Kärcher K5 Power Control - 2000 PSI 1.55 GPM Electric Pressure Washer
The Kärcher K5 Power Control is an electric pressure washer offering a maximum water pressure of 2000 PSI and flow of 1.55 GPM. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Kärcher K5 Power Control
The Kärcher K5 Power Control, a medium duty pressure washer, gives its user an all-around versatile cleaning experience, topped off by the following features:
- spot cleaning of hard, unpainted surfaces, reaching high areas, and removing stubborn stains
- delicate surface cleaning, andbroad area cleaning with reduced pressure
- applying detergent and cleaning solutions, and rinsing surfaces
Ahead are presented its power characteristics and design, its main features and any other additional features.
Power
Utilizing a 13-amp induction motor, this machine's axial pump can deliver a pressure of 2000 PSI (around 33 times stronger than a standard garden hose) and a flow rate of up to 1.55 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 1700 PSI and the flow rate is 1.32 GPM. Thus, the Kärcher K5 Power Control achieves a cleaning power of 2244 Cleaning Units.
The K5 Power Control gets going swiftly with a simple ON/OFF switch, making startup hassle-free. The unit is ready-to-use with peace of mind, thanks to the included GFCI cord.
Design & Handling
With its portable design and approximate dimensions of D15.8 x W12 x H23.1 in, the Kärcher K5 Power Control priotirizes mobility one of its key features. The telescopic handle further eases storage and offers a convenient pulling height, allowing effortless transportation.
This unit's low weight of 29.9 lbs ensures easy maneuverability, allowing you to tackle cleaning projects with minimal effort. Its plastic frame plays a role in ensuring its lightweight profile. Complementing its lightweight frame, two 6.6" solid wheels are integrated, facilitating effortless transportation.
Main Features
The Kärcher K5 Power Control comes with a spray gun, a wand, a pressure hose and a detergent injection feature, which are detailed below.
- Soap injection: Detergent supply is ensured by Karcher's Plug 'n' Clean system. Detergent is automatically dispensed when the VPS wand is in "MIX" mode.
- Pressure hose: Utilizing a set of convenient hooks, the unit offers a convenient solution for storing the included 32 ft high-pressure hose when it's not in use, keeping it neatly organized.
- Spray gun and wand: A dedicated slot 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.
Plug 'n' Clean System
The practical Plug 'n' Clean system allows you to change the detergent in one quick and easy step, and to always see the filling level at a glance.
It removes the need for a proper soap tank, as you just have to plug your chosen Karcher detergent upside down in the unit's dedicated chamber.
6 Plug 'n' Clean detergents are available: Ultra Foam Cleaner, Plastic Cleaner, Wood Cleaner, Stone & Facade Cleaner, Car Shampoo, and Universal Cleaner.
Power Control Gun
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 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
- Safety: Safety of operation is enhanced by a trigger lock mechanism (which prevents accidental operation).
- Accessories: The Kärcher K5 Power Control comes with an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) and some basic documentation to get you quickly started. On top of that, you also get spray gun, power cord, DirtBlaster turbo spray wand (which is especially useful on stubborn dirt), pressure hose, garden hose adapter and wand.
The Kärcher K5 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 K5 Power Control compare to similarly priced pressure washers.
- The Kärcher K5 Power Control, boasting 2000 PSI, achieves a lower pressure compared to other electric pressure washers in the $300-400 price bracket. Prioritizing the highest water stream power? Check out the Westinghouse WPX3400e—a top contender in this price range, delivering up to 3400 PSI.
- At 1.55 GPM, this washer falls into the average range for water volume among devices in the price range noted above. If your priority is efficient debris removal, consider one of the products with the highest GPM in this price range, such as the Greenworks GPW2700, boasting 2.3 GPM.
- With a cleaning power of 2244 Cleaning Units, the K5 Power Control falls on the lower end compared to similarly priced electric devices. When it comes to the highest overall cleaning power in the current price range, one of the products at the very top currently is the BE P2314EN and its 3910 Cleaning Units.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other electric washers between 2000 and 2500 Cleaning Units, the Karcher K5 Power Control is on the expensive side of the price range.
While certainly not the cheapest of its cleaning power range, purchasing it could most likely also mean enjoying the reliability of a high-end product.
The bottom line
- Induction motor
- Portable
- Power Control gun
- Decent GPM for the price
- On the expensive side
- The Plug 'n' Clean system is not the most eco-friendly
- Low PSI for the price
- Low CU for the price
Features and Specifications
| Fuel | Electric |
|---|---|
| Motor | 13-amp, induction |
| Pump | Axial |
| Water | Cold (104°F max.) |
| PSI (max/rated) | 2000/1700 |
| GPM (max/rated) | 1.55/1.32 |
| Cleaning Units | 2244 |
| Frame | Plastic |
|---|---|
| Handling | Portable |
| Wheels | 2 wheels, ⌀6.6", solid |
| Weight | 29.9 lbs |
| Dimensions | Approx. 15.8 x 12 x 23.1 in (D x W x H) |
| Hose storage | Hooks |
| Soap injection | Yes |
|---|---|
| Soap tank | Plug 'n' Clean |
| Nozzles | Adjustable wand (VPS) |
| Onboard storage | Yes |
| Hose | 32 ft |
| Security | Trigger lock |
|---|---|
| Included accessories | VPS wand, Power Control spray gun, high pressure hose, dirt blaster, garden hose adapter, GFCI power cord |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Other model numbers | 1.324-568.0 |
| UPC | 886622044093 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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 K5 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.




