Berkey

Big Berkey® Water Filter – 2.25 Gal Gravity-Fed Filtration System

Sale price $ 367.00 Regular price $ 405.00
Big Berkey stainless steel countertop water filter system

2.25 gallons • Includes 2 Black Berkey® Elements

Big Berkey® Water Filter for Everyday Household Use

Keep filtered water ready for drinking, filling bottles, and meal preparation. The Big Berkey® combines a 2.25-gallon stainless steel reservoir with gravity-fed filtration, without plumbing or electricity.

Its 8.5-inch diameter makes it a practical option for smaller households. Manufacturer everyday-use guidance is approximately 1–4 people; your water use and preferred refill routine will determine the best fit.

2.25 gallons / ~8.5 litersLower-chamber water storage
19.25 in. tall × 8.5 in. diameterApproximate assembled size
2 Black Berkey® Elements includedUp to 4 compatible primary elements total
No electricity or plumbingFill manually; dispense through the spigot

Authorized Berkey® dealer since 2016. Our team can help with model selection, setup, and compatible replacements.

Shipping availability: This product is currently unavailable for sale in California or Iowa.

What's Included

  • Upper AISI 304 stainless steel chamber
  • Lower AISI 304 stainless steel chamber
  • Stainless steel lid
  • 2 Black Berkey® Elements
  • Standard spigot
  • Rubber base gasket
  • Blocking plugs for unused filter openings
  • Wing nuts and washers
  • Priming button
  • Assembly and use instructions

Optional accessories such as a stainless steel stand, protective sleeve, PF-2® Elements, and Water View™ spigot are sold separately.

Will the Big Berkey® Fit on My Counter?

The assembled Big Berkey® is approximately 19.25 inches tall and 8.5 inches in diameter.

Countertop-fit tip: Measure from the countertop to the bottom of any overhead cabinet, and allow additional clearance above the 19.25-inch system height so you can comfortably remove the lid and pour water into the upper chamber.

Also allow room in front of the spigot for your glass and account for the height of any optional stand. When empty and disassembled, the upper chamber can nest inside the lower chamber, reducing the stored height to approximately 13 inches.

Travel vs. Big vs. Royal Berkey®

The Big Berkey® is often the middle choice for shoppers deciding between maximum compactness and additional stored-water capacity.

Feature Travel Berkey® Big Berkey® Royal Berkey®
Capacity 1.5 gal 2.25 gal 3.25 gal
Diameter 7.5 in 8.5 in 9.5 in
Height 18 in 19.25 in 23 in
Everyday-use guidance 1–3 people 1–4 people 2–4 people
Maximum primary elements 2 4 4
Best fit when Smallest footprint matters most You want moderate size with room for four elements You want more stored water

Big Berkey® Specifications

Model Big Berkey® Water Filter System
Capacity 2.25 gallons / approximately 8.5 liters
Manufacturer everyday-use guidance Approximately 1–4 people
Diameter Approximately 8.5 inches
Height in use Approximately 19.25 inches
Nested height Approximately 13 inches
Empty weight Approximately 7 lbs
Construction AISI 304 stainless steel
Included Black Berkey® Elements 2
Maximum compatible primary elements 4
Maximum PF-2® Elements 4
Maximum flow with 2 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 3.5 GPH
Maximum flow with 4 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 7 GPH
Electricity required No
Plumbing required No

Two vs. Four Elements: What Changes?

The standard package includes two Black Berkey® Elements. Four is the maximum number of compatible primary elements the housing accepts. Adding elements can increase flow; water storage stays at 2.25 gallons.

Configuration Maximum Flow Rate Best For
2 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 3.5 gallons per hour Standard household use
4 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 7 gallons per hour Higher demand and faster maximum output

Maximum flow figures are measured with the upper chamber full. Flow naturally decreases as the water level drops and can also vary with element condition, priming, source-water quality, and maintenance.

The figures above apply to Black Berkey® configurations. Phoenix Gravity elements have their own flow specifications. Standalone Black Berkey® replacements are currently unavailable through normal authorized U.S. distribution; check current options before planning an expansion.

How It Works & Included Filter Performance

The Big Berkey® uses gravity to move water from the upper chamber through the installed primary filter elements. Filtered water collects in the lower stainless steel chamber and is dispensed through the spigot.

No electricity, batteries, water pressure, or plumbing connection are required for normal operation.

Included Black Berkey® Elements

The current Big Berkey® configuration includes 2 Black Berkey® Elements. The system can accommodate up to four compatible primary elements.

Independent Black Berkey® laboratory documentation reports reduction performance for a range of drinking-water substances, including selected heavy metals, chlorine-related compounds, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, petroleum-related compounds, particulates, and other substances under the documented test conditions.

Because Black Berkey® Elements are not designed as a reverse-osmosis or demineralization system, ordinary dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium generally remain in the water.

A pair of Black Berkey® Elements has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval of up to approximately 6,000 gallons under stated conditions. Actual service life may be shorter depending on source water quality and use.

Review the Black Berkey® element information and Berkey® filter test-results library for evidence that matches the included elements. Phoenix laboratory results describe a different filter product.

Replacement Filters & NSF Certification

This package includes Black Berkey® Elements. Complete-system availability differs from standalone replacement availability. When replacement is needed, Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are a current compatible option with their own capacity, flow, and test documentation.

Match certification to the installed filters. The Phoenix NSF listings below apply to Phoenix elements and the named Phoenix-equipped systems. They do not apply to this Black Berkey®-equipped package.

Use the Replacement Filters Guide to compare current options and their separate performance evidence.

Optional PF-2® Fluoride & Arsenic Reduction Elements

The Big Berkey® can accommodate up to 4 optional PF-2® Fluoride & Arsenic Reduction Elements when used with compatible primary filter elements. Install one PF-2® for each compatible primary element.

  • 2 compatible primary elements require 2 PF-2® Elements
  • 4 compatible primary elements require 4 PF-2® Elements

PF-2® Elements are optional accessories and are not included with the standard Big Berkey® system.

View PF-2® Fluoride & Arsenic Reduction Elements

How Often Will You Need to Refill the Big Berkey®?

Refill frequency depends on how much filtered water your household uses. The lower chamber holds approximately 2.25 gallons, so a household using around one gallon of filtered water per day may refill the system roughly every couple of days, while households that also use filtered water for cooking, coffee, tea, and reusable bottles may refill more often.

For best day-to-day convenience, many owners refill the upper chamber whenever there is enough room in the lower chamber rather than waiting for the system to become completely empty.

Check the lower chamber before refilling. Add only as much water as the lower chamber can receive; filling the upper chamber when the lower chamber is already full can cause overflow.

Simple Setup & Operation

  1. Wash the stainless steel chambers and applicable components before first use.
  2. Prime the Black Berkey® Elements according to the current instructions.
  3. Install the elements in the upper chamber using the supplied washers and wing nuts.
  4. Install blocking plugs in unused filter openings.
  5. Attach the spigot to the lower chamber.
  6. Place the upper chamber on top of the lower chamber.
  7. Follow the included flushing and assembly-verification instructions before normal use.
  8. Fill with cold or room-temperature water, keeping the available space in the lower chamber in mind.

No specialized tools are normally required for assembly.

Assembly Verification: Red Food Coloring Test

The Red Food Coloring Test is used to help verify that Black Berkey® Elements and blocking points are properly installed and sealed.

  1. Remove any PF-2® Elements before performing the test.
  2. With the Black Berkey® Elements properly installed, add appropriate artificial red food coloring to the upper-chamber water at a rate of up to 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 10 drops) per gallon.
  3. Allow the water to filter into the lower chamber.
  4. If the filtered water remains clear, the installed elements and seals have passed the assembly-verification test.
  5. If pink or red coloring appears in the lower chamber, inspect the installation, washers, wing nuts, and unused openings, correct any issue, and repeat the test.
Test-coloring note: Use the type of artificial red food coloring specified in the current Berkey® instructions. Natural or organic coloring and other unsuitable dyes can produce misleading results. Always follow the current manufacturer's test instructions.

This checks installation and sealing; it does not measure reduction of every substance covered by laboratory reports.

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Use cold or room-temperature water only.
  • Do not use salt water.
  • Wash the stainless steel chambers periodically with mild dish soap and water.
  • Do not apply soap or detergent directly to Black Berkey® Elements.
  • If flow slows during the elements' useful service life, clean them according to the current care instructions.
  • Cleaning may help restore flow but does not reset gallon guidance or make an element indefinitely reusable.
  • Reprime elements when required after cleaning or reinstallation.
  • Track estimated water usage and replace elements according to applicable service guidance, source-water conditions, and current manufacturer instructions.
Salt-based softened water: Manufacturer guidance warns that softened water can prematurely clog compatible filter elements and may void applicable warranty coverage. If a salt-based water softener is installed, review our softened-water FAQ before use.

The stainless steel Berkey® chambers are assembled in the USA from U.S. and imported parts. Black Berkey® Elements are made and assembled in the USA.

Optional Water View™ Spigot

The standard Big Berkey® includes a basic spigot. Customers who prefer visible lower-chamber water-level monitoring can upgrade to the 7-inch Berkey Water View™ Stainless Steel Spigot.

The sight-glass design lets you check the approximate water level in the lower chamber without lifting the upper chamber, making routine refilling more convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water does the Big Berkey® hold?

The Big Berkey® lower chamber holds 2.25 gallons, or approximately 8.5 liters.

How many people is the Big Berkey® designed for?

Manufacturer everyday-use guidance places the Big Berkey® at approximately 1–4 people. Actual suitability depends on how much filtered water a household uses for drinking, cooking, coffee, tea, and other daily needs.

How fast does the Big Berkey® filter water?

With Black Berkey® Elements, manufacturer maximum flow figures are up to approximately 3.5 gallons per hour with two elements and up to 7 gallons per hour with four. These maximum figures are measured with the upper chamber full.

Does the Big Berkey® come with Black Berkey® Elements?

Yes. The current Big Berkey® configuration includes two Black Berkey® Elements.

How often should Black Berkey® Elements be replaced?

A pair has manufacturer replacement guidance of up to approximately 6,000 gallons under stated conditions. Actual service life may be shorter depending on source-water quality, use, and conditions.

What replaces Black Berkey® Elements?

Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are currently compatible with the Big Berkey® and are the primary replacement option available through normal authorized U.S. distribution. Review the Replacement Filters Guide when replacement is needed.

Is the Big Berkey® NSF certified?

The Big Berkey® package described here includes Black Berkey® Elements. Phoenix NSF listings do not apply to that configuration. Big Berkey® fitted with Phoenix elements has separate listings for specific claims. See the certification details.

Can PF-2® Elements be used with the Big Berkey®?

Yes, when used with compatible primary filter elements. Install one PF-2® for each compatible primary element, up to four on the Big Berkey®.

How do I perform the Red Food Coloring Test?

Remove any PF-2® Elements first, then follow the current manufacturer's instructions using the specified artificial red food coloring at up to 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 10 drops) per gallon. The test helps verify that the installed Black Berkey® Elements and seals are properly seated.

Should I choose the Travel, Big, or Royal Berkey®?

Choose Travel when the smallest stainless-steel footprint matters most. Choose the Big when you want a strong balance of capacity, countertop size, and expandability. Choose the Royal when additional stored water capacity is more important than minimizing the footprint.

Will the Big Berkey® fit under my kitchen cabinets?

The assembled system is approximately 19.25 inches tall. Measure from your countertop to the bottom of the cabinet and allow extra clearance above the system so the lid can be removed and the upper chamber filled comfortably.

Does the Big Berkey® require electricity or plumbing?

No. The system operates by gravity and requires no electricity, batteries, water pressure, or plumbing connection.

Does the Big Berkey® reduce TDS?

Berkey® primary elements are not designed as reverse-osmosis or demineralization systems, so ordinary dissolved minerals and total dissolved solids may remain in the water. TDS alone does not identify which specific dissolved substances are present.

What if my home uses private well water?

Well-water composition varies substantially from property to property. Have the water periodically tested by an appropriate laboratory, review the results, and match treatment to the substances and conditions identified, rather than assuming a single filtration system addresses every possible well-water issue.

Can the Big Berkey® be used with salt-based softened water?

Manufacturer guidance warns that salt-based softened water can prematurely clog compatible filter elements and may void applicable warranty coverage. Review the softened-water guidance before use.

Why can't the Big Berkey® ship to California or Iowa?

State-specific regulatory requirements currently prevent this product from being sold to addresses in California or Iowa. See our California information and Iowa information pages for more detail.

Where can I review current Berkey® test information?

Review our Berkey® filter test-results library and Replacement Filters Guide. Performance claims should always be matched to the specific element and test documentation.

What accessories are available for the Big Berkey®?

Compatible accessories include Water View™ spigots, stainless steel stands, sleeves, PF-2® Elements, and replacement parts. Browse our Berkey® Accessories.

Ready to Choose Your Big Berkey®?

Check your counter clearance and confirm the selected package. The standard system includes two Black Berkey® Elements; optional filters and accessories are sold separately. Use the product options and Add to Cart button on this page to order.

Ask a Product QuestionCompare All Berkey Systems

Customer Reviews

Based on 406 reviews
91%
(371)
7%
(30)
1%
(3)
0%
(1)
0%
(1)
C
C.Y.

Well packaged. Extremely excited to use this excellent quality product !

C
Courtney Verhage (Elgin, US)
Love it!

I previous used a Zero filter. Which was good but the filters started to add up and the dispensers would give out after only a year or so. I finally decided to invest in a Berkey and don’t regret it. It’s got a sturdy design and filters that last much longer. The upfront cost will save me so much more money. Plus I no longer use a plastic container for my water which is a massive plus. The water tastes great. I’d recommend to anyone.

M
Michael

Well made and the water is fantastic!

D
Dewitt Foster (Charleston, US)
Excellent as always

This is my second Berkey. Bought a camper and needed a reliable water filter. Have been using a Berkey at the house for years now so of course I got one for my camper as well. Can get water from any source and know it’s safe to drink.

G
Grover Tigue IV (Detroit, US)
Amazingly Cool

I am The Gleeful Tattler and I’ve been tattling on Berkey! Great product. Gorgeous in the kitchen. Delicious water cold or room temperature. Soooo glad that I pulled the trigger to buy. Saving a bunch of time and money too. Thanks

K
Kenneth Knapp (Quaker Hill, US)
Love My Berkey – Watch for Plastic Particles When Installing Filters

The overall product is awesome; however, the black plastic threaded portion of the carbon filter and the plastic nut used to attach the filter to the upper tank form an interference fit. This creates plastic debris when threading them together, and the small particles contaminate the clean-water side. I had to thoroughly clean all components to make sure no plastic pieces ended up in the filtered water.

R
Raymond Sparks (Hermitage, US)
Ray review

I like it a lot glad I got it. Only problem I have is I have well water and filters seem to clog every 50 gals or so , do I need different filters ?
Love my Berkey

W
Waterboy (Camden, US)
Love it

We love it, its amazing.

P
Paul Strat (Bethel Park, US)
Bib Berkey for a Big Boy

I think this size is ideal for one person. I use it both for drinking and cooking and only have to fill about once a day. It looks great. The pricepoint is excessive in hindsight though, considering it is basically a big tin can... but works effectively and hopefully will work for many years (only time will tell). The walls feels a little flimsy when I refill it so I wouldn't be overly rough with it unless you want to dent it.

P
Pamela Weidendorf (Eagan, US)
Tasty

My tap water is the smelliest nastiest tasting water ever. I got the burkey, now I drink three times as much

Description
Big Berkey stainless steel countertop water filter system

2.25 gallons • Includes 2 Black Berkey® Elements

Big Berkey® Water Filter for Everyday Household Use

Keep filtered water ready for drinking, filling bottles, and meal preparation. The Big Berkey® combines a 2.25-gallon stainless steel reservoir with gravity-fed filtration, without plumbing or electricity.

Its 8.5-inch diameter makes it a practical option for smaller households. Manufacturer everyday-use guidance is approximately 1–4 people; your water use and preferred refill routine will determine the best fit.

2.25 gallons / ~8.5 litersLower-chamber water storage 19.25 in. tall × 8.5 in. diameterApproximate assembled size 2 Black Berkey® Elements includedUp to 4 compatible primary elements total No electricity or plumbingFill manually; dispense through the spigot

Authorized Berkey® dealer since 2016. Our team can help with model selection, setup, and compatible replacements.

Shipping availability: This product is currently unavailable for sale in California or Iowa.

What's Included

  • Upper AISI 304 stainless steel chamber
  • Lower AISI 304 stainless steel chamber
  • Stainless steel lid
  • 2 Black Berkey® Elements
  • Standard spigot
  • Rubber base gasket
  • Blocking plugs for unused filter openings
  • Wing nuts and washers
  • Priming button
  • Assembly and use instructions

Optional accessories such as a stainless steel stand, protective sleeve, PF-2® Elements, and Water View™ spigot are sold separately.

Will the Big Berkey® Fit on My Counter?

The assembled Big Berkey® is approximately 19.25 inches tall and 8.5 inches in diameter.

Countertop-fit tip: Measure from the countertop to the bottom of any overhead cabinet, and allow additional clearance above the 19.25-inch system height so you can comfortably remove the lid and pour water into the upper chamber.

Also allow room in front of the spigot for your glass and account for the height of any optional stand. When empty and disassembled, the upper chamber can nest inside the lower chamber, reducing the stored height to approximately 13 inches.

Travel vs. Big vs. Royal Berkey®

The Big Berkey® is often the middle choice for shoppers deciding between maximum compactness and additional stored-water capacity.

Feature Travel Berkey® Big Berkey® Royal Berkey®
Capacity 1.5 gal 2.25 gal 3.25 gal
Diameter 7.5 in 8.5 in 9.5 in
Height 18 in 19.25 in 23 in
Everyday-use guidance 1–3 people 1–4 people 2–4 people
Maximum primary elements 2 4 4
Best fit when Smallest footprint matters most You want moderate size with room for four elements You want more stored water

Big Berkey® Specifications

Model Big Berkey® Water Filter System
Capacity 2.25 gallons / approximately 8.5 liters
Manufacturer everyday-use guidance Approximately 1–4 people
Diameter Approximately 8.5 inches
Height in use Approximately 19.25 inches
Nested height Approximately 13 inches
Empty weight Approximately 7 lbs
Construction AISI 304 stainless steel
Included Black Berkey® Elements 2
Maximum compatible primary elements 4
Maximum PF-2® Elements 4
Maximum flow with 2 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 3.5 GPH
Maximum flow with 4 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 7 GPH
Electricity required No
Plumbing required No

Two vs. Four Elements: What Changes?

The standard package includes two Black Berkey® Elements. Four is the maximum number of compatible primary elements the housing accepts. Adding elements can increase flow; water storage stays at 2.25 gallons.

Configuration Maximum Flow Rate Best For
2 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 3.5 gallons per hour Standard household use
4 Black Berkey® Elements Up to 7 gallons per hour Higher demand and faster maximum output

Maximum flow figures are measured with the upper chamber full. Flow naturally decreases as the water level drops and can also vary with element condition, priming, source-water quality, and maintenance.

The figures above apply to Black Berkey® configurations. Phoenix Gravity elements have their own flow specifications. Standalone Black Berkey® replacements are currently unavailable through normal authorized U.S. distribution; check current options before planning an expansion.

How It Works & Included Filter Performance

The Big Berkey® uses gravity to move water from the upper chamber through the installed primary filter elements. Filtered water collects in the lower stainless steel chamber and is dispensed through the spigot.

No electricity, batteries, water pressure, or plumbing connection are required for normal operation.

Included Black Berkey® Elements

The current Big Berkey® configuration includes 2 Black Berkey® Elements. The system can accommodate up to four compatible primary elements.

Independent Black Berkey® laboratory documentation reports reduction performance for a range of drinking-water substances, including selected heavy metals, chlorine-related compounds, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, petroleum-related compounds, particulates, and other substances under the documented test conditions.

Because Black Berkey® Elements are not designed as a reverse-osmosis or demineralization system, ordinary dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium generally remain in the water.

A pair of Black Berkey® Elements has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval of up to approximately 6,000 gallons under stated conditions. Actual service life may be shorter depending on source water quality and use.

Review the Black Berkey® element information and Berkey® filter test-results library for evidence that matches the included elements. Phoenix laboratory results describe a different filter product.

Replacement Filters & NSF Certification

This package includes Black Berkey® Elements. Complete-system availability differs from standalone replacement availability. When replacement is needed, Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are a current compatible option with their own capacity, flow, and test documentation.

Match certification to the installed filters. The Phoenix NSF listings below apply to Phoenix elements and the named Phoenix-equipped systems. They do not apply to this Black Berkey®-equipped package.

Use the Replacement Filters Guide to compare current options and their separate performance evidence.

Optional PF-2® Fluoride & Arsenic Reduction Elements

The Big Berkey® can accommodate up to 4 optional PF-2® Fluoride & Arsenic Reduction Elements when used with compatible primary filter elements. Install one PF-2® for each compatible primary element.

  • 2 compatible primary elements require 2 PF-2® Elements
  • 4 compatible primary elements require 4 PF-2® Elements

PF-2® Elements are optional accessories and are not included with the standard Big Berkey® system.

View PF-2® Fluoride & Arsenic Reduction Elements

How Often Will You Need to Refill the Big Berkey®?

Refill frequency depends on how much filtered water your household uses. The lower chamber holds approximately 2.25 gallons, so a household using around one gallon of filtered water per day may refill the system roughly every couple of days, while households that also use filtered water for cooking, coffee, tea, and reusable bottles may refill more often.

For best day-to-day convenience, many owners refill the upper chamber whenever there is enough room in the lower chamber rather than waiting for the system to become completely empty.

Check the lower chamber before refilling. Add only as much water as the lower chamber can receive; filling the upper chamber when the lower chamber is already full can cause overflow.

Simple Setup & Operation

  1. Wash the stainless steel chambers and applicable components before first use.
  2. Prime the Black Berkey® Elements according to the current instructions.
  3. Install the elements in the upper chamber using the supplied washers and wing nuts.
  4. Install blocking plugs in unused filter openings.
  5. Attach the spigot to the lower chamber.
  6. Place the upper chamber on top of the lower chamber.
  7. Follow the included flushing and assembly-verification instructions before normal use.
  8. Fill with cold or room-temperature water, keeping the available space in the lower chamber in mind.

No specialized tools are normally required for assembly.

Assembly Verification: Red Food Coloring Test

The Red Food Coloring Test is used to help verify that Black Berkey® Elements and blocking points are properly installed and sealed.

  1. Remove any PF-2® Elements before performing the test.
  2. With the Black Berkey® Elements properly installed, add appropriate artificial red food coloring to the upper-chamber water at a rate of up to 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 10 drops) per gallon.
  3. Allow the water to filter into the lower chamber.
  4. If the filtered water remains clear, the installed elements and seals have passed the assembly-verification test.
  5. If pink or red coloring appears in the lower chamber, inspect the installation, washers, wing nuts, and unused openings, correct any issue, and repeat the test.
Test-coloring note: Use the type of artificial red food coloring specified in the current Berkey® instructions. Natural or organic coloring and other unsuitable dyes can produce misleading results. Always follow the current manufacturer's test instructions.

This checks installation and sealing; it does not measure reduction of every substance covered by laboratory reports.

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Use cold or room-temperature water only.
  • Do not use salt water.
  • Wash the stainless steel chambers periodically with mild dish soap and water.
  • Do not apply soap or detergent directly to Black Berkey® Elements.
  • If flow slows during the elements' useful service life, clean them according to the current care instructions.
  • Cleaning may help restore flow but does not reset gallon guidance or make an element indefinitely reusable.
  • Reprime elements when required after cleaning or reinstallation.
  • Track estimated water usage and replace elements according to applicable service guidance, source-water conditions, and current manufacturer instructions.
Salt-based softened water: Manufacturer guidance warns that softened water can prematurely clog compatible filter elements and may void applicable warranty coverage. If a salt-based water softener is installed, review our softened-water FAQ before use.

The stainless steel Berkey® chambers are assembled in the USA from U.S. and imported parts. Black Berkey® Elements are made and assembled in the USA.

Optional Water View™ Spigot

The standard Big Berkey® includes a basic spigot. Customers who prefer visible lower-chamber water-level monitoring can upgrade to the 7-inch Berkey Water View™ Stainless Steel Spigot.

The sight-glass design lets you check the approximate water level in the lower chamber without lifting the upper chamber, making routine refilling more convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water does the Big Berkey® hold?

The Big Berkey® lower chamber holds 2.25 gallons, or approximately 8.5 liters.

How many people is the Big Berkey® designed for?

Manufacturer everyday-use guidance places the Big Berkey® at approximately 1–4 people. Actual suitability depends on how much filtered water a household uses for drinking, cooking, coffee, tea, and other daily needs.

How fast does the Big Berkey® filter water?

With Black Berkey® Elements, manufacturer maximum flow figures are up to approximately 3.5 gallons per hour with two elements and up to 7 gallons per hour with four. These maximum figures are measured with the upper chamber full.

Does the Big Berkey® come with Black Berkey® Elements?

Yes. The current Big Berkey® configuration includes two Black Berkey® Elements.

How often should Black Berkey® Elements be replaced?

A pair has manufacturer replacement guidance of up to approximately 6,000 gallons under stated conditions. Actual service life may be shorter depending on source-water quality, use, and conditions.

What replaces Black Berkey® Elements?

Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are currently compatible with the Big Berkey® and are the primary replacement option available through normal authorized U.S. distribution. Review the Replacement Filters Guide when replacement is needed.

Is the Big Berkey® NSF certified?

The Big Berkey® package described here includes Black Berkey® Elements. Phoenix NSF listings do not apply to that configuration. Big Berkey® fitted with Phoenix elements has separate listings for specific claims. See the certification details.

Can PF-2® Elements be used with the Big Berkey®?

Yes, when used with compatible primary filter elements. Install one PF-2® for each compatible primary element, up to four on the Big Berkey®.

How do I perform the Red Food Coloring Test?

Remove any PF-2® Elements first, then follow the current manufacturer's instructions using the specified artificial red food coloring at up to 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 10 drops) per gallon. The test helps verify that the installed Black Berkey® Elements and seals are properly seated.

Should I choose the Travel, Big, or Royal Berkey®?

Choose Travel when the smallest stainless-steel footprint matters most. Choose the Big when you want a strong balance of capacity, countertop size, and expandability. Choose the Royal when additional stored water capacity is more important than minimizing the footprint.

Will the Big Berkey® fit under my kitchen cabinets?

The assembled system is approximately 19.25 inches tall. Measure from your countertop to the bottom of the cabinet and allow extra clearance above the system so the lid can be removed and the upper chamber filled comfortably.

Does the Big Berkey® require electricity or plumbing?

No. The system operates by gravity and requires no electricity, batteries, water pressure, or plumbing connection.

Does the Big Berkey® reduce TDS?

Berkey® primary elements are not designed as reverse-osmosis or demineralization systems, so ordinary dissolved minerals and total dissolved solids may remain in the water. TDS alone does not identify which specific dissolved substances are present.

What if my home uses private well water?

Well-water composition varies substantially from property to property. Have the water periodically tested by an appropriate laboratory, review the results, and match treatment to the substances and conditions identified, rather than assuming a single filtration system addresses every possible well-water issue.

Can the Big Berkey® be used with salt-based softened water?

Manufacturer guidance warns that salt-based softened water can prematurely clog compatible filter elements and may void applicable warranty coverage. Review the softened-water guidance before use.

Why can't the Big Berkey® ship to California or Iowa?

State-specific regulatory requirements currently prevent this product from being sold to addresses in California or Iowa. See our California information and Iowa information pages for more detail.

Where can I review current Berkey® test information?

Review our Berkey® filter test-results library and Replacement Filters Guide. Performance claims should always be matched to the specific element and test documentation.

What accessories are available for the Big Berkey®?

Compatible accessories include Water View™ spigots, stainless steel stands, sleeves, PF-2® Elements, and replacement parts. Browse our Berkey® Accessories.

Ready to Choose Your Big Berkey®?

Check your counter clearance and confirm the selected package. The standard system includes two Black Berkey® Elements; optional filters and accessories are sold separately. Use the product options and Add to Cart button on this page to order.

Ask a Product QuestionCompare All Berkey Systems
Warranty

All Berkey products are warranted by the Berkey manufacturer, New Millennium Concepts, Ltd (“NMCL”). Systems (excluding filters) have a 12-month warranty, and black filters are covered under a 2-year prorated warranty.

The Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition Filter Elements have a 12-month warranty.

New Millennium Concepts, Ltd. warrants its product against defects in materials or workmanship during ordinary consumer use. This limited warranty does not cover product issues caused by any other reason for the time periods and conditions set forth below.

For a period not to exceed twelve months from the original date of purchase of the product, New Millennium Concepts, Ltd. will, solely at its discretion, replace a stainless steel system or component that it deems is not functioning properly during the stated warranty period.