Karcher Pressure Washers

TonyC · Jan 7, 2004

Anyone have any experience with Karcher Pressure Washers? I've had one for about 5 years now but only used it about three times a year. Now it's in the shop and they said that the pump is "shot". My inclination is to toss it out but it sure wasn't cheap. I hate to throw good money after bad so I thought I'd see if you folks have any input.

fivestring · Jan 7, 2004

I have the "cheapie" model... about $100.00. I didn't need a high-pressure unit so I settled on the "cheapie". From the looks of the unit, I'd say it was made to be disposable, not repairable. So far, it's been dependable.
If I ever need a better unit, it will be another brand, for sure.

higgy · Jan 7, 2004

did you pump in some other lubricating agent after use, such as ethyene glycol. This helps the seals to stay plyable and stops the pumps from pitting etc.

BobinCols · Jan 7, 2004

I do not think much of their consumer electric model you buy at Lowe's/HDepot. We have a commercial HDS1055 hot water kerosene pressure washer at work (works on 220) since 1999 (used almost daily) and I would highly recommend it. This unit replaced another Karcher that lasted about 7 years with only a coil replacement. We would purchase another one with no hesitation (commercial unit).

JDGREEN4ME · Jan 7, 2004

We use them where I work and have not had any problems with them...

TonyC · Jan 8, 2004

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I do not think much of their consumer electric model you buy at Lowe's/HDepot)</font>

Yeah, the guy at the repair shop said their commercial line is light years better than their retail stuff. Either way, sometimes I feel like someone stuck a gun in my ribs and stole $400 from me. /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif

Knight9 · Jan 8, 2004

Tony,

I've had Karcher's 5.5 HP gas run unit for a couple of years now and have had no troubles....but that doesn't mean I won't! /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif Sure does a nice job now though!

Kevin