
Black Berkey Primer
Primes Black Berkey and Berkey Phoenix filters without a faucet
Hand pump • Fits any sink setup • Made in the USA
Prime Your Filters by Hand
The Black Berkey Primer is a hand pump that primes Black Berkey elements and Berkey Phoenix filters without faucet pressure. It is the easy fix for small sinks, short or pull-down faucets, or priming away from the kitchen, like camping or in an RV.
New systems include a faucet primer, and Berkey Phoenix filters come with the Prime-Easy faucet primer. Both work with Black Berkey and Berkey Phoenix filters. The Black Berkey Primer is the simpler option when a faucet primer doesn't fit your faucet.
Key Benefits
No Faucet Needed
Primes elements with a hand pump and a container of water instead of tap pressure.
Works With Any Sink
No more fighting a short, pull-down or oddly shaped faucet to get a good seal.
Re-Prime and Dry
Re-prime elements after cleaning, or switch the valves to push air through and dry them faster before storage.
Made in the USA
A durable, reusable tool that lasts through many filter changes.
Hand Primer vs Faucet Primer
| Black Berkey Primer | Faucet Primer (Prime-Easy) | |
|---|---|---|
| How it primes | Hand pump | Faucet pressure |
| Faucet needed | No | Yes |
| Works with | Black Berkey and Berkey Phoenix filters | Black Berkey, Berkey Phoenix and PF-2 filters |
| Included with new systems | No, sold separately | Yes, with new systems and Berkey Phoenix filters |
Prime in a Few Squeezes
Set the valves for priming as shown in the instructions. The pump pulls water through the element wall into its center. When water flows out the other end of the primer, the element is primed.
- Attach the primer to the element stem with the hex nut
- Immerse the element in water deep enough to cover it
- Squeeze the bulb, let it expand and repeat until water flows out the other end
- Gently shake the element. If you hear water sloshing inside, it is primed and ready to install
Black Berkey Primer Questions
Do I need this primer?
Not always. New systems include a faucet primer, and Berkey Phoenix filters come with the Prime-Easy faucet primer. The Black Berkey Primer is the easier option when your faucet won't work with it, such as a small sink or a short or pull-down faucet, or when you want to prime without a faucet.
How do I use it?
Attach the primer to the element stem, then immerse the element in water deep enough to cover it. Squeeze the bulb, let it expand and repeat until water flows out the other end of the primer. The valves must face the direction shown in the instructions.
Does it work with Berkey Phoenix filters?
Yes. It primes both Black Berkey elements and Berkey Phoenix filters. Phoenix filters also come with the Prime-Easy faucet primer, so use whichever is easier for your sink.
Does it work with PF-2 fluoride filters?
No. PF-2 filters don't need this kind of priming. They are primed by running water through them, as shown in their instructions.
Do I also need a priming button?
No. Use either the Black Berkey Primer or a priming button, not both.
Can it dry my elements before storage?
Yes. Switch the valves to the purge setup shown in the instructions and pump air through the element until it is dry to the touch.
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