Why We Chose the Berkey Water Filtration System

When I shared our Crown Berkey Water Filter system on my Instagram account recently, I received some questions.  So, I thought I would share more details here on why we chose the Berkey Water Filtration System.

 

WHY BERKEY WATER SYSTEM?

Our family has always been big water drinkers.  Every living thing needs water to survive. Not only does water keep us hydrated, but it is necessary for daily bodily functions like regulating our temperature and carrying oxygen and nutrients to our cells.  It is so much better than sweetened beverages and sodas and helps to keep us healthy and naturally energized.

We received ours as a house warming gift from my folks, when we first made the full-time transition onto our homestead.  That has been over 5 years ago.  The peace of mind we get from knowing that 99.9% of the possible harmful toxins, pathogens, viruses, lead, VOC’s, lindane, benzene, atrazine, and bacteria from the environment are being filtered out, is worth the extra work it takes to maintain this hardworking gravity fed water purification system.

It is an investment up front that pays dividends over time. Each black filter will last for 3,000 gallons. For an average family with two filters, it can filter up to 6,000 gallons with an estimated lifespan of about four years. There are other Berkey options that house four filters at a lower cost. You can tailor the system to fit your own family’s personal needs.

 

NATURAL WATER SOURCES ON THE FARM

Here in the hollow, our primary water source is a natural spring on the hill just above our pond.

We also have a well for back up if we need it.

In case of a real emergency, when the summer is especially dry, we have the option of using our Berkey to purify our creek water which runs through the border of our property.

BERKEY OFFERS SIMPLE OPTIONS

Because the carbon filters are re-cleanable and self-sterilizing, it makes regular maintenance a breeze. Just look at all that sediment buildup!  It was clearly overdue!  I use a clean non-scratch pad and scrub the sediment and dirt off under COLD running water.  We never use hot water to clean carbon filters.  We also do not use any soap or detergent when we clean the filtering elements.

They offer many different option sizes.  From travel size to the largest size for bigger families like ours. You have a choice of 2 carbon filter elements to start with or you can add another set of two to help speed the filtration process up.

 

WHY WE LOVE OUR BERKEY WATER FILTER SYSTEM

Since our water source doesn’t come from the city, we opted out of purchasing the fluoride filters.  We have a total of 8 filtering elements in our chamber which helps filter our water fast.

We love that the Berkey filters impurifcations in the water, but was designed to not remove any of the beneficial minerals found in the soil, like calcium and magnesium. That was an important selling point when we were researching new water purification systems.

The filter elements removed for cleaning.

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR BERKEY WATER FILTER SYSTEM

With proper care and maintenance, the Berkey Water Filter System is a great investment that will serve your family well for many years to come.

To clean our Berkey, first pour out any water remaining in the Berkey. Next, carefully remove the filters, blocking plugs, and washers.

With a Scotchbrite sponge, scrub the black carbon filters under cold running water.

The combination of these plant fiber non-scratch scrub pads and a mild natural dishwashing liquid or homemade foaming soap, work well to gently clean the interior and exterior of the Berkey chamber. After a thorough scrubbing, simply rinse with clean lukewarm water.

I make sure to wipe down the outside and top of the system with a clean, soft microfiber cloth to remove smudges and the “occasional” little finger prints. (smile)

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UPGRADING THE SPIGOT

I have been wanting to upgrade the plastic spigot for years, but never got a chance. Berkey is currently having a sale on these stainless steel spigots. Click here if you decide to purchase your own Berkey Filter and want to upgrade your spigot.

Our 1840’s log cabin (take the tour here) with the original well used by the first family who settled in this valley.

 

WORTH THE INVESTMENT

Although we are an organic hobby farm and so were the previous owners, we cannot be 100% sure that our neighbors up the road keep the same natural standards.

So, to be on the safe side, we have chosen to utilize the Berkey Water Filtration system to help prevent any contamination that may find its way into our fresh water source.

The Berkey Water system is a great investment and has helped save us money from regularly purchasing bottles of water from the grocery store.  And it certainly helps us prevent more plastic products from finding their way into our landfills.

 

 

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