Carpet cleaner does not pick up dirty water; carpets remain very wet after multiple passes.

Safety first: Unplug the Kärcher carpet cleaner and empty both tanks before inspection.

• Check dirty water tank: Ensure the dirty water tank is not full and that its lid and seals are correctly fitted. An air leak here will drastically reduce suction.
• Inspect suction hose and nozzle: Detach the suction hose and floor nozzle. Look through them against the light and remove any blockages (hair, fabric, debris).
• Clean recovery channel: On some models, the recovery nozzle at the front of the floor head can clog with lint. Remove and rinse thoroughly.
• Check gaskets and seals: Inspect the vacuum motor gasket and tank-to-body seals for cracks or deformation. Replace any damaged seals to restore airtightness.
• Test with clean water: Reassemble and test suction using a small amount of clean water on a hard surface to confirm improved pickup.