When you see the best Kärcher pressure washers in action, you quickly realise why this is the best brand for power washers. There's a satisfaction in seeing grimy patio slabs getting drenched in a powerful jet of water and washed clean of any stubborn grime, weeds and stains. A pressure washer can clean anything outdoors: Fence panels, sheds, patios, garden chairs and your car.
Kärcher models come with a range of accessories and cleaning detergents that are compatible with all of their pressure washers. Kärcher is the top brand if you're looking for the best pressure washer to clean a patio. These machines pack a lot of power to make short work of large areas. There are tons of YouTube videos showing the ease with which components slot together with a simple push and twist. However, the range needs a bit of explaining to know what is the best machine for your needs.
Best Kärcher pressure washers at a glance:
• Best for everyday use: Kärcher K 2 Power Control - view on Amazon UK
• Best for cleaning the car: Kärcher K 3 Power Control - view on Kärcher UK
• Best for a family home: Kärcher K 4 Premium Power Control Car and Home - view on Kärcher UK
These distinctive yellow machines are synonymous with powerful home cleaning solutions. There are five core models: K 2, K 3, K 4, K 5, K 7. These get increasingly more powerful with higher bar pressure and a higher flow rate. For example, a K2 is designed to clean 20sq metres per hour, whereas a K7 can do 60. The K 2 series is around £100 making it a good choice for a budget pressure washer. Whilst the K 7 starts at around £400. In addition, there are extra features and accessories - such as the Power Control lance and Smart Control - which means the price goes up too.
It pays to do your research before buying a Kärcher pressure washer, so you don't buy a model that's more powerful than your requirements. To put it in context, the K 2-K 3 models are ample for cleaning a normal-sized car and a small yard or driveway. Opt for K 4-K 5 if you have a large paved area to clean, plus an assortment of bikes and a big vehicle. Finally, choose K 5-K 7 if you have a motorhome and a large patio or courtyard. In this guide, we've selected a representative cross-section of the best Kärcher pressure washers to cover a range of outdoor cleaning jobs.
Best Kärcher pressure washer
Best for everyday use
For the cheapest Kärcher in the range, this K 2 certainly packs a lot more welly than a garden hose (40-60 bar) with a maximum pressure of 110 bar. It's the perfect choice for cleaning a small paved area - note that the hose length is 5m, and the power cable length is also 5m. It has some premium features, including being compatible with the Kärcher Home and Garden App. Additionally, the K 2 is equipped with the Vario Power Spray Lance for cleaning delicate surfaces and the Dirt Blaster for hard surfaces and stubborn stains. The hose, machine and trigger gun fit together with ease using Quick-Connect, where the components simply press and twist to fit together. And for convenience, a suction hose siphons detergent into the machine with no mess and no fuss.
Customer review: "Very light to carry and much more powerful than my old hose. It brought our patio tiles up like new with the cleaning attachment. It took less than 1/4 of the time to clean my patio as before and with better results. I would highly recommend this hose, so much bang for your buck as it were."
Pros
- Powerful solution to everyday outdoor cleaning tasks
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Lightweight, so is prone to falling over
Best for cleaning the car
Between the K 2 and the K 3, there's not the greatest difference in price. For an extra £20, you get increased bar pressure, flow rate and a wider cleaning area per hour, plus all the functionality of the K 2. Meaning that in addition to everyday cleaning tasks, the K 3 can clean fence panels and motorbikes with a little bit more 'oomph'. Could be worth the extra dosh in the long run...
Customer review: "Bought this to wash my car and my patio. It works well for both. I also washed my fence and it did a pretty good job. For other types of jobs (where the dirt is more difficult to remove) I recommend a superior level (K 4 or K 5) as a higher pressure is definitely required. However if you need it just to wash your car, you can go with this one as it is reasonably cheap and if a good quality."
Pros
- Ideal for cleaning the car
- Effective everyday cleaning
Cons
- Some customers have commented on the hose being flimsy
Best for power and portability
The reason for choosing the K 5 as a Compact model over its K 2, K 3 and K 4 counterparts is that this has some assets that are hidden in the spec, which makes this the better option. Firstly, the motor is water-cooled rather than air-cooled, which gives the machine and its parts greater longevity. Also, it has an 8-metre hose, higher water flow rate and higher bar pressure without there not being much of a price difference between the K 4 and K 5 Compact models. If you're tight on space, choosing a Compact pressure washer is the best option.
This K 5 packs all the punch of its Power Control equivalent model, albeit in a much more compact form and cheaper price point. There's built-in storage for the hose, trigger gun, spray lances and power cable, while an integrated suction tube allows the detergent to be applied to any surface.
Customer review: "Versatile model that is dealing well with path cleaning, greenhouse glass cleaning and car washing."
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to store
- Powerful
- Water-cooled motor
Cons
- Compact range is not controlled by Kärcher Home and Garden App
Best Kärcher for a family home
Clear out stubborn weeds that are growing in your brick weave - and so much more - with the Kärcher K 4 Power Control Car and Home bundle. Although it comes with a hefty price tag and a massive price leap between the K 3 and K 4, this pressure washer kit provides a complete cleaning solution to tackle pretty much any surface outdoors. Boasting 20-130 bar pressure, a water-cooled motor and an LED display on the trigger gun that lets you choose what pressure you'd like, this K 4 is high-tech, powerful and versatile. We recommend it as the best option for a busy family home as that pressure range makes it adaptable for both delicate and heavier jobs.
Customer review: "This washer was very easy to assemble, and the app leads you through it all step by step. I was up and running in less than 30 mins. I'm not normally one for apps, but this one was actually really useful. It also provides step by step instructions for each type of cleaning and tells you which attachments and key strength to use. The machine is very easy to use and it's simple to change attachments. I used the patio cleaner attachment which was fantastic and took off years of lichen, moss and dirt in seconds with no scrubbing needed."
Pros
- App gives good instructions
- Versatile
- Bundle of features and accessories
- Water-cooled motor
Cons
- A bit heavy
Best heavy-duty Kärcher pressure washer
From removing oil stains on garage floors to cleaning the outside of your house, by utilising the telescopic handle, this almighty pressure washer can do it all. With great power comes great responsibility - the K 7 is powerful enough to remove chewing gum from the paving. Actually, it can clean delicate surfaces too, thanks to the control modes on the trigger gun. Its top-end power (180 bar, 550 l/h, 2800W) easily tackles large jobs like cleaning the brickwork on the family home. And it boasts a 3-in-1 Multijet lance - combining a detergent applicator, Dirt Blaster and Vario Lance - which almost eliminates the need to change attachments.
We also like the Plug and Clean system, which allows you to easily click in detergent bottles onto the top of the pressure washer, ready for application.
Customer review: "This Kärcher pressure washer is about as powerful as required for domestic use. It makes short work cleaning alloy wheels on my car. And is good for a quick blast in wheel arches during winter to remove salt deposits. One word of caution, the rotary feature for extra pressure can be a bit harsh on soft materials such as wooden fence or decking so be careful when on vulnerable surfaces."
Pros
- Very powerful
- Versatile
Cons
- Very heavy
Kärcher accessories and detergents for home and garden
Using Kärcher branded accessories and detergents is a safe and effective bet, as they have been specifically designed for use on those models, whereas cheaper equivalents risk damaging the machine. Not to mention, they'll also speed up your cleaning job as the product is designed with the application purpose in mind.
Best for effective patio cleaning
This surface cleaner offers splash-free cleaning and is compatible with all of Kärcher's pressure washers. Thoroughly clean large areas, such as patios, yards and driveways. The adjustable nozzle adapts the pressure for delicate to hard surfaces. The T 5 can even clean vertical surfaces. Kärcher claims that using the T 5 is 50 per cent faster than cleaning with a spray lance. It comes with extension lances for covering wider areas and higher walls.
Customer review: "I usually use my Kärcher cleaner with the standard nozzle to clean my patio. It would take a couple of hours, plastic bags tied around my ankles then having to clean the patio windows after. With the T 5 patio cleaner I completed the job in less than half an hour, didn't get wet and no need to clean the windows after. I only have the entry level Kärcher pressure washer but there was enough pressure to be able to use the T 5 successfully. I would even say that it cleaned the patio far better than just using the standard nozzle."
Pros
- Splash-free cleaning
- No elbow grease required
Cons
- Some getting to know the accessory is required in order to find the right pressure to use
Best effective foam nozzle accessory
This nozzle is a best seller, and it's not surprising, given its versatility. Make light work of cleaning vehicles, garden furniture, paths, walls, caravans and more. Simply pour Kärcher detergent directly into the nozzle, attach the nozzle to the gun and apply a powerful jet of foam. The pressure is easily adjusted with a knob, and you benefit from longer-lasting and powerful foam application without the need to refill.
Customer review: "Having recently bought a Kärcher power washer, I wanted something to allow me to use snow-foam, to clear off most if not all of the muck sticking to the car. I live out in the country so when I say muck… The foam nozzle works well, particularly because the 'outlet' is adjustable. It works really well, but requires a decent foam to do the job."
Pros
- Effective
- Detergent goes a long way
Cons
- Some customers have commented on it not being compatible with their pressure washer - check compatibility before buying
Best all-round detergent
Bright yellow, just like the machines, Kärcher's concentrated Universal Cleaner can be easily applied with any Kärcher pressure washer that has the Plug and Clean feature. With compatible machines, you fit this bottle directly into your pressure washer - eliminating the need to refill. In addition, it can be used with Kärcher's foam nozzles and wash brushes. It makes removing stubborn stains, like oil, effortless.
Customer review: "It fits neatly into the built-in detergent socket on the Kärcher K 4 washer. Which makes it easy and mess-free in use. However, the K 4 slurps it up amazingly quickly, and it doesn't clean any better than a cheap, unbranded detergent."
Pros
- Plug and Clean with compatible machines
- Refillable bottle
Cons
- Doesn't last long
Best detergent for cleaning hard surfaces
This specially formulated detergent contains an active dirt dissolver. In addition, using Kärcher detergents helps to preserve surfaces. This Stone and Façade cleaner contains algae and weather protector.
Customer review: "Washed the patio with K 4 and it looks great. Smells nice whilst cleaning. I used the round attachment to scrub, then washed it again on max with the standard attachment piece. Some stubborn marks still remain but might need another go with the most powerful attachment that comes with K 4 model. I think it's a great cleaning product because it worked."
Pros
- Contains an algae and weather protector
- Plug and Clean with compatible machines
- Refillable bottle
- Effective and leaves a nice smell
Cons
- Some customers have commented that there are cheaper, effective alternatives
How we chose the best Kärcher pressure washer
All of these Kärcher pressure washers have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered power, functionality and accessories in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching Kärcher pressure washers to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.
Our verdict: Best Kärcher pressure washer
There's no doubt that Kärcher is best in class for domestic pressure washers. However, it can be confusing to know what model to choose that's best for your needs. With obscure terms like K 7 - the range sounds like it was named after the strength rating for hurricanes.
We've looked at the budget, mid-range, compact, and most powerful Kärcher pressure washers; in summary, we'd recommend the K 4 Premium Power Control Car and Home. The key point is that you'll only need to buy this machine once, so it's worth the investment. Customers have long commented about owning their Kärcher for well over 20 years.
This K 4 bundle gives you power (1800W), pressure (130 bar), and flow rate (420 l/h) that can clean anything outdoors, as well as app support and accessories that are purpose-designed for cleaning your home and car. Its water-cooled motor and quality components mean this power washer is going to last for years. It's worth paying the higher price for its versatility and long-term gain.
FAQs
What are the Kärcher features to look for?
Kärcher also has ranges that offer different features. For example, the Premium range has an integrated hose. Smart Control models can be controlled with the Kärcher Home and Garden app. Power Control pressure washers are equipped with the Dirt Blaster lance, and the Compact range is designed for easy storage.
Additionally, you can buy Kärcher pressure washers in bundles that have tailored accessories. The Home bundle includes a revolving patio cleaner brush, and wood and stone cleaner detergents, whilst the Car and Home bundle comes with a spray foam adaptor, car shampoo, polish products and a rotating washing brush.
What can I clean with a pressure washer?
The range of outdoor surfaces and items a pressure washer can clean is exhaustive: Bicycles, garden tools, garden furniture, fences, motorbikes, cars, steps, SUVs, brickwork, caravans, swimming pools and exterior brickwork.
Hard surfaces: Stone terraces, paving stones, washed concrete, asphalt, metal, garden tools
Medium surfaces: Cars, motorbikes, brick surfaces, plastered walls, plastic garden furniture
Soft surfaces: Wood, bicycles, sandstone surfaces, rattan furniture
Before you buy, ask yourself, "How are you going to use the pressure washer?" This will help narrow down the options and determine the power level that you need.
What kind of pressure washer should I buy?
Pressure washers are designed for different tasks. A light-duty model, such as the K 2, is just fine for giving a patio a jet wash now and again. You may want to consider a battery-powered cordless pressure washer if you have hard-to-reach areas. And a compact model is an ideal choice for portability or if you're short on storage space. Better still, you'll find compact and cordless pressure washers under £100.
If you have a large paved area or concrete driveway that you need to clean, it's worth opting for a medium-duty model, such as the Kärcher K4.
Heavy-duty options, such as the Kärcher K7, will lay waste to moss-riddled shed roofs and drives. But do note that heavy-duty pressure washers are very expensive. However, occasionally you can get up to £150 off with the best pressure washer deals.
What features should I look for in a pressure washer?
Pressure (measured in bar) will determine the strength of the water jet. To give you an indication of the strength of a pressure washer, a hose pipe is between 40-60 bar, so even the smallest pressure washer is twice as powerful as a garden hose.
In terms of performance, look for pressure washers with a respectable water flow rate, measured in litres per hour. This indicates how quickly you can clean something and states how much water will flow from the machine. Since most small pressure washers come with a maximum pressure of around 100 bar, the water flow rate is the most important feature to consider.
Another crucial product detail is power. For example, a pressure washer with 120 bar pressure at 1,500W will maintain its pressure and be used for longer periods than one with 1,200W because it doesn't have to work so hard.
Take note of the length of the hose to determine how far you can walk around with it. Also, note the length of the cable to know how far you can run the cable from mains electricity without the need for an extension.
You must also pay close attention to the size and weight of the pressure washer and, therefore, its portability.
Finally, consider the accessories that come with the model: Brushes, lances, nozzles, hoses, detergents and wheels. Opt for bundles that give you specific lances, surface cleaners and detergents designed for home and garden cleaning tasks. Kärcher offers long warranties on their products, which makes them the leading manufacturer of pressure washers.
What should I avoid cleaning with a pressure washer?
Never pressure wash electricals - avoid meters and electric panels. Take care when pressure washing treated wooden surfaces, such as decking - if the pressure is too high, you'll remove the paintwork. Avoid pressure washing broken or crumbling surfaces paving as the jet will send fragments flying. Nor is it a good idea to pressure wash glass. Do not pressure wash air conditioning units, as it can damage the blades. Also, never strip lead-based paint with a pressure washer - it's dangerously toxic if you inhale particles. Nor should you aim pressure washers at people or animals. The high-pressure water jet can cause lacerations - it can slice - and it can kill animals.
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Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in garden trends. When she's not flexing her mow-how, Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.