestic consumers relatively recently - in the early 2000s.

It was at this time that the company launched a line of heavy-duty washing equipment capable of not only washing vehicles, but also renovating house facades and performing dry cleaning. Karcher washes immediately gained great popularity among car enthusiasts and took their rightful place in the Russian market.

High consumer demand and a large number of positive reviews of Karcher products are due to a number of important advantages of this technology.

Compared to a stationary car wash, a mobile unit significantly saves the car owner’s time. Now, in order to get your car in order, you don’t need to go to a car wash station and wait your turn. Washing a car can be done directly in the garage, providing for the timely disposal of waste liquid into the storm drain.
The manual method of washing is considered less “traumatic” for the car, and prevents scratches on the paintwork.
All Karcher products are provided with a warranty of up to two years, according to which in the event of a malfunction, which, however, happens extremely rarely, the unit will be repaired free of charge at any service center.
The devices are quite multifunctional and are not limited to washing cars. With their help, you can clean the facade of a building, terrace, swimming pool and garden alley from dirt.

However, along with the obvious advantages, sinks still have disadvantages. These include the high cost of some samples and the need for strict adherence to safety measures when using the unit. The latter requirement is due to the fact that high-pressure washers are quite dangerous devices, and if used carelessly, they can easily break glass or injure a person.

Design and principle of operation

Karcher manual high-pressure washers consist of an electric motor, a pump, a flexible hose system and additional equipment.

The electric motor of all models of washing equipment is equipped with a water cooling system, which prevents its overheating that occurs due to heavy loads and increases its service life. Such motors operate much longer than their counterparts equipped with an air cooling system and show higher performance. Most models have engines with a power of 1.4 to 2.5 kW, but there are also stronger models with a power of 3 kW. In addition to electric models, the company also produces autonomous devices. They do not depend on electrical power sources, having, instead of an electric motor, an internal combustion engine.

Such models are completely energy independent and can be used in places where electricity is not available.

The pump is one of the most important components of a car wash and is responsible for the uninterrupted supply of water. Pumping units of household units are made of plastic or aluminum, which significantly reduces the cost of the devices and reduces their weight. However, such materials are not able to provide long-term continuous operation, and the average permissible time of their operation under load is no more than an hour. Then the device needs to be turned off and rest for a short time. More powerful professional samples are equipped with pump blocks made of stainless steel or brass. Although such devices are much more expensive than household units, they can function without stopping throughout the entire work shift.

A system of flexible hoses ensures the supply of water to the unit and its spraying through a special nozzle. The larger the nozzle diameter, the lower the water pressure, and vice versa.
Additional equipment includes nozzles, jet lances, hose reel, foam sprayer, brushes and pressure-regulating gun. Some units are additionally equipped with a mesh filter.

The principle of operation of Karcher car washes is as follows: the rotating motor shaft drives the swashplate, which, in turn, causes the plungers in contact with it to perform reciprocating movements. The function of a plunger in an electric motor is similar to the function of a piston in an internal combustion engine. At the moment when the plunger goes to the lowest point, water is supplied to the pump through the inlet valve. After the plunger moves to the top point, excess pressure is created and the outlet valve opens synchronously. As a result, a stream of water enters the gun handle and, when the start button is pressed, is sprayed under high pressure. The dirt accumulated on the surface of the car cannot withstand the pressure and is destroyed.

Karcher car washes are classified according to engine power and type of design. Based on the first criterion, three classes of devices are distinguished: entry-level, mid-level and top-level models.

Entry level

Entry-level washers are not designed for intensive use, which is why they are recommended for owners of one car. You can use such devices for no more than 40 minutes twice a day, and the interval between washings should be at least 6-8 hours. This is due to the fact that all models of this level are equipped with plastic pumps, which are significantly inferior in their performance characteristics to pumping systems made of metal. The power of a mini-car wash varies between 1.3-1.6 kW, productivity is 330-410 l/hour.

The water pressure in such models does not exceed 140 bar, the cost ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 rubles.

The advantages of entry-level household machines are their compactness, low cost, durability and light weight. The disadvantages include low water jet pressure and the ability to service only one car.

Middle class

Middle-class models belong to semi-professional washing equipment and represent the largest group of devices. Their power varies from 1.7 to 2.1 kW, operating pressure is 120-145 bar, and productivity reaches 510 l/hour. The pump has an aluminum design, which allows servicing 2-3 cars per day. Units of this class are equipped with a tank for detergents and can be used for washing facades and garden paths. The cost of such devices ranges from 15,000 to 30,000 rubles.

The advantages of middle-class models include their versatility and versatility ; the disadvantages include high cost and somewhat modest basic equipment. Most accessories, such as hose attachments, check valves and filters, must be purchased separately.

High class

High-end sinks belong to the category of professional equipment and can be used in car washes and car depots. The models are equipped with engines with a power of 2.5-3 kW, are capable of consuming up to 600 liters of water per hour and have a pressure pressure of up to 160 bar. The water pump is made of high-strength brass and has its own cooling system. This allows you to continuously operate the equipment for up to several hours a day and use it to service several cars or a bus. Such devices cost from 25,000 to 32,000 rubles.

The advantages of top-class machines include greater power, high productivity , long service life and the ability to cope with complex contaminants. Moreover, many samples are equipped with brushes for contact washing, which allows for high-quality cleaning of the bumper and rims. Among the disadvantages are the large size of the units and their high cost.

Portal automatic car washes

It is also worth highlighting the Karcher portal automatic washers, which are a stationary 3-brush structure, for the manufacture of which steel that has undergone a hot-dip galvanization process is used. Such complexes are designed for a large number of cars and are capable of washing from 300 to 1300 cars per month. Thanks to the presence of large units, the height of which reaches 2.8 m, with the help of Karcher you can wash not only cars, but also minibuses.

In addition, portal structures are equipped with dryers that instantly blow air over a clean body, preventing the appearance of smudges.

Mini-wash design

The models of compact car washes under consideration are designed simply. Their design is represented by the following elements.

The electric motor creates energy for the operation of the mini-wash. Most models of these devices are equipped with electric motors with a power of 1.4 to 3 kW. Karcher equips its mini-washers with water-cooled engines. These systems, providing effective cooling, protect the engine from overheating and increase continuous operation time. Thanks to this, such engines provide mini-washers equipped with them with high performance and a long service life.

The pump supplies water to the device. As mentioned, household models of mini-washers are equipped with plastic or aluminum pump blocks with valves made of the same materials. This results in the relatively low cost of such devices, but imposes some restrictions on their functioning. First of all, they apply to the time of continuous operation. For mini-washes of this type it is about an hour. For each device, the exact value of this parameter is indicated in the instructions. Professional models are equipped with pump blocks made of stainless steel or brass. Such mini-washers are designed for continuous operation over several work shifts.

A flexible hose connects the device to the nozzle. The smaller its diameter, the higher the water pressure. The nozzle sprays water onto the surface to be treated.

Additional equipment – this category includes some parts that increase the ease of use of the mini-wash and expand its functionality. They are presented:

nozzles;
jet tubes;
hose reel;
foam sprayers;
brushes;
pressure regulating pistols.

The lineup

The range of Karcher mini-washes is represented by electric models of three power classes, autonomous models powered by an internal combustion engine, and automatic portal washers.

The Karcher K3 model is an entry-level device and is equipped with a 1.6 kW electric motor. The unit is capable of passing through itself up to 380 l/hour, processing up to 25 m2 of surface during this time. The working pressure can be adjusted from 20 to 120 bar (2-12 MPa), the water temperature at the outlet of the nozzle reaches 40 degrees. The current frequency is 50-60 Hz, the weight of the device is 5.8 kg, the dimensions of length, width and height are 27.5x27.9x80.3 cm, respectively. The model is equipped with a Quick-Connect device, with which a 6-meter hose is connected to the unit with one movement of the hand, as well as mud cutters and a Vario-Power jet lance, which allows you to regulate the working pressure. Price 6,990 rubles.