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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Berkey Products

We appreciate your interest in Berkey water filter systems. Below, we have summarized common questions about Berkey filters, replacement filters, fluoride reduction filters, daily use, cleaning, storage, product materials, shipping, and returns.

FAQ Topics

Effectiveness of Berkey Filters

Q: What is a Berkey Water Filter?

A: A Berkey water filter is a countertop gravity-fed filtration system designed for everyday drinking water filtration. Berkey systems use replaceable filter elements and do not require electricity, plumbing, or water pressure. They are popular for homes, apartments, offices, travel, and other daily-use settings.

Q: What does a Berkey Water Filter reduce?

A: Black Berkey Elements have been tested for the reduction of a broad range of substances that may be found in drinking water sources. Depending on the substance and testing conditions, reported reductions include:

  • Lead
  • Arsenic
  • Iron
  • Mercury
  • Chlorine
  • Chloramines
  • BPA
  • Selected pharmaceuticals
  • Petroleum-related contaminants
  • Heavy metals
  • Atrazine
  • Selected VOCs and semi-VOCs
  • Other taste, odor, sediment, and water-quality concerns

For best results, always use the correct filter elements for your system and replace them according to the recommended lifespan.

Q: Do Black Berkey Elements reduce fluoride in the water?

A: Black Berkey Elements may reduce some fluoride initially, but the Berkey PF-2 Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements are the intended add-on filters for customers who specifically want fluoride reduction. PF-2 filters attach to compatible Black Berkey Elements and are typically replaced after up to 1,000 gallons per set under normal use.

Q: Do Black Berkey Elements reduce chloramine?

A: Yes. Black Berkey Elements have been tested for chloramine reduction. Chloramine is commonly used by some municipalities as a drinking water disinfectant and can affect taste and odor.

Q: Do Berkey filters reduce plastic-related compounds?

A: Black Berkey Elements have been tested for the reduction of certain plastic-related compounds, including BPA and 1,1-Dichloroethane. These substances may be associated with some plastic materials or industrial sources.

Q: Do Black Berkey Elements reduce kerosene?

A: Black Berkey Elements have been tested for the reduction of selected petroleum-related contaminants, including kerosene. However, filter elements can be overwhelmed by unusually high contaminant levels. A gravity-fed filter should not be used as a cleanup method for heavily contaminated water or chemical spills. 

Q: How do Black Berkey Elements handle beneficial minerals in the water?

A: Black Berkey Elements are designed to reduce many unwanted substances while allowing many naturally occurring minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, to remain in the water. This is one reason Berkey-filtered water usually does not show a major drop in TDS readings.

Q: Do Black Berkey Elements reduce lithium?

A: Lithium is a mineral, and Black Berkey Elements are not designed to remove all dissolved minerals. If lithium is a specific concern in your water, we recommend reviewing your current lab reports and choosing a filtration method designed to address that concern. 

Q: Do Black Berkey Elements reduce glyphosate?

A: Black Berkey Elements have been tested for glyphosate reduction. Glyphosate may enter some water sources through agricultural runoff. Customers with specific concerns should review available test data and consider having their own water tested.

Q: What does the Sport Berkey Filter reduce?

A: The Sport Berkey bottle is designed for convenient personal water filtration. It may help reduce selected taste, odor, sediment, chlorine, VOCs, and other water-quality concerns. The Sport Berkey is a portable option, but it is not a replacement for choosing the correct drinking water treatment method for unusual or unsafe water conditions.

Q: Does the Berkey water filter reduce Chromium-6?

A: Black Berkey Elements have been tested for Chromium-6 reduction. They have also been tested for the reduction of several other heavy metals, including lead, mercury, cadmium, copper, iron, nickel, zinc, and others. Reduction performance can vary by substance, concentration, and water conditions. 

Q: How should I use my Berkey system during a boil order?

A: During a boil-water notice or boil order, follow the instructions from your local water authority. A Berkey system should not be used as a substitute for boiling when officials instruct residents to boil their water. After the boil order is lifted, you may use your Berkey system as part of your normal drinking water routine.

Questions About Daily Usage

Q: Can I use the Berkey water filter system with softened water?

A: We recommend using pre-softened water rather than running softened water through Black Berkey Elements. Water softeners add mineral salts, and Black Berkey Elements are not designed to remove those salts. Many homes have a bypass valve that allows you to collect water before it reaches the softener.

Q: The water in the upper chamber of my Berkey system does not drain all the way. Is this normal?

A: Yes. It is normal for some water to remain in the upper chamber. As the water level drops, the pressure pushing water through the filter elements decreases, so the flow slows. The system typically filters faster when the upper chamber is fuller. 

If you will not use your system for a while, such as during travel, empty both chambers and allow them to dry.

Q: I heard that it is recommended to replace my filtered water after three days. Is this true if it is refrigerated?

A: As a conservative practice, we recommend replacing filtered water after about three days at room temperature. If the water is refrigerated in a clean container, it may be kept longer. For best taste and freshness, store filtered water in a clean, covered container and avoid leaving it in warm or humid conditions.

Q: Why do your instructions say, “Do not allow the Berkey filter to freeze?”

A: Freezing can damage filter elements. Water expands when frozen, and any moisture inside the filter element may affect the internal pore structure. This can reduce performance and may void warranty coverage. This recommendation applies to Black Berkey Elements and Sport Berkey bottle elements.

Q: Why does my filtered water have a bad taste?

A: A bad taste often happens when filters have not been primed thoroughly enough. Process dust may remain after the initial priming. Try priming the filters again, then empty and refill the system before drinking the water.

Replacing and Cleaning the Berkey Filters

Q: How long does a Berkey filter last? How often do Black Berkey Elements need to be replaced?

A: Each Black Berkey Element is designed to filter approximately 3,000 gallons of water. A set of two Black Berkey Elements is rated for approximately 6,000 gallons. For example, if your household uses 5 gallons per day, a two-filter setup may last about 1,200 days, or a little over three years.

Q: What happens if I use Black Berkey Elements after 3,000 gallons?

A: The recommended lifespan is based on reduction performance over time. After the rated lifespan, performance may gradually decline, especially for certain heavy metals. For best results, replace the elements at the recommended gallon rating.

Q: How long does a Berkey PF-2 fluoride filter last?

A: Under normal conditions, we recommend replacing each set of two Berkey PF-2 Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements after approximately 1,000 gallons. If you use 5 gallons per day, that equals about 200 days. Many customers replace them about every six months. 

Q: How should I clean my Berkey stainless steel chambers?

A: Wash the stainless steel chambers with mild soapy water. In hard-water areas, calcium scale may build up on the chambers or spigot. To help remove scale, soak the affected parts in vinegar or a 50/50 vinegar-water mixture for about 15 minutes, then wipe with a soft brush or Scotch-Brite pad. Rinse thoroughly before use.

Q: When and how do I clean Black Berkey Elements?

A: Clean the elements when the flow rate slows noticeably. Remove the elements, scrub the outside of each element with a Scotch-Brite pad or stiff toothbrush, then re-prime and reinstall them. Do not use soap or detergent on the filter elements.

Q: Are Black Berkey Elements or PF-2 filters recyclable?

A: We do not recommend recycling Black Berkey Elements, PF-2 filters, or PF-4 filters. The materials are sealed inside the elements, and after use, it is not possible to know what substances may be present in the media. For this reason, these used filters should be disposed of in accordance with your local waste guidelines. 

Berkey Water Filter Problems

Q: The filtering flow rate in my Berkey system is slow. What should I do?

A: A slow flow rate is often caused by insufficient priming or buildup on the outside of the filter elements. First, remove and re-prime the elements. If the flow is still slow, gently scrub the exterior of each element with a Scotch-Brite pad or stiff toothbrush, then re-prime and reinstall.

If your system is new, slow flow is commonly related to trapped air in the filter pores. Priming helps purge this air and allows water to flow properly.

Q: I just assembled the Berkey system, but the spigot started to leak. What's wrong?

A: The spigot may need a final tightening turn. Hold the nut in place and turn the spigot for the last quarter turn to create a tighter seal. If the leak is coming from the spigot cap, remove the cap and lever, then reassemble them carefully.

Storing the Berkey System

Q: How should I store Black Berkey Elements, and how long is their shelf life?

A: Before storing your system, empty both chambers and allow them to dry. If the elements have been used, let them dry completely before storage. You may air-dry them on a clean surface for 1 to 3 days, depending on room conditions.

For long-term storage, place fully dry elements in a sealed storage bag. Black Berkey Elements can absorb odors from the air, so store them away from smoke, chemicals, perfumes, and strong smells. Before using stored elements again, scrub and re-prime them.

Q: How long can filtered water be stored, and what is the best method?

A: For everyday use, we recommend storing filtered water in a clean, covered container in a cool location. For best taste and freshness, replace water regularly. Glass containers are preferred for longer storage, while clean plastic containers may be used for short-term storage.

Size and Materials of Berkey Products

Q: What is the thread size for the Black Berkey Element’s stem?

A: The thread size on the stem of the Black Berkey Element is approximately 11 mm. The outer diameter is about 3/8 inch, and the inner diameter is about 2/8 inch.

Q: What type of steel is used for the housing of Berkey systems?

A: Stainless steel Berkey systems use polished AISI 304-grade stainless steel. This material is known for durability, corrosion resistance, and a clean appearance suitable for kitchen countertops.

Q: What are Black Berkey Elements made of?

A: Black Berkey Elements are made from a proprietary blend of media types, including high-grade coconut shell carbon. The elements are formed into a compact matrix with microscopic pores designed for gravity-fed filtration.

Q: What are the blocking plugs for Berkey systems made of?

A: Black blocking plugs are made of FDA-approved Buna rubber. White blocking plugs may include a polypropylene nut and bolt with food-grade silicone washers. The water in the lower chamber does not come into contact with the blocking plugs because the plugs are used in unused upper-chamber filter holes.

Q: What are the spigots for Berkey systems made out of?

A: Standard spigots and sight glass spigots may include FDA-grade silicone, FDA-grade polypropylene, FDA-grade rubber, and glass or aluminum components, depending on the model. 

Standard Spigots and Sight Glass Spigots may include:

  • FDA-grade silicone stopper
  • FDA-grade polypropylene shell or nut
  • FDA-grade rubber washers
  • Glass insert tube and aluminum gauge shield for Sight Glass Spigots

Vino Spigot components may include:

  • EPDM and black rubber washer
  • High-density polyethylene back nut
  • Polypropylene body
  • Polypropylene spigot

Q: What is the plastic composition of the Sport Berkey components?

A: Sport Berkey components use plastic resins commonly used for beverage and food-contact applications.

  • Bottle: LDPE, low-density polyethylene
  • Cap: HDPE, high-density polyethylene
  • Straw: PP, polypropylene

Q: Do Black Berkey Elements contain graphene oxide in their composition?

A: No. Black Berkey Elements are made from a proprietary blend of filter media, including high-grade carbonized coconut shell carbon. They do not contain graphene oxide in their composition.

We do not have test data verifying the reduction of graphene oxide by Black Berkey Elements, so we cannot make a reduction claim for that substance. 

Shipping and Return Policy

Q: How much is the shipping fee?

A: We offer free shipping on orders over $199 within the continental United States, meaning the lower 48 states.

Q: How long does it take to ship out?

A: We normally process and ship orders within 3 to 5 business days. We do not ship on weekends or holidays. Delivery times may be delayed during holidays, peak periods, or carrier disruptions.

Q: Do you ship overseas?

A: No. We do not ship internationally.

Q: How can I cancel my order?

A: Please call (888) 899-3903 immediately for assistance with order cancellations or changes. We cannot cancel or change orders by email. Cancellations or changes may be possible only before an order enters the shipping process. We cannot cancel orders that have already shipped.

Q: How can I return the products?

A: Please review our current return policy before sending anything back. Returns must be approved before shipment. Used filters cannot be returned for health and safety reasons. Incorrect, damaged, missing, or defective items should be reported within the return window stated in our policy.

Q: How can I get a refund instead of replacements?

A: Refunds are considered according to our return policy. Eligibility may depend on the reason for the return, the timing of the request, the item's condition, and whether the return has been approved. Please refer to our return policy for full details.