The Kärcher K3 Power Control is an electric pressure washer offering a maximum water pressure of 1800 PSI and flow of 1.45 GPM. (Read full specs)
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Walmart | Price history for the Kärcher K3 Power Control |
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| Highest Price $179.98 Lowest Price $129.98 Current Price $139.98 |
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Features and Specifications
| Fuel | Electric |
|---|---|
| Handling | Portable |
| Water | Cold (104°F max.) |
| PSI (max/rated) | 1800/1450 |
| GPM (max/rated) | 1.45/1.24 |
| Cleaning Units | 1798 |
| Motor | 13 amp, induction |
| Pump | Axial Cam |
| Other model numbers | 1.676-109.0 |
| Frame | Plastic |
|---|---|
| Soap injection | Yes |
| Soap tank | Removable |
| Nozzles | N/A |
| Onboard storage | Yes |
| Hose | 25 ft |
| Hose storage | Hooks |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | Approx. 11 x 11.7 x 26.7 in |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12.1 lbs |
| Wheels | 2 wheels, solid |
| Included accessories | VPS wand, Power Control spray gun, high pressure hose, dirt blaster, garden hose adapter, GFCI power cord |
| Security | Trigger lock |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| UPC | 886622044178 |
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 K3 Power Control
In a nutshell, the Kärcher K3 Power Control is a light duty pressure washer, which not only offers an all-around versatile cleaning experience, but that also allows:
- targeted spot cleaning for hard, unpainted surfaces, reaching elevated areas, and thoroughly removing stubborn stains
- gentle cleaning for sensitive surfaces, and wide coverage cleaning with low pressure
- using cleaning solutions, and rinsing surfaces to remove residue
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics and design, its main features and all the additional features it has to offer.
Power
With a 13-amp induction motor, its axial cam pump delivers a pressure of 1800 PSI (roughly 30 times more than a standard garden hose) and a flow 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, resulting in the Kärcher K3 Power Control's cleaning power of 1798 Cleaning Units.
As an electric pressure washer, the K3 Power Control's motor is effortlessly activated with a simple ON/OFF switch, ensuring convenient operation. The unit is ready-to-use with peace of mind, thanks to the included GFCI cord.
Design & Handling
Emphasizing mobility as a core feature, the Kärcher K3 Power Control boasts a portable design and approximate dimensions of D11 x W11.7 x H26.7 in. The telescopic handle further eases storage and offers a convenient pulling height, allowing effortless transportation.
With its lightweight construction, tipping the scales at only 12.1 lbs, this unit is a portable powerhouse for all your cleaning needs. Thanks in part to its plastic frame, it remains lightweight. Adding to its lightweight construction, two solid wheels are included, simplifying mobility and transport.
Main Features
Along with the Kärcher K3 Power Control itself, the package also includes a spray gun, a wand, a pressure hose and a detergent injection feature, which are discussed in further detail below.
- Soap injection: The pressure washer features a removable tank for detergent storage. Detergent is automatically dispensed when the VPS wand is in "MIX" mode.
- Pressure hose: For easy organization, the included 25 ft high-pressure hose can be stored on the unit using a set of convenient hooks when it's not in use, ensuring a clutter-free workspace.
- Spray gun and wand: A side hook allows for an easy storage of the included Power Control spray gun and its VPS wand. 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.
Power Control Gun
The Power Control trigger gun and its pressure display
Karcher's Power Control trigger gun gives you an instant reading on your current pressure setting.
It features indicators that illuminate to show you which of the 4 settings the Vario Power Spray wand is currently set.
The four settings are "MIX", "SOFT", "MEDIUM", and "HARD".
Home & Garden Mobile App
Kärcher's Home & Garden Mobile App
Kärcher Home & Garden app is available for Android (opens in a new tab) and iOS (opens in a new tab) devices. Even though this unit does not have Bluetooth connectivity, the app promises to turn you into a cleaning expert, by offering you access to Kärcher's extensive cleaning knowledge. It will enable you to:
- Get step-by-step help on installation and initial startup
- Consult its built-in advisor for instructions to achieve the best cleaning result in model scenarios (e.g. cleaning your bike)
- Read tips & tricks on how to get the most out of your washer
- Browse FAQ items and detailed troubleshooting guides
- Easily connect to the Kärcher service center to order accessories, detergents, etc.
Other Features
Some of the included accessories
- Safety: Safety of operation is enhanced by a trigger lock mechanism (which prevents accidental operation).
- Accessories: Included with the Kärcher K3 Power Control are also the owner's manual (opens in a new tab) and some basic documentation to get you promptly started, along with several accessories, such as power cord, spray gun, garden hose adapter, wand, DirtBlaster turbo spray wand (which is especially useful on stubborn dirt) and pressure hose.
The Kärcher K3 Power Control's performance versus other pressure washers
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how the key specs of the Kärcher K3 Power Control compare to similarly priced pressure washers.
- Featuring a maximum pressure of 1800 PSI, the Kärcher K3 Power Control finds itself in the projected pressure range for electric units priced from $120 to $150. For those prioritizing maximum water stream power, consider the Westinghouse ePX3100, boasting 2300 PSI, as a standout performer in this price range.
- With a water flow of 1.45 GPM, this washer stands as average in terms of water volume for the price range mentioned above. If you're looking for optimal debris removal capabilities, consider the Westinghouse ePX3100 as one of the top choices in this price range, with a flow rate of 1.76 GPM.
- With 1798 Cleaning Units, the K3 Power Control is on the low end when compared to other similarly priced electric devices. If prioritizing the highest overall cleaning power, the Pulsar PWE2001V with its 3200 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 K3 Power Control is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this pressure washer nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of cleaning power.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- Induction motor
- Portable
- Power Control gun
- Decent PSI for the price
- Decent GPM for the price
- 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 K3 Power Control 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.
