KARCHER K4 Classic Car and Home Electric High Pressure Washer Instruction Manual

KARCHER K4 Classic Car and Home Electric High-Pressure Washer

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: K 4 Classic
• Product Language: English
• Product Registration: www.kaercher.com/welcome
• Part Number: 59802410 (10/23)

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Instructions

• It is crucial to adhere to the safety instructions provided in the manual to prevent any potential risks or accidents.

Environmental Protection

• Ensure proper disposal of any waste generated during the use of the product to protect the environment.

Intended Use

• Understand the intended purpose of the product to maximize its efficiency and lifespan.

Accessories and Spare Parts

• Refer to the manual for information on compatible accessories and spare parts for maintenance and replacement needs.

Scope of Delivery

• Familiarize yourself with all items included in the product package to ensure nothing is missing.

Device Description

• Learn about the various components and features of the device for proper utilization.

Initial Startup

• Follow the startup procedures outlined in the manual to initiate the device correctly.

Operation

• Understand how to operate the device safely and effectively to achieve desired results.

Transport

• Handle the product with care during transportation to prevent any damage.

Storage

• Store the product in a suitable environment as recommended in the manual to maintain its condition.

Care and Service

• Regular maintenance and servicing are essential for prolonging the product’s lifespan.

Troubleshooting Guide

• Refer to the troubleshooting section in case of any operational issues for potential solutions.

Warranty

• Review the warranty terms provided to understand your coverage in case of malfunctions or defects.

Technical Data

• Refer to the technical specifications for detailed information on the product’s capabilities and limitations.

Declaration of Conformity

• Read the declaration of conformity to ensure that the product meets relevant safety standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What should I do if the device is damaged?

• A: If the device is damaged, do not use it. Replace damaged components immediately to prevent any risks during operation.

Q: Can I use solvents or undiluted acids with this device?

• A: No, it is prohibited to use solvents, liquids containing solvents, or undiluted acids with this device as they can be highly flammable, explosive, and poisonous.

Q: How should I handle the high-pressure jet during operation?

• A: Do not aim the high-pressure jet at yourself, others, animals, live electrical equipment, or the device itself. Maintain a safe distance and avoid spraying harmful substances.

Safety instructions

• Read this safety chapter and these original instructions before using the device for the first time. Act per them. Keep the original instructions for future reference or 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.

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/tire valves are extremely dangerous.
• Damaged wheels/tire valves can be damaged by the high-pressure jet and explode. The first sign of this is discoloration of the tires. Keep a spray distance of at least 30 cm when cleaning the wheels/tire valves.

WARNING

• Do not use the device if people without the proper protective clothing are in their 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 that 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 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.

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 to 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.

Risk of electric shock

• DANGER Only connect protection class I devices to properly earthed power sources.
• Only connect the device to the 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 watertight 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 that has been set up by a qualified electrician as per IEC 60364-1.
• Check that the mains connection cable with the 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, the authorized 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 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.

Care and service

• WARNING Always pull out the mains plug before all care and maintenance work.
• CAUTION Have repair work and work on electrical components carried out by the authorized customer service only.
• ATTENTION Do not use acetone, undiluted acids, or solvents, as they corrode the materials used on the device.

Transportation

CAUTION

• Risk of accidents and injuries. Take into account the weight of the device for transportation and storage. See chapter Technical data in the operating instructions.

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 the 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 protection. Never modify or bypass safety devices.

Environmental protection

• The packing materials can be recycled. Please dispose of packaging per the environmental regulations.
• Electrical and electronic devices contain valuable, recyclable materials and often components such as batteries, rechargeable batteries, or oil, which – if handled or disposed of incorrectly – can pose a potential danger to human health and the environment.
• However, these components are required for the correct operation of the device. Devices marked by this symbol are not allowed to be disposed of together with household rubbish.
• Cleaning work produced in oily wastewater, e.g. washing engines, washing undercarriage, etc., may only be performed at washing stations with an oil separator.
• Working with detergents may only be performed on watertight surfaces with a connection to the waste water sewage system. Do not allow detergent to enter waterways or the soil.
• Extraction of water from public waterways is not permitted in some countries.
• Notes on the content materials (REACH) Current information on content materials can be found at: www.kaercher.de/REACH

Intended use

• Use the high-pressure cleaner in private households only.
• The high-pressure cleaner is intended for cleaning machines, vehicles, buildings, tools, façades, terraces, garden machines, etc. using a high-pressure water jet.

Accessories and spare parts

• Only use original accessories and original spare parts.
• They ensure that the appliance will run fault-free and safely.
• Information on accessories and spare parts can be found at www.kaercher.com.

Scope of delivery

• The scope of delivery for the appliance is shown on the packaging. Check the contents for completeness when unpacking. If any accessories are missing or in the event of any shipping damage, please notify your dealer.

Device description

For the figures, please refer to the graphics page Illustration A

1. Transport wheel
2. Storage for high-pressure gun
3. Storage for spray lance
4. Storage for high-pressure hose/mains connection cable
5. Spray lance dirt grinder for stubborn soiling
6. Vario Power spray lance for common cleaning tasks
   The working pressure can be continuously increased from “SOFT” to “HARD”. To adjust the working pressure, release the trigger gun lever and turn the spray lance to the desired position. Detergent can be added to the water jet when the spray lance is turned in the SOFT direction.
7. High-pressure gun
8. Clamp for connecting/disconnecting the high-pressure hose
9. High-pressure gun lever
10. High-pressure gun lock
11. High-pressure hose
12. Mains connection cable with mains plug
13. Trigger “0/OFF” / “I/ON”
14. Transport handle, extendable
15. High-pressure connection
16. Type plate
17. Water connection with integrated sieve
18. Detergent suction hose
19. Coupling for the water connection
20. Garden hose (fabric reinforced, diameter at least 1/2 inch (13 mm), length at least 7.5 m, with commercially available quick coupling) additionally required

Safety devices

CAUTION Missing or modified safety devices!

• Safety devices are provided for your protection.
• Do not bypass, remove, or render ineffective any safety devices.

Power switch

• The power switch prevents unintentional operation of the device.

High-pressure gun lock

• The lock locks 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

• Do not aim the high-pressure jet at persons, animals, live electrical equipment, or the device itself.
• Protect the device against frost.
• The device may not be connected to the public drinking water network.

Mounting

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

Installing the wheels

1. Install the wheels on the device so that they latch into place. Illustration B

Installing the water connection coupling

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

Initial startup

1. Place the device on a flat and level surface.
2. Unwind the high-pressure hose and eliminate any loops and twists.
3. Connect the high-pressure hose to the device.
   • a Pull up the clamp on the coupling.
   • b Insert the high-pressure hose into the coupling.
   • c Press down the clamp on the coupling Illustration D
4. Connect the high-pressure hose to the high-pressure gun.
   • a Squeeze the clamp.
   • b Pull out the clamp.
   • c Insert the high-pressure hose.
   • d Press the clamp in until it latches into place. Illustration E
5. Check for a secure connection by pulling on the high-pressure hose.
6. Plug the mains plug into a mains socket.

Water supply

• For the 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. Illustration F
3. Open the water tap fully.

Sucking water from open containers

When used with the KÄRCHER suction hose with check valve (special accessory, order number 2.643-100) this high-pressure cleaner is suitable for sucking up surface water, e.g. from rain barrels or ponds (for the maximum suction height see chapter Technical data).
The water connection coupling is not required for vacuuming operation.

1. Fill the suction hose with water.
2. Screw the suction hose onto the device’s water connection and hang it in a water source (e.g. water butt).

Vent the device

1. Switch the device on “I/ON”.
2. Unlock the lever of the high-pressure gun.
3. Press the lever of the high-pressure gun.
   • The device switches on.
4. Allow the device to run for a maximum of 2 minutes until the water escaping from the high-pressure gun is free of air bubbles.
5. Release the lever of the high-pressure gun.
6. Lock the lever of the high-pressure gun.

Operation

ATTENTION Dry running of pump

Damage to the device If the device does not build up any pressure within 2 minutes, switch off the device and proceed according to the instructions in chapter Troubleshooting guide.

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 tires, paint, or sensitive surfaces such as wood with the dirt blaster.

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

Operation with detergent

• DANGER Failure to adhere to the safety data sheet
• Incorrect handling of the detergent can seriously damage your health
• Observe the safety data sheet of the detergent manufacturer, in particular the instructions on personal protective equipment.

Note

• KÄRCHER detergents ensure fault-free operation. Ask us for a consultation, request our catalog or our detergent information sheets.

Note

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

1. Pull the suction hose for the detergent out of the casing to the desired length Illustration H
2. Hang the detergent suction hose in a container with detergent solution.
3. Use the Vario Power spray lance.
4. Turn the spray lance into the “SOFT” position.
   • The detergent solution is mixed with the water jet during operation.

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

1. 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 Illustration I
3. 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 depressurized.

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 released.
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 outlet.

Transport

CAUTION Failure to observe the weight

• Risk of injury and damage
• Be aware of the weight of the device during transportation.

Pulling device

1. Pull out the transport handle until it audibly engages.
2. Pull the device by the transport handle.

Transporting the device in a vehicle

• 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 high-pressure hose from the high-pressure gun.
3. Disconnect the spray lance from the high-pressure gun.
4. Stow both spray lances and the high-pressure gun in the appropriate storage options.
5. Disconnect the high-pressure hose from the device.
6. Store the high-pressure hose on the device.
7. Stow the main connection cable on the device.
   • Observe the additional notes before storing the device for a longer period, see chapter Care and Service.

Frost protection

ATTENTION Danger of frost

• Incompletely emptied devices can be destroyed by frost.
• 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 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.
• Clean 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 coupling from the water connection.
2. Pull out the sieve with a pair of flat pliers.
3. Clean the sieve under running water Illustration J
4. Insert the sieve into the water connection.
5. Screw the coupling onto the water connection.

Cleaning the detergent filter

Clean the detergent filter before prolonged storage.

1. Remove the filter from the detergent suction hose.
2. Clean the filter under running water. Illustration K

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 authorized Customer Service.

DANGER

• The 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. The device does not reach the required pressure

The water supply is too low.

1. Open the water tap fully.
2. Check the water inlet for an adequate flow rate.
3. Check the setting at the spray lance.
4. Check that the maximum suction height is not exceeded.

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. Illustration J

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. Cleaning the high-pressure nozzle:
   • a Remove contamination from the nozzle drill with a needle.
   • b Rinse the high-pressure nozzle with water from the front.
2. Check the water supply volume.

Device leaking

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

Detergent is not sucked in

1. Use the Vario Power spray lance and turn it in the “SOFT” direction.
2. Clean the filter on the detergent suction hose.
3. Check the detergent suction hose for kinks.

Warranty

The warranty conditions issued by our sales company apply in all countries. We shall remedy pos-sible malfunctions on your device 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 authorized customer service site.

(See overleaf for the address)

Technical data

Declaration of Conformity

• We hereby declare that the product described below complies with the relevant provisions of the following
• UK Regulations, both in its basic design and construction as well as in the version put into circulation by us.
• This declaration shall cease to be valid if the product is modified without our prior approval.
• Product: High-pressure cleaner
• Type: 1.679-xxx

Currently applicable UK Regulations

• S.I. 2001/1701 (as amended)
• S.I. 2008/1597 (as amended)
• S.I. 2012/3032 (as amended)
• S.I. 2016/1091 (as amended)

Designated standards used

• EN 60335-1
• EN 60335-2-79
• EN 62233: 2008
• EN 55014-1: 2017
• EN 55014-2: 2015
• EN 61000-3-2: 2014
• EN 61000-3-3: 2013
• EN IEC 63000: 2018

Applied conformity assessment procedure

• S.I. 2001/1701 (as amended): Schedule 8
• Sound power level dB(A)
• Measured: 89
• Guaranteed: 92
• The signatories act on behalf of and with the authority of the company management.
• Documentation supervisor: S. Reiser
• Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG
• Alfred-Kärcher-Str. 28 – 40
• 71364 Winnenden (Germany)
• Ph.: +49 7195 14-0
• Fax: +49 7195 14-2212
• WinSenden, 2021/02/01

EU Declaration of Conformity

• We hereby declare 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 us.
• This declaration is invalidated by any changes made to the machine that are not approved by us.
• Product: High-pressure cleaner
• Type: 1.679-xxx

Currently applicable EU Directives

• 2000/14/EC
• 2006/42/EC (+2009/127/EC)
• 2011/65/EU
• 2014/30/EU

Harmonized standards used

• EN 60335-1
• EN 60335-2-79
• EN 62233: 2008
• EN 55014-1: 2017
• EN 55014-2: 2015
• EN 61000-3-2: 2014
• EN 61000-3-3: 2013
• EN IEC 63000: 2018
• Applied conformity evaluation method 2000/14/EG: Annex V

Sound power level dB(A)

• Measured: 89
• Guaranteed: 92
• The signatories act on behalf of and with the authority of the company management.
• Documentation supervisor: S. Reiser
• Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG
• Alfred-Kärcher-Str. 28 – 40
• 71364 Winnenden (Germany)
• Ph.: +49 7195 14-0
• Fax: +49 7195 14-2212
• WinSenden, 2021/02/01

THANK YOU!

• Register your product and benefit from many advantages www.kaercher.com/welcome
• Rate your product and tell us your opinion.
• www.kaercher.com/dealersearch
• Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG
• Alfred-Kärcher-Str. 28-40
• 71364 Winnenden (Germany)

Documents / Resources

KARCHER K4 Classic Car and Home Electric High Pressure Washer [pdf] Instruction Manual K4 Classic Car and Home Electric High Pressure Washer, K4 Classic, Car and Home Electric High Pressure Washer, Home Electric High Pressure Washer, Electric High Pressure Washer, High Pressure Washer, Pressure Washer

References

• Cleaning equipment and pressure washers | Kärcher International
• Dealer Search | Kärcher International
• Home and Garden Warranty Registration USA | Kärcher
• User Manual