Product test
Who is this product designed for?
by Carolin Teufelberger
Kärcher mobile medium-pressure washer: not much included
22.10.2024
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
In theory, Kärcher’s OC 6-18 Premium is exactly what I need. It’s a mobile device that runs on battery power and doesn’t need a water connection. In practice it holds up, too. But at what cost?
A rattly start
The first thing I notice is the rattly pull-out handle, to pull the cleaner along behind me. The finish feels flimsy. Fortunately, this isn’t the case with the washer itself. The OC 6-18 Premium’s largely made up of a water tank with a medium-pressure cleaner on top. There’s an optional suction hose available to hook up to a direct water supply from a canister or rain barrel. The delivery includes an adapter for direct connection to a garden hose.
Filling the washer could be a very simple endeavour. After all, there’s a large, round hole at the top of the trolley. However, I can’t fit the trolley under any tap, which is why I made an adventurous construction involving a funnel and a hose. Filling it up this way took me forever, so I ended up using a watering can instead. I didn’t factor in this workaround, as it’s hardly Kärcher’s fault I don’t have a suitable water connection.
The brush does the trick
Using the appliance is pretty self-explanatory. I hook up the hose to the washer on one side and to the pistol grip on the other. It’s impossible to get wrong. The nozzle’s attached to the handle with an optional extension. Next, you insert the battery, push the power button and listen to the humming sound of the water pressure building.
In hindsight, I should’ve used it from the start. It was easy to run the brush along the floor panels and scrub away coarse dirt. This technique greatly speeded up the job. However, I doubt it really tackles ten square metres in ten minutes, as Kärcher claims. Nevertheless, the attachment was essential for my purposes.
The battery managed the job no problem. On a full charge, I emptied the tank five times. If you need more power, you could invest in additional batteries.
What I don’t understand is why Kärcher doesn’t include the battery, charger and brush in one set. Obviously, more isn’t always more. But in this case, the brush is an accessory that’s helpful for pretty much every job. Not only for plastic wood decking...
In a nutshell
Mobile pressure washer with minor drawbacks
The Kärcher OC 6-18 Premium combines a mobile medium-pressure cleaner with a water tank in a trolley – all powered by a rechargeable battery. A perfect solution for mobile use on your balcony or mobile home. I would’ve like the brush to be included in the set. After all, the attachment is what makes the Kärcher OC 6-18 Premium a truly efficient helper. I’m also deducting points because of the rickety handle.
Pro
- Easy to operate
- Battery lasts long enough to clean larger areas
- Adapter included for mains water connection
- Pressure strong enough for plastic or wooden surfaces
Contra
- No included accessories (brush)
- Tank empty after a few minutes
Simon Balissat
Teamleader Editorial
Simon.Balissat@digitecgalaxus.chWhen I flew the family nest over 15 years ago, I suddenly had to cook for myself. But it wasn’t long until this necessity became a virtue. Today, rattling those pots and pans is a fundamental part of my life. I’m a true foodie and devour everything from junk food to star-awarded cuisine. Literally. I eat way too fast.
