FAQ's
Welcome to the CARA Water Frequently Asked Questions page — your go-to resource for all things water filtration.
If you have a question that isn't covered, send us an enquiry using the form below.
General Questions
How long does it take to get my products?
Our warehouse is located in Croydon, NSW.
Shipping times vary from 1-2 days for NSW, 2-3 days for QLD and SA, and 5-7 days for WA, NT and TAS.
Our preferred delivery services are with Australia Post/Star Track and Direct Freight Express. If you order after 12 midday you order will be shipped the next day.
Tracking details are automatically emailed to you once the parcel has been picked up by the courier service.
Do you offer warranty for your products?
All our products have 12 months warranty.
Please register your warranty online at www.carawater.com.au
Call us if you have any concerns with the products you have purchased on (02) 9799 2791 or email info@carawater.com.au
How do I contact you?
Customer Support
Sales Inquiries: Email us at info@carawater.com.au
Wholesale or Bulk Orders: Please send item details to info@carawater.com.au
Trading Hours
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Phone Support: Available daily from 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Address
1/1 West Street, Croydon NSW 2132
Phone: (02) 9799 2791
Do you offer refunds?
Please refer to our Returns and Refund Policy on our website.
Where are Cara Water products made?
Our products are thoughtfully designed in Australia and manufactured with care in China, meeting high international standards for quality and safety.
Each product goes through rigorous quality control to ensure performance and reliability.
We also offer free shipping, a 12-month warranty, and a 30-day money-back guarantee on most items.
CA3001 - Benchtop RO Hot & Cold Water Station
What does the CA3001 Benchtop RO System remove?
The Benchtop Reverse Osmosis (RO) System removes up to 95% of total dissolved solids (TDS) and a wide range of contaminants, including:
- Heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic (100%)
- Chlorine and its by-products (like chloramines) (99.67%)
- Fluoride (91.50%)
- PFAS (“forever chemicals”) (95%)
- Pesticides and herbicides (99.30%)
- Bacteria and viruses (99.30%)
- Microplastics and sediment (100%)
It uses multi-stage filtration, including a sediment pre-filter, activated carbon filter, reverse osmosis membrane, and post-carbon filter, to deliver exceptionally pure, great-tasting water — hot or cold, at the touch of a button.
Does the Benchtop RO Station need installation or plumbing?
No installation or plumbing is required.
This system is completely portable and plug-and-play. Simply:
- Fill the detachable tank with tap water
- Plug the unit into a power point
- Select your preferred temperature and volume — and enjoy pure water instantly.
No tools, no plumber, no fuss.
Can I use it with rainwater or bore water?
We recommend using mains water only.
Rainwater and bore water can contain biological contaminants (like bacteria or parasites) and higher levels of sediment, minerals, or agricultural runoff, which may shorten the life of the filters or overwhelm the system.
If you do want to use rainwater or bore water, you’ll need to pre-filter it through a UV steriliser and sediment filtration system first.
If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us to discuss your setup — we’re here to help you get the cleanest, safest water possible.
Does the Water Jug in the Water Station contain microplastics?
No, it does not.
The CARA Water Jug is made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic that is carefully selected to avoid leaching microplastics or chemical contaminants into your water. Your water is stored safely, without exposure to harmful materials.
What’s more, if you're using the CARA Hot & Cold RO Water Station, the water that fills the jug has already passed through a 6-stage reverse osmosis filtration system, which removes microplastics down to 0.0001 microns.
That means:
✅ No microplastics go in
✅ No microplastics come out
✅ You get safe, clean, thoroughly filtered water—every time
What materials does the water touch inside the CARA RO Water Station?
Inside the CARA RO Water Station, water passes through LFGB-grade silicone piping and is dispensed through SU304 stainless steel.
LFGB-grade silicone is a high-quality food-grade material designed for safe contact with drinking water, helping keep your purified water clean and fresh as it moves through the system. The SU304 stainless steel outlet provides a durable, hygienic dispensing point.
Many customers tell us they notice the difference in taste — especially when making tea — with water that tastes clean, smooth and pure.
So you can enjoy every cup with confidence.
How do I know when the filters need changing?
Your benchtop unit includes a real-time TDS monitor so you can track water quality.
A rising TDS level indicates the RO membrane may be reaching the end of its life.
You can also keep track of time-based replacement using simple reminders—set a calendar alert or mark the date on a sticker near the unit.
How often do I need to replace the filters in the Benchtop RO System?
The CARA Benchtop RO Hot/Cold Water Station is designed for simplicity and ease of maintenance, with just two filters:
- PCB Filter (Pre-Carbon Block): Replace every 6–12 months, depending on your water quality and usage.
- RO Membrane Filter: Replace every 18–24 months under normal household use.
💡 Tip: If you notice reduced water flow, a change in taste, or your TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) reading starts to increase, it’s likely time to replace a filter.
How to Setup - Start Using Your CA3001
Get your system running in just a few minutes.
CA3001 Button Guide — Every Control, Explained
This one-page guide gives you clear button explanations at a glance.
Care & Maintenance of Your CA3001
Simple steps keep your system working at its best:
- Clean the water tank regularly.
- Don’t leave water sitting unused for long periods.
- Use clean tap water only (no powders, flavours, or additives).
- Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth — avoid harsh cleaners.
Filter Replacement Timing:
- PPC + T33 Filter: Replace every 6–12 months
- RO Membrane: Replace every 12–24 months
This may vary based on usage, water quality, and TDS levels.
Warranty & Support
Your CA3001 includes a 12-month warranty.
Register to activate and access priority support.
If you ever need assistance, you can lodge a claim online and our service team will take care of the rest.
CA5001 - Under Sink RO Filter
Is the system easy to install?
Yes. The CARA system comes with:
- All required mounting hardware
- A detailed installation guide
It’s designed for DIY installation, but you can also opt for a professional plumber if you prefer.
Does the CARA CA5001 remove microplastics and PFAS?
Yes. The reverse osmosis (RO) membrane in the CA5001 system has pores so tiny that they block even the smallest microplastics and most PFAS.
For the toughest contaminants, the system combines RO with carbon filtration, offering comprehensive protection and peace of mind.
What contaminants does the CA5001 remove from water?
The CARA CA5001 Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Water System is designed to remove a wide range of common contaminants so you can enjoy clean, great-tasting water straight from your tap.
Here’s what the CA5001 system effectively reduces:
💧 Heavy Metals
– Lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, aluminium
💧 Chlorine & Chloramines
– Eliminates chemical taste and odour
💧 Sediment & Particles
– Sand, rust, dirt, micro-sediment
💧 Fluoride
– RO filtration significantly reduces fluoride levels
💧 PFAS / “Forever Chemicals”
– Helps reduce PFOS, PFOA and other harmful compounds
💧 Micro-organisms & Impurities
– Bacteria, cysts, microplastics and organic contaminants
💧 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
– Includes pesticides, herbicides, industrial chemicals
💧 Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
– Removes dissolved salts, minerals, and impurities for fresher taste
What makes the CARA CA5001 different from traditional RO systems?
This is a Direct Flow RO system — which means no storage tank is needed and you get purified water on demand.
It’s also compact, features a Smart LCD display, and is more efficient with a 1:1 pure-to-waste water ratio, making it space-saving and sustainable.
How often do I need to replace the CA5001 filters?
The Smart LCD display will notify you when it’s time. As a guide:
- PP + Carbon Filter: every 6–12 months
- RO Membrane: every 24–36 months
- T33 Carbon Cartridge: every 12 months
Lifespan depends on usage and water quality.
What’s the flow rate?
The purified water flow rate is 1.3 litres per minute, providing a steady supply of clean water.
Can I use it with rainwater or bore water?
Yes, as long as your rain or bore water is potable (safe to drink) and within the acceptable parameters for RO filtration.
How does it improve taste and smell?
The filtration process removes chlorine, odours, and chemicals using:
- Pre-filters (Poly Spun & Carbon Block)
- T33 Coconut Carbon Cartridge
This final stage polishes the water for great taste.
What does the Smart LCD show?
- Filter life
- Operation status
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels
It’s like a dashboard for your water quality and system health.
What’s the difference between ‘Purify’ and ‘Drink’ on the tap?
- Purify: Uses only the first PPC filter – suitable for rinsing fruit/veg.
- Drink: Water passes through all three filters – ready for drinking.
What are the dimensions and will it fit under my sink?
Yes — it’s compact.
Dimensions: 443mm (W) x 132mm (D) x 356mm (H)
How do I maintain the system?
Just change the filters as indicated by the LCD and check occasionally for leaks.
The Auto Leak Stop Valve adds protection and convenience.
CA4001 - Under Sink 3-Stage Filter (non-RO)
Is the system easy to install?
Yes. The CARA system comes with:
- All required mounting hardware
- A detailed installation guide
It’s designed for DIY installation, but you can also opt for a professional plumber if you prefer.
What contaminants does the CA4001 remove from water?
The CA4001 features a 3-stage filtration system that removes sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful contaminants — giving you safer, clearer, and cleaner water for everyday use.
How does this system improve water taste and clarity?
Its Carbon Block Filter targets chlorine and chemical compounds that affect flavour and smell.
Combined with the Ultrafiltration Membrane, which removes fine particles, it delivers crisp, great-tasting water.
How often do I need to replace the CA4001 filters?
Each filter has a lifespan of approximately 6–12 months, depending on usage and water quality.
The total filtration capacity is 3650 litres.
Regular replacement ensures optimal performance and water quality.
Can the CA4001 handle non-municipal water sources?
The CA4001 is designed primarily for municipal (tap) water.
If using well or rainwater, you’ll need to ensure it meets inlet water pressure and quality requirements to avoid damaging the system.
Can I use it with rainwater or bore water?
Yes, as long as your rain or bore water is potable (safe to drink) and within the acceptable parameters for RO filtration.
How does it improve taste and smell?
The filtration process removes chlorine, odours, and chemicals using:
- Pre-filters (Poly Spun & Carbon Block)
- T33 Coconut Carbon Cartridge
This final stage polishes the water for great taste.
What does the Smart LCD show?
- Filter life
- Operation status
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels
It’s like a dashboard for your water quality and system health.
What are the dimensions and will it fit under my sink?
Yes — it’s compact.
Dimensions: 443mm (W) x 132mm (D) x 356mm (H)
How do I maintain the system?
Just change the filters as indicated by the LCD and check occasionally for leaks.
The Auto Leak Stop Valve adds protection and convenience.
Water Filter Jugs
How long do jug filters last?
Most CARA Water Jug filters last around 60 days, or approximately 150 litres of filtered water—whichever comes first.
However, this can vary depending on your household usage and the quality of your tap water. If you're filtering heavily chlorinated water or using the jug frequently, you may need to replace the filter sooner for optimal performance.
💡 Tip: If the taste of your water changes or the flow slows down, it’s a good sign the filter needs replacing.
What do the Water Jug filters remove?
CARA jug filters use high-quality carbon or alkaline media to remove common tap water contaminants, including:
- Chlorine (improves taste and smell)
- Sediment (like rust or dirt particles)
- Heavy metals (such as lead, copper, and mercury)
- Organic compounds and some pesticides
This means your water not only tastes better but is also safer to drink.
What’s the difference between carbon and alkaline filters?
Both carbon and alkaline filters clean your water, but they do it in slightly different ways and offer unique benefits.
Carbon filters are designed to remove chlorine, unpleasant odours, and chemical contaminants that can affect the taste and safety of your tap water.
They use activated carbon to trap impurities, making your water cleaner, clearer, and better tasting. These are ideal for everyday use and are a great step up from unfiltered tap water.
Alkaline filters, on the other hand, do everything a carbon filter does—and more. In addition to removing contaminants, alkaline filters add back beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can be stripped during filtration.
They also help raise the pH level of your water, making it more alkaline. This is believed to help support the body's natural pH balance and improve hydration.
💡 Did you know? Alkaline water often has a smoother, more refreshing taste—and it’s especially popular among people focused on wellness and hydration.
So, if you’re simply looking to improve taste and remove everyday nasties, a carbon filter will do the job beautifully.
But if you’d like to boost your mineral intake and enjoy alkaline water at home, consider choosing an alkaline filter.
Shower Filters
What does the shower filter remove?
The CARA Shower Filter uses advanced carbon filtration to reduce:
- Chlorine and chloramine
- Heavy metals like lead and mercury
- Rust and sediment
- Unpleasant odours
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
This makes your shower water gentler on your skin, hair, and lungs—especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
💡 Light bulb moment: Steam from a hot shower can release chlorine gas into the air. A shower filter helps protect both your skin and your lungs.
How long does it last?
The shower filter typically lasts 3 to 6 months, depending on your water quality and how often it’s used.
A single person might get 6+ months out of a filter, while a family may need to replace it more often.
Is it easy to install?
Yes! No plumber needed.
The CARA Shower Filter is designed to screw directly onto your existing shower hose in just a few minutes.
It’s a universal fit for most standard fixtures and comes with instructions for a smooth DIY install.