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 Amazon UK
• Best for power and portability: Kärcher K 5 Compact Pressure Washer - view on Homebase
• 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 and K 3 models are ample for cleaning a normal-sized car and a small yard or driveway. Opt for K 4 or K 5 if you have a large paved area to clean, plus an assortment of bikes and a big vehicle. Finally, choose K 5 to 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
Karcher/AmazonFor the cheapest Kärcher in the range, this K 2 certainly packs a lot more welly than a garden hose (usually around 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.
Pros
- Powerful solution to everyday outdoor cleaning tasks
- Comes with a "Dirt Blaster" for hard surfaces and stubborn stains
Cons
- Lightweight, so can be prone to falling over
| Dimensions: | L24.6 x W28 x H58.6cm |
| Weight: | 4kg |
| Power: | AC 1,400W |
| Pressure: | 110 bar |
| Hose length: | 5m |
| Water flow rate: | 360l/hr |
| Noise level: | 74 dB |
| Cleaning area: | 20m² per hour |
| Guarantee: | 2 years |
| Cable length: | 5m |
- High-pressure gun: G-120-Q
- Quick Connect
- Vario Power Spray Lance
- Dirt Blaster
- Kärcher Home and Garden App-compatible
Best for cleaning the car
Karcher/AmazonBetween the K 2 and the K 3, there's not the greatest difference in price. For an extra £20 or so, you get increased pressure of 120 bar, a stronger flow rate, and a wider cleaning area per hour, plus all the functionality of the K 2.
This means that in addition to everyday cleaning tasks, the K 3 can clean fence panels and motorbikes with a little bit more "oomph". If you use a pressure washer often, this could be worth the extra dosh in the long run.
The "Power Control" part of the product's title comes in with the fact that the pressure level can be set directly on the lance and can be monitored on the display of the Power Control gun, so you can fine tune how much pressure you want to use.
Pros
- Ideal for cleaning the car and other everyday tasks
- A visual "Power Control" indicator to check the pressure
Cons
- Some customers have commented on the hose being flimsy
| Dimensions: | L29.7 x W28 x H67.7cm |
| Weight: | 4.4kg |
| Pressure: | 120 bar |
| Power: | AC, 1,600W |
| Hose length: | 7 metres |
| Flow rate: | 380l/hr |
| Noise level: | 74 dB |
| Cleaning area: | 25m² per hour |
| Cable length: | 5m |
| Guarantee: | 2 years |
- High-pressure gun: G-120 Q Power Control
- Vario Spray Lance
- Dirt Blaster
- Kärcher Home and Garden App-compatible
Best for power and portability
Karcherwww.homebase.co.uk
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, a higher water flow rate and a 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 obviously 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.
Pros
- Portable and compact design for anyone short on space
- Water-cooled motor which should last longer
Cons
- Compact range is not controlled by Kärcher Home and Garden App
| Dimensions: | L35.4 x W30.8 x H52cm |
| Weight: | 12kg |
| Pressure: | 145 bar |
| Power: | Corded electric, 230V, 2,100W |
| Hose length: | 8 metres |
| Water flow rate: | 500 L/hour |
| Cleaning area: | 40m² per hour |
| Cable length: | 5m |
| Noise level: | 75 dB |
| Guarantee: | 3 years |
- Water-cooled motor for extra durability
- High-pressure gun: G-180-Q
- Dirt Blaster
- Vario Power spray lance
- Telescopic handle
Best Kärcher for a family home
Karcher/AmazonClear 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 to 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.
The car kit side of things in this bundle will appeal to drivers as it comprises of a special paintwork-friendly brush attachment and you get a bottle of Kärcher's "Bring Back the Wow" ultimate foam cleaner.
Pros
- Companion Kärcher Home & Garden app gives good instructions
- Bundle of features and accessories for both your garden and car
Cons
- A bit heavy at nearly 12 kilograms
| Dimensions: | L40.2 x W30.6 x H58.8cm |
| Hose length: | 8 metres |
| Weight: | 11.48kg |
| Pressure: | 20-130 bar |
| Flow rate: | 420l/hr |
| Surface cleaner: | T5 |
| Power: | AC, 1,800 watts |
| Cleaning area: | 30m² per hour |
| Guarantee: | 2 years |
| Set includes: | 1x K4 Power Control Pressure Washer 1x High Pressure Gun 1x Vario Lance 1x Dirt Blaster Lance 1x 8m High Pressure Hose 1x 1L Stone and Façade Detergent 1x T 5 Patio Cleaner |
- App compatible
- High-pressure gun: G 160 Q Power Control Gun
- Dirt Blaster
- Vario Power Spray Lance
- Integrated water filter
Best heavy-duty Kärcher pressure washer
Karcher/AmazonFrom 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, 2,800W) 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.
Pros
- Very powerful with 2,800W and can work to 180 bar
- Plug and Clean system to click in detergent
Cons
- Very heavy at just under 18 kilograms
| Dimensions: | L26.3 x W18.2 x H13cm |
| Pressure: | 18-180 bar |
| Water flow rate (l/h): | Max. 550l/h |
| Cord length: | 5 metres |
| Power: | 2800 watts |
| Power source: | Corded electric |
| Weight: | 18kg |
| Batteries required: | 2 x AAA batteries (included) |
| Guarantee: | 3 years |
| Set includes: | 1 x K7 Premium Full Control Plus Home, 1 x Full Control Plus Trigger Gun with power adjustment buttons, 1 x 3-in-1 Multi-use spray lance, (Full control plus only), 1 x 10m High Pressure hose with Quick Connect, 1 x T450 Patio Cleaner for large areas of Patio and Decking, 1 x 1L 3-in-1 Stone and Façade Cleaner |
- High-pressure gun
- Vario Power spray lance
- Dirt Blaster
- Telescopic handle
- Integrated water filter
Best Kärcher pressure washer for patios
Kärcher/AmazonThe K 5 model comes bundled with the T 5 patio cleaner head attachment, so your paving will be left spic and span, as well as some stone and façade detergent. With a max 145 bar pressure, you’ll be able to clean all your garden tools and accessories, from furniture to fences, as well as bicycles and cars.
Reviewers, many of whom have upgraded from lesser specced Kärcher pressure washers, say that the K 5 has transformed their approach to outdoor cleaning and describe cleaning cars as effortless with this model.
The 3-in-1 jet lance is really handy, as it allows you to switch between different spray settings without the hassle of having to attach a different nozzle. The Plug and Clean system is pretty handy too as it lets you add detergent to your pressure washer mid-way through cleaning. Reviewers are big fans of the Smart Control App that works via Bluetooth, if you pop in what kind of object or surface you’re cleaning, the app will tell you what setting and attachment to use.
Pros
- Very powerful, great for patios, cars, garden tools and furniture
- 3-in-1 jet lance for ease of use
- Comes with Kärcher's patio attachment head
Cons
- Hose is described as a little rigid
| Maximum pressure: | 145 bar |
| Maximum water flow rate: | 500l/hr |
| Patio accessory head: | Yes |
| Hose length: | 10m |
| Weight: | 13.9kg |
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
Karcher/Argoswww.argos.co.uk
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.
Pros
- Splash-free cleaning for less mess
- Powerful, so no elbow grease required
Cons
- Some report finding the right pressure to use is tricky
| Dimensions: | 70.8 x 28 x 99.5cm |
| Weight: | 1.4kg |
| Batteries: | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required |
- Adjustable nozzle positions
- Adjustable pressure
Best effective foam nozzle accessory
Karcher/AmazonThis nozzle is a best seller, and it's not surprising, given its versatility. It allows you to 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 a longer-lasting and powerful foam application without the need to refill.
Pros
- Effective in generating a lot of foam
- Detergent goes a long way using this attachment
Cons
- Some customers have commented on it not being compatible with their pressure washer - check compatibility before buying
| Dimensions: | 9.3 x 20.1 x 18.4cm |
| Weight: | 201g |
- Transparent detergent container
- Adjustable jet level
- Cleaning agent dosing unit
Best all-round detergent
Karcher/AmazonBright 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.
Pros
- Works with Plug and Clean compatible machines
- Refillable bottle for an eco-friendly solution
Cons
- Doesn't last long
| Quantity: | 1 litre |
- Plug and Clean
Best detergent for cleaning hard surfaces
Karcher/AmazonThis is another Plug and Clean option, giving you a one-litre bottle of solution that's specially designed to help you pressure wash patios, paths, terraces, walls, and facades.
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 protection.
Pros
- Contains an algae and weather protector
- Compatible with all Plug and Clean machines
Cons
- Some customers have commented that there are cheaper alternatives
| Quantity: | 1 litre |
- Plug and Clean
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 bundled 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.