Kärcher K 2 Power Control Pressure Washer: User Manual and Operating Guide

Safety Instructions

Read this safety chapter and the original instructions before using the device for the first time. Act in accordance with them. Keep the original instructions for future reference or for future owners.

In addition to the notes in the operating instructions, you also need to take into consideration the general safety regulations and accident prevention guidelines applicable by law.

Warnings and information notices attached to the device provide important information for hazard-free operation.

Hazard Levels

DANGER

Indication of an imminent threat of danger that will lead to severe injuries or even death.

WARNING

Indication of a potentially dangerous situation that may lead to severe injuries or even death.

CAUTION

Indication of a potentially dangerous situation that may lead to minor injuries.

ATTENTION

Indication of a potentially dangerous situation that may lead to damage to property.

Protective Gear

CAUTION

Wear suitable protective clothing and safety goggles to protect yourself from water or dirt backsplash. Aerosols can be formed when using high-pressure cleaners. Inhaling aerosols can be harmful for your health. Depending on the application, the use of fully shielded nozzles (e.g. surface cleaners) can significantly lower the emission of aqueous aerosols. Depending on the environment to be cleaned, wear a suitable respiratory protective mask of class FFP 2 or comparable to protect yourself from inhaling aerosols if the use of a fully shielded nozzle is not possible.

General Safety Instructions

DANGER

Risk of asphyxiation. Keep packaging film out of the reach of children.

WARNING

Only use the device for its proper use. Take into account the local conditions and beware of third parties, in particular children, when working with the device. Persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities and persons lacking experience and knowledge may only use the appliance if they are properly supervised, have been instructed on use of the appliance safely by a person responsible for their safety, and understand the resultant hazards involved. Children must not operate the device. Children must be supervised to prevent them from playing with the appliance.

CAUTION

Safety devices are provided for your own protection. Never modify or bypass safety devices.

Risk of Electric Shock

DANGER

Only connect the device to alternating current. The voltage indicated on the type plate must match the voltage of the power source. Only operate the device via a fault current protection switch (maximum 30 mA). Never touch the mains plug and socket with wet hands. The mains plug and coupling of the extension cable must be water tight and may not be placed in water. The coupling may not be on the floor. Use cable drums to ensure that the sockets are at least 60 mm above the floor. All live parts in the work area must be protected against water jets.

WARNING

Only connect the device to an electrical connection which has been set up by a qualified electrician as per IEC 60364-1. Check that the mains connection cable with mains plug is undamaged each time before using the device. To avoid any possible danger, a damaged mains connection cable must be immediately replaced by the manufacturer, or the authorised customer service department or a qualified electrician. Do not damage the power supply and extension cable by running over it, crushing or yanking it or similar. Protect the power supply cable from heat, oil and sharp edges. Unsuitable electrical extension cables are dangerous. Only use approved and appropriately marked electrical extension cables with a sufficient line cross section when outdoors: 1-10 m : 1.5 mm², 10-30 m : 2.5 mm²

CAUTION

Always fully unwind the extension cable from the cable drum. In case of longer breaks in operation and after use, switch off the device at the main switch / device switch and pull the mains plug.

Operation

DANGER

Operation in explosive atmospheres is prohibited. Never suction solvents, liquids containing solvents or undiluted acids. This includes e.g. petrol, paint thinner or heating oil. The spray mist is highly flammable, explosive and poisonous. Damaged wheels / tyre valves are extremely dangerous. Damaged wheels / tyre valves can be damaged by the high-pressure jet and explode. The first sign of this is discolouration of the tyres. Keep a spray distance of at least 30 cm when cleaning the wheels / tyre valves.

WARNING

Do not use the device if people without the proper protective clothing are in its reach. Do not aim the high-pressure jet at yourself, e.g. to clean clothes or shoes. Do not direct the high-pressure jet at persons, animals, live electrical equipment or at the device itself. Do not spray any objects which contain harmful substances (e.g. asbestos). Check the device and the accessories, such as the high-pressure hose, high-pressure gun and safety devices, to make sure they are in proper safe and reliable condition before each operation. Do not use the device if it is damaged. Replace damaged components immediately. Only use high-pressure hoses, control panels and couplings specified by the manufacturer. Risk of scalding. When disconnecting the supply or high-pressure hose, hot water can leak out of the connections after operation.

CAUTION

According to the applicable regulations, the appliance may never be used with the drinking water network without a system separator. Ensure that the connection to your house water system, with which the high-pressure cleaner is operated, is equipped with a system separator according to EN 12729 type BA. Water that has flowed through a system separator is no longer classified as drinkable. Never leave the device unsupervised while it is in operation. Recoil force from the water stream emerging at the high-pressure nozzle acts on the high-pressure gun. Keep proper footing and hold the high-pressure gun and spray lance firmly. Accidents or damage due to the device falling over. Before all actions with or on the device, you must make sure that it is stable.

ATTENTION

Do not operate the device at temperatures below 0 °C.

Operation with Detergent

WARNING

Incorrect use of detergents can cause serious injuries or poisoning.

CAUTION

Keep the detergent out of the reach of children. Only use the detergents supplied or specified by the manufacturer. The use of other detergents or chemicals can impair the safety of the device.

Detergent can only be mixed into the jet at low pressure.

Kärcher detergents ensure fault-free operation. For consultation, catalogues, or detergent information sheets, contact Kärcher.

Recommended Cleaning Method

1. Spray the detergent sparingly on the dry surface and let it work for a while (do not let it dry).

2. Rinse off the loosened dirt with the high-pressure jet.

After Operation with Detergent

Flush the device with clear water for approx. 30 seconds.

Interrupting Operation

1. Release the lever of the high-pressure gun. The device switches off when the lever is released. The high pressure in the system is retained.

2. Lock the lever of the high-pressure gun.

3. Place the high-pressure gun with the spray lance in the parking position.

4. Switch the device off "0/OFF" during work breaks longer than 5 minutes.

Ending Operation

CAUTION

Pressure in the system. Injuries from high-pressure water escaping uncontrollably. Only disconnect the high-pressure hose from the high-pressure gun or the device when the system is fully depressurised.

1. Release the lever of the high-pressure gun.

2. Close the water tap.

3. Press the lever of the high-pressure gun for 30 seconds. The pressure remaining in the system is discharged.

4. Release the lever of the high-pressure gun.

5. Lock the lever of the high-pressure gun.

6. Disconnect the device from the water supply.

7. Switch off the device "0/OFF".

8. Pull the mains plug out of the socket.

Transport

CAUTION

Failure to observe the weight. Risk of injury and damage. Be aware of the weight of the device during transportation.

Carrying the device

1. Lift up the device by the carrying handle, and carry it.

Pulling the device

1. Pull the transport handle out until it audibly latches into place.

2. Pull the device via the transport handle.

Transporting the device in a vehicle

1. Secure the device against slipping and tipping over.

Storage

CAUTION

Failure to observe the weight. Risk of injury and damage. Be aware of the weight of the device during storage.

Storing the device

1. Place the device on a level surface.

2. Disconnect the spray lance from the high-pressure gun.

3. Disconnect the high-pressure gun from the high-pressure hose.

4. Disconnect the high-pressure hose from the device.

5. Store the high-pressure hose on the device.

6. Store the mains connection cable and accessories on the device.

Observe the additional notes before storing the device for a long period of time, see chapter Care and service.

Frost Protection

ATTENTION

Danger of frost. Incompletely emptied devices can be destroyed by frost. Completely empty the device and accessories. Protect the device from frost.

The following requirements must be satisfied:

• The device is disconnected from the water supply.
• The high-pressure hose is removed.

1. Switch the device on "I/ON".

2. Wait for a maximum of 1 minute until no more water escapes from the high-pressure connection.

3. Switch off the device.

4. Store the device in a frost-protected room, together with all accessories.

Care and Service

DANGER

Danger of electric shock. Injuries due to touching live parts. Switch off the device. Remove the mains plug.

The device is maintenance-free, i.e. you do not need to perform any maintenance work.

Cleaning the sieve in the water connection

ATTENTION

Damaged sieve in the water connection. Damage to the device through contaminated water. Check the sieve for damage before inserting it in the water connection. If necessary, clean the sieve in the water connection.

1. Remove the water connection coupling.

2. Pull the sieve out using flat pliers.

3. Clean the sieve under running water.

Illustration L: Shows cleaning the water connection sieve.

4. Insert the sieve into the water connection.

Clean the detergent filter

Clean the detergent filter before longer periods of storage.

1. Pull the filter off the detergent suction hose.

2. Clean the filter under running water.

Illustration M: Shows cleaning the detergent filter.

Troubleshooting Guide

Malfunctions often have simple causes that you can remedy yourself using the following overview. When in doubt, or in the case of malfunctions not mentioned here, please contact your authorised Customer Service.

DANGER

Danger of electric shock. Injuries due to touching live parts. Switch off the device. Remove the mains plug.

Device not running

1. Press the lever of the high-pressure gun. The device switches on.

2. Check that the voltage specified on the type plate corresponds to the voltage of the power source.

3. Check the mains connection cable for damage.

Device does not reach required pressure

The water supply is too low:

1. Open the water tap fully.

2. Check the water inlet for an adequate flow rate.

The sieve in the water connection is dirty:

1. Pull the sieve in the water connection out using flat pliers.

2. Clean the sieve under running water.

Air is in the device

1. Vent the device:

• a Switch on the device without a connected spray lance for a maximum of 2 minutes.
• b Press the high-pressure gun and wait until the water escaping from the high-pressure gun is free of air bubbles.
• c Connect the spray lance.

Strong pressure fluctuations

1. Clean the high-pressure nozzle:

• a Use a needle to remove dirt from the nozzle drill.
• b Rinse the high-pressure nozzle from the front with water.

2. Check the water supply volume.

Device leaking

1. The device leaks a small amount for technical reasons. If the leak is severe, request authorised Customer Service.

Detergent is not sucked in

1. Use the Click-Vario Power spray lance and turn it to "MIX".

2. Clean the filter on the detergent suction hose.

3. Check the detergent suction hose for kinks.

Warranty

The warranty conditions issued by the relevant sales company apply in all countries. Kärcher will remedy possible malfunctions on your appliance within the warranty period free of cost, provided that a material or manufacturing defect is the cause. In a warranty case, please contact your dealer (with the purchase receipt) or the next authorised customer service site.

Technical Data

Electrical Connection

• Voltage: 220-240 V
• Phase: 1 ~
• Frequency: 50-60 Hz
• Current consumption: 6 A
• Degree of protection: IPX5
• Protection class: II
• Power protection (slow-blowing): 13 A

Water Connection

• Feed pressure (max.): 1.2 MPa
• Input temperature (max.): 40 °C
• Input amount (min.): 8 l/min

Device Performance Data

• Operating pressure: 7.4 MPa
• Max. permissible pressure: 11.0 MPa
• Water flow rate: 5.5 l/min
• Maximum flow rate: 6.0 l/min
• Detergent flow rate: 0.3 l/min
• High-pressure gun recoil force: 11 N

Dimensions and Weights

• Typical operating weight: 4.8 kg
• Length: 246 mm
• Width: 280 mm
• Height: 586 mm

Determined values in acc. with EN 60335-2-79

• Hand-arm vibration value: <2.5 m/s²
• Uncertainty K: 0.3 m/s²
• Sound pressure level LpA: 74 dB(A)
• Uncertainty KpA: 3 dB(A)
• Sound power level LWA + Uncertainty WA: 90 dB(A)

Subject to technical modifications.

EU Declaration of Conformity

Kärcher declares that the machine described below complies with the relevant basic safety and health requirements in the EU Directives, both in its basic design and construction as well as in the version placed in circulation by Kärcher. This declaration is invalidated by any changes made to the machine that are not approved by Kärcher.

Product: High-pressure cleaner

Type: 1.673-xxx

Currently applicable EU Directives: 2000/14/EC, 2014/30/EU, 2006/42/EC (+2009/127/EC), 2011/65/EU

Harmonised standards used: EN 50581, EN 55014-1:2017, EN 55014-2:2015, EN 60335-1, EN 60335-2-79, EN 61000-3-2:2014, EN 61000-3-3:2013, EN 62233:2008

Conformity evaluation procedure used: 2000/14/EC: Appendix V

Sound power level dB(A): Measured: 88, Guaranteed: 90

Signed by H. Jenner (Chairman of the Board of Management) and S. Reiser (Director Regulatory Affairs & Certification) on behalf of Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG, Winnenden, 2020/08/01.

Description of the Device

The maximum amount of equipment is described in these operating instructions. Depending on the model used, there are differences in the scope of delivery (see packaging).

For the illustrations, refer to the graphics page Illustration A.

Components:

• 1 Transport wheel
• 2 Storage for spray lance
• 3 Storage / parking position for high-pressure gun
• 4 Power Control spray lance dirt grinder for stubborn dirt, pressure level: HARD
• 5 Click-Vario Power Power Control spray lance for the most common cleaning tasks, pressure levels: HARD / MEDIUM / SOFT / MIX
• 6 Power Control high-pressure gun
• 7 Clamp for connecting / disconnecting the high-pressure hose
• 8 High-pressure gun lever
• 9 High-pressure gun lock
• 10 Trigger "0/OFF" / "I/ON"
• 11 Mains connection with mains plug
• 12 Storage hook for power cord
• 13 Carrying handle
• 14 Transport handle, telescoping
• 15 Quick coupling for high-pressure hose
• 16 Type plate
• 17 High-pressure hose
• 18 Water connection with integrated sieve
• 19 Detergent suction hose
• 20 Water connection coupling
• 21 Garden hose with commonly available coupling (Fabric reinforced, Diameter of at least 1/2 inch (13 mm), Length at least 7.5 m)
• 22 Washing brush, suitable for working with detergents
• 23 Foam nozzle for powerful detergent foam
• 24 Detergent container (optional)

Illustration A: Exploded view of the Kärcher K 2 Power Control pressure washer showing all numbered components.

Safety Devices

Power switch

The power switch prevents unintentional operation of the device.

High-pressure gun lock

The lock secures the lever of the high-pressure gun and prevents the device from starting unintentionally.

Auto-stop function

If the lever of the high-pressure gun is released, the pressure switch turns off the pump and the high-pressure jet stops. The pump switches on again when the lever is pressed.

Symbols on the Device

Symbol 1: Do not aim the high-pressure jet at persons, animals, live electrical equipment or the device itself.

Symbol 2: Protect the device against frost.

Symbol 3: The device may not be connected to the public drinking water network.

Assembly

For the illustrations, refer to the graphics page. Fit the supplied loose parts onto the device before starting up the device.

Fitting the wheels

1. Fasten and secure the wheels to the device.

Illustration B: Shows how to attach the transport wheels to the main unit.

Installing the handles

1. Attach the transport handle.

2. Attach the carrying handle.

Illustration C: Depicts attaching the transport and carrying handles.

Installing the water connection coupling

1. Screw the water connection coupling onto the water connection on the device.

Illustration D: Illustrates screwing the water connection coupling onto the device.

Initial Startup

1. Place the device on a flat and level surface.

2. Insert the high-pressure hose into the quick coupling until it audibly latches into place.

Illustration E: Shows initial connection of the high-pressure hose to the quick coupling.

3. Press the clamp for the high-pressure hose together and pull out of the high-pressure gun.

4. Insert the high-pressure hose into the high-pressure gun.

5. Press the clip in until it latches into place.

6. Check for a secure connection by pulling on the high-pressure hose.

7. Plug the mains plug into a mains socket.

Illustration F: Demonstrates disconnecting and reconnecting the high-pressure hose to the gun.

Water Supply

For connection values, see the type plate or chapter Technical data. Observe the water distribution company regulations.

ATTENTION

Damage through contaminated water. Contamination in the water can damage the pump and the accessories. Kärcher recommends using the Kärcher water filter for protection (special accessory, order number 4.730-059).

Connection to the water line

ATTENTION

Hose coupling with Aquastop on the water connection of the device. Damage to the pump. Never use a hose coupling with Aquastop on the water connection of the device. You can use an Aquastop coupling on the tap.

1. Plug the garden hose onto the water connection coupling.

2. Connect the garden hose to the water line.

3. Open the water tap fully.

Illustration G: Shows connecting the garden hose to the device and water tap.

Power Control System

Note: The sensitivity of materials can vary greatly depending on age and condition. The recommendations are therefore not binding.

Pressure Levels and Recommended Uses:

• HARD: Stone terraces made of paving stones or washed concrete, asphalt, metal surfaces, garden utensils (wheelbarrow, spade, etc.).
• MEDIUM: Cars / motorcycles, brick surfaces, plastered walls, plastic furniture.
• SOFT: Wooden surfaces, bicycle, sandstone surfaces, rattan furniture.
• MIX: For detergent application.

Operation with a washing brush

ATTENTION

Paint damage. Damage to surfaces through a dirty brush. Ensure that the washing brush is free from dirt or other particles before using it.

Note: The device operates at low pressure when using washing brushes. This means that detergent can be mixed with the water.

1. Insert the washing brush into the high-pressure gun and turn by 90° to fasten it.

High-pressure operation

ATTENTION

Damage to painted or sensitive surfaces. Surfaces can be damaged when the jet is too close to the surface or an unsuitable spray lance is used. Maintain a minimum spray distance of 30 cm when cleaning painted surfaces. Do not clean car tyres, paint or sensitive surfaces such as wood with the dirt grinder.

1. Insert a spray lance into the high-pressure gun and lock it by turning it 90°.

Illustration H: Shows inserting and locking the spray lance into the high-pressure gun.

2. Switch the device on ("I/ON").

3. Unlock the lever of the high-pressure gun.

4. Press the lever of the high-pressure gun. The device switches on.

Illustration I: Shows pulling out the detergent suction hose.

Illustration J: Details using the foam nozzle.

Illustration K: Depicts interrupting operation.