Pressure Washers take water from a garden hose outlet and increase the water pressure with a built-in pump. The pressurized water is ejected through a nozzle located at the end of the spray wand.

The force at  which the water exits the spray wand is also effected by the nozzle size. The smaller the orifice or opening at the end of the nozzle, the more restricted the stream of water and the greater the spray force.

What is PSI and why is it important?

PSI stands for pounds per square inch. This measurement refers to the amount of pressure created inside the pressure washer which is ultimately forced through the spray nozzle. Higher PSI is ideal for more difficult cleaning jobs. An ordinary garden hose, for example, generates roughly 50PSI, while Kärcher's line of pressure washers generate between 1200 and 3000 PSI.

(And Kärcher pressure washers use 80% less water than a garden hose)

What is a positive displacement pump?

A positive displacement pump is a Kärcher exclusive feature. The Kärcher 210, 460M, 520M and 3000 through 5000 series gas machines do not require a pressurized water source to operate -  any standing water source is ok, such as water from a lake or water in a barrel. This means a Kärcher pressure washer can be used in remote locations.

What does complete shutoff at trigger gun mean?

Complete shutoff at trigger gun is a standard feature on all three of Kärcher's electric models. The electric motor starts when the trigger is squeezed and stops when the trigger is released. Therefor, by releasing the trigger the entire machine shuts off. The benefits of this feature include convenient, effortless cleaning, safe and efficient operation, and longer operating life.

What is Thermal protection?

Since it is not possible to incorporate trigger gun shutoff on a gasoline powered machine, all Kärcher units feature a built-in Thermal protection system. This thermal protection device protects the pump from damage when running in bypass.(This is when the engine is running but the trigger gin is not operated). During bypass the water circulates inside the pump where it quickly heats up if the trigger  gun is not engaged within 5 minutes. As a result, the pump and the motor can experience severe damage. Kärcher's thermal protection system activates itself much like a thermostat when the water temperature inside the pump rises to dangerous levels. When the thermal protection device is activated, it automatically releases the hot water from inside the pump, protecting the pump from damage.

How is detergent supplied?

On most Kärcher machines, detergent is applied by submerging the detergent siphon tube in the desired cleaning solution and simply twisting the end of the wand 1/4 turn to the low pressure setting. Several units require the use of a convenient detergent applicator  which attaches directly to the end of the trigger gun extension. Detergents are helpful for loosening oil, oil films, dirt and grime, especially off painted surfaces like cars, trucks, boats and  vinyl or aluminum siding. Kärcher offers a complete line of biodegradable detergents for use with Kärcher high pressure washers.

POWERFUL CLEANING PRESSURE - USING 80% LESS WATER THAN A GARDEN HOSE