Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Berkey Water Filter: Find Your Perfect Match
Choosing the right water filtration system isn’t just a smart move – it’s essential for making sure you and your family have access to clean, safe drinking water every day. Berkey filters have earned their reputation for a reason: they deliver top-notch performance by effectively removing contaminants and providing fresh, great-tasting water.
But there are several different options among the available models – and that’s the reason why we’ve put together this comprehensive overview.
In this guide, we’ll give you the entire picture of the filter options available, introduce you to the full range of Berkey filters, and help you decide which one is right for you.
What you will learn in this article:
- 4 Questions to answer before choosing a Berkey
- Why choose a Berkey water filter
- Types of Berkey water filter systems
- How to select the right size of Berkey water filter
- Understanding Berkey filters and accessories
4 Questions to Answer Before Choosing a Berkey Water Filter System
Choosing the right Berkey system can feel overwhelming at first, and to make the decision easier, we’ve broken it down into four key questions. Answering these will help you match your household’s water needs with the right Berkey model, so you can enjoy clean, great-tasting water every day without second-guessing your choice.
1. How Much Water Should I Plan to Use Each Day With a Berkey System?
On average, most people need about half a gallon of drinking water per day, which is the equivalent of eight 8-ounce glasses. But once you start using your Berkey, you’ll probably find yourself reaching for it not just for drinking, but for cooking too. Boiling pasta, making coffee, or rinsing produce with clean water adds up quickly! A good rule of thumb is about 1 gallon per person per day if you're using your Berkey for both drinking and cooking.
2. What Storage Capacity Do I Need From My Berkey Model?
The storage capacity is an important factor to consider, especially if you want to be prepared for those busy moments when clean, fresh water is in high demand. For example, our most popular system, the Big Berkey, can store 2.5 gallons of filtered water, which is just about right for a small household.
But if your kids regularly bring their friends home to visit, this may be insufficient, especially if you need filtered water for other uses, such as cooking, as well. When choosing your system, think about your peak usage moments, not just how much you use on an average day.
3. How Long Does It Take to Filter Water?
The speed of filtration depends on two things: how many filter elements your system has, and the size of the unit itself. Berkey water filter systems are composed of two chambers: an upper chamber and a lower chamber. Water is poured into the upper chamber and filters down through the Black Berkey purification elements, collecting in the lower chamber.
This unique gravity-fed design, similar to a Brita or Pur filter, means that the height of the system creates pressure, which directly impacts the filtration speed. The Berkey difference comes from the long contact time between the water and the filter ingredients, ensuring high-performance results that other systems can't match. And because the internal filters work in any of our housing models, you get the same high-quality filtration results no matter which size you choose.
Taller systems generate more pressure, leading to faster filtration. However, keep in mind that the flow rate is highest when the upper chamber is full — it slows down as the water level drops. If you’re often filling water bottles or pitchers, a larger system with multiple filters may be a better option.
Here’s how long different Berkey models take to filter water:
| Model | Capacity | Number of Black Berkey Filters | Filtering Time (*Average) | Flow Rate |
| Travel Berkey | 1.5 Gallons | 2 | 1 hr 30 min | 1 Gal/hr |
| Big Berkey | 2.25 Gallons | 2 | 2 hr 15 min | 1 Gal/hr |
| Big Berkey | 2.25 Gallons | 4 | 1 hr 8 min | 2 Gal/hr |
| Berkey Light | 2.75 Gallons | 2 | 2 hr 45 min | 1 Gal/hr |
| Berkey Light | 2.75 Gallons | 4 | 1 hr 23 min | 2 Gal/hr |
| Royal Berkey | 3.25 Gallons | 2 | 3 hr 15 min | 1 Gal/hr |
| Royal Berkey | 3.25 Gallons | 4 | 1 hr 38 min | 2 Gal/hr |
| Imperial Berkey | 4.5 Gallons | 2 | 4 hr 30 min | 1 Gal/hr |
| Imperial Berkey | 4.5 Gallons | 4 | 2 hr 15 min | 2 Gal/hr |
| Imperial Berkey | 4.5 Gallons | 6 | 1 hr 8 min | 3 Gal/hr |
| Crown Berkey | 6 Gallons | 2 | 6 hrs | 1 Gal/hr |
| Crown Berkey | 6 Gallons | 4 | 3 hrs | 2 Gal/hr |
| Crown Berkey | 6 Gallons | 6 | 1 hr 30 min | 2 Gal/hr |
| Crown Berkey | 6 Gallons | 8 | 45 min | 4 Gal/hr |
*Average filtering time is based on the rate of one gallon per hour per set of two Black Berkey Filters.
4. Which Size Berkey Is Right for Me?
Here’s a simple method to help you decide: multiply the system’s flow rate by its storage capacity. That gives you a good idea of how many people it can serve daily. If you have a big family, expect visitors, or want to be prepared for emergencies, consider sizing up.
All Berkey systems produce the same high-quality water — the difference lies in their capacity and portability. Larger units are great for everyday use and high demand, while smaller ones take up less counter space and are easier to pack for travel or camping.
For more help on choosing the right Berkey system for your needs, take our quiz, or check out the video below for more info on specific Berkey filter systems.
Why Choose a Berkey Water Filter
There are a few good reasons, and we've listed the most important ones below.
Contaminant Removal Rates
Berkey water filters are independently tested and proven to remove over 200 common drinking water contaminants. This is particularly important for improving water quality and taste, and for making it safer to drink. Their comprehensive filtration process ensures the removal and/or reduction of major contaminants such as chlorine, chloramines, various chemicals, and heavy metals that can affect your health.
Independent EPA/NSF Certified Lab Testing
Berkey water filters have been independently tested and verified to meet stringent filtration standards. This gives users peace of mind knowing that their water is being filtered effectively. Read more about Berkey's testing process and its results.
Long Filter Life
One of the advantages of Berkey water filter systems is the durability and longevity of their filters. The Berkey Black filters that come standard with all our systems, for instance, are designed to offer a long-lasting filtration solution, making them an excellent investment. This feature allows you to enjoy clean and safe drinking water for an extended period while reducing the cost of frequent filter replacements.
Portability
Berkey water filters are designed as freestanding, countertop units, making them easily portable. This portability allows you to have access to clean, safe drinking water wherever you go. Simply pour water from virtually any source into the top chamber of the system and dispense filtered water from the lower chamber.
6 Types of Berkey Water Filter Systems
Berkey water filters come in various sizes and capacities to fit the needs of individuals and families. In this section, we'll take a closer look at the different types of Berkey water filter systems available.
Big Berkey
The Big Berkey filter system is the most popular choice for families, with a storage capacity of 2.25 gallons (8.5 liters) and the ability to filter up to 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters) per hour with two Black Berkey filters. Its larger size makes it ideal for households of up to four people. The versatility of the Big Berkey allows users to increase the filtration speed by adding more filters, up to a total of four Black Berkey filters.
Travel Berkey
The Travel Berkey is the smallest Berkey water filter system, designed for portability and convenience. Its compact design makes it the perfect choice for those who need a water filter on the go, for camping trips, or vacations. The system can hold up to 1.5 gallons (5.7 liters) of water and can filter up to approximately 2.75 gallons (10.4 liters) per hour with two Black Berkey filters installed.
Go Berkey
The Go Berkey Kit is the most portable Berkey water filter system, designed for backpacking, hiking, camping, college life, travel, or any on-the-go activity. With a storage capacity of 1 quart (0.95 liters) and the ability to filter up to 1 gallon (3.5 liters) per hour with a single Black Berkey filter, it’s perfect for individual use.
Berkey Light
The Berkey Light is the only non-stainless steel system in the Berkey range. It is made of non-BPA co-polyester plastic and is 2.75 gallons in size. This allows for a more affordable, larger-sized system that can filter up to 4 gallons per hour, and can also accommodate up to 4 Black Berkey filters in the upper chamber to speed up the flow rate.
Royal Berkey
For larger households, the Royal Berkey offers an increased capacity of 3.25 gallons (12.3 liters) and can filter up to 4 gallons (15.1 liters) per hour with two Black Berkey filters. It can accommodate up to six people comfortably and can hold up to four Black Berkey filters for faster filtration.
Imperial Berkey
The Imperial Berkey system caters to even larger groups, with a generous 4.5 gallons (17 liters) storage capacity. It can filter up to 5.5 gallons (20.8 liters) per hour with two Black Berkey filters installed. Designed for bigger households or emergencies, the Imperial Berkey can support up to six filters for maximum filtration capacity and speed.
Crown Berkey
The largest Berkey water filter system, the Crown Berkey, boasts a massive 6-gallon (22.7 liters) storage capacity and can filter up to 6.5 gallons (24.6 liters) per hour with two Black Berkey filters installed. This system is ideal for large families or groups, with the ability to hold up to eight filters for the fastest and most efficient filtration, handling the water needs of 12 or more people.
All these systems can also be equipped with the add-on fluoride filters that go in the lower chamber of the system.
Remember to consider your household size and water consumption needs when choosing a Berkey water filter system. Each system offers varying capacities and filtration speeds, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your home or travel needs.
The lineup illustrates how the filters compare in height. On the right, you can see the 1-quart stainless steel Go Berkey system alongside the Sport Berkey portable filter.
All Berkey systems (except the Go Berkey) come standard with two filters, shown as shaded blue circles. The white circles represent unused filter slots, which are sealed with the included blocking plugs. If desired, additional filters can be installed in these open slots.
How to Choose the Right Size of Berkey Water Filter?
When choosing your Berkey water system, the two main things to consider are the size of your household and your water consumption level.
Family Size
Berkey offers six different sizes of water filter systems, accommodating families of various sizes.
Here are some sizing guidelines:
- Big Berkey: Ideal for 1-4 people, holding 2.25 gallons of water
- Travel Berkey: Perfect for 1-2 people, holding 1.5 gallons of water
- Berkey Light: Suitable for 2 to 5 people and has a capacity of 2.75 gallons of water
- Royal Berkey: Suitable for 2-6 people, holding 3.25 gallons of water
- Imperial Berkey: Designed for 6-8 people, holding 4.5 gallons of water
- Crown Berkey: Great for large families or groups (6+ people), holding 6 gallons of water
Bear in mind that even if you have a smaller family, it can be beneficial to choose a larger system if you have ample counter space, as it provides a larger water reserve.
Water Consumption
In addition to the number of people in your household, consider how much water your family consumes daily. Water consumption can vary depending on factors like hydration habits, cooking, and the use of water-based appliances.
To estimate your household's daily water consumption, consider the following general guidelines:
- Adults: 0.5 - 1 gallon per day
- Children: 0.25 - 0.5 gallons per day
- Pets: Varies depending on the size and species
For example, a family of four with two adults and two children might consume approximately 4 gallons of water daily for drinking and cooking. In this case, a Big Berkey or Royal Berkey water filter system would be an appropriate choice.
It’s an elaborate setup, yet incredibly easy to use and maintain. But more on that in a moment – first, let’s take a look at the accessories that come with these systems!
Understanding Berkey Filters and Accessories
Black Berkey Filters
Black Berkey Filters are powerful, long-lasting elements that effectively remove or significantly reduce contaminants, including chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs, and more, from virtually any water source. These filters have a high flow rate and can last for several years, depending on usage and water quality. They come in pairs, and a set is included standard with every system. Depending on the model, you can add more filters to your system to improve filtration speed.
PF-2 Fluoride Filters
PF-2 Fluoride Filters are designed explicitly for removing or reducing fluoride and arsenic from drinking water. These filters work as an add-on to the Black Berkey and are installed in the lower chamber of the system, allowing users to provide an additional layer of filtration for fluoride removal. PF-2 filters are only compatible with the standard Black Berkey Filters.
Berkey Water Filter Accessories
In addition to the filter options, there are several accessories available to enhance your Berkey water filtration setup:
- Stainless Steel Spigot: This durable, easy-to-clean spigot replaces the standard plastic spigot that comes with your Berkey system, adding a more polished look to your countertop water filter.
- Berkey Sight Glass Spigot: The water view spigot allows users to monitor the water level in the lower chamber without disassembling the Berkey system, making it easier to know when to refill.
- Stainless Water View Spigot: This is the same water view as the sight glass spigot, but is all stainless steel – perfect for high-use households or offices.
- Berkey Priming Tools: Priming tools help ensure that new filters are properly primed and functioning at their optimal performance level. Different priming tools are available for the Black Berkey filters and the fluoride filters.
- Berkey Stand: Berkey offers stands in various heights and sizes to accommodate different countertop setups, ensuring your water filter system fits conveniently into your kitchen space.
Accessories are a simple way to enhance your system and achieve even more advanced water filtration.
Looking for a Berkey? Start Here!
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of Berkey water filters, their storage capacities, filtration speeds, and the accessories available for each model, you have all the information you need to choose the option that best fits your needs.
Join thousands of families who trust us for clean, safe water! Browse our full range of Berkey water filters today, backed by the largest, most experienced licensed Berkey dealer, with an A+ BBB rating and unmatched support.
FAQ
What makes Berkey water filters different from other systems?
Berkey filters stand out for their powerful purification ability — removing over 200 contaminants, including PFAS and heavy metals — all without electricity or plumbing. Their long-lasting filters and gravity-fed design make them ideal for both everyday use and preparedness.
How do I choose the right Berkey system for my family size?
Think about how many people will regularly use the system and how much water you’ll need for drinking and cooking. A good rule of thumb is one gallon of water per person per day. For couples or small families, a Big Berkey is a popular choice. Larger households might prefer the Royal Berkey or Imperial Berkey for extra capacity and faster flow rates.
Which Berkey model is best for travel or camping?
The Go Berkey Kit is perfect for travel, hiking, or camping. It’s compact, lightweight, and comes with a sports bottle for easy refills on the go. For road trips or RVs, the Travel Berkey has a little more storage capacity and offers a great balance of portability and performance.
Have all Berkey systems been tested for safety and performance?
Yes! Berkey filter elements undergo rigorous independent testing and meet or exceed NSF/ANSI standards for contaminant removal. You can trust Berkey to deliver safe, clean water whether you’re at home or on the road.
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I already have a Big Berkey water system and just need filters. I’m having trouble finding filters without having to buy another system.
Hi Jackie -
The Ultra sterasyl ceramic filters are the approved Berkey system replacements of choice until the black berkeys are available again. They can be found here -
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/replacement-filters.html
Thanks
Dan
Hi. I just received my big Berkey for my family of 4 (plus a dog). I prob should have gone up a size. Anyway, i did all the priming and the red dye test. Filled the upper chamber and left overnight. Only about 1/2 actually drained to the lower chamber. I emptied both chambers and in three hours I’d say there is still a quarter chamber full of water. Is this correct ? Shouldn’t it all drain? I planned on discarding the first two batches and then drinking the third batch. Now I’m unsure.
Hi Susan -
It sounds like everything is working fine. There will always be approx 2 inches or so in the upper chamber that will not get filtered down simply because there is not enough water pressure to push it through the filter. When you add more water to the upper chamber again, the filtering will resume.
Thanks
Dan
HI I bought 2 systems as presents for my kids for Christmas. Can I get a discount if I buy a third?
Hi Beth -
Yes, please e-mail us at customerservice@bigberkeywaterfilters.com and a rep can provide this discount as a repeat buyer. Also, signing up for your newsletter provides discounts rather often as well.
Thanks
Dan
What's the difference between all the extra spigot options?
Hi Carly -
The stainless spigot is just a stainless version of the nylon spigot that comes standard with all systems.
The sight glass spigot allows for the user to see the water level in the lower chamber at any given time so they know when to refill the upper chamber of the system with water.
The stainless water view spigot is a stainless version of the sight glass spigot and our newest product upgrade offerings.
Thanks
Dan
Do you guys sell on Amazon?
Hi Bryan -
No, we do not. Unfortunately counterfeit Berkey products has been an issue for years, and continues to get progressively worse. Since Amazon is unable to properly police this, we pulled our sales and support from Amazon. We do not recommend purchasing on Amazon.
Thanks
Dan
Question: could the filter be hooked up to an existing well via the well holding tank with filling happening automatically without full time monitoring. The filters are all that is necessary, no other additives or treatments are required? In the event we are not satisfied with the result; what is your return policy and equipment try out period?
Hi Mike -
No, you cannot hook the system up to a well tank, but the filters would be sufficient for filtering well water. The return policy is details in the return policy link in the bottom footer of the website.
Thanks
Dan
Do you deliver to Vancouver, Canada?
Hi Dina -
Yes, we do.
Thanks
Dan
I just wanted to say thank you for your customer service. I spent hours researching and asking questions with Toni helped me on chat and Jenny by phone. They were both great, and I'm happy I finally made the purchase.
I want the go berkey kit for camping
Hi
Which is the best set up, pf-2 with black berkey or pf-4 with white candles, which ones removes the most harmful stuff
What would happen if the black filters were used with the pf-4 filters? Would it still cover everything or would some stuff get through?
I want to order replacements soon as but waiting on a reply
Regards
Hi Joao -
The PF-4 filters only work with the white ceramic filters, but neither are no longer produced. The better option is the black berkey / PF-2 combination as they last much longer, and these are the only combo we still carry as a result.
Thanks
Dan
Thanks for this article and video. Seems like the Imperial is the best for my family
We're a family of 3, is the Royal Berkey too large for us?
San
Hi San -
No, you would be fine. We recommend to lean towards the larger when in doubt.
Thanks
Dan
If I overfill the lower chamber, will it leak at the seam between the 2 chambers?
Hi Nick -
Yes, it would. So, you would need to pay attention this or you can also use the add-on sight glass spigot.
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/sight-glass-spigot.html?berkey_accessory_spigot_size=34
Thanks
Dan
How can you tell when your filter has reached its saturation point? Is there a way to measure the purity of the filtered water? Sort of like what Zero Water offers with their system, which serves to alert you when it’s time to change your filter.
Hi Maria -
You can do a red food coloring test on your filters at any time to see if they are still performing to design specs.
Thanks
Dan
Debating between the big and royal in terms of size. Does the metal stand fit universally the size of all bases?
Also, how often do you want to always be adding water to the system? I was thinking of exchanging the big for the royal so I don’t have to fill it everyday. Or is it preferred to regularly add water daily or every other day?
Hi AJ -
There are different size metal stands that are designed to fit each sized system.
Water does not have to be added every day. Every other day is fine.
Thanks
Dan
Travel berkey is what I need for our camping trips
What about the travel berkey? It only has two ports. I had assumed if you want to filter fluoride you would need a four port system. Is this an accurate assumption. I am only one person and really want the smallest system. My city adds fluoride to our water. Thank you in advance.
Hi Kolleen -
The fluoride filters go in the lower chamber of the system, screwing onto the black berkey stems and hanging from them. So, 2 black berkeys upper chamber and 2 fluoride filters lower chamber.
Thanks
Dan
Also, is there any advantage to having two Big Berkeys vs. one Imperial Berkey, etc?
Thanks again!
Hi Elizabeth -
No, there would not be except for the fact you can have the big berkey serve 2 different locations.
Thanks
Dan
Hi! Our municipal water is great, but I'm looking for a filter to sustain our family in case of emergencies. We collect rainwater in barrels, but the water first travels over our asphalt-shingle roof (and all the bird/roach/squirrel "debris" on it :) ), and the water coming out of the barrel is often a light amber color. Would Berkey black filters be sufficient (in an emergency) to clean this collected water, or would I need to further purify it somehow? I'm just as worried about the chemicals in the asphalt roofing as I am about the viruses/germs.
Thanks!
Hi Elizabeth -
The debris bacteria should be filtered out fine. As for the asphalt shingling, the filters have not been tested for that specifically, so we cannot officially state that all of the these potential chemicals would be filtered out.
Thanks
Dan
the unit I would like to buy will be used in a motorhome are these units able to be attached or bolted to a counter top so as not to fall over when I am travelling do the hook direct to tap or plumed direct into water lines how much water pressure do they need to operate I am thinking Big Berkey will water slop out when I am travelling down the road. are lids secure? thanks for help regards from Glen !
Hi Glen -
We have many customers who use these systems in their motor homes. Typically we see them using a bungee cord or 2 to secure this system in their motor home while moving. The water should not slosh out unless you have the system filled to the top and are driving under aggressive conditions.
Thanks
Dan
We bought the Big Berkey (2.25 gallon) in the past year and love love love it! We have two black filters that work extremely fast and well, but one thing I have noticed is that the top chamber doesn't hold much more than 1.5 gallons. I just use a plastic one-gallon container I saved from a purchased gallon for measuring. It's not a problem; just a bit confusing. I couldn't dare add 2.25 gallons without overflow. #JustCurious
Hi Dani -
The black berkeys will take up some of that volume in the upper chamber, and this is why total volume with the filters is reduced to approx 1.5 gallons.
Thanks
Dan
Hello, We live in Kenya and sometimes our tap water is orange as their is soil in it... Would it be best to prefilter water before we use a Berkey (we are trying to get one shipped with a friend from the States....)? Also I am confused about the filters... So they are cleaned and not replaced every 6000? (For the Royal?) And if the flouride/ arsenic filter is inefficient after every 1000 does that mean we clean it or replace it? Also, the Berkey filters pharmaceuticals , right? (Any chance you sell them in Kenya?)Thank you!
Hi Olivia -
Yes, we would recommend a pre-filter if possible just to lengthen the life of the filters. As for those filters replacement time, they need to be REPLACED at those stated intervals. Yes, the Berkey removes pharmaceuticals, but no we do not have a dealer in Kenya.
Thanks
Dan
can i use one black filter and save the other? if i buy extra filters, how long can they last in thee package?
Hi John -
Yes, you can do this, but there would not be any advantage. This is because each filter is rated for 3000 gallons, so whether using 1 or 2, will not help them last any longer. If anything, it will put your system at a disadvantage because the system will filter slower with only one filter installed. If you decide to go this route, you will also need to purchase an extra blocking plug to block the unused hole.
Thanks
Dan
So the salt will not clog & ruin the filters as I have read?! That is wonderful news. I am going to purchase a Berkey system just as soon as I calculate which one is right for us!
Hi Dan. I too have read many, many questions & answers but still have a few questions for you. We live in Citrus County, FL along the banks of the Withlacoochee river. Our well is shallow and the water is still not fit to drink even after being processed by a Hague whole house system. I would like to switch to Berkey to stop spending over $1,000 annually for drinking water however I've read that the salt from the Hague system will harm the Berkey system. What should I do, any suggestions?
Hi Becky -
The salt from the system will not harm the Berkey, however the salt will not be removed by the Berkey. So, it may make sense to use the pre-softened water in your Berkey water filtration system if you decide to go this route.
Thanks
Dan
Thank you for patiently answering so many questions. I have a couple questions of my own:
* Is there any way to make sure I didn't puncture my PF-2 filters? I hand-tightened until I felt the slightest amount of pressure. I didn't read about the 8 rotations before that. Would it take quite a bit of pressure to puncture them, or would I have heard an audible snap? Can I use a flashlight to look inside?
* My Travel Berkey began to overflow after being filled with 1.5 gallons. I emptied it into a 1 gallon glass jar and it filled it to 95%. Why is my Travel Berkey overflowing at not even 1 gallon?
Hi Taylor -
There's a screen on the inside of the PF-2's, so you be puncturing that screen. If punctured, you will see media leak out of the filters. As for the overflow, the 1.5 gallons does not account for the filters in the upper chamber. So, the lower clean water chamber can hold 1.5 gallons, but the upper chamber can accommodate less; approx 1 gallon.
Thanks
Dan
I want to also filter out fluorides. Can that be done in any size system?
Hi Margaret -
Yes, it can. The PF-2 filters will go in the lower chamber of any of our systems for fluoride removal except for the go berkey kit.
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/berkey-water-filters.html
Thanks
Dan
I have read just about all questions and answers. We live in our motorhome and travel all over the states. I haven’t noticed any questions whether this would be great at campgrounds or RV resorts, as all the water seems to be different.
We have an compression molded carbon block filter cartridge from The Water Pur company KW1, so all our faucets are filtered water. This system is as built into the motorhome... I just don’t feel it is enough. That’s where I feel the Berkey would come in handy. Would I or could I take the water from the faucet to fill the Berkey? Also, we love COKD water, so what does everyone do? Put the bottom half in the fridge? Or fill ice trays?
We will be making our decision in the next day. Tired of buying water bottles and don’t care for the taste.
Hi Barb -
Yes, you would just take the water from the faucet to fill your Berkey. For cold water, you can transfer the filtered water to a pitcher of some sort to be stored in the fridge.
Thanks
Dan
Hi. I am a single woman. I am thinking about purchasing a Big Berkey or a travel Berkey. I am hesitant because I do not know how much is involved in getting the units put together and functioning. Could I do this myself? Also, I am not sure which unit would be best for me. I have city water that smells like chlorine and it also has fluoride. Any advice would be helpful.
Thank you!
Hi Kathy -
This is relatively easy to do yourself. Most customers have the system up and running in approx 10 minutes, so you should not have issue. There are priming and assembly videos you can watch to familiarize yourself below under "berkey manuals". As for the size, if you have the space, the larger the better in our opinion. This is due to the fact that larger systems will require less frequent fillings. A Big Berkey would work for you.
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/helpful-resources/
Thanks
Dan
"Assuming a person drinks 8 ounce glasses of water/day, they will consume approximately 64 ounces/day (1/2 gallon)."
This sentence in Step 2 is missing an eight. Please adjust to avoid confusion.
-Big Jesse
Thanks Jesse! We've fixed that.
Thanks
Dan
Hi, I'm wondering, where it says that you can expand the filtration by adding more filters.... can this expansion be done at any time, or does it have to be before purchase? Ie. Does this unit come pre-drilled for the amount of filters desired, or is there a way to purchase with only two black and two fluoride, then add however many you would like at a later date in case of emergency and faster filter ration was needed at that time.
Hi Gloria -
Yes, a filter expansion can be done at any time, after purchase, etc. Also, the systems come with the designed holes already drilled. Blocking plugs that come with the system will be used to bock any holes not used.
Thanks
Dan
Hi, My mother has been using one of the Berkey systems - I think the Big or the Royal- for about 20 years. It has 4 ceramic filters in it at present. Can she replace them with 2 black and 2 ceramic filters or does she need to buy the whole unit?
The extra part that eliminate fluoride... how does that fix into/onto the system exactly?
Thank you for this very informative website btw.
Best,
Kristina
Hi Kristina -
The <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/black-berkey-filters-2.html" rel="nofollow">black berkeys filters</a> go in the upper chamber of the system, and the <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/pf-2-fluoride-and-arsenic-water-filters-2-fits-black-berkey-filters-only.html" rel="nofollow">Pf-2 fluoride filters</a> would go in the lower chamber of the system.
I've hyperlinked both filters she needs.
Thanks
Dan
Hello, I have the Big Berkey and use it with the black filters + PF-2 filters (2 each) for drinking/cooking and now I'm reading about the prevalence of microplastics and plastic fibers in water supplies - have your filters been tested for removal of such materials??
Hi Mitty -
The Berkey has yet to be tested for microplastics removal. However, the study notes "There is nowhere really where you can say these are being trapped 100%. In terms of fibres, the diameter is 10 microns across and it would be very unusual to find that level of filtration in our drinking water systems.” We know that the berkey can filter down to 2 microns and less, so until testing is done, we can only state that the berkey would be filtering out more of these microplastics than your town's municipal water filtering system.
Thanks
Dan
Hello! I'm doing small amounts of copper electroforming at home making jewelry.
I'm concerned about the waste rinse water that contains copper from the copper anodes used in the process. I'm thinking I'll need to filter approx 1 - 2 gallons of water per week. Would your filters be a good solution for this?
Hi Donna -
Yes, the filters will remove the copper from the water 99.9%+.
Thanks
Dan
Berkey Filter products are incredible and have good quality. I'm glad to learn further what it can offer more. Thanks!
Hi Dan, You mention cleaning the Black Berkey filters. How is that done?
Hi Susan -
We would want to refer you to this article here:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/blog/berkey-water-filter/anns-helpful-hints-for-berkey-water-filter-systems/
Thanks
Dan
Going to buy a Berkey. A family of two, living in a small house with a small kitchen, limited counter space. What is the DIAMETER of a Big Berkey? Thinking of putting it between wall and refrigerator...... Thanks for your help.
Hi Dana -
The diameter of the Big Berkey is 8.5".
Thanks
Dan
The spigot showing the water level is a must!
You will never want to go without it once you try it
I just ordered the Royal Berkey. I use ultrasonic humidifiers in the winter months (NYC) and have a problem with white dust deposits caused from the minerals in the tap water. If I use the filtered water from the Berkey in the humidifiers, will it reduce the white dust?
Hi Jeffrey -
If the dust is from minerals as you mention, then no. The berkey filters do not remove minerals from the water, so this would still exist.
Thanks
Dan
Can the berkey be purchased in Australia?
Hi Deb -
We do not have any distributors in AU, but we do ship there.
Thanks
Dan
I have a family of 5 and I want the ability to filter. Otherwise only city water but emergency river or pool water. What system would be best for us and how do I know when we need to clean or replace the filters? Thank you for your time.
Hi Dianna -
We would choose the Royal Berkey. You would replace the filters depending on the number of gallons being filtered. The black berkeys need to be replaced approx every 6000 gallons per set of 2.
Thanks
Dan
I just ordered a Big Berkey with two black berkey filters. Now I'm thinking I may want to switch to the white ceramic filters someday. Are the black and white filters interchangeable in this model? And just for the heck of it, while I'm asking, could I use one of each?
Hi Barbara -
Yes, they are interchangeable. You would not want to use one of each. The black berkeys provide the higher quality of filtration, so combining 1 black berkey with a ceramic filter would prevent that higher level of filtration.
Thanks
Dan
I'm looking for a filter for well water that has nitrates, nitrites, arsenic and hexavalent chromium. My landlord sprays roundup extensively on the property, so it may have leaked into the well water. Also, my neighbors spray pesticides and chemical fertilizers. I drink 8-12 glasses of water a day and prefer stainless steel. My family has experienced a lot of cancer, so I want the purest water available, for a good price, as I am 70-years-young, on a budget. What do you recommend? Thanks.
Hi Judy -
A list of what the filters remove can be seen here: https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/black-berkey-filters-2.html
I would say the Big Berkey is a good bet for you.
Thanks
Dan
I need a filter that will get rid of bacteria and viruses, heavy metals, chlorine and fluoride. I need water for home, office, and when I travel. Can you make some recommendations? Thank you!
Hi Lorelei -
Yes, I would recommend either the travel or the big berkey with the add-on fluoride filters.
Thanks
Dan
I've read reviews of rust problems. Has that been corrected.
Hi Elaine -
Rust issues are not a problem our customers have encountered, so we are confident this is not an issue.
Thanks
Dan
Hi -Does the Berkley filter out BPA?
Hi Jenni -
Yes, it does.
Thanks
Dan
We are a family of five looking to find a solution for high arsenic levels in our drinking water. (11ppb) We also tested cautionary for aluminum and lead (95ppb and .5ppb respectively). We live in an area where the arsenic should not occur naturally and we have a shallow well. On top of all the medical bills we are facing we are looking for an economical solution. What system should suit our family &amp; budget?
Hi Laci -
All systems come standard with the black berkey filters. The black berkeys will remove these contaminants for you. You would just need to choose a size. For a family of 5, we would recommend a Royal Berkey.
Thanks
Dan
In your video you only say '' The filter for this size removes fluoride and arsenic." When you talk about other sizes you only say these filters remove fluoride. Do some sizes not remove arsenic?
Thanks.
Hi Bonnie -
Every system that is equipped with the PF-2 fluoride filters will remove fluoride from the water.
Thanks
Dan
I'm looking into this for SHTF usage. I have 2 questions.
Question 1: I bought four 250 gallon water totes, 2 that contained guargum (a food additive) and 2 that had a type of soap. Both were fda safe if consumed by humans. The company pressure washed them for us before purchase but there is an obvious taste to the water because of leeching into the plastic. Although the water is safe, I want to remove the taste. Will the Berkey filters do this and do I need the Earth or the Black?
Question 2: If the heat goes off can I remove the filters and drain them, so freezing temperatures don't crack them?
Hi David -
Q1) - The black berkeys would be the best bet for this. While it is likely to remove the taste, without testing it out for ourselves, this is not something we are able to guarantee.
Q2) - Yes, you can always remove the filters and let them dry out so they do not freeze.
Thanks
Dan
Dan,
I'm considering buying a Big Berkey system w/ two black filters. I believe that there are four holes in the upper chamber, two of which would be used for the filters and the other two would need to be "plugged". I've read a number of reports that the plugged holes can, and do, leak! Do I need to be constantly running the food coloring test to check if the plugs are leaking? I really would prefer not to have to buy an additional two filters just to plug those other two holes!
Hi Steve -
It may happen that a defective plug is received and this would be addressed upon setting up the system, but this is very rare, and we would not been too concerned with this. Once you receive your system, you can check you seals quickly just by placing water in the upper chamber and looking for leaks. A red food coloring test is always a good idea in the beginning also to check the filters, but this would also tell you if the plugs are leaking. Once you're up and running, we would not worry about the plugs leaking, however periodic red food coloring tests can give that peace of mind for the plug seals and filter performance as often as you seem fit.
Thanks
Dan
Do you have anyone who's selling your products in the Philippines?
Hi Eleonor -
Unfortunately, there are not.
Thanks
Dan
All set to buy but with one question: Is there some type of indicator that tells me when the filter needs to be replaced or do I need to somehow keep track of the gallons filtered?
Thank you,
April
Hi April -
No, there is not indicator. You would just need to keep a rough estimate of gallons used based upon typical daily consumption. Also, you can perform a red food coloring test on the black berkey filters at any time to verify that they are working to design specs.
Thanks
Dan
I am interested in a whole house water filter system. Do you have a system, or plans to offer a system that can plug into incoming water source for whole house filtration?
Hi Gary -
No, we do not. Our technology is based upon slow gravity filtration, and we would be unable to achieve the high filtration rates we currently do under a pressurized whole house setup.
Thanks
Dan
We have 4 kids so total 6 of us. We live in a small place and still deciding whether should go with Royal or Imperial and how m any black filters should we get. Thanks for the advice.
Hi Joshua -
We would lean towards the Imperial. The standard 2 black berkey filters should be fine. You can always purchase more down the road if desired.
Thanks
Dan
We have well water, We are having to clean our black filters regularly for the to filter the water. What would be the best filters? We currently have two black filters. Thank you!
Hi Danielle
The black Berkeys are the best filters we sell and are standard with all systems.
Thanks
Dan
Hello
I read an article about using pool water as a last resort in case of emergency for drinking water and was funneled to this site as a filter that would work for this. What kind of system would you reccommmend and how many filters...say 6 month emergency....8 people.... and or any info to buy to treat pool water before placing in a system for filtration. any info is appreciated!
I've been comparing the different models and am wondering about the Burkey Light. It seems to hold more water and cost less than the Big Burkey.
Does the Big Burkey have advantages over the Burkey Light? Does the stainless steel hold up better? Is the BB more portable? Thanks
Hi Lauralee -
This article should help you:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/blog/berkey-water-filter/a-stainless-or-plastic-berkey-water-filter
Thanks
Dan
We have an ice maker that we use for all our drinking water. We live in Florida and like cold water with lots of ice.. Wouldn't we be defeating our purpose if we use ice from our freezer (goes through a PUR filter)? Also, we have a water conditioning system that uses salt and citric acid.
Hi Kathy -
Yes, the ice cube water would not be as purified as the berkey water.
Thanks
Dan
We are on municipal water that supposedly does not have fluoride in it. I understand that the fluoride filters remove a few other things besides fluoride and would like to have the most effective system.
Are there any drawbacks to using these filters if you don't necessarily need them, besides added cost?
How much do they affect the flow rate?
I have a Royal Berkey and have two used black filters that are dry. They've been used for less than 2 years for a family of two so there should be a lot more life in them. Can I soak them in plain water and reinstall them like I do with new ones?
Hi Ruthann -
Yes, you can just reinstall them as start using.
Thanks
Dan
We want to buy something for emergencies, if we didn't have access to water besides a lake or a backyard pool. Which types of filters would be best for these scenarios?
Hi Jessica -
Any of our systems are already designed for some of these sources. The black berkeys that come standard will filter lake, river, or even stagnant pond water. We do not have guidance on pools as there are a number of different chemicals that may be used, and we have not tested for all potential pool chemicals.
Thanks
Dan
I was interested in buying a Berkey that will be used once a year for a 12 day camping trip. In most cases we will have access to well water. Should I buy the air primer pump? I will not have access to faucets were I will be camping and will travel 2-3 days to get to the site. After the trip, do I simply dry out the black filters for 4 weeks and store for next year? Should the dry filters be stored in a Ziplock bag or other container? Finally any tips for packing the Berkey for the trip? I look forward to your response.
Hi Camper -
you can get away without and primer pump, and may not even need to reprime the filters at any point in time. However, you may still desire this item in the event that your filter get clogged while camping and you need a quick re-prime to flush out any matter that may have clogged them up. It would be an easy and quick fix if that situation were to arise.
And yes, you can just dry the filters out and store them in ziplocks until next year. It shouldn't take more than a few days for them to fully dry out.
As for packing, I would just wrap the filters up in some sort of padding so they do not get inadvertently damaged during travel.
Thanks
Dan
I have two questions that don't seem to be answered as I read thru the comments.
1. Does the Berkey have to be sitting level to work properly?
2. How tough is the stainless steel for air travel? I'm wondering about the possibility of getting dented and then not working properly.
Thank you for responding.
Linda
Hi Linda -
1) Yes, we would recommend it being relatively level for us.
2) The stainless steel is relatively tough, but if you're traveling you can wrap it is some older rags or some other type of cushioning for better safeguarding.
Thanks
Dan
Any plans to make available a hot and cold Berkey?
Hi Barbara -
No, there are no plans for that at this point it time.
Thanks
Dan
Does the Berkey fluoride filter completely remove fluoride?
Hi Bruce -
The fluoride filters remove up to 99.75% of fluoride in the water.
Thanks
Dan
Hi again Dan,
I saw that the test removed 17 pharmaceuticals so I guess I would like to know which were in the test?
Thanks again.
Best,
Ava
Hi Ava -
Details found here:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/chloramine-pharmaceutical-pesticide-etc-results/?___SID=U
Thanks
Dan
With buying the black filters, is it still recommended to get gliuride and arsenic filters too? And shower head, is it already equipped with flouride/ chlorine/ filter?
Going to get the big berkey .
Thank you
Hi Brighty -
No, you only need them if you want to remove fluoride. The shower filter only addresses chlorine.
Thanks
Dan
Hola Dan! I was told that if considering a larger berkey system for my household to not overdue it on the size, because the water is good for about three days once filtered. Makes sense in the sense of consuming the filtered water asap instead of having so much of it sitting in the lower chamberng. Is this correct? Don't want a small one either. Your site also mentions the bigger the better as far as faster purification process... Thanks!
Hi Emely -
As long as you are using the system on a daily basis, you do not have to worry about water sitting in the lower chamber, as it's continually moving through. And yes, larger means faster filtration due to more water pressure in the upper chamber.
Thanks
Dan
I think that's a typo. From previous comments, the 2 Black Berkeys would last 6000 gallons of water, not 600.
Can the travel berkey accommodate fluoride filters?
Hi Julie -
Yes, the fluoride filters would go in the lower chamber of the system.
Thanks
Dan
Hi
I want to buy a berkey water filtration but not sure which would best. I am concerned about the rubber ring on the bottom of the Big Berkey in that one of the reviews mentioned a strong petroleum smell from it. I am very sensitive to strong smells. If it does have a strong smell, can it be removed? Thanks.
Hi Beverly -
This is not something our customers typically experience, and was an isolated case.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
I live in South Florida, and I was wondering if I can keep the Travel Berkley in a fridge. Sometimes I would take it to two different warehouses, and due to moldy conditions in the summer, I was wondering if keeping it in the fridge all the time is an option. Thank you very much!
Hi Leo -
Yes, that would be fine.
Thanks
Dan
i like to keep my filters topped off. since this one is not see through, how can i know how much water to add? do i fill it a quarter, a third, half etc. i don't want to overflow it but i don't want it to get low because then there is less pressure. i would have bought the see through one, which would have been perfect but on reviews it said they keep cracking after a few month and start leaking. currently using a zero water system and wanting to upgrade.
Hi Peter -
The sight glass spigot is your best option. I know you've read somewhere about problems with this SGS product, but this is not something we've experienced at all and we've sold thousands of them. We can confidently recommend them to solve your problem.
Thanks
Dan
Can Berkey filters filter protozoa such as giardia and amoeba?
Hi Wendy -
Yes, they can.
Thanks
Dan
I'm not sure what size I would need or which one I need. There are up to seven people in my home at any given time. But only three that live here permanently. We have well water. It has an odor to it and a bag taste also. I have used a Pur treatment on the faucet and it works so so. Can you please give me some advice?
Hi Connie -
I would suggest either the Royal or Imperial Berkey given the amount of people you'd want to serve this system with.
Thanks
Dan
Hello! I am sold on a Berkey after experiencing one at a friends house. I am a 1 person household. Would use the water for coffee, drinking and some cooking. Which size would you recommend? Thank you!
Hi Beth -
I would recommend the travel berkey for your needs.
Thanks
Dan
How do you prepare the filters for long shutdowns? Want to keep at my second residence which is only used occasionally. Should you also have a restart procedure?
Hi Julie -
You can just let them dry out as normal. You can also just start using them when you return, however if there is debris that has dried on and clogged up the filters, you may need to clean and re-prime them.
Thanks
Dan
Just wondering which bb would be best for me. I live in las vegas nv. I dont know if there is fluoride in the water but I would like the option to add those filters in case I move. I know that there is plenty of radio active contaminants seeing as it is nevada. I live with another person and would like to use the water for cooking, water my plants, water for my pets etc.
Thank you for the help if you could email me with your suggestion I would be very appreciative
Tom
Hi Tomas -
You can always add the fluoride filters later if you do not decide to initially. I would recommend the big berkey for your needs given your planned use.
Thanks
Dan
Hi, what contaminants does the go berkey water bottle filter remove?
Thanks, josh
Hi Josh -
Please visit the sport berkey page for this information. https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/sport-berkey.html
Thanks
Dan
I already purchased a Propur water filtration system. After reading the reviews I am wishing I purchased a Berkey sytem instead. Is it possible to add Berkey filters to my Propure systems until the Big or Royal Berkey cannisters become available?
Thanks!
Jacquelyn
Hi JAcquelyn -
Yes, the black berkeys fit the larger Propur systems (same diameter filter stems). They are 9" in length however, so you have to make sure the upper chamber of your system has this height clearance to accommodate them.
Thanks
Dan
Do the Berkey filters filter protozoa such as giardia and amoeba?
Hi William -
Yes, the black berkeys will remove giardia, etc to levels over 99.9999%.
Thanks
Dan
I live on a sailboat and the water I would be filtering would be rain water. I wanted to know if any test on chemtrails has been done ,does the system remove these chemicals ad well?
Hi Ron -
No, testing on chem trails has not been done.
Thanks
Dan
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on Berkey water filter. Regards
Hello,
we are a family of 2 plus 5 pets. the water we use is well water. there are farms around us and lots of new constructions. living near a river .we are in south Louisiana. I had the water check when we bought the house 7 years ago. it was a basic testing. i do not recall the results. My husband is being treated for hi levels of lead and other toxic metals. which of your systems would you recommend for drinking, cooking? and which one does remove lead and other toxic metals? thank you for your answer.
Hi Leila -
We'd recommend the Big or Royal Berkey depending on how much water your pets drink on a daily basis. The standard systems with the black berkeys will remove what you mentioned.
Thanks
Dan
Thanks for answering- Dan.. So are you saying the water itself isn't available until it comes through the fluoride filter? Do the black filters connect directly to and seal to the fluoride filter &amp; it's content? I'm a little confused on how it goes through the fluoride filter media. Are you saying the water goes from top of fluoride filter until it finally drips from the bottom of the fluoride filter? Is it just absorbed through the sides? Can you post a pic as to how this works?
Thanks so much for your awesome help.
Hi Trish -
The water goes through the black berkeys first in the upper chamber. The PF-2's are connected to the bottom stems of the black berkeys and hang in the lower chamber, so after the water passes through the black berkeys, it goes directly into the PF-2's as the 2nd stage of filtration. It'll then pass through the PF-2's out through the bottom of those filters into the lower chamber where it is ready for consumption.
Thanks
Dan
Question: How does the fluoride get absorbed so quick or rather how does one know how long the water has to sit in the bottom part of the Berkey so the fluoride is absorbed.. ? Not sure how this works just sitting the filters in the bottom?
Hi Trish -
The water must go through the fluoride filters after passing through the black berkey filters. This 2nd stage of filtration puts the water in contact with the fluoride filter media. Once in contact, the fluoride is adsorbed/absorbed out from the water. The fluoride filters sitting in the lower chamber is not part of this filtration process. The filtration happens initially as the water passes through them.
Thanks
Dan
Can the Berkey remove chlorine, trihalomethanes or volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). Does it remove any of the inorganic minerals? THX
Hi TM -
Yes, the filters remove those items. For more detailed info on what the black berkeys remove and leave in, please visit the product page here:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/black-berkey-filters-2.html
Thanks
Dan
Can it filter BPA contaminated water? Like bottled water that were stored for many years or been baked in the sun.
Thanks
Hi Chidori -
The filters have yet to be tested for BPA removal, however they are looking into these tests and should hopefully have them within 6 months.
Thanks
Dan
best water purifier i've tried and i'm sticking to is berkey water filter. Instantly purifies water from any source including stagnant water.
Hi Dan,
I'm interested in purchasing the Berkey Light and have a few questions: 1) Should I be concerned about the fact that the container is plastic? and 2) If I decide not to purchase the LED lights to go in the bottom now, is it possible to buy them later?
Hi Robin -
1) The plastic is a food grade non-BPA plastic.
2) Yes, you can purchase a LED lighted base in the future, but the lights are not sold separately if you wanted to install them in the existing base.
Thanks
Dan
Hi Dan,
So I've been reading these comments and I had two questions:
1.) you mentioned once filtering water again - would filtering the water twice be twice as efficient? Is it possible to remove /all/ contaminants with multiple filtrations?
2.) Also, just how dirty water can the filters clean? Will it work on third-world country water? For example, a river or stream in India, Lebanon, Indonesia, etc? If the water is brown, will the sediments clog the filters? Will it make water from a water source in which fish live (and die) in safe and drinkable?
Hi Kiwi -
Yes, these black berkey filters are specifically designed to filter non-potable water like ponds, etc and make the water potable. As for multiple runs through the filters, yes it would remove more with each flow though. This is not typically required as the filter purifies the water on the first run, however you can filter this water as much as desired.
Thanks
Dan
How will I know when the filters need to be replaced? I understand 6 months for for the PF; but how do I guesstimate the gallons w/o writing it down?
Hi Barbara -
The PF-2's are 2 years or 1000 gallons whichever comes first. The best way to approximate would be based upon how often you fill your system. If you have the big berkey and you fill it once per day, you would be using approx 2 gallons per day, etc.
Thanks
Dan
I already own a Berkey and have the white ceramic filters and the bottom filters that go with them to filter out the flouride in our water. We use our filter daily for regular tap water and have only cleaned the ceramic once due to rusty buildup on the outer shell. But since using the filter now for almost two years, I may need to buy some new filters for this Berkey.
We will be moving to a new home in the Coastal plains with a golf pond behind us. I was wondering if we had a hurricane and had to use the pond water and filter it what would be the best filter for this purpose? I would assume that there would be all kinds of lawn chemical run-off in the water. I noticed that the black filter lasts longer than the ceramic filter, but does it filter better than the ceramics??
Hi Joan -
We would choose the black berkey filters. they last longer and filter out chemicals and bacteria to higher degrees, so they would be the better option.
Thanks
Dan
Hi Dan, do you deliver to China and what filters would you recommend for use over here? Also, do you've any idea what delivery to this part of the world might cost?
Hi Ian -
Yes, we do. The black berkey filters would be appropriate. The cost would be dependent on what you ordered. If you add the items you are interested in, into the cart, and then goto the shopping cart page, you can enter you postal code and get a shipping estimate.
Thanks
Dan
Dan,
Is it possible to get too big of a Berkey? i.e. the Crown?
My wife and I are looking to get one for an emergency situation,
and maybe use it some along the way. Maybe never an emergency.
But who knows who would show up in an emergency. All the rest of the family.
Anywhere from 4 - to who knows?
Would the oversized model still work efficiently for 2 persons?
Hi Charles -
No, a larger system would not be a problem. Just be aware of the larger size and weight for transport purposes and and issues that may arise on small countertops.
Thanks
Dan
I'm seriously considering this system since water is the main beverage we all drink throughout the day. We are not satisfied with the PUR unit attached to the faucet that we are using right now. Your Berkey filters were recommended to me from a friend. She uses the filters in her home with a homemade unit. Since I am not that handy, I will need to decide on a size and buy an entire unit. I have a family of 2 adults and 2 teenagers. Would the "BIG" size be the right one for me to purchase?
Also we are a military family on a budget, so I wondered if you had a military discount. That would help A LOT since my husband is currently deployed and I am not working. Thanks!
Hi Jae -
We would lean towards the Royal over the Big Berkey simply because you'll appreciate that extra gallon in size for your family or 4. Military families should contact us directly for available discounts. customerservice@bigberkeywaterfilters.com
Thanks
Dan
Dan
I've read the entire response trail and you have cautioned about exposing the filters to freezing temperatures when wet and even in storage. What about the shipping during these cold winter months? Should I wait to purchase until spring?
Hi Carol -
No. The real issue with the cold is that if they are damp in any manner, the water will expand during freezing and could damage the integrity of the inside of the filter. They are shipped dry, so this is not an issue. The long term storage avoidance of freezing temperatures for unused filters is just a recommendation in that room temperature temps would always be preferred over freezing temps for storage of any survival equipment if that option is available.
Thanks
Dan
I have a deep well that has hard water and sulpher. It leaves a black fuzzy coating in my toilet that easily brushes away. Would one of your systems clean this water up as far as taste? If not is there a filter you would recommend as an alternative to or for use in conjunction with the Berkey?
Thank you.
Hi Jay -
The filters will not remove the calcium, but will reduce some of the sulfur. There is not one filter to recommend as they all have pros and cons, but whole house systems may be better at reducing some of this. I would recommend researching some of these companies.
Thanks
Dan
I have read ALL of the questions and answers before asking this:
If there is only ONE of me, and I drink 8-12 glasses of water per day, AND I want to use BOTH the black filters and the fluoride filters, would getting the size larger than the Travel system be recommended? I'm concerned (1) that there is enough room for all the types of filters possible, and (2) if I go through the water too slowly, can some bacteria GROW in the damp filters? because water is not being run through the system daily or even every other day, etc. (I really need clarification on this!!!) For example, could I filter water and then let the wet filters stand unused for even 5 or 6 days without bacteria growing in them, or in that case do you recommend REMOVING them and putting them in the refrigerator? And lastly (3) I'm disabled; do you have any additional discounted prices for those living on disability or seniors? I would be interested in purchasing all the types of filters possible for my unit (using the black ones) as well as a glass spigot, and HOPING to come up with enough for extra filters, unsure. THANK YOU.
Hi Wendy -
If you drink alot of water we always recommend sizing up. So, the Big Berkey may be your best bet, especially if your adding the Pf-2's in the lower chamber. The filters are self-sterilizing, so you do not have to worry about bacteria growth. For discounts, we would provide "alex jones" for 5% off all ceramic filters systems.
Thanks
Dan
Do you water filters remove fluoride?
Hi Janis -
Yes, the berkey filters remove fluoride with use of the PF-2 fluoride and arsenic filters that go in the lower chamber of the system.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
We have well water and a water softener, but we have 1 indoor &amp; 2 outdoor faucets that are not hooked up to the water softener. Which water source would be better to use?
Hi Rebecca -
The softened water may have a tendency to shorten the life of the black berkeys, however the hard water may clog up the filters over time, so it would be a toss up. I would personally use the softened water as it will require little to no maintenance.
Thanks
Dan
Which filters would you recommend for filtering any possible radiation contamination?
Hi Janet -
The best filters we have are the black berkey filters and we know they remove radon 222. However, they have not been tested specifically for radiation removal of all forms, so we are unable to state that it will remove all dangerous forms of radiation from the water.
Thanks
Dan
If the bottom chamber is full of filtered water, can unfiltered water be added to the top chamber, leaving both chambers full? Or do you have to wait for the bottom chamber to be empty before refilling the top chamber?
Hi Emilie -
You can never add more water to the upper chamber than the lower chamber can accommodate. So, you do not have to wait until the lower chamber is empty, but you do not want to overflow the lower chamber either.
Thanks
Dan
Hi Dan, if I had the Royal Berkey with the black filters and the PF-2's, would there be any plastic on the inside that is in contact with the water? I'm trying to avoid possible contaminants in plastics and the Berkey seems like a good way to do it.
Hi Karl -
In the lower chamber, where your filtered water would be, it would only be the small opening to the spigot. This is a non-BPA food grade plastic.
Thanks
Dan
I am interested in the Travel Berkey for use in an emergency/disaster situation. I live in south-west Arizona where a water supply would be very scarce in a long-term power outage. I am looking for 2 gallons a day for at least 1 year.
1) Would the unit make water from an untreated sewer pond drinkable?
2) In extreme situations, would it filter urine and make it drinkable?
3) I find various types of filters and other items listed; which filters and any other accessories would be required to go with the unit?
4) How often would any such filters and accessories need to be cleaned and/ or replaced?
Hi Alex -
1) It would filter any bacteria/viruses from the water to make it potable.
2) It hasn't been tested for urine, but given urine's makeup, it would purify it, yet leave the salt.
3) No other accessories are required unless you want to use the fluoride filters.
4) The black berkeys are good for 6000 gallons/set of 2. Cleaning is only required if they become clogged.
Thanks
Dan
Dan, Can old filters be disposed of with the rest of the household garbage or are there special requirements for disposal?
Hi Pat -
Yes, they can. They are made of organic materials and will not leach contaminants back into the ground.
Thanks
Dan
Are there water level markers on the top and bottom? I am wondering if it is awkward to , say if he bottom half is half full to top it off, without causing the bottom chamber to overflow?
Hi Matthew -
No there is not unless you have the berkey light and can see inside. To alleviate this issue, the stainless systems have a sight glass spigot add-on for additional purchase so that you are able to view the water in the lower chamber.
Thanks
Dan
We have a very large spring but are afraid to drink the water. My husband and I drink a lot of water a day. What system would you recommend to us?
Hi Patty -
If you drink alot of water, then I would recommend the Royal Berkey.
Thanks
Dan
Is there a Burkey system that removes (or greatly reduces) the amount of calcium in high-calcium well water?
Hi Linda -
No, there is not. The berkey filters are designed to leave in beneficial minerals purposefully, so we do not have a filter that would accommodate this request.
Thanks
Dan
Has the issue with the separation of the black element and the plastic base been resolved? If so, when, and what happens if I receive a defective filter? I am very interested in getting this system but am afraid my water will be compromised.
Thanks,
Ian
Hi Ian -
The black berkey filters issues you have heard about happened with a batch that had a higher than average defective rate (3-6%), produced in November 2010. To prevent this from happening again, the manufacturer redesigned the filters so that they are machined on in addition to a new stronger glue, such that if the glue even were to fail, the machining still keeps them functioning as designed. We ship directly from the manufacturer and have been shipping the new designs since 2nd qtr 2011.
All black berkeys have a 2 year pro-rated warranty in 6 month intervals. In other words, if there's a problem in the first 6 months, it's fully replaced. If there's a problem in the 2nd 6 months, it's 75% covered, etc.
Thanks
Dan
Can the big berkey be stored in the refrigerator or will this damage the filter over time?
Hi Kelly -
No, this is fine.
Thanks
Dan
Where do the PF-2 filters go ? I understand the Black basic filters go in the top of the device - but do the PF-2 's also go in the top ? So would I have two black and two PF-2 , for a total of 4 filters ?
and how does all the water go through all the separate filters since there are different filters .
Erika
Hi Erika -
The PF-2 filters go in the bottom of the unit and hang off the black berkey filters. So, they work in a series combination.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
What will happen if I order to europe and will have any problems with filters, if they will have to replaced will I have to ship them back or/and pay for shipping of new ones?
Patryk
Hi Patryk
It would depend on when you had the issue, but typically times they do not require to filters to be sent back if overseas.
Thanks
Dan
I just bought a cabin on the lake this year and I am going to purchase one of your filter systems but I want to know if I by extra filters will they and the filters that have been used and then left to dry out be able to make it over the corse of the winter. It gets to around -40c where I live.
Hi Brad -
If the black berkeys freeze with any moisture inside them, they will be damaged. We would recommend you taking the filters with you when leaving the cabin to avoid the potential for this.
Thanks
Dan
I value a good cup of tea and have (for years) been distilling my well water because I don't like the film that forms in the cup or the resultant residue that is left on the cup sides and bottom from undistilled water. Would a Berkey filtration system leave that same evidence? Thanks, R
Hi Roxanne -
It's hard to exactly say, but the berkey filters do not remove calcium, so if this is the film being left, it would still be there.
Thanks
Dan
Does your filtration system remove iron eating bacteria? Our well water has it and it is not pleasant at all. IIt stains toilets and sinks etc. I am worried about what it does to our bodies.
Hi Gerri -
The filters have not been tested for such, so we cannot specifically comment as to their effectiveness. The filters have been tested for other forms of bacteria and they do remove it to 99.9999%.
Thanks
Dan
I really want a Berkey water filtration system. I can't afford one, so it would be great to win one. Thanks and God bless you. Dawn R
I well is contaminated with salt (1500+ppm). Will the Berkey remove the salt?
Hi Virgil -
No, the black berkeys do not remove salt from the water.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
I have been using glacier water from an ro machine and putting minerals back in. Would I need to put minerals back in with the Berkey water, does the filtration remove all minerals?
Thanks,
Kirt
Hi Kirt -
No, the berkey filters leave in beneficial minerals, so there is no need to re-mineralize the water.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
Would the berkey system make ocean water drinkable? We live on a island so that would be our biggest water source in the event of an emergency.
Thanks,
Tammy
Hi Tammy -
No, the filters do not remove salt, so it would not make the water drinkable.
Thanks
Dan
Love your ideas :)
Hi Dan- I have been drinking MV bottled water since 1976 after I discovered our city water had red worms. I am thinking of ordering the Royal Berkey...looks big enough, but want it big enough for all my family in case of a sudden emergency? I would order the PF-2 filters too for the chlorine (and arsenic if any), plus extra black filters...to store...for future. You say the chlorine being removed is undetectable, (the odor), but is it completely removed?
Many thanks, Rebecca
Hi Rebecca -
Yes, the black berkeys will remove the chlorine to undetectable levels so you will not have any of that taste or smell. The PF-2's would be used for fluoride and arsenic. The Royal Berkey is good for up to 6 people, so that might be fine for you. Extra filters, from 2 to 4 black berkeys, can also significantly speed up the filtration in the time of emergency.
Thanks
Dan
I purchased the Royal Berkey and love it, the taste of the water beyond comparable to any bottled water. I also got the PF-2 filters with my order and I lifted the top tank off the other day and the lower tank was full..... therefor the PF-2 filters were under water. (My question is do the filters lose their purpose if they are completely submerged?)
Thanks,
Bradley
Hi Bradley -
All water that goes into the lower chamber must go through the PF-2 filters as a course of flow, so they are still effective when this is occurring.
Thanks
Dan
Dear Dan
We have had our Berkey since Y2K so that's at least 13 years. I use only the top chamber on top of a ceramic holding vessel with a spout (like they use for bottled water). I would like to purchase the Berkey with the black filters. What is the diameter of the various sizes?
Just saw a newer one at a friend's house. My things have changed!!!
Hi Eleanor -
The black berkeys are the same in dimensions as the older 9" ceramic filters as they are meant to be interchangeable. There is only 1 size of black berkeys and they are 9" in length and 2" in diameter.
Thanks
Dan
When testing for parts per million (ppm), what value does this return?
Hi Mike -
A listing of contaminants removed can be found here: https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/black-berkey-filters-2.html
Thanks
Dan
Hi there. What are major differences between the berkey light and the big berkey. Could you also travel and camp with the big bekey?
Hi Saskia -
This article will help you:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/blog/berkey-water-filter/a-stainless-or-plastic-berkey-water-filter
And, yes all systems are portable and can be used outdoors.
Thanks
Dan
Hi there,
Few questions:
a) Does it remove Flouride ?
b) Does it remove Chloramine ?
c) What is the pH of the water ?
d) Do you have test results pre and post filteration ?
Thanks,
Sumit
Hi Sumit -
1) Yes, the filters address fluoride with the PF-2 filters.
2) They have yet to be tested for Chloramines.
3) The filtered PH will be dependent on the starting water PH, so there is no general answer for this.
4) All test results can be found here: https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/helpful-resources/test-results
Thanks
Dan
We ordered the Crown Berkey a couple of weeks ago and couldn't be happier. The service was great, the system arrived in excellent condition, the set-up was quick and easy. In a couple of hours we were drinking the sweetest, best tasting water I have had since drinking my granny's sweet spring water as a little girl. I do have one caution, however. I have three daughters, and find it hard to get near the filter for the crowd around it admiring their reflections in the "mirrored" steel finish. :) Great product, will recommend it to everyone I know!
Hi there,
I've read all the comments above but would like to ask directly -- for a family of 2 adults 2 children that do a lot of cooking and drinking what size system would you reccomend?
Thank you
Hi Sheila -
I would recommend the Big Berkey, Berkey Light, or the Royal Berkey. The Royal Berkey is on sale currently, so probably your best option.
Thanks
Dan
I have a salt water type pool that has a chlorine generator. In an emergency, would the filters make the water drinkable?
Hi Steve -
Yes, the filters will remove chlorine from the pool water, but if the levels are very high, it may take more than 1 run through the berkey system. Also, be aware that if there are other chemicals in this pool water, the filters may or may not remove them, so you would need to take a look at this.
Thanks
Dan
I am looking at purchasing a berkey. I live in an duplex in Maine.
I am looking to filter both my drinking water as well as my shower.
I was looking at the berkey crown. Is it able to filter the water that I shower with? If so, is the insallation permanent (as in, could I install it in my duplex without damaging anything, so when we leave there is no damage)
Thanks!
Rhiannon
Hi Rhiannon -
No, the Crown berkey would only be used for drinking water. The berkey filter systems are countertop systems and do not get installed into your plumbing. With that being said, we do have a shower filter that you can install (and remove if moving), that goes in between the pipe coming out of your wall, and your existing shower head. So, you could purchase a countertop berkey system for you drinking water, and then a shower filter for your shower.
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/shower-head-filter.html
and a shower filter that comes with a massage head attached:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/shower-head-filter-w-massage.html
Also, the crown is the largest system and will most likely take up too much space in your kitchen. You should most likely be looking at the travel berkey to royal berkey size range. Let us know if you need anything else.
Thanks
Dan
How do you clean the black filters?
Hi Mike -
Details on cleaning the black berkey filter and other maintenance tips can be found here:
https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/blog/berkey-water-filter/anns-helpful-hints-for-berkey-water-filter-systems
Thanks
Dan
Does this system filter out chlorine? And what is the limitations? What does it NOT filter out besides salt?
Hi Karen -
Yes, it removes chlorine to undetectable levels. The filters will not remove beneficial minerals also.
Thanks
Dan
We have to put salt in our well water holding tank. Will the berkey remove this?
Hi Goji -
No, it will not.
Thanks
Dan
I am 74 yrs old and have been recently diagnosed with a lead and thallium toxic levels in my body.
We have a well water. The original well was put in in 1937. Replaced with a new well in 2007. Water testing done in 2007 showed no problems. (local water testing site).
also home was termite treated extensively in 2006.
does you filtration system take care of heavy metals--ie lead and thallium?
thanks
kathy
Hi Kathy -
Yes, the black berkey filters we recently shown in testing to reduce lead by over 97.5% and Thallium over 99.75. Let us know if you need anything else.
Thanks
Dan
Hi, I'm wondering if the filters can be stored for a long time frame. If I bought extra when I bought the system would I be able to store them and they would be ok in a year or two. Thanks!
Hi Jess -
Yes, the berkey filters can be stored indefinitely as long as they are not exposed to freezing temperatures or heat over 120 degrees.
Thanks
Dan
I live on the coast without a reliable source of fresh water in an emergency. Do you have any desalinator products? Thank you.
Hi Jody -
No, the berkey filter systems will not remove salt.
Thanks
Dan
I live in a suburb of chicago w/ chicago water. I have been investigating RO systems, as my understanding was that this was the only way to eliminate flouride. I've just come across your site and I am now totally confused. I have an undersink filter system, but it does not filter out the flouride (which I understand in prevalent in our chicago water).
can you clarify, if possible, about your system. Do I want RO?
also, does your system sit on the countertop? is there a stand?
hi Robin -
Yes, it sits on a countertop and can filter fluoride from the water with the add-on PF-2 filters. There is a stand(the plastic one used for the berkey light), or alternatively you can use a wooden plant stand or leave the spigot over the corner of your sink or hanging off the counter side as some other options.
Thanks
Dan
Copper is our challenge in our house. So much so that our kitchen sink has a blue stain where the water drips. It is also in the showers and toilets! Drinking water is my main concern first. If we purchased the Berky Light, which filters would you use for copper removal? Thanks Stephanie
Hi Stephanie -
Yes, the black berkeys that come with the berkey light will remove copper over 95%.
Thanks
Dan
I moved into the city last year (from a country home with spring well) and I can smell the chlorine in the water (unfortunately we have fluoride too). Synchroncity was at work when I checked your site out a while back, then looked at the very expensive Enagic Kangen machines and then circled around back to your Berkeys! I will definintely purchase your Royal model with the PF-2 filters after the winter holiday calms down and I find a location for it in my small kitchen. BTW, do you ever run sales on the black and PF-2 filters? Thanks for supplying a much needed product, Dan.
Patri in Port Chester, NY
Hi Patri -
We are not permitted by the manufacturer to run sales on the items lower than what we currently offer. We only can provide bulk discount pricing and 5% off with the "alex jones" code on ceramic filters.
Thanks
Dan
We are planning to live year round in the wilderness for the next 3-4 years. What berkey system would be best for 2 people? I am concerned about freezing temperatures in the winter. We would have a stove in the tent during the worst part of the winter.
Hi Gloria -
Any of the systems with the black berkey filters would suffice. Please be aware that if the filters freeze when they are wet, it will most likly damage them, so you would want to prevent this.
Thanks
Dan
How long should I expect the first filtration to take? It's been one hour and fifteen min. Water not yet up yo site glass
Hi Teresa -
Once you've primed the black berkey filters fully, for a system like the big berkey - if you fill the upper chamber to the top - in the first hour you would get approx 3/4-1 gallon.
Thanks
Dan
I live on the bayous of Louisiana....I was wondering if in an extreme emergency that I could filter that water and drink it.
Hi Sue -
Yes, this system would be effective for filtering that water.
Thanks
Dan
We would like to order one of the Berkey Lights to keep in our barn (just for human drinking water), but I wasn't sure what the acceptable temperature range for the plastic would be. Is it possible the temp could get so cold in the winter that the plastic would easily crack? We are in the Colorado mountains so the temps can get very cold. Thanks for your help!
Hi Andrea -
You do not want to expose the filters to freezing temperatures, nor high temps over 120 degrees.Since the black berkeys are the most sensitive to temperature, you would want to make your system decisions based on this. The plastic will be fine throughout this range.
Thanks
Dan
I live in China. All of our water must be filtered or we must buy bottled water. We have high levels of chlorine and metals in our water....among many other things, I'm sure. In your opinion, would the Berkey system work for us? Do you have locations in China that you sell your filtration system? Thanks for any information?
Hi Anna -
Yes, any of the systems with the black berkey filters would fit your needs. There are no distributors in China, however we do ship there.
Thanks
Dan
Does your system filter calcium carbonate or would an additional softener be needed?
Hi -
The filters do not remove beneficial minerals, so this would remain in the filtered water.
Thanks
Dan
I was buying filtered water as we traveled on our camping trip. It was hassle always looking for a place to buy water and fill our 6 gallon stainless steel dispenser. Looks like your system will do everything for us and more.
I was told that all carbon and charcoal filters are recommended by The World Health Organization to be changed every year regardless of how much water they they filter. My sister was told by your rep that 4 black Big Berkey filters would last up to 16 years! What is the truth here?
Also I was told that the stainless steel Berkey does not come with a base and yet i see in your video that it does? Thank you for answering my questions., Valerie Kanatas
Hi Valerie -
We are not familiar with this WHO recommendation and if you could email us at customerservice@bigberkeywaterfilters.com and point us to it, we'd appreciate it. A couple things to keep in mind though is that the black berkey filters are made up of more than 6 different media, and not solely based on charcoal and/or carbon. This is important as there is a self-sterilizing feature to the black berkey elements that possibly is not accounted for in this WHO recommendation. I would also note that a charcoal/carbon media of 16 ounces would last much longer than a media that was only 2 ounces, so there is also some distinguishing points in that all filters are not created equal. With that being said, the ratings of the black berkeys are based on usage of tap/well water. The more contaminated the water (pond, lakes, puddles, etc) the less gallons they will be able to filter, because like a sponge they will reach a saturation point quicker due to the higher concentrations of contaminants.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
I just got the imperial berkey, and i love how my water tastes. The only problem is that it leaks from the seam (where the upper and lower chamber meet). Is there a way to tell how much water is in the lower chamber without adding too much to the upper? I don't have the glass spigot. Perhaps there is a way to seal the seam and still allow for air to be released?
Please help, as this is quite an annoying (and really messy) problem. The water is always leaking on my table.
Thanks,
Andy
Hi Andy -
The lower chamber is not designed to be filled past the seam, so you always want to be careful not to add water to the upper chamber if the lower chamber is filled. The sight glass spigot should help you keep an eye on this. Like you mention, that seam between the 2 chambers allows the air flow to come in and out, and is the only means of transfer, thus you do not want to block that.
Thanks
Dan
Hi there. We have five people in our family and use a lot of water for drinking and cooking. I'm thinking of getting your biggest model and, if I understand correctly, getting four of the black filters will give me the fastest filtration. Also, how will I know when the filters need to be replaced? Is there some visible sign? Also, I would like to use this filtered water (I would be buying a separate one) for our animals on our family farm. Is there a way to hook up a hose instead of using the spigot? Thanks so much!
Hi Erin -
No, there is no way to attach as hose to the system. The biggest model is the crown and that can hold up to 8 filters in the upper chamber, thus that would provide the fastest filtration. The filters need to be replaced approx every 6000 gallons per set of 2, so you can keep a rough idea of your usage by how many times you fill the 6 gallons system per week and then extrapolate that usage estimate out over time. Also, you can perform a red food coloring test at any time on your filters to make sure they are still filtering as designed. https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/wordpress/water-filters/the-black-berkey-red-food-coloring-test/
Thanks
Dan
Hi I am looking for a system which will clean the water for the whole house including for showers. Is the Berkey system a whole house system. Mainly I want to use it to remove the chlorine and fluoride in our water.
Thanks Christy
Hi Christy -
No, the berkey systems are not whole house systems, but rather standalone gravity systems used for drinking and cooking water. We also have <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/berkey-filter-accessories-c-68/shower-head-filter-p-189" rel="nofollow">home shower filters</a> available.
Thanks
Dan
Are you saying the Berkley Black filters will make harvested rainwater drinkable? I'm in the process of starting a harvesting system for my home in SW Florida and one knows not what the future holds and water is precious.
Hi Wayne -
Many customers use the berkey system for rainwater harvesting, but we cannot make a blanket statement that this will work for all setups. This is because if it it being collected from a roof, the roofing shingles can contain chemicals that the filters have not been tested for. We can only speak to what the filters have been tested for and in many rainwater collection systems, the water is only coming in contact with plastic, aluminum, etc; and in these cases we know the system is sufficient.
Thanks
Dan
I'm sensitive to both coconut and corn, and am wondering if the black filter uses charcoal with coconut as the source for it. Will the ceramic filters be corn and coconut free as well?
Hi Joyce -
The filters do use coconut shell charcoal as one of the ingredients, so we would not recommend using these filters given your allergies.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
I am interested in the Berkey filter system. One question I have is, do the systems filter out sulphur content? The water in our area has a multitude of gas wells which, from my understanding, have allowed sulphur to seep into the water system.
Regards,
Benjamin
Hi Benjamin -
Yes, the filters will reduce sulphur conten however because it is a competing comtaminant, it cannot be guaranteed to remove it completely.
Thanks
Dan
Hi Dan,
Would the black berkey filters work in a whole house pressurized system? If not, do you have any recommendations for a whole house filtration system? I have well water and want to set up something to filter the water before it hits the tap. I plan on purchasing a berkey system for the times when the power goes out. No water equals third world status very quickly. Also, if I have to use pond, lake or river water through the system is there any special cleaning or sterilization needed of the system once we return to a cleaner source of water? Would it be recommended that we replace the filters once we have used the system with obviously contaminated water or do we just go back to every day use without any concern?
Thanks,
Richard
Hi Richard -
No, the filters are only designed to work in a gravity filter system. As for water becoming third world status, in the events of hurricanes, flooding, water would be become third world status very quickly as the clean water distribution systems and other potable water supplies become contaminated. The filters are designed to be used in this regard, so, there is no need for cleaning the filters or replacing them post a filtration of contaminated water. If you feel tentative in doing this, you can perform a red food coloring test on the black berkey filters to confirm they are operating as designed.
Thanks
Dan
I plan to buy a Berkey filter unit but I have a question. In one of your posts you recommended specific units and also recommended "equiped with 2 or 4 black berkey filters".
My question is: Say I buy the Big Berkey, how many black berkey filters do I need?
Hi Charles -
2 black berkey filters will work just fine. You can purchase 4 if you would like faster filtration and the longer life that comes with 4 black berkeys.
Thanks
Dan
We are a family of 4 looking for a water filtration system to use in case of emergency. We are at the base of a mountain and have a stream that runs off the mountain, the length of the property. There are just one or two houses above ours. What system would make the stream water safe to consume in the event of an emergency and interuption to our water supply. 2 adults and 2 children. We are currently at the end of the city water line and would be interested in filtering our city water supply as well.
Hi Tonia -
Any of the systems with the black berkeys will fit your needs for both the stream water and the city water. Given the size of your family I would recommend the big berkey, royal berkey, or the berkey light. Any of these systems equipped with 2 or 4 black berkey filters will perform as desired.
Thanks
Dan
Hello,
I want to purchase the Big Berkey with 2 black filters and 2 PF-2 filters. Will that work? Plus, how long would it last before I change the filters? Thanks!
Hi Alex -
The black berkeys would last 600 gallons of water and the PF-2 filters would last 1000 gallons or 2 years, whichever came first.
Thanks
Dan
Are there things that the combination of (Black+PF4) eliminates that the combination of (Black+PF2) would not?
Thanks,
Sam
Hi Sam -
The PF-4 filters only work with the berkey ceramics as they are designed specifically for those filters. The PF-2's only work with the black berkeys. The PF-2/Black Berkeys are the best filtration combination.
Thanks
Dan
Hi there- I would like a very effective filter that I don't need to replace, but can maintain by cleaning (ceramic) and a system that does not use plastic (stainless steel or ceramic). Do you carry anything like this. Thanks.
Hi Mandy -
All filters need to replaced at some point as the media will reach a level of saturation. We have both black and ceramic berkey filters that you can get in a stainless chamber. A set of black berkeys last 6000 gallons and a set of 9" ceramic filters last 1200 gallons. Both can be maintained by cleaning the outside of the filter until full saturation is reached.
Thanks
Dan
I love your site! Its very informative and well thought out. Thank you!
I am a little confused though, Is the difference between the Berkey and the Imperial is the size? The filters and reduction of everything is the same?
Thanks!
Hi Wendi -
The imperial berkey is a 4.5 gallon version of the berkey model. There are a total of 7. All the berkey systems use the black berkey filters standard, and thus quality is the same regardless of system chosen.
Thanks
Dan
Dan:
If the filters in the top chamber are vertical, does a small amount of water left at the bottom of the top chamber (when most of the water has flowed down into the bottom chamber) get less filtration than water flowing down when the top chamber is full?
Thanks,
John
Hi John -
No, the water tests are based upon all the water that is filtered from the upper chamber. It does not decipher between water filtered from the top and/or bottom.
Thanks
Dan
Hello, I'm an Alex Jones listener in the middle of a SERIOUS budget crunch right now, and need the most affordable option to remove fluoride from the tap water at my apartment.
Thanks,
Jason
Hi Jason -
The travel berkey that comes with the black berkeys is our least expensive system. You would need this berkey filter system and then the PF-2 fluoride filters that go in the lower chamber. Use the code "alex jones" during checkout.
Thanks
Dan
HI
My mother is 76 and still living alone, She has a shallow well which tested safe by district standards but it leaves a terrible brown stain on everything from the dogs dishes to the toilet bowl. Also it has a terrible odor, like rotten eggs sort of. Will the Berkey filters help with this issue? I would like to buy her one for her birthday.
Hi Heidi -
This is most likely sulfur and possibly some high iron levels. The berkey water filters will reduce both sulfur and iron to a significant extent, but will not eliminate it completely.
Thanks
Dan
We have a brackish pond by our house. Will the Berkey remove salt content?
Hi Ed -
No, the Berkey filters do not remove salt, so they would not help in this regard.
Thanks
Dan
We are looking into getting a Berkey for our family. I understand what it draws out of the water - but does it also remove the essential minerals?
Thanks.
Hi Camille -
The black berkey filters will leave in the essential minerals such as calcium, pottasium, magnesium, etc.
Thanks
Dan
We are a family of two and have a rainwater collection system that is pumped back into the house for our water use. What is the best Berkey water filter to use to reduce/eliminate aluminum in our water supply (the rainwater is collected from a metal Galvalume roof)?
Hi Pat -
Any of the berkey water filter systems using the black berkey filters will be effective at removing aluminum up to 95% as well as purifying out bacteria that may have collected on the roof and washed into the system. You just need to decide what size of a system you would like in your house. For only 2 people, you could choose a Travel Berkey, Berkey Light, Big Berkey, or even a Royal Berkey if you'd like some extra capacity storage.
Thanks
Dan
We live in an area with chemical manufacturers and there are reports that our ground water is or will be contaminated with multiple chemicals from petroleum, and other chemical plants. How much and which chemicals will the Berkey filter out? Thanks.
Hi Angela -
For a listing of what chemicals and petroleum products the Black Berkey filters will remove, please refer to the <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/berkey-filter-replacements-c-67/black-berkey-filters-2-p-187" rel="nofollow">black berkey</a> page. The <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/berkey-filter-replacements-c-67/pf-2-arsenic-and-fluoride-water-filters-2-p-188" rel="nofollow">PF-2 filters</a> only remove fluoride and arsenic.
Thanks
Dan
Hi,
The information you have is very thorough, but after sifting through the internet for two hours trying to make a decision, it is all very overwhelming. We live in an area where fracting is common. Our water, though city water, OFTEN REEKS of chemicals--smells like lawn fertilizer. We have been buying bottled water for almost 2 years and we are tired of it.
In addition to the chemicals that are surely in our water, I am also interested in something that will be portable in the event we have to quickly evacuate. In addition, something that kills viruses and e-coli. Can you please email me back and help. I am ready to purchase, but can't make a decision. BTW, thanks for the AJ discount ;)
Kaydee
Hi Kaydee -
The berkey water filter using the black berkey filters will remove e-coli and other bacteria from the water at 99.99999%. This is considered water purification by NSF standards. Test results can be viewed on the <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/berkey-filter-replacements-c-67/black-berkey-filters-2-p-187" rel="nofollow">black berkey water filter</a> page.
The filters have also just been tested for the MS2 and Fr Coliphage viruses this summer. Click here for <a href="https://www.bigberkeywaterfilters.com/berkey_water_filter_virus_removal" rel="nofollow">berkey virus removal</a> test results.
Thanks
Dan
Can a water filter be over-filled or will the water stay in the upper chamber until space in the lower chamber is available?
Hi Anna -
If the water in the lower chamber of the berkey is at capacity, you will not want to fill the upper chamber. The system is not airtight as air needs to be able to flow in and out of the system for the gravity filtration to take place. Thus, if the lower chamber is full, water will keep filtering from the upper chamber and eventually overflow out the side seam where the lower and upper chambers meet.
Thanks
Dan
I would like to say that I love my Berkey water filtration system. I have compared it to every water filter but this is best ever,
We live in an apartment but planning on relocating within the next year and a half. we have 2 children living in our home at the time. which berkey system would be right for us? and can i take it with me when i move?
Hi Nelli -
A good fit for you and your family would be the big berkey water filter (2.25 Gallons). If you fill the upper chamber once per day, this would make available at least 1/2 gallon per day for each family member. The big berkey, like all the berkey water filters, can sit on your countertop and can be used in any future home you desire to live in. As an alternative, customers short on counter space buy three/four legged plant stands for their berkey and sit the system in a corner or another part of the kitchen.
Thanks - Dan
Hi there.
Great website, more organized than other Berkey dealers.
I have already made up my mind about purchasing a Big Berkey from this site with 4 black filters and 4 PF2 filters. I only have two questions though, the site says black filters need to be replaced after 3000 gallons per filter, whereas some sites say at least once a year under light use.
For a family of 2 consuming 2 gallons a day, the black filters would only need to be replaced every 16 years (12,000 gallons @ 2 gpd), given the set up above....is that right?
Also, with the ceramic filters it's easy to see when to clean them b/c of the light color. However, the black color makes it almost impossible to see when to clean them. It's also hard to tell when the flow is reduced b/c it's an enclosed system...how can we tell when to clean the black filters?
I'd really appreciate any feedback. Thank you.
Hi Nelson -
Yes, the black berkeys last 3000 each, so your math is accurate. There can be occasions when the black berkey filters last for a shorter duration and this in entirely proportional to the levels of chemicals and contaminants in the water. 3000 / berkey filter is based upon a typical municipal/well water source, but if the source water contains very high levels of heavy metals, pesticides, or the like, this can decrease the life of the filter since the berkey media is like a sponge and can become saturated more quickly.
As for cleaning, with both the ceramic filters and the black berkeys, the goal is to reopen the pores on the outside of the filter. Once the water enters the berkey filter the filtration begins to occur, so by cleaning, you are allowing the process to continue efficiently. Over time, you will become familiar with how quickly your berkey water filter processes the water for you. You will know it's time for a cleaning because the slow down should be evident enough to you to recognize that something's not right. Some customers need to clean their filters once every 2 months, and then there's some customers who never have to clean their filter even once over it's entire lifetime. Again, it will depend on your source water and what it contains.
Hope this helped.
Thanks - Dan
Hi,
My wife and I get Elgin Il water that has Floride.
I also own a pond, which I'd hate to think about it, but what might be the best for us as an option in a crisis....
So any ideas what us.....
John
Oh, and thanks for supporting truth.
Hi John - You best setup would be to choose any of the available systems with the black berkey elements. You also should choose the PF-2 filters as the free item to remove the fluoride from your water. You can use this system on a daily basis to meet your water requirements, and if you ever had to use your pond water in the event of a crisis, this system will purify that water also with no adjustments required.
Dan