Review of the Karcher VC 3 vacuum cleaner: the ideal cleaner for smooth surfaces

One of the most successful models of cleaning equipment for home use is the Karcher VC 3 vacuum cleaner - compact, convenient, intended only for dry cleaning. The device has been on the household equipment market for three years now and occupies a high position in the ranking among brand analogues.

You will learn everything about this popular model from our article. We will introduce you to the technical characteristics and functionality of the device. In order to more fully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the vacuum cleaner, we compared it with units that were similar in functionality and price.

Features and Features Overview

Despite the emergence of many robot models And wireless devices, traditional upright vacuum cleaners with a power cord remain the most popular. Karcher produces several popular series for home use, and VC is one of them.

The design of the vacuum cleaner body is made in the traditional Karcher bright yellow color, the remaining parts are black or dark gray.

In addition to the VC 3 model, in the store you can find an improved modification VC 3 Premium, more powerful and efficient. They should not be confused, as there are differences in technical parameters. Externally, Premium is easily recognizable by its white body color.

Purpose and functions of Karcher VC 3

The model cannot be called multifunctional, as it is intended for dry cleaning. This means that with the help of a vacuum cleaner you can remove debris from the floor, remove dust from upholstered furniture and any hard surfaces, but for wet cleaning you will have to use a regular mop or other device.

Thanks to three-stage filtration, the model does not pollute the air, that is, all the dust that gets into the pipe remains inside the vacuum cleaner and does not fly back, as happens with some cheap models. The absence of an aquafilter does not prevent the vacuum cleaner from performing its function efficiently and collecting debris carefully and to the maximum extent.

The manufacturer claims that after cleaning the air with the VC 3 modification, it becomes clean and safe; in addition to dust, viruses, bacteria, and the smallest allergens disappear from it.

Principle of operation cyclone filter is simple: the engine sucks dust inside a plastic container, where it settles. Centrifugal force presses the debris against the walls and prevents it from returning back.

The model is not intended for industrial use - the dust container is too small and the power is insufficient for production needs.But for cleaning a 2-3-room apartment, the vacuum cleaner is ideal, especially for frequent use.

Design and configuration of the model

The new vacuum cleaner is packaged in a box made of durable cardboard, inside which, in addition to the device itself, there are nozzles. Unpacking is usually done at home, but if you wish, you can turn it on in a store in order, for example, to check the noise level.

On different sides of the packaging there is information about the vacuum cleaner: a high-quality photo of the device, instructions for use, technical specifications, photo review of attachments

The design of the Karcher VC 3 brand vacuum cleaner is simple and at the same time well thought out: the compact body is mounted on two large wheels, the dust container is located on top, in a convenient place.

All assembled elements form a structure that is easy to move and store. And the transparent garbage bin allows you to quickly find and remove items that accidentally got inside. The multi-cyclone filter can be easily disassembled and washed.

Before moving into the cyclone filter, dust and debris enter the pipe and 1.5 m elastic hose.The length of the pipe is designed for average human height, and it is very convenient to manipulate. The hose bends easily, does not break, and rotates freely in any direction.

If desired, you can purchase other attachments:

• turbo floor brush;
• turbo brush for furniture;
• a nozzle with short bristles for parquet;
• flat and wide nozzle for mattresses.

Spare HEPA13 filters are also on sale at a price of 930-950 rubles. The power cord rewinds automatically and, if necessary, can be easily reached to a length of up to 6 m.

The power button, like the rewind button, is made of durable plastic. Both switches are located on the top surface so that you can press them with your foot when necessary, rather than leaning over each time.

Technical parameters of the device

Buyers should know that the VC 3 model is one of the most energy efficient. It consumes only 700 W per hour, that is, it belongs to class “A”.

According to the results of tests carried out by the manufacturer, the vacuum cleaner spends a total of 24.8 kWh per year, but provided that cleaning is carried out 50 times

The suction power of Karcher is not indicated anywhere, so it can only be judged by reviews of active users. Most vacuum cleaner owners believe that for a compact model the suction power is significant; in this parameter, the VC 3 is not inferior to models with consumption. power 1500 W.

Characteristics:

• cleaning - dry
• dust collector – cycle. filter 0.9 l
• noise level – 76 dB
• fine filter – yes
• consumption power – 700 W
• weight – 4.4 kg
• range – 7.5 m

The removable dust container made of transparent heat-resistant plastic is much more convenient to use than paper bags.

Devices with a dust container are much more economical, since the container lasts as long as a vacuum cleaner. For comparison: vacuum cleaner bags have to be changed at least once a year (paper ones more often), and their cost is 300-1000 rubles.

The weight of the model is comparable to the weight of vertical vacuum cleaners - less than 4.5 kg. Both a fragile woman and a small child can handle it. The device is easy to move even on a fleecy carpet

Noise level is average. There are both noisier and quieter models on the market. When the Karcher VC 3 “cleaner” is turned on, you can talk in a loud voice. During operation of vacuum cleaners, the noise level of which reaches 80 dB, it is difficult to hear the interlocutor.

What did customers like?

The VC 3 model occupies the top lines of various TOPs and ratings thanks to a large number of positive reviews. Users note the comfort when using the device at home, even in cramped conditions with limited free space.

The vacuum cleaner has no sharp corners or protruding parts that are dangerous for children. The plastic is smooth, wiping or washing it is a pleasure. Emptying the dust container is very easy and quick: you can empty the debris with one hand.

Many people like the convenient collapsible design. The cyclone filtration system, which requires regular maintenance, can be disassembled into several parts that are easy to clean

Buyers tend to call the model quiet after using other, noisier vacuum cleaners. The power of the device is quite suitable for home cleaning. But it is not suitable for heavily polluted rooms; it is better to purchase more powerful, productive equipment with a large dust collector.

Advantages:

• average power;
• economical;
• quiet;
• easy to use and maintain;
• compact.

If we evaluate VC 3 on a 5-point scale, then users who have been using a vacuum cleaner for cleaning apartments and houses for a year or more give an average of 4.5 points.

Negative consumer reviews

Among the negative reviews, many are subjective - some do not like the color or shape, others are unhappy with the cost of the vacuum cleaner. After monitoring the cleaning equipment market, we can say that Karcher fully justifies its low cost, in different stores - 6400-9400 rubles, depending on additional offers.

Problems arise with cleaning up wool - a standard brush does not pick up hairs well, so carpets, sofas, and chairs have to be vacuumed for a very long time, several times.

If there are animals in the house or a large amount of dust quickly accumulates, it is recommended to purchase a turbo brush, which is not included in the kit.

The model is not suitable for large rooms - the 6-meter cord is not enough to get around the furniture or reach the opposite corner.They also complain about the instability of the body. The vacuum cleaner moves quickly, but when turning it can fall on its side; even the large wheels do not help.

Flaws:

• The dust collector needs to be cleaned regularly;
• the design is unstable during sudden movements;
• difficult to clean under low furniture;
• short power cord.

Most of the negative aspects noted by users are also typical for some models from other manufacturers.

Tips for use and care

Dry vacuum cleaners do not require thorough rinsing after each use, as analogues with aquafilter. However, over time, the reservoir becomes clogged, and small electrified particles fall into the cracks between the filter parts.

It is recommended to occasionally disassemble the cyclone system, wipe the parts with a damp cloth or rinse under running water. The elements are installed in place only after drying

If cleaning is not carried out on time, the device will simply stop working. It is better to wash the filter that protects the engine more often so that the main operating unit of the vacuum cleaner does not fail prematurely.

It is not recommended to suck up insects, liquids and solutions, explosive or flammable substances. You cannot vacuum animals or clothes worn by a person.

Comparison with competitors

In the price segment from 6500 to 9000 rubles quite a few models, similar to Karcher VC 3. Some of them are more powerful and efficient, others are less reliable and inconvenient to use. For objectivity, let’s compare the characteristics of three more vacuum cleaners produced by LG, Samsung and Philips.

Model #1 - LG VK76W02HY

A powerful and productive device with a large dust reservoir and the Ellipse Cyclone filtration system.

The main feature is the system "Compressor" — automatic dust compaction technology, which increases the capacity of the dust collector. The elements of the pressing system are covered by a 10-year warranty.

Characteristics:

• cleaning - dry
• dust collector – cycle. filter 1.5 l
• noise level – 78 dB
• fine filter – yes
• consumption power – 2000 W
• weight – 5.2 kg
• range – 5 m

Compared to Karcher VC 3, the model is more stable, powerful, with good suction power - 380 W. The handle is equipped with an adjustment device for switching power. Sufficient assortment of attachments included.

But there are also characteristics in which it loses - noise level, dimensions and weight.

Model #2 – Samsung SC8836

Samsung specialists monitor the developments of competitors and try to implement their own technologies in a timely manner.

One of them - Super Twin Chamber, providing maximum suction power for a long time. This is an advantage of the SC8836 vacuum cleaner. The suction power is 430 W, and the dust container volume is 2 liters, the largest compared to other models.

Characteristics:

• cleaning - dry
• dust collector – cycle. filter 2 l
• noise level – 79 dB
• fine filter – yes
• consumption power – 2200 W
• weight – 6 kg
• range – 10 m

The vacuum cleaner cannot be called economical, but such a powerful unit will not hide a single speck of dust in the house. A large dust container is useful for general cleaning. If you clean your floors frequently and the amount of dust is small, the reservoir will last several times.

The model is more productive and spacious than its competitor, and accordingly, it is noisier and heavier.

Model #3 - Philips FC9350 PowerPro Compact

Effective and quick cleaning of the room is ensured by a powerful motor and cyclonic filter design.

Company development – ​​technology PowerCyclone 5, ensuring the separation of dust from the air redirected outside. Nozzle MultiClean adheres to the floor surface more tightly than a standard brush.

Characteristics:

• cleaning - dry
• dust collector – cycle. filter 1.5 l
• noise level – 82 dB
• fine filter – yes
• consumption power – 1800 W
• weight – 4.5 kg
• range – 7.5 m

This is a more powerful model than the Karcher VC 3, but with the same range and approximately the same weight. The plus of Philips is the 1.5 liter dust capacity, and the minus is noise.

Conclusions and best offers on the market

The VC 3 modification device is recognized as one of the best representatives of the Karcher brand for dry home cleaning. The optimal use of a vacuum cleaner is 1-2 times a week in a not very dirty 1-2-room apartment or studio. If used in a large room, you will need to empty the dust container more often.

Which vacuum cleaner did you choose to clean your own country house/apartment? What functions and technical characteristics became decisive and decisive? Please write comments in the block below, post photos related to the topic of the article, and ask questions about points that interest you.