Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition Filters - Black Berkey Element Alternative
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Replacement Filter Elements
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are premium replacement water filter elements designed for Berkey® gravity-fed water filter systems and many similar countertop gravity filtration systems.
Officially endorsed by New Millennium Concepts, Ltd., these elements combine dense micro-porous filtration media with premium CTC-60 coconut shell activated carbon. They are designed for everyday drinking water filtration, particularly for households using municipally treated tap water.
As water moves through the elements by gravity, microscopic pores and extended media contact time help reduce a broad range of common water-quality concerns while improving taste, odor, and clarity.
Independent laboratory testing has evaluated the elements for the reduction of chlorine, chloramines, PFAS compounds, volatile organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, disinfection byproducts, and other substances commonly discussed in drinking water reports.
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for aesthetic effects and NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 for lead-free material compliance.
Due to state-specific regulations, this product cannot currently be shipped to addresses in California or Iowa.
Why Choose Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filters?
Phoenix Gravity elements offer a combination of independently evaluated contaminant-reduction performance, recognized NSF certifications, premium activated carbon media, and long service life.
- Officially endorsed by New Millennium Concepts, Ltd.
- Designed for Berkey® gravity-fed water filter systems
- Compatible with many similar gravity-fed filtration systems
- Certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for aesthetic effects
- Certified to NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 for lead-free material compliance
- Made with premium CTC-60 coconut shell activated carbon
- Third-party tested for reduction of PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS
- Evaluated by independent laboratories for broad contaminant-reduction performance
- Designed to retain naturally occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium
- Does not significantly change Total Dissolved Solids levels
- Compatible with Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements
- Re-cleanable during the useful life of the filter
- Designed for approximately 2,750 gallons per element
- Designed for approximately 5,500 gallons per set of two
- Covered by a one-year limited warranty
Designed for Everyday Gravity-Fed Water Filtration
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements operate without electricity, batteries, plumbing connections, or household water pressure. Water is poured into the upper chamber of a compatible gravity-fed system and moves through the filter media into the lower collection chamber.
Because the process relies on gravity, water remains in contact with the filtration media longer than it does in many fast-flowing inline systems. This extended contact time supports adsorption and particulate reduction while maintaining straightforward countertop operation.
These replacement elements are especially well suited for households seeking to:
- Improve the taste and odor of municipally treated tap water
- Reduce chlorine and chloramines
- Address PFAS concerns evaluated in independent testing
- Reduce selected volatile organic compounds and disinfection byproducts
- Replace older filter elements in a Berkey® gravity system
- Use a filtration system without electricity or plumbing
- Retain naturally occurring dissolved minerals
What Can Phoenix Gravity Filters Help Reduce?
Independent laboratory testing has evaluated Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements for their ability to reduce substances across several major contaminant categories.
| Category | Examples Evaluated |
|---|---|
| Taste and Odor Concerns | Chlorine, chloramines, and substances that may contribute to unpleasant taste or odor |
| PFAS Compounds | PFOA, PFOS, and other evaluated PFAS compounds |
| Volatile Organic Compounds | Selected industrial solvents, fuel-related compounds, and other VOCs |
| Heavy Metals | Selected metals evaluated in third-party laboratory testing |
| Pharmaceutical Residues | Selected medications and related compounds evaluated in laboratory testing |
| Disinfection Byproducts | Selected compounds associated with municipal water disinfection |
| Sediment and Particulates | Rust, silt, sediment, cloudiness, and suspended particulates |
Testing results can vary by contaminant, concentration, water chemistry, flow conditions, and total gallons processed. NSF certifications apply only to the specific claims and standards shown in the official certification listing.
For additional information about common water-quality concerns, visit our Drinking Water Contaminants Reference Guide.
NSF/ANSI Certification Details
NSF/ANSI Standard 42
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for aesthetic effects.
This standard addresses non-health-related substances that may affect the appearance, taste, or odor of drinking water. Applicable certified claims may include the reduction of:
- Chlorine
- Chloramines
- Particulates
- Substances that affect taste and odor
NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372
The elements are also certified to NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372. This standard addresses lead-content compliance for drinking water system components and materials that come into contact with water.
Certification to Standard 372 relates to the materials used in the product. It should not be confused with certification for lead reduction from drinking water.
Important Certification Note
NSF/ANSI Standard 42 is an aesthetic-effects standard, while NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 is a lead-content and materials standard.
These certifications should not be interpreted as NSF certification for every substance listed in independent laboratory reports. Contaminant-reduction claims outside the scope of the certified standards are based on separate third-party laboratory evaluations.
Premium CTC-60 Coconut Shell Activated Carbon
The primary filter media is premium CTC-60 coconut shell activated carbon. CTC refers to carbon tetrachloride activity, a measurement commonly used to describe the adsorption capacity of activated carbon.
Coconut shell carbon is valued for its high density and extensive network of microscopic pores. These pores create a large internal surface area that can adsorb many compounds associated with taste, odor, and organic chemical contamination.
As water moves through the element, the activated carbon media helps adsorb substances such as:
- Chlorine and chloramines
- Selected volatile organic compounds
- Selected PFAS compounds
- Selected pharmaceuticals
- Selected disinfection byproducts
- Compounds associated with unpleasant taste and odor
The effectiveness and useful life of activated carbon depend on the source-water chemistry, contaminant concentration, total water volume, flow rate, and maintenance practices.
How Phoenix Gravity Filter Elements Work
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements contain a dense matrix of microscopic pores. Water follows a winding path through this media rather than passing through an open channel.
This structure supports several filtration processes:
Particulate Reduction
The micro-porous structure helps reduce suspended material such as rust, silt, sediment, cloudiness, and other particulates that may affect water clarity.
Adsorption
The activated carbon attracts and holds selected chemical compounds on its internal surface. This process is particularly useful for reducing chlorine, taste-and-odor compounds, and many organic chemicals.
Extended Contact Time
Gravity-fed operation allows water to remain in contact with the media as it slowly moves through the element. This extended contact time supports adsorption performance.
Mineral Retention
The elements are not designed to remove naturally occurring dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Total Dissolved Solids measurements will therefore generally remain similar before and after filtration.
Filter Specifications
| Product Name | Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements |
|---|---|
| Product SKU | PGF9-2 |
| Quantity | Set of two replacement elements |
| Primary Filter Media | Premium CTC-60 coconut shell activated carbon |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI Standard 42 and NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 |
| Third-Party Testing | Evaluated by independent laboratories using applicable EPA guidelines and ANSI/NSF protocols and standards |
| Designed Filter Life | Approximately 2,750 gallons per element |
| Combined Set Capacity | Approximately 5,500 gallons per set of two |
| Estimated Flow Rate | Up to approximately 4.2 gallons per hour per pair with a full upper chamber |
| Element Dimensions | Approximately 9.5 inches tall, including stem, by 2.5 inches in diameter |
| Box Dimensions | Approximately 12 inches long by 5.25 inches wide by 2.75 inches deep |
| Box Weight | Approximately 33 ounces / 2.07 pounds |
| Base Material | Glass-filled polymer; BPA-free and compliant with applicable NSF/FDA food-contact requirements |
| PF-2® Compatibility | Yes |
| Re-cleanable | Yes, during the useful life of the filter |
| Warranty | One-year limited warranty |
Flow rate is measured with the upper chamber full. Flow naturally decreases as the water level in the upper chamber declines.
Compatible With Berkey® Gravity-Fed Water Filter Systems
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are designed to fit Berkey® gravity-fed water filter systems, including:
- Go Berkey® Kit
- Travel Berkey® Water Filter
- Big Berkey® Water Filter
- Royal Berkey® Water Filter
- Imperial Berkey® Water Filter
- Crown Berkey™ Water Filter
- Berkey Light® Water Filter
The elements may also fit many gravity-fed water filtration systems made by other brands. Before ordering them for a non-Berkey system, compare the filter dimensions, mounting-hole size, available chamber clearance, and stem configuration.
Compatible Filters and Accessories
Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements
Phoenix Gravity elements are compatible with Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements.
PF-2® elements attach to the threaded stems of the primary filters inside the lower chamber. One PF-2® element is required for each installed Phoenix Gravity element.
Black Berkey Primer™
The Black Berkey Primer™ may be used to help prepare compatible gravity-filter elements when normal faucet priming is difficult or unavailable.
Using Phoenix and Black Berkey® Elements Together
Phoenix Gravity elements and Black Berkey® Elements may physically be installed within the same compatible system. However, combining different element types can make it difficult to predict overall performance, flow, and replacement timing.
For more consistent results, using matching filter elements in the same system is generally preferable.
Browse our complete Berkey Replacement Filters Guide for additional compatible options.
Fluoride Reduction and PF-2® Compatibility
Laboratory testing indicates that Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements may initially reduce a portion of the fluoride present in water, with some testing reporting reductions of up to approximately 75.5% under the evaluated conditions.
However, activated carbon does not generally provide the same sustained fluoride capacity as media specifically designed for fluoride reduction. Performance may decrease as the carbon media is used.
Customers seeking longer-term fluoride and arsenic reduction should consider adding Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements.
The number of PF-2® elements should match the number of primary Phoenix Gravity elements installed:
- Two Phoenix Gravity elements require two PF-2® elements
- Four Phoenix Gravity elements require four PF-2® elements
Do Phoenix Gravity Filters Reduce PFAS?
Independent third-party laboratory testing has evaluated Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements for the reduction of PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS.
PFAS is a broad category of synthetic chemicals. Reduction performance can vary significantly among individual compounds and according to water chemistry, initial concentration, flow conditions, and total gallons processed.
Customers concerned about PFAS should review available laboratory data and local water-quality reports. Learn more in our PFAS in Drinking Water Guide.
Do Phoenix Gravity Filters Change TDS?
Phoenix Gravity Filter Elements are not designed to significantly reduce Total Dissolved Solids.
TDS meters measure the electrical conductivity associated with dissolved minerals and salts. They do not directly measure chlorine, PFAS, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, or many other compounds that may be reduced through activated carbon adsorption.
Because Phoenix Gravity elements are designed to retain naturally occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium, a TDS meter may show little or no change after filtration. This does not by itself indicate that the filter is not working.
Do These Filters Remove Hardness or Limescale?
No. Phoenix Gravity elements are not water softeners and are not designed to remove calcium and magnesium, which cause water hardness.
They will not prevent all mineral scale from forming in kettles, coffee makers, plumbing fixtures, or other appliances. Customers with hard water may need a separate water-softening or scale-control solution.
Learn more in our guide to what causes hard water and why most water filters do not remove it.
Phoenix Gravity Filters Compared With Typical Carbon Cartridges
| Feature | Phoenix Gravity Elements | Typical Small Carbon Cartridge |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Countertop gravity-fed filtration | Pitchers, dispensers, or faucet units |
| Primary Media | Premium CTC-60 coconut shell activated carbon | Varies by product |
| Designed Capacity | Approximately 2,750 gallons per element | Often, approximately 40–200 gallons |
| NSF/ANSI Standard 42 | Certified | Varies |
| NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 | Certified | Varies |
| Re-cleanable | Yes, during useful filter life | Usually not |
| Requires Electricity | No | Usually no |
| Requires Plumbing | No | Usually no |
| Retains Dissolved Minerals | Yes | Usually |
Actual performance and capacity vary by brand, model, water quality, usage, and the claims certified for each individual product.
Priming and Initial Installation
Proper priming is essential before the first use. Activated carbon media contain microscopic air pockets that must be displaced with water before the element can achieve a normal filtration rate.
- Wash your hands before handling the filter elements.
- Remove the elements from their packaging.
- Inspect the elements, stems, washers, and mounting hardware.
- Prime each element according to the included instructions.
- Install the sealing washer in the correct position.
- Insert the threaded stem through the mounting hole in the upper chamber.
- Secure the element with the provided wing nut without overtightening.
- Install blocking plugs in any unused mounting holes.
- Perform the recommended red food coloring test after installation.
Improper priming may result in unusually slow filtration. Improper installation may allow unfiltered water to bypass the element through the mounting opening.
Red Food Coloring Test
A red food coloring test can help verify that the elements and blocking plugs are installed correctly.
Use only the type of artificial red food coloring specified in the product instructions. Natural coloring, gel coloring, or products containing sugar may not yield reliable results.
Follow the included instructions carefully. If the lower chamber appears red, inspect the element seals, wing nuts, and blocking plugs before using the system again.
The food coloring test is an installation check. It does not measure the reduction of every substance evaluated in laboratory testing.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements are designed to be re-cleanable during their useful service life.
If the flow rate becomes noticeably slower:
- Remove the filter elements from the system.
- Hold each element under cool running water.
- Gently clean the exterior surface using an approved abrasive pad or the method described in the included instructions.
- Do not use soap, detergent, bleach, or household cleaners on the filtration media.
- Rinse the element thoroughly.
- Reprime the element if necessary.
- Reinstall it with the washer and wing nut properly seated.
- Perform another red food coloring test when appropriate.
Cleaning removes accumulated surface material and may restore flow. It does not reset the filter’s total gallon capacity or restore adsorption sites that have already been used.
What Can Affect Filter Life?
The designed service life is approximately 2,750 gallons per element, but actual useful life may vary.
Factors that may affect filter longevity include:
- Source-water quality
- Chlorine or chloramine concentration
- PFAS or VOC concentration
- Sediment, rust, and turbidity
- Water hardness
- Daily water consumption
- Cleaning frequency
- Flow conditions
- Length of storage between uses
Water with high sediment levels may accelerate the buildup of elements and require more frequent cleaning. Water containing higher concentrations of adsorbable chemicals may use the carbon capacity faster.
When Should the Filters Be Replaced?
Replace the elements when any of the following applies:
- The estimated gallon capacity has been reached
- Cleaning no longer restores an acceptable flow rate
- The element is physically damaged
- The threaded stem or base is cracked
- The element has been exposed to improper cleaning chemicals
- There is concern about contamination during storage or handling
Tracking approximate household water usage can make replacement planning easier.
For example, a household filtering approximately four gallons per day would process about 1,460 gallons per year. Actual replacement timing should still account for water quality, maintenance, and the substances present in the source water.
Storage Between Uses
Follow the included manufacturer instructions when storing the elements or an assembled system for an extended period.
General precautions include:
- Do not store wet filters in a sealed container for a prolonged period
- Keep filters away from household chemicals and strong odors
- Prevent physical damage to the element body and threaded stem
- Store components in a clean, dry location
- Reprime and test the elements before returning them to regular use
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements NSF certified?
Yes. They are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for applicable aesthetic-effects claims and NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 for lead-free material compliance.
Are they certified for every contaminant listed in laboratory reports?
No. NSF certification applies only to the specific standards and claims shown in the official certification listing. Other contaminant-reduction statements are based on separate independent laboratory testing.
Will Phoenix Gravity filters fit my Berkey® system?
They are designed to fit Berkey® gravity-fed systems, including the Go Berkey®, Travel Berkey®, Big Berkey®, Royal Berkey®, Imperial Berkey®, Crown Berkey™, and Berkey Light®.
Will they fit a gravity water filter made by another company?
They fit many similar gravity-fed systems, but compatibility should be confirmed by comparing the element dimensions, threaded stem, mounting-hole size, and available chamber clearance.
Can Phoenix Gravity elements replace Black Berkey® Elements?
Yes. They are designed as a compatible replacement option for Berkey® gravity-fed water filter systems. Filtration claims, certification status, gallon capacity, and media formulation should be evaluated in accordance with the Phoenix Gravity product specifications.
Can Phoenix and Black Berkey® Elements be used together?
They may physically be installed in the same compatible system. However, matching elements is generally recommended because mixing different filter types can make overall flow, performance expectations, and replacement timing less predictable.
Do these filters reduce chlorine and chloramines?
They are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for applicable aesthetic-effects claims, including reduction of chlorine, chloramines, and particulates that can affect taste and odor.
Do Phoenix Gravity filters reduce PFAS?
Independent third-party laboratory testing has evaluated the elements for the reduction of PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS. Performance varies by compound and testing conditions.
Do these filters reduce fluoride?
The elements may provide some initial reduction in fluoride under certain conditions. For more consistent, longer-term reductions in fluoride and arsenic, use compatible Berkey PF-2® Elements.
Do these filters reduce arsenic?
Customers specifically concerned about ongoing arsenic reduction should consider using compatible PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements and review applicable product testing.
Do these filters change TDS?
No significant change in TDS is normally expected. The elements are not designed to remove naturally occurring dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
Do the filters remove beneficial minerals?
They are designed to retain naturally occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Because these minerals remain dissolved, TDS readings generally remain similar.
Do they soften hard water?
No. They do not function as water softeners and do not remove the calcium and magnesium responsible for hardness and limescale.
How long do Phoenix Gravity filters last?
Each element is designed for approximately 2,750 gallons. A set of two provides a combined designed capacity of approximately 5,500 gallons. Actual life depends on source water quality, contaminant concentrations, usage, and maintenance.
What is the flow rate?
A pair can provide up to approximately 4.2 gallons per hour when the upper chamber is full. Flow decreases as the water level falls and may also be affected by priming, sediment buildup, water temperature, and filter condition.
Can the elements be cleaned?
Yes. The exterior can be cleaned according to the included maintenance instructions. Cleaning may restore flow by removing surface buildup, but it does not reset the filter’s gallon capacity.
Do the filters need to be primed?
Yes. Proper priming displaces air from the microscopic pores, allowing water to move through the media at the intended rate.
Can I perform the red food coloring test?
Yes. Follow the included instructions and use only the specified artificial red food coloring. The test helps verify installation and sealing.
Can these filters be used with municipal tap water?
Yes. They are engineered primarily for everyday filtration of municipally treated drinking water.
Can these filters be used with private well water?
Water quality varies considerably among private wells. Laboratory testing can help determine the substances present and whether additional treatment is needed. Users should select filtration based on their actual water conditions.
Do the filters require electricity or plumbing?
No. They operate through gravity and do not require electricity, household water pressure, or a plumbing connection.
Are PF-2® elements included?
No. Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements are optional accessories sold separately.
How many PF-2® elements do I need?
Use one PF-2® element for each installed Phoenix Gravity element. A two-filter configuration requires two PF-2® elements.
What warranty is included?
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements include a one-year limited warranty. Review the warranty terms for coverage conditions and exclusions.
Can these filters be shipped to California or Iowa?
No. Due to state-specific regulatory requirements, the product cannot currently be shipped to addresses in California or Iowa.
Replacement and Warranty Summary
- Approximately 2,750 gallons of designed capacity per element
- Approximately 5,500 gallons per set of two
- Re-cleanable during useful filter life
- Compatible with Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements
- One-year limited warranty
- Not currently available for shipment to California or Iowa
Upgrade Your Berkey® System With Phoenix Gravity Filters
Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements provide a premium replacement option for Berkey® gravity-fed water filter systems and many similar countertop filtration units.
With NSF/ANSI Standard 42 and NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 372 certifications, premium CTC-60 coconut shell activated carbon, independent contaminant-reduction testing, long-designed filter life, and compatibility with PF-2® elements, they offer a practical solution for everyday gravity-fed drinking water filtration.
Pair them with Berkey PF-2® Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements, or browse our complete selection of Berkey Replacement Filters and Berkey Accessories.
Due to state-specific regulations, Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ Filter Elements cannot currently be shipped to addresses in California or Iowa.