Imagine turning on your tap and knowing the water you drink is pure and safe. But with so many water filters out there, how do you pick the best one for your home? It can feel overwhelming, right? You want clean water, but the choices can be confusing, and you might worry about making the wrong decision.
That’s where the Berkey water filter comes in. Many people are looking for a reliable way to get clean drinking water, and Berkey is a popular choice. But even with a popular brand, understanding which Berkey system is right for your needs can still be a puzzle. You might wonder about size, how many filters you need, or if it’s really worth the investment.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about Water Filter Berkey systems. We’ll explore what makes them stand out, help you understand the different models, and guide you through choosing the perfect Berkey for your family. Get ready to say goodbye to water worries and hello to crystal-clear, healthy water!
Our Top 5 Water Filter Berkey Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Water Filter Berkey Detailed Reviews
1. Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter System 2.25 Gallon with 2 Authentic Black Berkey Elements BB9-2 Filters
Rating: 8.8/10
The Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter System is a fantastic way to get clean, tasty drinking water right in your home. This 2.25-gallon system sits on your kitchen counter and turns regular tap water into delicious water, perfect for drinking, cooking, or making your favorite drinks.
What We Like:
- Enjoy great-tasting tap water every day.
- Black Berkey Elements are tested by independent labs.
- They remove or reduce over 250 common contaminants.
- No electricity, tools, or plumbing are needed for setup.
- Includes authentic Black Berkey Elements (BB9-2).
- Economical and long-lasting: each pair filters up to 6,000 gallons.
- Filters water for just pennies per gallon.
- Considered the gold standard in gravity-fed water filtration.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial cost of the system can be higher than basic filters.
- The flow rate can be slower compared to electric filters.
- Requires periodic cleaning and priming of the filters.
This Big Berkey system offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for cleaner, better-tasting water. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a simple, high-quality water filtration method.
2. Travel Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter with 2 Black Berkey Elements–Enjoy Potable Water While Camping
Rating: 9.0/10
Imagine having clean, safe drinking water wherever you go, whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or just want better-tasting tap water at home. The Travel Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter with 2 Black Berkey Elements makes that possible. This system is designed to give you peace of mind and refreshing water, no matter your location or the source.
What We Like:
- It provides clean, potable water from various sources like lakes and rivers, removing over 200 contaminants without needing electricity or tools.
- Enjoy great-tasting water every day, perfect for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, even from your tap.
- The system is economical and long-lasting, with Black Berkey Elements filtering up to 6,000 gallons per pair, costing just pennies per gallon.
- Independent labs have tested and confirmed the elements’ ability to reduce over 200 common contaminants.
- Its 1.5-gallon capacity is great for 1-3 people and the portable size (18” tall, 7.5” diameter) makes it easy to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- While portable, the 1.5-gallon capacity might be small for larger groups or extended trips without refills.
- The initial cost of the system might be a consideration for some budgets, though the long-term savings are significant.
The Travel Berkey is a reliable solution for anyone seeking pure water, from campers to everyday users. It offers convenience, health benefits, and long-term value.
3. Purewell 3-Stage 0.01μm Ultra-Filtration Gravity Water Filter System
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your home’s drinking water with the Purewell 3-Stage 0.01μm Ultra-Filtration Gravity Water Filter System. This sleek, 304 stainless steel countertop system uses gravity to naturally filter your water, making it a fantastic choice for anyone seeking cleaner, healthier hydration. It’s designed to reduce common contaminants, giving you peace of mind with every sip.
What We Like:
- Superior Filtration: With an ultra-fine 0.01μm pore size, it filters out 99.99% of tiny particles, much smaller than many competitors.
- Certified Safety: It’s NSF/ANSI 42 and 372 certified, meaning it’s tested and proven to reduce chlorine and meet safety standards.
- High-Quality Build: The durable 304 stainless steel housing and spigot ensure a leak-free, long-lasting system.
- Energy Efficient: It works using gravity, so no electricity is needed, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Complete Package: Comes with all necessary accessories, including a non-slip stand, so you don’t need to buy anything extra.
- Long Filter Life: Each filter can provide up to 3000 gallons of clean water, with two filters included for extended use.
What Could Be Improved:
- TDS Not Reduced: The system does not lower the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in your water.
- Leak Caution: You must be careful not to overfill the top chamber when the bottom is full to prevent leaks.
- Replacement Schedule: While filters last a long time, it’s recommended to replace them every 6 months for best performance.
The Purewell gravity water filter system offers excellent filtration and a durable design. It’s a practical and reliable way to improve your daily water intake.
4. Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter System with 2 Black Berkey Elements Plus Deluxe 10″ Stainless Steel Berkey Water View Spigot
Rating: 8.7/10
The Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter System is a fantastic way to get clean, great-tasting water right at home. This system uses gravity to filter your tap water, making it perfect for drinking, cooking, and even your favorite beverages. It’s a simple yet effective solution for improving your daily water quality without needing electricity or complicated plumbing.
What We Like:
- Enjoy delicious, pure-tasting tap water every day.
- The deluxe 10″ stainless steel spigot lets you easily see the water level.
- Black Berkey Elements are tested and remove over 250 common contaminants.
- It’s an economical choice, with each pair of elements lasting up to 6,000 gallons.
- No electricity or plumbing is needed, making it versatile for home or office.
- It’s a durable and long-lasting system.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial setup can take a little time, especially priming the elements.
- The system is quite large, so you need adequate counter space.
- While economical long-term, the upfront cost is an investment.
This Royal Berkey system offers a reliable and cost-effective way to ensure you and your family have access to clean drinking water. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their water quality naturally.
5. Filterlogic NSF/ANSI 42&372 Certified Water Filter
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for a reliable and affordable way to get clean, great-tasting water? The Filterlogic NSF/ANSI 42&372 Certified Water Filter is a fantastic replacement for your Berkey® BB9-2® Black Purification Elements and Berkey® Gravity Filter System. This pack of two filters is designed to fit various Berkey® gravity filter systems, giving you peace of mind with every sip.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Filtration: These filters reduce up to 99% of chlorine, heavy metals, sediment, and odors, improving your water’s taste and smell.
- Certified and Safe: They are NSF/ANSI 42&372 certified and made with lead-free, BPA-free natural coconut shell activated carbon for safe and effective purification.
- Economical Choice: Each pair of filters can purify 6,000 gallons, saving you money and reducing plastic waste.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits Berkey® Travel, Big, Royal, Imperial, and Crown Series gravity filter systems.
- Easy Installation: Features a precise design with a washer and wing nut to prevent leaks. A simple 1-minute flush before use ensures optimal performance.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for home, travel, outdoor adventures, and emergency situations.
What Could Be Improved:
- TDS Note: The product clarifies that it does not lower TDS levels, which might be a factor for some users seeking specific water mineral content.
- Splashing Potential: While it won’t affect filtration, some splashing may occur if your faucet isn’t a perfect fit during the initial flush.
This Filterlogic filter offers excellent purification at a great value. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting healthier, better-tasting water without the premium price tag.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Berkey Water Filter
Are you looking for a reliable way to get clean, pure water at home? A Berkey water filter could be just what you need. These systems are known for their ability to remove many contaminants. Let’s explore what makes a Berkey filter a great choice.
Key Features to Look For
1. Filtration Power
The most important part of a Berkey filter is its black purification elements. These are long-lasting and can filter out a lot of things you don’t want in your water. Look for filters that are certified to remove common contaminants like bacteria, viruses, lead, and pesticides. This is what truly makes the water safe and tasty.
2. Capacity
Berkey systems come in different sizes. Consider how much water your family or household uses each day. Smaller systems are good for one or two people, while larger ones are better for families or if you entertain often. Think about how often you want to refill the filter.
3. Durability and Materials
A good Berkey filter is built to last. The main tanks are usually made from high-quality stainless steel. This material is strong and won’t rust. The filters themselves are made from a special porous carbon material. This combination ensures your filter will serve you well for a long time.
Important Materials
The heart of the Berkey system is its filtration elements. These are typically made from a combination of activated carbon and other natural elements. This blend creates a very fine pore structure. This structure acts like a sieve, catching even tiny impurities. The stainless steel used for the upper and lower chambers is food-grade and very robust. This means it’s safe for water and won’t break easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the stainless steel chambers clean helps maintain the system’s overall hygiene.
- Proper Assembly: Making sure all parts are put together correctly ensures the filter works as intended.
- Using the Right Water Source: While Berkey filters are powerful, starting with the cleanest water source available will help the filters last longer.
Reducing Quality:
- Over-tightening Filter Gaskets: This can damage the filter seals and lead to leaks or less effective filtration.
- Letting the System Dry Out Completely for Extended Periods: This can affect the performance of the carbon filters.
- Ignoring Filter Lifespan: Filters have a limit to how much they can clean. Replacing them when needed is crucial for continued purity.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many users love Berkey filters because they are simple to use. You just pour water in the top, and gravity does the work. It’s a great option for homes, apartments, RVs, and even for emergency preparedness. People appreciate the improved taste of the water and the peace of mind knowing they are drinking cleaner water. Some users also enjoy the aesthetic appeal of the stainless steel design.
Berkey filters are a smart investment for anyone who values clean drinking water. They offer excellent filtration, are built to last, and are easy to use in many different situations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Berkey Water Filters
Q1: How long do Berkey filter elements last?
A1: Berkey filter elements can typically filter up to 3,000 gallons per element. This means they can last for many years depending on your water usage.
Q2: Can Berkey filters remove fluoride?
A2: Standard Berkey black elements do not remove fluoride. However, you can purchase separate fluoride filters that attach to the main elements to reduce fluoride.
Q3: How do I clean my Berkey filters?
A3: You can clean the black Berkey filter elements by gently scrubbing them with a soft brush or Scotch-Brite pad under running water. Avoid using soap or detergents.
Q4: Is Berkey water safe to drink if the filters are old?
A4: While older filters will still remove some contaminants, their effectiveness decreases over time. It’s best to replace them when you reach their rated lifespan to ensure optimal water purity.
Q5: What is the difference between the various Berkey models (Big Berkey, Royal Berkey, etc.)?
A5: The main difference is the capacity of the lower chamber, which determines how much filtered water you can store. Larger models are suitable for more people or higher water consumption.
Q6: Do Berkey filters require electricity?
A6: No, Berkey filters use gravity to push water through the purification elements. They do not need electricity, making them ideal for off-grid living or power outages.
Q7: Can I use Berkey filters with tap water?
A7: Yes, Berkey filters are designed to work with most municipal tap water sources, as well as well water and water from lakes or streams (though pre-filtering very cloudy water is recommended).
Q8: How often should I prime the Berkey filters?
A8: You should prime new Berkey filters before the first use to ensure they are saturated with water and ready to filter effectively. Instructions are included with the product.
Q9: Does Berkey remove chlorine?
A9: Yes, Berkey filters are very effective at removing chlorine, which improves the taste and odor of the water.
Q10: Where are Berkey filters made?
A10: Berkey water filter systems are manufactured in the United States.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!