You can find amazon links to the equipment used in this video here: www.amazon.co.uk/shop/bigtedshomegarden?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfbigtedshomegarden_XYWG189ZT5TFRMHM85CB International amazon links are in the video description. Clicking on the UK product link should take you directly to the product listing on your local amazon site.
@@GioLeonTango The amazon link takes you to the correct model amzn.to/3OwOX0l If you want direct international links, they are in the video description. Hope this helps.
Best review of these I've come across!! Especially the breakdown of attachments. You've actually helped me save money as I was gonna splurge for the K5 and after seeing this, the K4 will absolutely do the job! Cheers!
Great video, thank you! This has made me realise I can get a decent pressure washer without having to go to the absolute top top of the range and the power foamer recommendation was great cheers!
Great video mate, best video i have seen covering this Karcher K4, You have persuaded me to purchase one after i have wrote this, i have subscribed & ticked all notifications, so looking forward to browsing your previous videos, “Hey Karcher, this is an excellent review this chap has done of your product, send him some products to review because this is the chap for the job !”
Great review thanks. Came here looking for advice on a karcher for blasting the patio and doing the car. Glad I did because we ended up getting the home kit. You reminded me of how annoying it is having all the pressure wash debris all around the garden after doing the patio. Great consumer advice, thanks a lot.
When I bought mine I unravelled the hose and stretched it out in a straight line for 3 or 4 days. Big improvement! Although now it's harder to store away it still beats the way it came out of the box.
Many thanks for this video as I've just bought the K4. I'm looking forward to using it soon as we live in the countryside and it's impossible to keep our cars clean in the wet weather with so much mud and other "items" on the roads.
Good review, and had a good laugh too at the end. I was looking for something to pressure wash my balconies after a long winter and something to clean the car occasionally, this seems to be perfect for it. It's on sale too, so good enough for me!
I have the older K5 myself which I upgraded with a uberflex hose, gun type lance with the various nozzles, and all quick connect fittings. The nice thing about the nozzles is there is no splash back, especially when doing the wheels. Much better defined fan spray, lovely to use compared to the rather scattered karcher spray pattern.
Just got a karcher k4 premium power control pressure washer, had the same trouble with the hose kinked all the time, took it off the machine soaked it in hot water which has taken the curled memory out if it, nice and straight now.
Brilliant video big Ted very informative and very well explained you've helped me decide after my old karcher of over 10 years started to fail me.. K4 it is.. liked and subscribed 👍🏼
Thanks for this excellent review & video In Australia they have got wise to the fact that the k4 is the sweet spot - so it no longer comes with the surface cleaning attachement.... I ended up getting a k5 because this is included....
Thanks for the great feedback 👍 If you want to clean patios/driveways then the surface cleaner attachment is essential. You've made a good decision, just beware that pressure washing becomes addictive 🙂
Great review. Totally agree with you about the hose, it is annoying. The K4 I have is the model previous to your total control version. I bought it from the Karcher Outlet store and it came with the home and the car kit for a very reasonable price. Worth a look if you are happy with A grade or refurbished kit. Mine has been excellent.
Used mine only 6 times over 4-6 years and it’s knackered! Keep tripping the mains out, I called the local repair shop and asked how old it is!! Despite how many times, they said it’s happens quite a lot! Time to throw it away and get another one!!! WTFeck!
I’ve got a Kärcher K4 I’ve used it three times in 2 years and it’s now defunct, it’s just out of warranty, I couldn’t find a repairer and in any case Karcher have discontinued the spares. I won’t be replacing it with another Karcher!
"Can end up spending endless amounts of money" month ago I bought the K3, upgraded to the K4, 200 quid on AutoGlym products and just ordered another 100 quids worth, so all in I'm a good 600 quid in!🤣 ladies and gents, this fella gives real honest reviews! Top vid!!
After using my k4 twice I purchased a 10 metre rubber hose from direct hoses and haven't looked back, well worth the investment. Also like you a mjjc foam cannon and stubby gun have been bought.
@@paulwoodcock764 The 10m braided rubber hose I bought from direct hoses was just under £40 inc postage. They also have a flexible plastic hose which is about £10 cheaper. There is a video on my channel showing how easy it is to change the hose.
After the Karcher splatter-fest 3 years ago on our brick-weave, we got a K4 with anti-splash dome (and fluid). But it can't shift the worst moss/lichen, so it was back to the wand. Moss and kiln-dried sand between bricks flew everywhere! Beefed-up models have revolving brushes, but the dome is only 80% effective imho.
Thanks for commenting Humboles. When I initially tried out the patio cleaner attachment, I found the same as you and was expecting to have to finish off the most stubborn moss/lichen with the dirtblaster lance. When I cleaned both the block paved driveway and patio, I actually found the patio cleaner did a very good job. In some places it took several passes but it did get rid of virtually all of the moss/weeds/lichen without needing to use the lance.
Thanks John. I bought a 10 m braided rubber hose from a company called direct hoses. There are direct links in the comments below this video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Hi Ted, you have a fantastic channel and your videos are too the point which is great. May I ask what the recommended procedure is when turning off your jet wash after using it, eg do you turn the water off and leave the pump on to drain out the remaining water or is it the opposite way round?
Thanks Mark. I turn the machine off first and then the water. As far as I'm aware, the only time you would want to drain the pump is if you are going to store it over winter somewhere where the water could freeze.
Thinking of upgrading my Bosche Aquatak to one of these just because there are so many more attachments and accessories for it. The Bosche is somewhat limited in that regard
I've had my K4 for nearly 3 years now and have been very happy with it. But if you are happy with your Bosch pressure washer and just want to be able to use a wider range of accessories, then you can buy an adapter for about £10 which will let you use accessories with 1/4" quick connect fittings. This link might help: Pressure Washer Adapter for Bosch AQT, 1/4'' Quick Connect amzn.eu/d/grLdIYc
Have just found your channel. Been looking at upgrading my K2, which is no longer fit for purpose and found your review of the K4 the most informative. One question though, do you have a link to the replacement hose? I'm also going to buy the MJJC foam gun. have subscribed to your channel.
Thanks Derek. I bought the 10m version of this hose www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections and have been very happy with it. It's probably overspecified for the K4 but direct hoses also sell a cheaper flexiwash plastic hose which should also do the job.
Thanks Carl. I got my replacement hose from direct hoses but you can get them on amazon now as well. This video shows how to change the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Loved the Video - My current K2 has seen its better years after loads of work and is now leaking oil - Did you upgrade to the K4 from a K2 and have you found the extra 20 bar noticeable?
Thanks Derek. My old Karcher was that old that it pre-dated the K series 😳 One of guys at work has recently upgraded from a old, leaking K2 to the K4 and reckons there is a big difference in terms of quality and performance.
Thanks for the great feedback Paul. I bought a 10 m braided rubber hose from direct hoses and it's made a big difference. There is another video on my channel showing how to upgrade the hose.
Great review. It still amazing me that companies like karcher can produce such poor quality hoses when it's a crucial part of the functionality of the product. I have upgraded the hose as the original is unusable. Usual big companies lowering the quality of their products to make more money.
Thanks for the great feedback. Virtually all manufacturers try to cut costs to the absolute minimum to stay competitive but as you say, quality drops as a result.
Hi, really enjoyed your video, I’m upgrading from the K2 and the problem exists with this model with the hose kinking. If possible please advise what hose you bought and from what company. Thanks
Thanks for the great feedback Alan. I bought a 10m braided runner hose from direct hoses and have been very happy with it. There are however, other cheaper hoses on amazon which get good reviews. This video shows how to change the hose and there are several direct links to the direct hoses hose in the comments: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Great review, I've just bought one. Agree with the hose, could you advise what your going to replace it with? Also I got the stone and patio cleaner, but it doesn't seem to come through, am I doing something wrong?
Thanks Louise. I bought a 10 m braided rubber hose to replace the original hose on my K4. This video has links to the hose in the comments and shows how I fitted it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html This is the best I can find re. the stone cleaner: www.espares.co.uk/answer/es1397712/44915/how-do-i-plug-in-the-detergent-bottle
Thanks for the great feedback 👍 I have the 10m hose featured in this video (there are direct links in the comments) th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html I've been very happy with this hose but you could also look at other replacement hoses on amazon which get very good reviews.
I bought a 10m braided rubber hose from a company called direct hoses. This video shows how to fit it th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html There are direct links to the hose in several of the comments below that video.
Thanks for the great feedback. I've had my K4 for over 2 years now and have been very happy with it. I replaced the original hose with a 10m braided rubber hose from a company called direct hoses
I recently bought a K4 and have been impressed with it. Much better than the Qualcast and it fits my Meguire's snow foam cannon, which the Qualcast did not. I'm curious to know, do you always start jetting off the snowfoam from the bottom of your car? If you start from the roof and work down, the dirty water flows downwards, otherwise you're making the lower parts you have already cleaned, dirty again.
Thanks Alex. I can see your point about starting from the top and working down. Tbh, I don't think it really matters because the roof and windows are normally the cleanest parts of the car and you have to rinse off any foam that runs down anyway. Some might say that this means that the lower panels get rinsed off twice this way 🙂
Just got one easy build i used silicone grease on the wheels and connecters looking forward to having a blast, one thing i would love to be able to use is my old lance off my old machine but am sure i will knock something up,
I upgraded to the 10m braided rubber hose shown in this video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html It came from a company called direct hoses. There are direct links to the hose in the video description and in the comments.
Weve just unpacked our K4 with home kit as wanted round patio cleaner as we have Indian Stone and dont want to ruin mortar inbetween.....Neither of us is very practical and taken us some time to slowly work through the instructions to assemble...... Can now see what you mean about the hose and did read in a lot of reviews before we purchased that his is a big negative...... Do Karcher not read these comments do you think ??? However, we mainly want for cleaning our big driveway and patios at the back so think we can live with it for a while........would a different hose not be difficult to replace to work with guns ????? Thank you so much for this video, feels like a friend kindly explaining to us !!! subscribed for you too xx
Thanks Babs 🙂 Changing the hose is actually very simple though there is obviously extra cost involved. There is another video on my channel showing how to do it. A possible alternative is to use an anti twist adapter. I got hold of one this week and hope to try it out soon. I will post a video on this when time allows 🙄
@@bigtedshome I did see that but does the end metal bits just fit easily into another tube........ It was that bit that I couldn't see, just the finished switch...... However, spent enough for now so will see how we go......... Just tried a bit of patio and its amazing...... Worth getting the higher pressure for sure...... 3 years guarantee from karcher too 😀😀😀😀😀
@@babsbentele4405 You just press the yellow button and pull the old hose our. The new one has the same fitting and clicks into the same hole in the handset. I'm glad to hear that the paving is looking good 😀
Hi big Ted, I bought the k4 about 1yr ago, it replaced my 6yr old powercraft (aldi version) with patio cleaner, I found the karcher k4 rubbish compared to the powercraft the powercraft was £79 the k4 was £230, the k4 is now redundant in the shed the k4 just didn't have the power, the powercraft was abused it was loaned out to family members all the time, I've recently replaced it with a 2.4kw £59 from aldi much better in my opinion 😊 so £230 sat in the shed. Also aldi one has a 3yr warranty, my powercraft started pulsing just before the 3yrs I sent it off and came back more powerful in karcher box and packaging.
Thanks for commenting Trevor. I've not used a powercraft pressure washer so can't compare the two but I've had no issues with lack of power from the K4. If you think yours is not working properly, the K4 also has a 3 year warranty.
@@bigtedshome just a quick I remember holding the powercraft lance in one hand pull the trigger and it would fly up in the air if only using one hand the k4 doesn't and my son has a k4 and it's the same I think the k4 is 1.8kw and power craft was 2.2 or 2. 4kw. Thanks for your reply 😊.
@@trevorford9432 You will like this. Just been googling powercraft pressure washers and it looks like the 2.2 kW powercraft 7944 was made for Aldi by Karcher.
Thanks Ron. I bought a 10m braided rubber hose from direct hoses and have been very happy with it. This video shows how to change the hose. There are direct links to the hose in the comments below the video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Prices vary throughout the year. Amazon is always a good place to look first as they often have the K4 on offer (there is a link in the video description). Halfords, Toolstation, Homebase and B&Q also have sales/offer periods and are worth a look. If you are interested in a refurbished machine, the karcher outlet store is good.
That on/off switch is poor and temperamental and I was disappointed they changed the lance fitting so earlier accessories do not fit. I had to buy a new (fitting) lance cut it in half and plastic weld it to the other half of an old extension lance to be able to use my many older extensions. Karcher don’t make a converter, but I do!
Yes, upgrading the hose made a massive difference. Details of the hose I bought and how to fit it are in this video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Dear Sir, First of all, I am happy to see your videos and thankful to you for making such knowledgeable video. Could you please answer me... About difference between Karcher K4 Power Control and K4 Premium Control. Please do help! It's my humble request to you. I am in very need of Karcher K4 OR K5. What is the main difference between Karcher K4 OR K5. Kind Regards, Basavaraj from India. 🙏
Thank you for your kind words Basavaraj. As far as I am aware there is no difference between the K4 Power Control, Premium Control or Full Control. I believe that these are just marketing brands for the same machine (I have no link with Karcher though so could be incorrect). The K5 is a more powerful model than the K4. It has a higher maximum pressure and a greater water output. It is also significantly more expensive unfortunately. Personally, I have found that the K4 is powerful enough to do everything I have needed to use it for so far. I hope this helps 🙂
I bought one of these 10m braided rubber hoses from direct hoses: www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections This video shows how to fit it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
I had an old version of the K4 but now need a new pressure washer. I was considering the lighter/easier to manoeuvre K3 or even K2 but your video has convinced me to buy the K4 again. I have read the weight on the spec but is it really easy to handle ? I am a bit obsessed with detailing my car but found the old K4 heavy.
It is heavy but with the wheels and the extending handle, I've not found it difficult to move my K4. I upgraded the hose to a 10m rubber hose and this goes easily around my car so I don't have to move the pressure washer when washing the car.
Hi I loved the video but can you tell why would you not fill one of the detergent bottles that come with the K4 with snow foam instead of using the one attached the the lance ?
Good question! It's because a snow foam cannon is designed to pull the detergent in the correct ratio into the water flow using the venturi effect. The nozzle then aerates the mix to form the foam which sticks to the car. I've never tried it but would expect that if you put the snow foam into a plug in detergent bottle, you would get a very thin foam which wouldn't stick to the car long enough to break down the grime.
I bought one of these 10m braided rubber hoses from direct hoses: www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections This video shows how to fit it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Do you think the extra power of a k5 would be worth it around the house? As in when cleaning the pacers for e.g. did you ever feel a bit more power wouldve been nice?
I've found that the K4 has been powerful enough to do everything that I've wanted to do and I have been very happy with it. The K5 however, is a better machine with a better quality pump. I would also consider AVA machines and the Karcher Professional range if I was looking to buy a new pressure washer.
@@bigtedshome sounds good mate. How do you mix the foam what are the measurements? And 1 more question :) on the testing with the round mount did you use the patio cleaning bottle that comes with it? Or only water
@@Dan-oo9jx With snow foam, I normally use 1 part detergent to 4 parts water . I didn't bother with the stone cleaner detergent as I found that the patio cleaner attachment did a great job without it.
I was looking forva new pressure washer last year and ended up buying the Karcher HD4/8 out of Farmfoods for £99.99 and its an amazin machine .... Like all Karchers let down by a crap pressure hose and a lack of quick release fittings wgich I'd to buy separately.... Not asceasy ss you think as some arrined with a 3/8" fitting rsther than the adverised 1/4"
@@bigtedshome .... The issue is getting it without she who must be obeyed knowing.... I can get stuff from Amazon and pick it up at a local delivery point but the issue is without seeing it in real life you don't know how good they are ..... Many of them seem to use the same, or a similar, hard plastic outer coating the Karcher has with nothing offering a hard-wearing rubber hose
@petersmith7126 😂 I know exactly what you mean! I bought a 10m braided rubber hose from direct hoses and have found it to be much better than the stiff plastic Karcher hose. There are direct links in the comments on this video, which shows how to change the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
@@bigtedshome ..... The. HD 4//8 uses a normal hose wth Standard M22/14 connectors so there's loads to choose from ..... Amazon would be my best option for a pick up but so far virtually all the hoses seem pretty similar to the Karcher with a plastic outer coating .... They're meant to be more flexible but I'd still prefer a rubber outer casing
Hi, I was wondering if you have any recommendations for the Karcher K4 hose. The one supplied is so difficult to use. I was hoping you could recommend a more flexible one
I bought the 10m version of this hose and have been very happy with it: www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections
Good question. There's lots of conflicting advice if you google it. I prefer to use a window vac but if I was going to use a pressure washer on my windows, I would turn the pressure down and use a wide spray pattern. This explains what can happen if you get it wrong: Pressure Washing Windows? Bad Idea! www.windowworldofboston.com/pressure-washing-windows-bad-idea/
there is an anti twist adapter which seems to eliminate the problems with hose. i came across this while looking for solutions on utube.why no mention of this puzzles me as it seems to be the answer to all problems of customers.
You're right Sean, there is a Karcher anti twist adapter but it's not always that easy to find. I had to buy mine from the German amazon site (it is currently available in the UK: amzn.to/4awz6rE). The adapter does work but imho doesn't make as big a difference as upgrading to a better hose and it costs nearly as much.
@@bigtedshome thanks ted for replying to my email.i agree that the hose is the best option.if you do invest maybe you might demonstrate the results and post same.thanks again
@seanwhite8486 I replaced the original hose with a 10m braided rubber hose. I've had the rubber hose for about 2 years now and have been very pleased with it. This is how I upgraded the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Hi, thanks for the video. I just wanted to let you know that if you wash your wheels like this, all the contaminants (from the brake pads) go into the storm drain and then to the ocean :-(. It is better to wash them manually with a cloth, that you then put into washing machine. Such water goes to waste water treatment plant before it goes back into river. Also please always use bio-degradable cleaning agents. Thanks :-)
Totally agree regarding the high pressure hose. This is a design disaster. Earlier models had a wheel which wheeled it in at the end of the day. 1/10 for this design. Bad Karcher.
Just purchased a a k4 karcher very imprest miles better than my old karcher 12years old after using old one ended up with tingleley the hands of no such thing with new one still to see if old one can be repaired in on but I no hurry
Thanks for commenting Shayne. I was in a similar position, my old Karcher packed in after many years of use so I bought a K4. What a difference, wish I'd upgraded years ago 😀
Hi. I've got K2 and after twice wash my car I think about change to K4. Simply because strength of the pump. Did you ever tried water from the bucket? Is the only one available water source so I think I need update. After some suggestions I put water and karcher higher and was much better, but still karcher needed some time to sucked water and build pressure. Tom
I normally use a mains water supply but I have used a rainwater storage butt (tank) with my K4. This video shows how I did this th-cam.com/video/884_5sL4Xxc/w-d-xo.html
@@bigtedshome I watched video. I'm using 25L deionised water jar with normal water. In your video hose is in lowest position, which definitely help. So I think I simply need try K4 how this will go, otherwise somehow create support for hose bending over the edge and going to the bottom of the jar.(because through the job, hose bending up slowly). Another think I should try before start, put some water to the hose. I though about some adapter for top lid as well, but need think about that. T.
Hi. I have this jet wash. However I haven’t followed through with using as I assumed it needed to be plugged in to the mains. Or is this just to charge it? Surely it is portable (which is what I read) as it has many possible uses
@@bigtedshome Make sure to use good quality extension lead with thick wire. Any voltage drop can cause the motor to draw more current and potentially overheat the motor.
I’m 18 and thinking of starting a pressure washing business for gardens, cars ect, would you recommend this model or something else like a petrol one instead?
The K4 is a domestic pressure washer. If you are starting a business then you will need a commercial model which will cope with heavy daily use. The pressure washing subreddit might be a good place to get ideas for something suitable. Good luck with the business 👍
I am struggling to know how to connect the lance to the K4 without it popping out! I push it in, give it a 90 degree turn and then there is a metal clip which isn’t mentioned in the instructions! Which way to put this clip on? Then again I have an extension lance with an adaptor that doesn’t fit at all. Very frustrating.
Hi Malcolm, Are you referring to when you connect the lance to the handset/control gun? The bayonet adapter on the lance should hold it in place when you turn it 90 degrees. Are you pushing it in far enough? It does take a bit of force. The metal clip is possibly the one that holds the hose in place at the back of the machine. Have a look at my video on how to upgrade the hose on a karcher k4 to see where this goes.
@@bigtedshome I have worked out that I had pushed the metal clip right in instead of only as far as the straight bits! Difficult to describe really, but resolved thank you.
Could you please send me links to the phone blaster that you use and where you get the new house from to change the homes and any other things that are better used with the culture than its stock items although I am registered blind I do have site and I can use the Karcher so any help would be appreciated so I can get the most out of it. Thanks very much and take care
Hi David, I bought my replacement hose from Direct Hoses. It was the 10m version of this hose: www.directhoses.net/collections/hoses-for-karcher-k-series-rubber-flexiwash/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections?variant=33703734538 There is another video on my channel showing how to change the hose here: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html Amazon links for the MJJC foam cannon and other useful Karcher compatible accessories can be found here: www.amazon.co.uk/shop/bigtedshomegarden I hope this helps 😀
@@bigtedshome how do you put the little clip back in when the hose is thicker? Is it just a case of stretching the clip because I can’t seem to get it back in now I’ve handed the hose that was recommended and it works very well the hose, how do we get the clip back in your help on that would be very appreciated.
@bilbp41 The hose is a bit thicker but the quick connect fitting should be the same size. The clip is a bit springy though so you might have to push the 2 prongs apart to get them to line up with the 2 holes. The clip should then slide into place. Good luck 🤞
The hose will end up as a twisted mess only because it's not uncoiled, but just pulled out. It's really not hard to allow the end to rotate as it's uncoiled.
Thanks for commenting. You must have a lot more patience than I have 🙂. I persevered with the plastic hose but eventually bought a 10 m reinforced rubber hose and find it much easier to use and coil up afterwards.
@Andy O Neill I bought a 10m reinforced rubber hose from direct hoses. There's a video showing the hose and how easy it is to fit here: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
It's recommended that you use medium setting but I normally use the high setting with the vario lance. I wouldn't use the dirtblaster lance on the car though!
@@bigtedshome thanks. Assuming #3 hard setting and thus #2 are different pressure levels on all machines meaning you could be under/over pressuring when car washing. My k4 has an issue am won't exceed #3 so I'm probably under pressuring my cash washing potentially.
I've just checked the lance from my old (at least 25 years old) karcher and it does fit my K4. I think it was a 101D but can't check as I don't still have the machine. Karcher do sell an adapter to connect older fittings to the K series for about £5.
Personally, yes I do. Apart from the extra operating pressure, the K4 is made from better quality parts, and the accessories are better quality. I seriously considered the K3 but went for the K4 because it has a metal pump which should be much more robust than the plastic pump on the K3. The K4 is currently on offer on amazon for £159.99 (amzn.to/3XtBkly) or as the home kit for £195.99 ( amzn.to/3GDlMWn) and at these prices, I think it's a bargain. I've had my K4 for 18 months now and have been very happy with it.
The surface cleaner attaches to the pressure washer and is used to clean paths, patios, driveways etc as shown in this video: th-cam.com/video/q8PcsQXh4zQ/w-d-xo.html I hope this answers your question 🙂
Thanks Mark. I didn't wait for my hose to break. Replacing it with a rubber hose made a big difference. This video shows how I upgraded the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
If you can increase and decrease the pressure of the lance then why are you using the lance so close to the car from 8mins in?. No wonder these machines are being sold cheaply online second hand. Looking yesterday and one brand new boxed for £50 on facebook. Don't think i'll buy one after this review, thanks.
You can find amazon links to the equipment used in this video here: www.amazon.co.uk/shop/bigtedshomegarden?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfbigtedshomegarden_XYWG189ZT5TFRMHM85CB
International amazon links are in the video description. Clicking on the UK product link should take you directly to the product listing on your local amazon site.
I cannot find your model. Now the hose reel is behind. Do you have the link to exactly your model?
@@GioLeonTango The amazon link takes you to the correct model amzn.to/3OwOX0l
If you want direct international links, they are in the video description. Hope this helps.
by far the best accent in any Kaercher review videos. A great video!
Thanks Matteo 👍
Definitely
Just set up my K4 will now look at a new hose thanks for the video so helpful
Yeh straight up Yorkshire
Very clear and straight talking. Well presented !
Best review of these I've come across!! Especially the breakdown of attachments. You've actually helped me save money as I was gonna splurge for the K5 and after seeing this, the K4 will absolutely do the job! Cheers!
Thanks for the great feedback. I've had my K4 for 3 years now and have been very happy with it (especially after upgrading the hose).
Great video, thank you! This has made me realise I can get a decent pressure washer without having to go to the absolute top top of the range and the power foamer recommendation was great cheers!
Thanks for the great feedback Will. I'm glad you found the video useful 🙂
Great video mate, best video i have seen covering this Karcher K4, You have persuaded me to purchase one after i have wrote this, i have subscribed & ticked all notifications, so looking forward to browsing your previous videos, “Hey Karcher, this is an excellent review this chap has done of your product, send him some products to review because this is the chap for the job !”
Thanks Shaun👍 I've had my K4 for almost 2 years now and have been very happy with it (apart from the hose) 🙂
Great review thanks. Came here looking for advice on a karcher for blasting the patio and doing the car. Glad I did because we ended up getting the home kit. You reminded me of how annoying it is having all the pressure wash debris all around the garden after doing the patio.
Great consumer advice, thanks a lot.
Thanks for the great feedback Chris. I've had my K4 for 2 years now and have been very happy with it.
When I bought mine I unravelled the hose and stretched it out in a straight line for 3 or 4 days.
Big improvement! Although now it's harder to store away it still beats the way it came out of the box.
Good idea. Thanks for the tip David 👍
I was looking at a new pressure washer - I was undecided between a K4 or 5. This video has helped me make up my mind! Many thanks!
Thanks Adam. I'm glad you found it helpful 🙂
Many thanks for this video as I've just bought the K4. I'm looking forward to using it soon as we live in the countryside and it's impossible to keep our cars clean in the wet weather with so much mud and other "items" on the roads.
Thanks Alan. The K4 is great for removing farm related organic matter 😂
Absolutely fantastic review
Thanks Darren. I'm glad you found it useful 🙂
Great clear straight to the point video! I’m now going to get one! Cheers mate!
Thanks for the great feedback James 👍
You have a way with words, this video was right on the mark. Cheers
Thanks for the great feedback 🙂
Good review, and had a good laugh too at the end. I was looking for something to pressure wash my balconies after a long winter and something to clean the car occasionally, this seems to be perfect for it. It's on sale too, so good enough for me!
Thanks for the great feedback. I've had my K4 for over 2 years now and have been very happy with it 🙂
Fantastic video. Thank you so much for making it.
Thanks. I'm glad you enjoyed it 🙂
Think you've just sold me a k4, great review mate helpful a year later
Thanks for the great feedback. I've had my K4 for over 2 years now and have been very happy with it.
Really helpful advice.Very much appreciated
Thanks Wendy. I'm glad you found the video useful 🙂
Great review. Very clever guy making all sorts of perceptive comments most of us would never remember to say. Thank you for this
Thanks for the great feedback Omar. I'm glad you found the video useful 🙂
Great helpful video thanks for taking the time to post this. You have a new subscriber 😊👍
Thanks Matthew 👍
Helped my decision of buying one over the K2 thank you
Thanks for the great feedback 🙂
Super useful review.
Thanks Helen, I'm glad you found it useful 🙂
I have the older K5 myself which I upgraded with a uberflex hose, gun type lance with the various nozzles, and all quick connect fittings.
The nice thing about the nozzles is there is no splash back, especially when doing the wheels.
Much better defined fan spray, lovely to use compared to the rather scattered karcher spray pattern.
Thanks for commenting John, which gun did you upgrade to?
Thanks, great review.
Thanks Simon. I'll be working on the 3 year review soon 🙂
thanks for your review
Thanks Patrick. I'm glad you found the video helpful 🙂
Just got a karcher k4 premium power control pressure washer, had the same trouble with the hose kinked all the time, took it off the machine soaked it in hot water which has taken the curled memory out if it, nice and straight now.
That's a great idea. Thanks for sharing 👍
Great video just bought one but agree am changing the hose to rubber from direct hoses
You won't regret it. Changing the hose makes a massive difference. Thanks for the great feedback 🙂
Superb advice
Thanks Alison 👍
Brilliant video big Ted very informative and very well explained you've helped me decide after my old karcher of over 10 years started to fail me.. K4 it is.. liked and subscribed 👍🏼
Thanks for the great feedback 🙂
Thanks for this excellent review & video
In Australia they have got wise to the fact that the k4 is the sweet spot - so it no longer comes with the surface cleaning attachement.... I ended up getting a k5 because this is included....
Thanks for the great feedback 👍
If you want to clean patios/driveways then the surface cleaner attachment is essential. You've made a good decision, just beware that pressure washing becomes addictive 🙂
Great review. Totally agree with you about the hose, it is annoying. The K4 I have is the model previous to your total control version. I bought it from the Karcher Outlet store and it came with the home and the car kit for a very reasonable price. Worth a look if you are happy with A grade or refurbished kit. Mine has been excellent.
Thanks for the tip about the Karcher Outlet. There are some great prices on there if you don't mind having a shorter guarantee.
Luv my Karcher 4 high power washer!
So do I 😃
Nice review
Thank you
Thanks for the great feedback 🙂
Great review .subbed and liked
Thanks Kirky 👍
Used mine only 6 times over 4-6 years and it’s knackered! Keep tripping the mains out, I called the local repair shop and asked how old it is!! Despite how many times, they said it’s happens quite a lot! Time to throw it away and get another one!!! WTFeck!
That's not good. Did the repair shop say why they thought it was tripping the mains?
This is a great and very comprehensive review. And this sounds like he’s from Bury (like me!), or somewhere very close 😄
Thanks Bill. I'm from the other side of the Pennines though 🙂
I’ve got a Kärcher K4 I’ve used it three times in 2 years and it’s now defunct, it’s just out of warranty, I couldn’t find a repairer and in any case Karcher have discontinued the spares. I won’t be replacing it with another Karcher!
"Can end up spending endless amounts of money" month ago I bought the K3, upgraded to the K4, 200 quid on AutoGlym products and just ordered another 100 quids worth, so all in I'm a good 600 quid in!🤣 ladies and gents, this fella gives real honest reviews! Top vid!!
😂 Thanks James
After using my k4 twice I purchased a 10 metre rubber hose from direct hoses and haven't looked back, well worth the investment. Also like you a mjjc foam cannon and stubby gun have been bought.
Thanks for commenting Mike. Ordered my new hose yesterday. Putting this video together made me realise it was time to upgrade.
@@bigtedshome how much is the new hose please ?
@@paulwoodcock764 The 10m braided rubber hose I bought from direct hoses was just under £40 inc postage. They also have a flexible plastic hose which is about £10 cheaper. There is a video on my channel showing how easy it is to change the hose.
Good video, thanks! The K4 on sale at screwfix right now, includes home kit for £200.
That sounds good 👍
Top bloke
Cheers Dan 🙂
After the Karcher splatter-fest 3 years ago on our brick-weave, we got a K4 with anti-splash dome (and fluid). But it can't shift the worst moss/lichen, so it was back to the wand. Moss and kiln-dried sand between bricks flew everywhere! Beefed-up models have revolving brushes, but the dome is only 80% effective imho.
Thanks for commenting Humboles. When I initially tried out the patio cleaner attachment, I found the same as you and was expecting to have to finish off the most stubborn moss/lichen with the dirtblaster lance. When I cleaned both the block paved driveway and patio, I actually found the patio cleaner did a very good job. In some places it took several passes but it did get rid of virtually all of the moss/weeds/lichen without needing to use the lance.
Excellent video - very accurately described - will purchase one of these soon - what replacements hose did you buy in the end?
Thanks John. I bought a 10 m braided rubber hose from a company called direct hoses. There are direct links in the comments below this video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
#0:02:54 Get the "Karcher splash guard transparent" it's safes you from that dirty spray back problem 100% Works too👍
Thanks, I'll have a look at that 👍
Hi Ted, you have a fantastic channel and your videos are too the point which is great.
May I ask what the recommended procedure is when turning off your jet wash after using it, eg do you turn the water off and leave the pump on to drain out the remaining water or is it the opposite way round?
Thanks Mark. I turn the machine off first and then the water. As far as I'm aware, the only time you would want to drain the pump is if you are going to store it over winter somewhere where the water could freeze.
Thinking of upgrading my Bosche Aquatak to one of these just because there are so many more attachments and accessories for it. The Bosche is somewhat limited in that regard
I've had my K4 for nearly 3 years now and have been very happy with it. But if you are happy with your Bosch pressure washer and just want to be able to use a wider range of accessories, then you can buy an adapter for about £10 which will let you use accessories with 1/4" quick connect fittings. This link might help: Pressure Washer Adapter for Bosch AQT, 1/4'' Quick Connect amzn.eu/d/grLdIYc
Have just found your channel. Been looking at upgrading my K2, which is no longer fit for purpose and found your review of the K4 the most informative. One question though, do you have a link to the replacement hose? I'm also going to buy the MJJC foam gun. have subscribed to your channel.
Thanks Derek. I bought the 10m version of this hose www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections and have been very happy with it. It's probably overspecified for the K4 but direct hoses also sell a cheaper flexiwash plastic hose which should also do the job.
Where’s best to get a replacement hose for it please great video by the way
Thanks Carl. I got my replacement hose from direct hoses but you can get them on amazon now as well. This video shows how to change the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Loved the Video - My current K2 has seen its better years after loads of work and is now leaking oil - Did you upgrade to the K4 from a K2 and have you found the extra 20 bar noticeable?
Thanks Derek. My old Karcher was that old that it pre-dated the K series 😳 One of guys at work has recently upgraded from a old, leaking K2 to the K4 and reckons there is a big difference in terms of quality and performance.
Hello , brilliant review on the karcher, can I ask what replacement hose would you recommend please ?
Thanks for the great feedback Paul. I bought a 10 m braided rubber hose from direct hoses and it's made a big difference. There is another video on my channel showing how to upgrade the hose.
Great review. It still amazing me that companies like karcher can produce such poor quality hoses when it's a crucial part of the functionality of the product. I have upgraded the hose as the original is unusable. Usual big companies lowering the quality of their products to make more money.
Thanks for the great feedback. Virtually all manufacturers try to cut costs to the absolute minimum to stay competitive but as you say, quality drops as a result.
Hi, really enjoyed your video, I’m upgrading from the K2 and the problem exists with this model with the hose kinking. If possible please advise what hose you bought and from what company. Thanks
Thanks for the great feedback Alan. I bought a 10m braided runner hose from direct hoses and have been very happy with it. There are however, other cheaper hoses on amazon which get good reviews. This video shows how to change the hose and there are several direct links to the direct hoses hose in the comments: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Great review, I've just bought one. Agree with the hose, could you advise what your going to replace it with? Also I got the stone and patio cleaner, but it doesn't seem to come through, am I doing something wrong?
Thanks Louise. I bought a 10 m braided rubber hose to replace the original hose on my K4. This video has links to the hose in the comments and shows how I fitted it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
This is the best I can find re. the stone cleaner: www.espares.co.uk/answer/es1397712/44915/how-do-i-plug-in-the-detergent-bottle
Many thanks for demonstrating and for your advise. Which hose would you recommend and from where can one get the good quality hose.
Thanks for the great feedback 👍 I have the 10m hose featured in this video (there are direct links in the comments) th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
I've been very happy with this hose but you could also look at other replacement hoses on amazon which get very good reviews.
Thank you
Im gonna purchase the K4 shortly, which hose do you recommend upgrading too? Thanks for the video by the way, very helpful 👍
I bought a 10m braided rubber hose from a company called direct hoses. This video shows how to fit it th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html There are direct links to the hose in several of the comments below that video.
Really handy video gonna look into buying 1. What lead did you buy to replace the Karcher 1 with?🙏
Thanks for the great feedback. I've had my K4 for over 2 years now and have been very happy with it. I replaced the original hose with a 10m braided rubber hose from a company called direct hoses
I recently bought a K4 and have been impressed with it. Much better than the Qualcast and it fits my Meguire's snow foam cannon, which the Qualcast did not.
I'm curious to know, do you always start jetting off the snowfoam from the bottom of your car? If you start from the roof and work down, the dirty water flows downwards, otherwise you're making the lower parts you have already cleaned, dirty again.
Thanks Alex. I can see your point about starting from the top and working down. Tbh, I don't think it really matters because the roof and windows are normally the cleanest parts of the car and you have to rinse off any foam that runs down anyway. Some might say that this means that the lower panels get rinsed off twice this way 🙂
Just got one easy build i used silicone grease on the wheels and connecters looking forward to having a blast, one thing i would love to be able to use is my old lance off my old machine but am sure i will knock something up,
Good tip about the silicone grease. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your new pressure washer 🙂
Brilliant video, mate. I've just bought a K4 after watching it. Did you ever get round to replacing the hose?
Cheers T. Yes I did change the hose and it made a big difference. This video shows how to do it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
@bigtedshome what a legend! Glad I came across your channel. Thanks for your help 👌🏻
Which hose would you recommend? I agree with you about the Karcher hose, it’s a shocker
I upgraded to the 10m braided rubber hose shown in this video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
It came from a company called direct hoses. There are direct links to the hose in the video description and in the comments.
Weve just unpacked our K4 with home kit as wanted round patio cleaner as we have Indian Stone and dont want to ruin mortar inbetween.....Neither of us is very practical and taken us some time to slowly work through the instructions to assemble...... Can now see what you mean about the hose and did read in a lot of reviews before we purchased that his is a big negative...... Do Karcher not read these comments do you think ??? However, we mainly want for cleaning our big driveway and patios at the back so think we can live with it for a while........would a different hose not be difficult to replace to work with guns ????? Thank you so much for this video, feels like a friend kindly explaining to us !!! subscribed for you too xx
Thanks Babs 🙂 Changing the hose is actually very simple though there is obviously extra cost involved. There is another video on my channel showing how to do it. A possible alternative is to use an anti twist adapter. I got hold of one this week and hope to try it out soon. I will post a video on this when time allows 🙄
@@bigtedshome I did see that but does the end metal bits just fit easily into another tube........ It was that bit that I couldn't see, just the finished switch...... However, spent enough for now so will see how we go......... Just tried a bit of patio and its amazing...... Worth getting the higher pressure for sure...... 3 years guarantee from karcher too 😀😀😀😀😀
@@babsbentele4405 You just press the yellow button and pull the old hose our. The new one has the same fitting and clicks into the same hole in the handset.
I'm glad to hear that the paving is looking good 😀
Hi big Ted, I bought the k4 about 1yr ago, it replaced my 6yr old powercraft (aldi version) with patio cleaner, I found the karcher k4 rubbish compared to the powercraft the powercraft was £79 the k4 was £230, the k4 is now redundant in the shed the k4 just didn't have the power, the powercraft was abused it was loaned out to family members all the time, I've recently replaced it with a 2.4kw £59 from aldi much better in my opinion 😊 so £230 sat in the shed. Also aldi one has a 3yr warranty, my powercraft started pulsing just before the 3yrs I sent it off and came back more powerful in karcher box and packaging.
Thanks for commenting Trevor. I've not used a powercraft pressure washer so can't compare the two but I've had no issues with lack of power from the K4. If you think yours is not working properly, the K4 also has a 3 year warranty.
@@bigtedshome just a quick I remember holding the powercraft lance in one hand pull the trigger and it would fly up in the air if only using one hand the k4 doesn't and my son has a k4 and it's the same I think the k4 is 1.8kw and power craft was 2.2 or 2.
4kw. Thanks for your reply 😊.
@@trevorford9432 You will like this. Just been googling powercraft pressure washers and it looks like the 2.2 kW powercraft 7944 was made for Aldi by Karcher.
@@bigtedshome Thanks Ted, I wasn't sure but with it coming back from karcher that would make sense 👍 was a powerful unit I must admit.
Great video. Which replacement hose did you opt for.
Thanks Ron. I bought a 10m braided rubber hose from direct hoses and have been very happy with it. This video shows how to change the hose. There are direct links to the hose in the comments below the video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Hello, thanks for your video, am trying to buy the karcher k4 don’t know we’re to get a good deal, so many on eBay but don’t trust second hand,
Prices vary throughout the year. Amazon is always a good place to look first as they often have the K4 on offer (there is a link in the video description). Halfords, Toolstation, Homebase and B&Q also have sales/offer periods and are worth a look. If you are interested in a refurbished machine, the karcher outlet store is good.
That on/off switch is poor and temperamental and I was disappointed they changed the lance fitting so earlier accessories do not fit. I had to buy a new (fitting) lance cut it in half and plastic weld it to the other half of an old extension lance to be able to use my many older extensions. Karcher don’t make a converter, but I do!
Did you ever get the new hose? If so which one and where from? Nice review.
Yes, upgrading the hose made a massive difference. Details of the hose I bought and how to fit it are in this video: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
I actually thought beacuae of the manual that the water also helps cool the K2 models.
Thanks for commenting Rombout. The K2 does have an air cooled motor.
Dear Sir,
First of all, I am happy to see your videos and thankful to you for making such knowledgeable video.
Could you please answer me...
About difference between Karcher
K4 Power Control and K4 Premium Control.
Please do help! It's my humble request to you. I am in very need of Karcher K4 OR K5. What is the main difference between Karcher K4 OR K5.
Kind Regards,
Basavaraj from India. 🙏
Thank you for your kind words Basavaraj. As far as I am aware there is no difference between the K4 Power Control, Premium Control or Full Control. I believe that these are just marketing brands for the same machine (I have no link with Karcher though so could be incorrect).
The K5 is a more powerful model than the K4. It has a higher maximum pressure and a greater water output. It is also significantly more expensive unfortunately. Personally, I have found that the K4 is powerful enough to do everything I have needed to use it for so far.
I hope this helps 🙂
The 'Rich man poor tech' channel has a very good video 'karcher k7 vs k5 vs k4' that you may find useful.
Hi, Hope you don’t mind me asking but what hose did you buy and from where.🤔😊
I bought one of these 10m braided rubber hoses from direct hoses: www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections
This video shows how to fit it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
I had an old version of the K4 but now need a new pressure washer. I was considering the lighter/easier to manoeuvre K3 or even K2 but your video has convinced me to buy the K4 again. I have read the weight on the spec but is it really easy to handle ? I am a bit obsessed with detailing my car but found the old K4 heavy.
It is heavy but with the wheels and the extending handle, I've not found it difficult to move my K4. I upgraded the hose to a 10m rubber hose and this goes easily around my car so I don't have to move the pressure washer when washing the car.
@@bigtedshome Many thanks 👍
Hi I loved the video but can you tell why would you not fill one of the detergent bottles that come with the K4 with snow foam instead of using the one attached the the lance ?
Good question! It's because a snow foam cannon is designed to pull the detergent in the correct ratio into the water flow using the venturi effect. The nozzle then aerates the mix to form the foam which sticks to the car. I've never tried it but would expect that if you put the snow foam into a plug in detergent bottle, you would get a very thin foam which wouldn't stick to the car long enough to break down the grime.
@@bigtedshome Cheers Ted 😉
Could you give details of the replacement hose plea
I bought one of these 10m braided rubber hoses from direct hoses: www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections
This video shows how to fit it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Do you think the extra power of a k5 would be worth it around the house? As in when cleaning the pacers for e.g. did you ever feel a bit more power wouldve been nice?
I've found that the K4 has been powerful enough to do everything that I've wanted to do and I have been very happy with it. The K5 however, is a better machine with a better quality pump. I would also consider AVA machines and the Karcher Professional range if I was looking to buy a new pressure washer.
Thx for the great video, can you tell me what fome soap you used?
Thanks Dan. I normally use Dirtbusters snow foam but have also had good results with auto glym polar blast.
@@bigtedshome sounds good mate. How do you mix the foam what are the measurements? And 1 more question :) on the testing with the round mount did you use the patio cleaning bottle that comes with it? Or only water
@@Dan-oo9jx With snow foam, I normally use 1 part detergent to 4 parts water . I didn't bother with the stone cleaner detergent as I found that the patio cleaner attachment did a great job without it.
Any comparison of pressure when feeding water from mains vs water from tank/bucket?
I didn't notice any difference.
I was looking forva new pressure washer last year and ended up buying the Karcher HD4/8 out of Farmfoods for £99.99 and its an amazin machine .... Like all Karchers let down by a crap pressure hose and a lack of quick release fittings wgich I'd to buy separately.... Not asceasy ss you think as some arrined with a 3/8" fitting rsther than the adverised 1/4"
The Farmfoods Karcher deal was a real bargain. You should be able to afford a decent hose after saving all that money 💰 😃
@@bigtedshome .... The issue is getting it without she who must be obeyed knowing.... I can get stuff from Amazon and pick it up at a local delivery point but the issue is without seeing it in real life you don't know how good they are ..... Many of them seem to use the same, or a similar, hard plastic outer coating the Karcher has with nothing offering a hard-wearing rubber hose
@petersmith7126 😂 I know exactly what you mean!
I bought a 10m braided rubber hose from direct hoses and have found it to be much better than the stiff plastic Karcher hose. There are direct links in the comments on this video, which shows how to change the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
@@bigtedshome ..... The. HD 4//8 uses a normal hose wth Standard M22/14 connectors so there's loads to choose from ..... Amazon would be my best option for a pick up but so far virtually all the hoses seem pretty similar to the Karcher with a plastic outer coating .... They're meant to be more flexible but I'd still prefer a rubber outer casing
My K4 has sprung a leak at the hook for the hose
This short video should help th-cam.com/video/Emq-mLD4x8Q/w-d-xo.htmlsi=wj5r09wTLVdFJ-1P
Hi, I was wondering if you have any recommendations for the Karcher K4 hose. The one supplied is so difficult to use. I was hoping you could recommend a more flexible one
I bought the 10m version of this hose and have been very happy with it: www.directhoses.net/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections
This video shows how to change the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Can you use it to clean house windows or too much pressure
Good question. There's lots of conflicting advice if you google it. I prefer to use a window vac but if I was going to use a pressure washer on my windows, I would turn the pressure down and use a wide spray pattern. This explains what can happen if you get it wrong: Pressure Washing Windows? Bad Idea! www.windowworldofboston.com/pressure-washing-windows-bad-idea/
Did you replace the hose with a more flexible one?
Yes, it's easy to do and made a big difference. This video shows how I did it: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
there is an anti twist adapter which seems to eliminate the problems with hose. i came across this while looking for solutions on utube.why no mention of this puzzles me as it seems to be the answer to all problems of customers.
You're right Sean, there is a Karcher anti twist adapter but it's not always that easy to find. I had to buy mine from the German amazon site (it is currently available in the UK: amzn.to/4awz6rE). The adapter does work but imho doesn't make as big a difference as upgrading to a better hose and it costs nearly as much.
@@bigtedshome thanks ted for replying to my email.i agree that the hose is the best option.if you do invest maybe you might demonstrate the results and post same.thanks again
@seanwhite8486 I replaced the original hose with a 10m braided rubber hose. I've had the rubber hose for about 2 years now and have been very pleased with it. This is how I upgraded the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Hi, thanks for the video. I just wanted to let you know that if you wash your wheels like this, all the contaminants (from the brake pads) go into the storm drain and then to the ocean :-(. It is better to wash them manually with a cloth, that you then put into washing machine. Such water goes to waste water treatment plant before it goes back into river. Also please always use bio-degradable cleaning agents. Thanks :-)
Thanks Jan. You have raised some interesting points. I will look more closely at the biodegradability of cleaning products
what foam canon would you recommend for cars?
The MJJC V3.0 is the best foam cannon I have used : th-cam.com/video/LXL5RnVQNxE/w-d-xo.html
What hose will you be replacing it with mate? Iv just invested in a k4 😊
I bought a 10m reinforced rubber hose from direct hoses. This video shows how to change the hose th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Hi Ted i have not used my k4 yet when using the snow foam gun is the soap bottle in the machine fitted as well thanks
No, you just need to attach the foam cannon to the lance handle. The pressure will be automatically adjusted.
Thanks for that
Totally agree regarding the high pressure hose. This is a design disaster. Earlier models had a wheel which wheeled it in at the end of the day. 1/10 for this design. Bad Karcher.
Changing the hose makes a big difference. I wish I'd done it earlier.
Are you the voiceover guy for that police chase show? Uncanny
Afraid not 😂
Just purchased a a k4 karcher very imprest miles better than my old karcher 12years old after using old one ended up with tingleley the hands of no such thing with new one still to see if old one can be repaired in on but I no hurry
Thanks for commenting Shayne. I was in a similar position, my old Karcher packed in after many years of use so I bought a K4. What a difference, wish I'd upgraded years ago 😀
have you bought a better hose yet mate ? i need one for my k4 it's shite the one with it
Yes, got one from direct hoses. There's a video on my channel showing how to change the hose.
Hi. I've got K2 and after twice wash my car I think about change to K4. Simply because strength of the pump. Did you ever tried water from the bucket? Is the only one available water source so I think I need update. After some suggestions I put water and karcher higher and was much better, but still karcher needed some time to sucked water and build pressure. Tom
I normally use a mains water supply but I have used a rainwater storage butt (tank) with my K4. This video shows how I did this th-cam.com/video/884_5sL4Xxc/w-d-xo.html
@@bigtedshome I watched video. I'm using 25L deionised water jar with normal water. In your video hose is in lowest position, which definitely help. So I think I simply need try K4 how this will go, otherwise somehow create support for hose bending over the edge and going to the bottom of the jar.(because through the job, hose bending up slowly). Another think I should try before start, put some water to the hose. I though about some adapter for top lid as well, but need think about that. T.
@tenzin044 could you fit a tap close to the bottom of your container? Something like this amzn.to/42sAfgN
Hi. I have this jet wash. However I haven’t followed through with using as I assumed it needed to be plugged in to the mains. Or is this just to charge it? Surely it is portable (which is what I read) as it has many possible uses
Forgot to say, thank you for the informative video
You do need to plug your pressure washer into the mains. I use a 10m extension reel.
@@bigtedshome Make sure to use good quality extension lead with thick wire. Any voltage drop can cause the motor to draw more current and potentially overheat the motor.
I’m 18 and thinking of starting a pressure washing business for gardens, cars ect, would you recommend this model or something else like a petrol one instead?
The K4 is a domestic pressure washer. If you are starting a business then you will need a commercial model which will cope with heavy daily use. The pressure washing subreddit might be a good place to get ideas for something suitable. Good luck with the business 👍
I am struggling to know how to connect the lance to the K4 without it popping out! I push it in, give it a 90 degree turn and then there is a metal clip which isn’t mentioned in the instructions! Which way to put this clip on? Then again I have an extension lance with an adaptor that doesn’t fit at all. Very frustrating.
Hi Malcolm, Are you referring to when you connect the lance to the handset/control gun? The bayonet adapter on the lance should hold it in place when you turn it 90 degrees. Are you pushing it in far enough? It does take a bit of force. The metal clip is possibly the one that holds the hose in place at the back of the machine. Have a look at my video on how to upgrade the hose on a karcher k4 to see where this goes.
@@bigtedshome I have worked out that I had pushed the metal clip right in instead of only as far as the straight bits! Difficult to describe really, but resolved thank you.
@@malcolmfranke9958 That's great news. I'm glad that you have solved the problem 🙂
Could you please send me links to the phone blaster that you use and where you get the new house from to change the homes and any other things that are better used with the culture than its stock items although I am registered blind I do have site and I can use the Karcher so any help would be appreciated so I can get the most out of it. Thanks very much and take care
Hi David, I bought my replacement hose from Direct Hoses. It was the 10m version of this hose: www.directhoses.net/collections/hoses-for-karcher-k-series-rubber-flexiwash/products/karcher-style-replacement-rubber-longlife-hose-quick-fit-connections?variant=33703734538
There is another video on my channel showing how to change the hose here: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Amazon links for the MJJC foam cannon and other useful Karcher compatible accessories can be found here: www.amazon.co.uk/shop/bigtedshomegarden
I hope this helps 😀
@@bigtedshome how do you put the little clip back in when the hose is thicker? Is it just a case of stretching the clip because I can’t seem to get it back in now I’ve handed the hose that was recommended and it works very well the hose, how do we get the clip back in your help on that would be very appreciated.
@bilbp41 The hose is a bit thicker but the quick connect fitting should be the same size. The clip is a bit springy though so you might have to push the 2 prongs apart to get them to line up with the 2 holes. The clip should then slide into place. Good luck 🤞
If it had a less stiff hose it would kink more
The hose will end up as a twisted mess only because it's not uncoiled, but just pulled out. It's really not hard to allow the end to rotate as it's uncoiled.
Thanks for commenting. You must have a lot more patience than I have 🙂. I persevered with the plastic hose but eventually bought a 10 m reinforced rubber hose and find it much easier to use and coil up afterwards.
@@bigtedshome can I ask what hose you went for and where did you purchase? Cheers
@Andy O Neill I bought a 10m reinforced rubber hose from direct hoses. There's a video showing the hose and how easy it is to fit here: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
Do you use med setting when washing the car or hard?
It's recommended that you use medium setting but I normally use the high setting with the vario lance. I wouldn't use the dirtblaster lance on the car though!
@@bigtedshome thanks. Assuming #3 hard setting and thus #2 are different pressure levels on all machines meaning you could be under/over pressuring when car washing. My k4 has an issue am won't exceed #3 so I'm probably under pressuring my cash washing potentially.
@@meteora8888 I'd recommend one of these for washing cars if you can justify the extra expense: th-cam.com/video/vxfW0KJ1_p4/w-d-xo.html
Anyone know if Karcher attachments from say 15 years ago still fit models like the k4?
I've just checked the lance from my old (at least 25 years old) karcher and it does fit my K4. I think it was a 101D but can't check as I don't still have the machine. Karcher do sell an adapter to connect older fittings to the K series for about £5.
I would be tempted to take one of your fittings down to B&Q or wickes and try fitting it on the display model.
Do you think the K4 is worth the price over the K3
Personally, yes I do. Apart from the extra operating pressure, the K4 is made from better quality parts, and the accessories are better quality. I seriously considered the K3 but went for the K4 because it has a metal pump which should be much more robust than the plastic pump on the K3. The K4 is currently on offer on amazon for £159.99 (amzn.to/3XtBkly) or as the home kit for £195.99 ( amzn.to/3GDlMWn) and at these prices, I think it's a bargain. I've had my K4 for 18 months now and have been very happy with it.
1:40 ? This is to clean your path.
Not the jetwash
The surface cleaner attaches to the pressure washer and is used to clean paths, patios, driveways etc as shown in this video: th-cam.com/video/q8PcsQXh4zQ/w-d-xo.html
I hope this answers your question 🙂
The Karcher hose is horrific, one of ours spilt and the current one is stuff and awful. Once this one breaks we’ll buy a better one. Cheers
Thanks Mark. I didn't wait for my hose to break. Replacing it with a rubber hose made a big difference. This video shows how I upgraded the hose: th-cam.com/video/_mPLwbM-vvQ/w-d-xo.html
@@bigtedshomeThank you, I'll have a look
If you can increase and decrease the pressure of the lance then why are you using the lance so close to the car from 8mins in?. No wonder these machines are being sold cheaply online second hand. Looking yesterday and one brand new boxed for £50 on facebook. Don't think i'll buy one after this review, thanks.