Kärcher K 5 Compact Manual

Safety instructions

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

• In addition to the notes in the operating instructions, you also need to take into consideration the general safety regulations and accident prevention guidelines applicable by law.
• Warnings and information notices attached to the device provide important information for hazard-free operation.

Hazard levels

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

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

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

ATTENTION

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

Protective gear

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

General safety instructions

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

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

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

Risk of electric shock

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

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

• 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

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

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

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

ATTENTION

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

Operation with detergent

• Incorrect use of detergents can cause serious injuries or poisoning.

• 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

• Always pull out the mains plug before all care and maintenance work.

• Have repair work and work on electrical components carried out by the authorised customer service only.

ATTENTION

• Do not use acetone, undiluted acids or solvents, as they corrode the materials used on the device.

Transportation

• 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.

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

1. Storage for spray lance
2. Storage for high-pressure gun
3. Transport handle, telescoping
4. Carrying handle
5. Quick coupling for high-pressure hose
6. Rubber band
7. Storage for high-pressure hose and mains connection cable
8. Power switch "0/OFF" / "I/ON"
9. Mains connection cable with mains plug
10. Carrying handle
11. Type plate
12. Transport wheel
13. Water connection coupling
14. Water connection with integrated sieve
15. Suction hose for detergent (with filter)
16. High-pressure gun
17. High-pressure gun lock
18. High-pressure hose
19. Button for separating the high-pressure hose from the high-pressure gun
20. 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 all the way in the SOFT direction.
21. Spray lance with dirt grinder for stubborn soiling
22. *Foam nozzle with detergent container The detergent is sucked out of the container to produce a strong detergent foam.
23. *Rotating washing brush (e.g. for washing cars)
24. **Garden hose with commonly available coupling

• Fabric reinforced
• Diameter of at least 1/2 inch (13 mm)
• Length at least 7.5 m

* optional,
** additionally required

Safety devices

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

Motor circuit breaker
The motor circuit breaker shuts off the device if power consumption it too high.

Symbols on the device

Do not aim the high-pressure jet may 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.

Assembly

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

Mounting the transport handle

1. Attach the transport handle.
   

Installing the water connection coupling

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

Initial startup

1. Place the device on a flat and level surface.
2. Insert the high-pressure hose into the quick coupling until it audibly latches into place.
   
3. Insert the high-pressure hose into the high-pressure gun until it audibly latches into place.

Note
Take care to ensure the correct alignment of the nipple.

4. Check for a secure connection by pulling on the high-pressure hose.
5. 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.
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 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 for run 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
Pump running dry
Damage to the device
If pressure does not build up in the device after 2 minutes then switch the device off 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 tyres, paint or sensitive surfaces such as wood with the dirt grinder.

1. Insert a spray lance into the high-pressure gun and lock it by turning it 90°.
   
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 a washing brush
ATTENTION
Paint damage
Damage to surfaces through a dirty brush Ensure that the washing brush is free from dirt or other particles before using it.

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

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

Operation with detergent

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

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

1. Pull the desired length of the detergent suction hose out of the casing.
   
2. Hang the detergent suction hose in a container with detergent solution.
3. Use the Click-Vario Power spray lance.
4. Turn the spray lance to "MIX". The detergent solution is mixed with the water jet during operation.
5. You can optionally use the foam nozzle.
   1. Fill the detergent solution into the detergent tank. Adhere to the dosage specifications on the detergent container.
   2. Connect the foam nozzle to the detergent con-tainer.
   3. Insert the foam nozzle into the high-pressure gun and turn by 90° to fasten it.

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.
3. Insert the high-pressure gun into the high-pressure gun storage compartment.
4. Place the high-pressure gun with the spray lance inthe parking position.
5. Switch the device off "0/OFF" during work breaks longer than 5 minutes.

Ending operation

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

1. Release the lever of the high-pressure gun.
2. Close the water tap.
3. Press the lever of the high-pressure gun for 30 seconds. The pressure remaining in the system is discharged.
4. Release the lever of the high-pressure gun.
5. Lock the lever of the high-pressure gun.
6. Disconnect the device from the water supply.
7. Switch off the device "0/OFF".
8. Pull the mains plug out of the socket.

Transport

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

Carrying the device

1. Lift and carry the device by the carrying handles.

Pulling the device

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

Transporting the device in a vehicle

1. Secure the device against slipping and tipping over.

Storage

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

Storing the device

1. Place the device on a level surface.
2. Disconnect the spray lance from the high-pressure gun.
3. Press the separation button on the high-pressure gun and disconnect the high-pressure hose from the high-pressure gun.
4. Press the casing of the high-pressure hose quick coupling in the direction of the arrow and pull out the high-pressure hose.
5. Store the high-pressure hose on the device.
6. Secure the mains connection cable and the highpressure hose with the rubber band.
   
7. Store the mains connection cable and accessories on the device.

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

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

The following requirements must be satisfied:

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

1. Switch the device on "I/ON".
2. Wait for a maximum of 1 minute until no more water escapes from the high-pressure connection.
3. Switch off the device.
4. Store the device in a frost-protected room, together with all accessories.

Care and service

Danger 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 water connection coupling.
2. Pull the sieve out using flat pliers.
3. Clean the sieve under running water.
   
4. Insert the sieve into the water connection.

Clean the detergent filter
Clean the detergent filter before longer periods of storage.

1. Pull the filter off the detergent suction hose.
2. Clean the filter under running water.
   

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

Danger 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.
4. If the motor is overloaded and the motor circuit breaker has triggered:
   1. Switch off the device "0/OFF".
   2. Allow the device to cool down for 1 hour.
   3. Switch the device on "I/ON" and resume operation.

Have the device checked by Customer Service if this fault occurs repeatedly.

The device does not start up, the motor buzzes
Voltage drop due to a weak mains grid or when using an extension cable

1. When switching on, first press the lever on the highpressure gun and then switch on the device "I/ON".

Device does not reach required pressure
The water supply is too low

1. Open the water tap fully.
2. Check the water inlet for an adequate flow rate.

The sieve in the water connection is dirty.

1. Pull the sieve in the water connection out using flat pliers.
2. Clean the sieve under running water.

Air is in the device.

1. Vent the device:
   1. Switch on the device without a connected highpressure hose for a maximum of 2 minutes until the water escaping from the high-pressure connection is free of air bubbles.
   2. Switch off the device.
   3. Connect the high-pressure hose.
   4. Observe the maximum suction height during suction operation (see chapter Technical data).

Strong pressure fluctuations

1. Clean the high-pressure nozzle:
   1. Use a needle to remove dirt from the nozzle drill.
   2. Rinse the high-pressure nozzle from the front with water.
2. Check the water supply volume.

Device leaking

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

Detergent is not sucked in

1. Use the Click-Vario Power spray lance and turn it to "MIX".
2. Clean the filter on the detergent suction hose.
3. Check the detergent suction hose for kinks.

Technical data

Electrical connection
Voltage	V	230-240
Phase	~	1
Frequency	Hz	50
Power rating	kW	2,1
Degree of protection		IPX5
Protection class		I
Power protection (slow-blowing)	A	13
Water connection
Feed pressure (max.)	MPa	1,2
Input temperature (max.)	°C	40
Input amount (min.)	l/min	10
Suction height (max.)	m	0,5
Device performance data
Operating pressure	MPa	12,5
Max. permissible pressure	MPa	14,5
Water flow rate	l/min	7,5
Maximum flow rate	l/min	8,3
Detergent flow rate	l/min	0,3
High-pressure gun recoil force	N	20
Dimensions and weights
Typical operating weight	kg	13,9
Length	mm	354
Width	mm	308
Height	mm	520
Determined values in acc. with EN 60335-2-79
Hand-arm vibration value m/s2		< 2,5
Uncertainty K m/s2		0,7
Sound pressure level LpA dB(A)		75
Uncertainty KpA dB(A)		3
Sound power level LWA + K uncer- dB(A) taintyWA		91

Subject to technical modifications.