KARCHER SE 4 Series Wet Vacuum Cleaner Instruction Manual

: July 26, 2024
: Karcher

Table of Contents

KARCHER SE 4 Series Wet Vacuum Cleaner
Device description
Initial startup
Operation
Cleaning methods
Care and service
Troubleshooting guide
Warranty
Technical data
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

KARCHER SE 4 Series Wet Vacuum Cleaner

Device description

The device is equipped with different equipment depending on the model selected. The specific equipment is described on the device packaging.

For the figures, please refer to the graphics page.

Illustration A

Suction hose connection
Spray hose connection
Device head
Switch for spraying water and detergent
On/Off switch for vacuum cleaning
Recessed grip on the device head
Carrying handle
Fresh water tank unlocking button
Fresh water tank
Storage, mains connection cable
Mains connection cable with mains plug
Container
Holder for suction tubes and accessories
Steering rollers (5x)
Filter bag
Cartridge filter
Spray vacuum hose with spray lever and locking button
Spray suction tubes 2 x 0.5 m (2x)
Washing floor nozzle with hard floor attachment
Spray extraction upholstery nozzle
Spray extraction crevice nozzle
Clip-on floor nozzle with carpet and hard floor in- sert for wet and dry vacuum cleaning
Upholstery nozzle for dry vacuum cleaning
Crevice nozzle for dry vacuum cleaning
Extra long crevice nozzle for dry vacuum cleaning
Switchable floor nozzle for carpets and hard floors for dry vacuum cleaning
Detergent RM 519 (100 ml)
Detergent RM 519 (1000 ml)

depending on different configurations

Initial startup

Note
To remove the device head, the fresh water tank must first be removed and the carrying handle folded down at the side.

Removing the fresh water tank

Press the unlocking button.
Removing the fresh water tank. Illustration B
Taking off the device head
Pull the carrying handle forwards. Illustration C The device head is unlocked.
Take off the device head. Illustration D

Installing the steering rollers

Remove the steering rollers from the container. Illustration D
Turn the container upside down.
Push the steering rollers into the openings at the bottom of the container as far as they will go. Illustration E
Turn the container upside down.

Fitting the device head

Place the device head on the container.
Pull the carrying handle up. The device head is locked. Illustration F

Installing the fresh water tank

Insert the fresh water tank at the bottom.
Press the top of the freshwater tank against the device head.
Make sure that the fresh water tank is engaged. Illustration G

Connecting the suction and spray hose

Attach the suction and spray hose to the connection on the device. Both parts must audibly engage. Illustration H
Fit the accessory as required. See chapter Installing Accessories.

Operation

Installing accessories
Mounting the accessory for spray extracting

Floor cleaning
Use the spray extraction floor nozzle for cleaning carpets or hard floors (with hard floor attachments).

Plug the spray suction tubes together and connect them to the suction hose. All parts must audibly engage. Illustration I
Attach the spray extraction floor nozzle to the spray suction tubes until it audibly engages.

Note

Use the hard floor attachment for hard floor cleaning.
Fit the hard floor attachment on the spray extraction floor nozzle until it audibly engages. The squeegee points to the front, and the brush strips to the back. Illustration J

Upholstery Cleaning

Depending on requirements, use the spray extraction upholstery nozzle or spray extraction crevice nozzle to clean e.g. upholstery and mattresses.
Attach the spray extraction upholstery nozzle or crevice nozzle to the handle of the suction hose until it audibly engages. Illustration K Illustration L

Fitting accessories for wet and dry vacuum cleaning

For floor cleaning, plug the spray suction tubes together and connect them to the suction hose. All parts must audibly engage. Illustration I
Slide the floor nozzle onto the spray suction tubes. Illustration M
Depending on the floor covering and cleaning requirements, make sure that the floor nozzle inserts or settings are correct.
Note
Using the floor nozzle with inserts

  * For carpet cleaning, use the insert for carpets.
  * For cleaning dry dirt, hard floors or water – use the hard floor insert (brush strips and squeegee). Illustration N
2.  **Note**

Using the switchable floor nozzle

  1. Only use it to vacuum clean dry dirt.
  2. For carpet cleaning, use the position with the brush strips retracted on the underside.
  3. For hard floor cleaning, use the position with the brush strips extended on the underside. Illustration O
  4. To clean upholstered furniture, for example, slide the upholstery or crevice nozzle directly on to the handle of the suction hose. Illustration P

Disconnecting accessories
Disconnecting the accessory for spray extracting

Remove the hard floor attachment from the spray extraction floor nozzle. Illustration J
Press the unlocking button and disconnect the spray extraction floor nozzle from the spray suction tubes. Illustration J
Press the unlocking button and disconnect the spray suction tubes from each other. Illustration I
Press the unlocking button on the spray extraction upholstery or spray extraction crevice nozzle and disconnect it from the suction hose. Illustration K Illustration L

Disconnecting the accessory for dry vacuum cleaning

Disconnect the floor nozzle from the spray suction tube. Illustration M
Press the unlocking button and disconnect the spray suction tubes. Illustration I
Disconnect the upholstery or crevice nozzle from the suction hose. Illustration P

Filling the fresh water tank

ATTENTION
The use of unsuitable detergents can damage the device and result in loss of eligibility for warranty claims.

ATTENTION
The freshwater tank must be firmly seated in the device.

Note
Use KÄRCHER detergent RM 519 as required for textile cleaning.

Pour in the detergent and top up with water.
The total filling quantity is a maximum of 4.0 liters.

Note
The freshwater tank can be removed at any time for filling or be filled directly on the device.

Filling the water reservoir directly on the device

Fold the tank cap up.
Pour 100 – 200 ml of RM 519 carpet cleaner (quantity may vary depending on the degree of contamination) into the fresh water tank, fill up with tap water, do not overfill.
Close the tank cap.

Removing the water tank for filling

Remove the fresh water tank, see chapter Removing the fresh water tank.
Fold the tank cap up.
To fill, see “2” in “Filling the water reservoir directly on the device”. Illustration Q
Close the tank cap.
Install the fresh water tank, see chapter Installing the fresh water tank.

Switching on the device
Note
Depending on cleaning requirements, the suction and spray functions can be switched on and used independently or simultaneously.

Plug the mains plug into the socket. Illustration R
Press the On switch (position I). The suction motor starts. Illustration S
To spray the water with the detergent, press the spray switch. The lamp on the switch lights up and the pump starts. Illustration T
Close the sliding air damper completely. Illustration U

Cleaning methods

Cleaning tips

Spray heavily soiled areas in advance and allow the cleaning solution to work for 5 to 10 minutes.
Always work from light to shadow (from window to door).
Always work from the cleaned to the uncleaned area.
The more sensitive the covering (oriental bridges, Berber, upholstery fabric) the lower the concentration of detergent.
Carpets with jute backs can shrink and bleed in colour if the work is too wet.
Brush wet pile carpets in the direction of the pile after cleaning when wet (e.g. with a fibre brush or scrubber).
Impregnating after wet cleaning prevents the textile from being quickly soiled again.
To avoid pressure points or rust stains, do not walk on or furnish the cleaned area until after it has fully dried.
To improve the cleaning result, rinse the object with clean water after using detergents.

Spray suction

Note:
- Warm water (maximum 50 °C) increases the cleaning effect.
- Only use the RM 519 detergent from KÄRCHER for cleaning.

ATTENTION
Danger from cleaning solution
Risk of damage

Before using the device, check the object to be cleaned for colour fastness and water resistance in an inconspicuous place.

ATTENTION
Only use the device on hard floors with a waterproof coating, such as enamelled tiles or linoleum.

ATTENTION
To avoid damaging the filter bag, do not use a filter bag for spray vacuum cleaning.

Make sure that the filter bag is removed.
Install the desired accessory, see chapter Installing accessories.
Fill the fresh water tank with detergent and water, see chapter Filling the fresh water tank.
Switch on the device (position I), see chapter Switching on the device. The suction motor starts. Illustration S
Close the air damper completely. Illustration U
Press the switch for spraying. The lamp on the switch lights up and the pump starts Illustration T
Press the lever on the handle to spray the cleaning solution. Illustration V The cleaning solution is sprayed.
To spray large areas, first press the lever on the handle and then press the locking button. Illustration W
Run over the surface to be cleaned in overlapping paths. In doing so, pull back the nozzle. Do not push it.
Note: When the wastewater container is full, a float switch closes the suction opening and the device runs at a higher speed and becomes loud.
After cleaning, switch off the device (position O), see chapter Switching off the device. Illustration S
Note : After switching off the device, there is still residual liquid in the washing suction accessory, which runs out onto the floor. To vacuum up this residual liquid, briefly switch on the suction function of the device again and remove the residual liquid from the floor.
Switch on the device (position I), see chapter Switching on the device and vacuum the residual fluid.
Switch off the device again (position O), see chapter Switching off the device. Illustration S
Empty the container, see chapter Emptying the container. Illustration Z

Light / Normal soiling with the one step method

Press the switch for spraying, see chapter Spray suction Illustration T
Spray and vacuum clean the cleaning solution in one step.
Switch off the switch for spraying and vacuum clean the remaining detergent solution.
After cleaning, clean the upholstery and carpet with clear, warm water and impregnate if desired.

Heavy contamination or stains with the two-step method

Press the switch for spraying, see chapter Spray suction Illustration T
Apply the cleaning solution and allow it to take effect for 5 – 10 minutes.The vacuum function remains switched off.
After the contact time, clean the surface as for slight / normal contamination.
After cleaning, clean the upholstery and carpet with clear, warm water and impregnate if desired.

Wet vacuum cleaning

ATTENTION
Damage to the filter bag
If a filter bag is used for wet vacuum cleaning, it may be damaged. Do not use a filter bag when vacuuming wet.

Remove the filter bag.
Install the desired accessory, see chapter Installing accessories.
Switch on the device, see chapter Switching on the device. Illustration S
To vacuum clean large quantities of water, fully open the air damper. Illustration X
Note
When the wastewater container is full, a float switch closes the suction opening and the device runs at a higher speed and becomes loud.
Empty the container, see chapter Emptying the container.

Dry vacuuming

ATTENTION
- Material damage due to vacuum cleaning without filter bag
- This may damage the device.
- Always ensure that the filter bag is inserted for dry vacuuming.
ATTENTION
- Damage to the cartridge filter
- When changing from wet to dry vacuuming, a wet cartridge filter can become damaged and unusable. Allow the cartridge filter to dry completely before dry vacuuming or replace it with a dry cartridge.
- Replace the cartridge filter as necessary.

Note
The container and accessories must be dry, otherwise dirt may adhere.

Make sure that the container and accessories are dry.
Insert the filter bag.
Unfold the filter bag completely.
Attach the filter bag to the unit connection and press it on firmly. Illustration AA
Install the desired accessory, see chapter Installing Accessories.
Switch on the device (position I), see chapter Switching on the device. Illustration S
Regulate the suction capacity with the sliding air damper. Illustration Y
Switch off the device, see chapter Switching off the device. Illustration S

Switching off the device

Press the switch for spraying after spray vacuum cleaning. The pump stops and the lamp on the switch goes out. Illustration T
Press the Off switch (position O). The suction motor stops. Illustration S
Pull the mains plug out of the outlet.

Emptying the fresh water tank

Remove the fresh water tank, see chapter Removing the fresh water tank.
Emptying the fresh water tank
Install the fresh water tank, see chapter Installing the fresh water tank.

Emptying the container
Note : When the container is full, a float switch closes the suction opening and the device runs at a higher speed and becomes loud. Switch off the device immediately and drain the waster water.

Switch off the device. See chapter Switching off the device
Remove the suction and spray hose.
Take off the device head, see chapter Taking off the device head.
Empty the container. Illustration Z
Fit the device head, see chapter Fitting the device head.
Install the fresh water tank, see chapter Installing the fresh water tank.

Ending operation
Note: To ensure that no cleaning particles and dirt particles remain in the lines, perform cleaning (without the addition of detergent) after each application.

Flush the spray lines in the device.
Fill the fresh water tank with about 1 litre of clear water.
Press the switch for spraying. The lamp on the switch lights up and the pump starts
Hold the spray/suction hose over a drain until the clear water has been used up.
Switch off the device, see chapter Switching off the device.
Disconnect the accessory, see chapter Disconnecting accessories
Remove the remaining liquid in the spray/suction hose.
Press the unlocking button and remove the spray/suction hose from the device.
Press the lever on the handle of the suction hose and allow the liquid to flow out. Illustration V
Note : To allow the liquid to dry completely, do not wrap the spray/suction hose around the device to dry.
Note : To avoid puddles in the living area (e.g. on carpet, parquet), let the remaining liquid run in a suitable container (e.g. sink, bucket).
Clean the accessory part individually under running water and then allow them to dry.
Note : Any residual water may drip out, therefore it is best to place it in the shower or bath tub.
Empty the container, see chapter Emptying the container.
Thoroughly rinse the container with clear water.
If necessary,e.g. if the sieve in the fresh water tank is soiled, rinse the fresh water tank with clear water, see chapter Cleaning the sieve in the fresh water tank.
Leave the device open to dry.
After complete drying, attach the spray suction pipes to the accessory holder.
Store the device in a dry and frost-proof room.

Care and service

General care instructions

Clean the device and plastic accessory parts with a commonly available plastic cleaner.
Rinse the container and accessories with water, as necessary, and dry them before further use.

Cleaning the cartridge filter
Note
If necessary, carefully wipe the cartridge filter with a damp cloth.

Take off the device head, see chapter Fitting the device head.
The filter can be unlocked and removed by turning it towards the symbol UNLOCK. Illustration AB
Do not rub or scrub the filter when cleaning it.
Allow the filter to dry completely before using it again. Illustration AC
Reinsert the cartridge filter:
Install the filter on the filter basket, turn it towards the symbol LOCK and make sure it is attached correctly. Illustration AB

Cleaning the spray nozzle
Note
If the spray jet is uneven, the spray nozzle of the washing suction accessory can be damaged by residues and will need to be cleaned.

To clean the wash floor and wash upholstery nozzle, loosen the nozzle fastener by turning it and pull it out together with the spray nozzle.
Note : Keep the O-ring/sealing ring in a safe place and reinsert it after cleaning. Illustration AD
Clean residues in the spray nozzle under running water.
Insert the spray nozzle into the nozzle fastener and fasten it again by turning it.
Also clean residues in the spray nozzle of the wash crevice nozzle under running water.

Cleaning the sieve in the freshwater tank
Note: On the bottom of the fresh water tank there is a filter on which dirt particles can settle and thereby obstruct the water flow. Therefore, regularly rinse out the fresh water tank.

Remove the fresh water tank, see chapter Removing the fresh water tank.
Clean the sieve.
Fold the tank cap up.
Release the lock.
Remove the water hose from the tank. The sieve is located at the end of the water hose.
Clean the sieve under running water.
Rinse the fresh water tank with clear water. Illustration AE
Insert the sieve.
Lock the fresh water tank.
Install the fresh water tank, see chapter Installing the fresh water tank.

Troubleshooting guide

No water emitted from the nozzle
Fresh water tank empty

Fill up the fresh water tank. Fresh water sieve is dirty,
Clean the fresh water filter. Fresh water tank not installed correctly.
Install the fresh water tank correctly. Connection between accessory and spray/suction hose not correct
Establish the correct connection. Detergent pump defective,
assign Customer Service. Spray jet uneven Spray nozzle on the accessory for washing vacuum cleaning is soiled.
Clean the spray nozzle on the respective accessory. Poor suction performance The air damper is open too wide.
Close the air damper. Accessory, suction hose or suction tubes are clogged.
Remove the blockage. The filter bag is full.
Empty the filter bag. The filter cartridge is soiled.
Cleaning the cartridge filter The cartridge filter is worn out.
Replace the cartridge filter. Detergent pump loud Fresh water tank empty
Fill up the fresh water tank.

Warranty

The warranty conditions issued by our sales company apply in all countries. We shall remedy possible malfunctions on your device within the warranty period free of cost, provided that a material or manufacturing defect is the cause. In a warranty case, please contact your dealer (with the purchase receipt) or the next authorized customer service site. (See overleaf for the address)

Technical data

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Alfred-Kärcher-Str. 28-40 71364 Winnenden (Germany)

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Intended use
Only use the device in private households.

The device is intended for application as a spray extraction cleaner according to the descriptions given in these operating instructions and the safety instructions for the maintenance cleaning or basic cleaning of carpets with deep cleaning effect.
Hard floors can also be cleaned with a hard surface attachment for the washing floor nozzle (included in the scope of delivery).
With the appropriate accessory (included in the scope of delivery), the device can also be used for wet and dry vacuum cleaning.

Environmental protection
The packing materials can be recycled. Please dispose of packaging in accordance with the environmental regulations. Electrical and electronic devices contain valuable, recyclable materials and often components such as batteries, rechargeable batteries or oil, which – if handled or disposed of incorrectly – can pose a potential danger to human health and the environment. However, these components are required for the correct operation of the device. Devices marked by this symbol are not allowed to be disposed of together with household rubbish. Notes on the content materials (REACH)

Current information on content materials can be found at : www.kaercher.de/REACH

Customer Service department
Our local KÄRCHER branch will be happy to help you if you have any questions or problems with the device.

Accessories and spare parts 5951203
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.

Symbols on the device

There is a label on the storage space of the device that describes how to clean the device before storing it: