I first blogged about the Berkey Water Filtration System back in 2011 (and there are still some great tips on that post for those just starting out in green living). I wanted to make a dedicated post to the Berkey and how it’s worked for us since we first received it as a Christmas present in 2010. While we ended up having some issues with the first few filters, the Berkey customer service was great and got us out new filters right away. I believe all and all they had to send us 3 different replacements. I’m happy to say that now at the first of 2014, the filters have been doing their job perfectly. Every few months (typically when we get back from vacation or a weekend away), I dump all the water, take it apart and give it a deep cleaning with hot soapy water.
One question I’ve been asked repeatedly is how to fill up the Berkey with tap water. We have a beer growler that we use, though I imagine we could also use the sink spray hose now that the Berkey is located near the sink!
This is looking down into the top compartment with the two black filters. Attached on the bottom (inside the bottom compartment) are two PF-2 fluoride filters.
To make sure your filters last, is to clean them regularly with a washcloth, hot water, and soap. Also, another trick that I discovered, is if you don’t feel all the water is filtering (i.e. there is still water in the top compartment), to scrap a bit of the filter off. It doesn’t damage anything other than removing some of the build up that will happen (especially if you have hard water!)
When we finally move to a more permanent location, I will begin the search for a whole house filtration system! The Berkey is the perfect solution in the meantime.
If you have any questions about our experience with the Berkey, please feel free to shoot me an email or leave a comment below!
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