Review: Karcher K3.98 Electric Pressure Washer

**justin_murphy** · 10-11-2006, 03:48 PM

I thought I'd review the most important product I have in my business next to my truck. This pressure washer has been with me for a year now and used everyday in my business for the last 8 months. I purchased it last November with some birthday money (Wal Mart gift card). When I started looking at other's setups, I was skeptical. How would and could my electric Karcher hold up to their 1K+ gas pressure washers? I said what the heck. For 159.00, if it blew in a week, I'd already have made my money back.

Well I can't kill this thing. It's still going strong after all this time. Also, for the last 4 months, it has been in the weather 24/7. Yep. I got tired of taking in and out so I just left it! I'm gonna list the pros and cons below.

Pros
Super Quiet.
It only runs when the trigger is pulled so it can be left on all the time.
It draws water from a standing source like a tank.
The turbo nozzle wand is excellent for wheels and wheel wells.
The pressure is only 1750 PSI....perfect and safe for autos.
The chemical tank is awesome for car washes....not a foam gun though.
Light-weight.
Inexpensive.
Does not require gasoline.

Cons
Needs electricity.
Lower PSI.
Short hose. I had to buy a 29.95 25ft. extension hose.
The trigger gun must stay hooked to the hose making it awkward to store.

Features & Specifications

Premium pressure-washing performance in a compact package. The Karcher 1750 PSI Pressure Washer is much quieter than a gas-powered pressure washer and up 35 times more powerful than a garden hose. Specialized wands and an automatic detergent feature make it perfect for getting grime off your driveway, patio, car or anything else that needs a good scrubbing.

* 1750psi of grime-blasting power
* Precision German Engineering
* Powerful, long-lasting Induction Motor
* Includes DirtBlaster Spray Wand for powerful concentrated cleaning
* Includes Vario Power Spray (VPS) Wand for less intense cleaning
* VPS Wand features an automatic detergent function
* Integrated onboard detergent tank
* Includes soft-bristle wash brush for gentle cleaning
* 25-foot high-pressure hose
* Certified by CSA International

Shipping Weight (in pounds):
38.3
Product in Inches (L x W x H):
23.0 x 15.5 x 13.0
Assembled in Country of Origin:
USA and/or Imported
Origin of Components:
USA and/or Imported

**P1et** · 10-11-2006, 04:59 PM

Excellent review as usual! My dad bought one not too long ago and he liked it so much that he went back to the store and bought a ton of other Karcher items!

Just so everyone knows, I think they have quite a few for sale at Big Lots for $99.

**justin_murphy** · 10-11-2006, 05:34 PM

They have a foam attachment as well.

**Driven Auto Detail** · 10-11-2006, 05:57 PM

Awesome review! That's one heck of a deal, especially if it can be had for $99.

I assume Wal-Mart also sells the 25ft. extension?

Justin, what kind of chemical do you put in the chemical tank. I'm guessing there's an on/off valve for water only (no chemical)?

Again, great review. I always look forward to reading your reviews on products!

**Al-53** · 10-11-2006, 06:10 PM

I have the same model....very good machine....I also have the foam gun..and a foam lance...and it shoots some foam....the lance does....there is a post with pics on autopia showing the lance working...just need an adapter to make it fit . cost of lance was 59.95..adapter was 6.85...

I use this machine for cars..deck cleaning...washing windows..and it has done all very well...

I got mine at big lots..they are reconditioned ones..but look and work like new...

AL

**justin_murphy** · 10-11-2006, 06:29 PM

You have to use the adjustable wand at low to get the tank to push the fluid out. Then, all you have to do is turn the wand to high and it stops the soap! I'm using a cheap deal I found on Eagle One's car wash. Works decent but not enough foam. I'm gonna try some Eagle One Bucket Free in there tomorrow.......bet it foams like a mug!

**sparkie** · 10-11-2006, 11:00 PM

Great review! I've been thinking about replacing my gas pressure washer with one of them. It's been a good one, got it in 92.

Edit, I hate running out of gas in the middle of cleaning something.

**FloridaNative** · 10-15-2006, 03:23 PM

Thanks so much for the review Justin. I've been eyeballing the one at BJ's for a couple of months now. I would like to get one for engine detailing as well as for household cleaning and your review really sold me.