The Kärcher K1 is an electric pressure washer offering a maximum water pressure of 1700 PSI and flow of 1.45 GPM. (Read full specs)
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Tractor Supply | Price history for the Kärcher K1 |
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| Highest Price $139.99 Lowest Price $99.99 Current Price $99.99 |
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Features and Specifications
| Fuel | Electric |
|---|---|
| Handling | Portable |
| Water | Cold |
| PSI (max/rated) | 1700/1450 |
| GPM (max/rated) | 1.45/1.24 |
| Cleaning Units | 1798 |
| Motor | 12.5 amp, universal |
| Pump | N-Cor Axial Cam |
| Other model numbers | 1.600-027.0 |
| Frame | Plastic |
|---|---|
| Soap injection | Via siphon hose |
| Nozzles | N/A |
| Onboard storage | Yes |
| Hose | 10 ft |
| Hose storage | None |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | Approx. 7.4 x 8.1 x 17.5 in |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9.8 lbs |
| Wheels | No |
| Included accessories | VPS wand, spray gun, high pressure hose, garden hose adapter, 35 ft GFCI power cord |
| Security | Trigger lock |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| UPC | 886622055990 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
Description
Zoom on the Kärcher K1
In summary, the Kärcher K1 is a light duty pressure washer, that offers an all-around versatile cleaning experience, and also:
- focused spot cleaning on hard, unpainted surfaces, accessing high spots, and efficiently eliminating stubborn stains
- delicate surface cleaning, andbroad area cleaning with reduced pressure
- applying detergent and cleaning solutions, and rinsing surfaces
Its power characteristics and design, its main features and all its additional features are presented ahead.
Power
The Kärcher K1
Utilizing a 12.5-amp universal motor, this machine's axial cam pump can deliver a pressure of 1700 PSI (around 28 times stronger than a standard garden hose) and a flow rate of up to 1.45 GPM (values claimed by the manufacturer). While these PSI and GPM values represent the maximum capabilities of the washer under specific conditions, it's important to note that under typical usage, the working pressure is 1450 PSI and the flow rate is 1.24 GPM. Thus, the Kärcher K1 achieves a cleaning power of 1798 Cleaning Units.
As an electric pressure washer, the K1 initiates operation effortlessly with a straightforward ON/OFF switch. The unit is ready-to-use with peace of mind, thanks to the included 35 ft GFCI cord.
Design & Handling
With a portable design and approximate dimensions of D7.4 x W8.1 x H17.5 in, the Kärcher K1 stands out for its focus on mobility. The handle adds to the K1 convenience of transport.
This unit's weight of 9.8 lbs makes it a breeze to carry around, perfect for on-the-go cleaning tasks. This owes partly to its plastic frame, contributing to its lightweight design. The absence of wheels on the K1 is compensated by its lightweight construction.
Main Features
The Kärcher K1 comes with a spray gun, a wand, a pressure hose and a detergent injection feature, which are detailed below.
- Soap injection: Even without a built-in soap tank, the device relies on a siphon hose to provide detergent. Detergent is automatically dispensed when the VPS wand is in low pressure mode.
- Pressure hose: This washer comes with an easy-to-connect 10 ft high-pressure hose. However, it doesn't feature any proper storage solution for it (no reel, strap or hook).
- Spray gun and wand: The included classic ergonomic spray gun and its VPS wand can be easily stored in a dedicated slot. The Vario Power Spray (VPS) wand allows you to conveniently switch from low to high pressure, and everything between, while you clean. Simply twist the end for infinitely variable pressure adjustment.
Other Features
The Kärcher K1
- Safety: Safety of operation is enhanced by a trigger lock mechanism (which prevents accidental operation).
- Accessories: On top of an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) and the usual documentation to get you swiftly started, the Kärcher K1 also comes with pressure hose, spray gun, power cord, garden hose adapter and wand.
The Kärcher K1's performance versus other pressure washers
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how the key specs of the Kärcher K1 compare to similarly priced pressure washers.
- The Kärcher K1, which can reach a PSI of 1700, achieves an average pressure output, compared to other electric units that cost between $80 and $110. Prioritizing the highest water stream power? Check out the Westinghouse ePX3100v—a top contender in this price range, delivering up to 2100 PSI.
- With a water flow of up to 1.45 GPM (gallons per minute), this washer belongs to the upper end of the above-mentioned price range, as it can deliver a high volume of water. When it comes to efficiently rinsing away debris, one standout option within this price range is the Westinghouse ePX3100v, delivering an impressive 1.76 GPM.
- With a cleaning power of 1798 Cleaning Units, the K1 falls on the lower end compared to similarly priced electric devices. If prioritizing the highest overall cleaning power, the Craftsman CMEPW1800 with its 2160 Cleaning Units may stand out for its exceptional cleaning efficiency among similarly priced units.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other electric washers between 1500 and 2000 Cleaning Units, the Karcher K1 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget pressure washer.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Portable
- High GPM for the price
- Decent PSI for the price
- No soap tank
- No pressure hose storage
- Low CU for the price
About Kärcher
Founded in 1935 by Alfred Kärcher, this family-owned business is headquartered in Winnenden, Germany. Credited with developing Europe's first hot water high-pressure washer in 1950, the company continues to pride itself on ingenuity and innovative thinking for new solutions in the cleaning industry. Kärcher also insists on being a socially- and ecologically-sustainable company. The popularity of the brand can be seen by the fact that the name Kärcher has in some European countries become a colloquial term used synonymously with pressure washers.
Warranty Information
The Kärcher K1 is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the unit.
For more information about the warranty of Kärcher pressure washers, please consult Kärcher's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-537-4129.
