Better than Berkey? | TheaterFire

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Team_TapScore@reddit

Water testing company here. We don't work with Berkey or as affiliates for any other filtration companies, so we took the opportunity to do a deep dive into their claims.

Full overview below. No affiliate links or competitive interests.
https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/what-do-berkeys-filter-out

Quick takeaways:

- Berkey filters claim really long filter lives, but have not verified those claims with NSF certifications, nor third party labs. See the link above for details. We looked at their lab reports.

- Are Berkey's a scam? No. We know, we've seen multiple tests with their systems before & after the filter, even after 100+ gallons. But we don't have enough tests to know more than that. You can find plenty of Youtubers who have used our tests to check their filters.

Are there alternatives; sure! Be 100% sure a gravity filter is what you need though. The logistics around them (refilling every day) often take people by surprise.

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bbbbrg@reddit

Is there anything you recommend for someone in a short term rental who is moving in three months! I have been drinking glass bottled water but my skin/ hair in London are really suffering and was hoping to find a system that I could use for drinking water and possibly wash my face with etc. I have never had any issues until living in London. I have read about phoenix gravity filter and I have also heard of counter top reverse osmosis but not sure which is better. At this point I don’t even know if glass bottled water (voss, Evian, belu) is good for you as I read it has microplastics!

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Team_TapScore@reddit

For water that might be affecting your skin and hair, check out this guide. We only test water so the article is not about selling you a solution, but it can help guide you towards one.
https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/is-my-water-ruining-my-hair

The best filter for you is the one that deals with the actual issues in your water. Water is different everywhere. Research what's in the water in London by asking for the most recent water report from the utility there. A gravity filter might do the trick, but is cumbersome to use and might not cover as many contaminants as one needs. RO systems tend to be a great pick, but might be an overreaction. Your water might be great.

This guide goes into different filters and which might be a better pick. We do not sell filters or treatment, nor do we do affiliate links in our articles. We test water and get asked about these things every day so we write guides to help our clients. Maybe they can help you too! Best of luck. https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/what-is-the-best-water-filter

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bbbbrg@reddit

Thank you so much!!! I have one last question! Do shower filters work at all? Not one specific brand but the concept as the information seems to be so conflicting!

I am only in my apartment temporarily was thinking to get a gravity filter and a shower filter. I would love a RO filter but it seems like an investment for a short term place! I did check and the water is not fluoridated in my London postcode! But apparently can still be naturally occurring in small elements. They said that water filters passed stricter standards than glass bottled mineral water which I was surprised by and not sure if that is true! I thought bottled mineral water would be quite good.

Thank you- I will check the water in my postcode and review the article also!

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Team_TapScore@reddit

We happen to have a guide on shower filters too. Short answer; yes they work. Long answer; there might be better or more important filters to invest in, like filters for the water you drink. It all depends on what's in your water.
If you desire a RO filter there are many countertop units available these days that you can bring with you to your next place. But RO might be more than you need. A simple pitcher is often enough for city water.

Shower filter guide: https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/is-a-shower-filter-necessary

Bottled water in the US is less regulated than actual tap water. Not sure what the situation is in the UK.

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NewspaperCorrect8286@reddit

Sadly, these filters cannot be shipped to Wisconsin and that is where I live! Any way around this stupidity?

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Adventurous_Spite_69@reddit

What about shipping to a friend and having them ship the filters to Wisconsin. Would that work? But I would imagine you thought of that long ago.

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Team_TapScore@reddit

Not that we know of, unfortunately. But there are many similar products out there that are also gravity fed, like ProOne, Boroux and Doulton. That said; be sure it is the type of system you need before investing. Our guide (in the link) covers what Berkeys filter and do not filter.

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LavishnessCrazy9880@reddit

https://www.discountfilterstore.com/uswf-2-25-gallon-stainless-steel-gravity-fed-filter-system.html?utm_source=klaviyo%20email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=abandon&_kx=W3hx_fUZmpe1qC0niLgAbROtVU1OdnVE6XDOx8AfiKw.XLrNKk

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Blushresp7@reddit

hi! would love your opinion on whether the doulton or british berkefeld is better? my priorities are reducing plastic (more stainless steel parts, the better), and filtering out as much of the bad stuff as possible (lead, PFAs, phthalates, BPA, etc etc)

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NecessaryMindless400@reddit

I think doulton British berkefeld is one singular brand :)

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Doulton is the under sink side and British Berkefeld is the gravity side with both owned by the same parent company. So yes, one in the same really.

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Team_TapScore@reddit

We'll be taking a deeper look at both very soon. We always recommend learning what's actually in your water, then picking a system accordingly. You might not have lead, for example, or any of the other contaminants mentioned. If you are on private well water it's so important to test your water every year to monitor what's in it.

If you are prepping for a SHTF scenario, then personally I'd suggest looking at something that protect you from microorganisms. I hope we'll have a 'Prepper's guide to water' someday that will allow me to give more suggestions.

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Cultural-Film-3801@reddit

Have you guys tested Epic Water Filters?

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Team_TapScore@reddit

Yes, we saw /u/waterfiltergurus test Epic a while back using our test kits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwBiAHNoIxk

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Gingerville@reddit

A little late to the party, but I was wondering if you’ve done any testing or research on the Water Machine? My dad mentioned possibly getting one but he doesn’t ever do research so I’m the one trying to find the best filter for us to make drinking water from our well. I don’t know anything about standards and certifications since this is my first time looking into water purification, but their claims seems a tad sketchy at a glance.

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Team_TapScore@reddit

It's never too late to learn about water quality. :-)

We haven't looked specifically into The Water Machine, but this guide on red flags can help you suss out what might be legit and what is BS: https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/when-can-you-trust-water-filter-reviews

And this quick overview will help you understand certifications (NSF, WQA, IAPMO, etc). There are many dubious claims out there and the term "independently tested to NSF standards" is commonly used to mislead consumers. https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/nsf-certifications-explained

We always say; test before you treat.

Well water should be tested every year to ensure it's safe to drink according to the EPA. Even a basic test of just bacteria/nitrates/metals/minerals can give you a pointer for how to filter your water. Without a test you are working in the dark.

Finally, we put together a super short course that covers the basics of water quality and treatment. It's only an hour or so, but it'll make you feel much more confident when browsing treatment.
https://tapscore.teachable.com/

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Gingerville@reddit

Thanks! I’ll definitely look over this and get myself educated. I’m sick of drinking bottled water that tastes like plastic!

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vitruviansam@reddit

Hi TapScore, after reading through your unbiased review I see that you guys are excellent in providing clarity around filtration and the certifications around verifying the filtration effectiveness.

I was looking to replace my berkey elements due to mold and was considering boroux. Do you guys happen to have any reviews on those as well. Are there any gravity fed filters that you guys recommend that meet the NSF standards and are properly tested throughout the lifetime of the filters?

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Team_TapScore@reddit

Thank you! I'm afraid I don't have anything for you on either, but we are working on something that might give some insights. Keep an eye out on our sub r/drinkingwater and we'll post it there when it's ready. :-)

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vitruviansam@reddit

Sure thing. I read that the boroux filters do not have NSF certification either but were tested in an IAPMO R&T lab. Does that make it more reliable?

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Team_TapScore@reddit

IAPMO is also a certifying body of water filters and as reliable as NSF and WQA. But, and there's a big but here, it always depends on what the testing and certification was really for.

We've summarized what to look out for in these two articles. The first deals with NSF (and IAPMO) certifications and the other mentions what to look for in filters to know you can trust them.
https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/nsf-certifications-explained

https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/when-can-you-trust-water-filter-reviews

For context: We only help test filters and do not sell or work as affiliates for any filter brand.

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SanFranPeach@reddit

Curious what your thoughts are on berkey vs hydroviv? Also, let’s just say I have a Hydroviv installed already…. But wanted to do a berkey as well (aka put my Hydroviv water into a berkey). Would that be harmful in any way or just double the clean fun? Appreciate your expertise!

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Team_TapScore@reddit

Thanks for asking! We haven't had time to dive into Hydroviv, but we are familiar with them. Contrary to Berkey they have some NSF certifications, which is better than none. But I don't know which certifications those are besides the aesthetic improvement standard (NSF/ANSI 42).

Filtering through both won't harm you (you get the minerals you need if you have a balanced diet), but could potentially result in flat tasting water due to minerals being stripped out.

As always, the best filter is the one that handles the contaminants that are present in the water you drink.

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zesty1989@reddit

Can you please explain these certifications further? If I find a NSF/ANSI 42 certified filter on Amazon, is it comparable with the filtration of berkey?

Are there other filters you recommend that are compatible with Berkey's tanks?

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Team_TapScore@reddit

NSF certifications are tough to understand. The NSF/ANSI 42 standard is used to certify products for removing or reducing concentrations of contaminants that may cause negative aesthetic effects (color, smell, taste). But as with all NSF standards it's on a per-contaminant base only.

So one filter can be certified for NSF/ANSI 42 for zinc, whereas another is certified for NSF/ANSI 42 for manganese and chloramine.

So always check WHICH contaminant something is certified for. Of all the standards, the 42 is the most common, but also least important if you're concerned about health.

We got a more complete overview of NSF standards here: https://mytapscore.com/blogs/tips-for-taps/nsf-certifications-explained

Wish I had more details on Berkey replacements for you! I recommend checking the Facebook group related to Berkey, ProOne and other similar brands. They are quite active.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

No affiliated links?! I love you.

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horse1066@reddit

I don't see the point of taking up counter space and having to fill it by hand? Europeans just plumb in a conventional 5 stage filter system

The plus side of them is you can take it to a different location?

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bbbbrg@reddit

Do you recommend a counter top RO system or phoenix gravity filter

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

I want it in case the power is out and my tap is not running. In case I have to hand pump from the well or even collect water from a surface source.

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horse1066@reddit

Solar water pump to a storage tank during the day? Or mount the filters above tap level and divert the incoming hand pump to a tank?

Replacement filters are cheaper too, Berkey was just trading off the back of people dreaming about a pioneer lifestyle, portability and preppers talking about it like it was the only solution is the only reason it's still discussed

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

Yeah their claims and the product form factor were definitely appealing.

Plus it's really shiny 🤩 LOL

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Fheredin@reddit

I own a Berkey. The issue is partially that they advertise some ludicrously long filter durations you won't see unless you pour distilled water into it. I understand that their Fluoride removers add Aluminum to the water because they work via ion exchange. Watch the Project Farm for more in depth performance comparisons to other water filters.

Reddit and social media in general tends to be hyperbolic when dealing with these things. It's got some faults, but that's not the end of the world.

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awoodby@reddit

I adore project farm, but his water filter used fresh, unrinsed filters and just measured the particulate matter in resulting water. Well yah, if you follow the instructions and run water through it a bit, you get rid of that initial charcoal dust.

I still donate to project farm every time he sells me something (rather, convinces me which is best so I buy something else I don't really need probably lol) but wasn't a fan of his filter test.

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Girafferage@reddit

add aluminum to the water? That seems pretty bad lol.

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Fheredin@reddit

Yes and no. That's just how the chemistry of Florine removal works. I don't know if there's a comprehensive analysis over which is worse long term, but Florine exposure creates things like osteoporosis and arthritis. Aluminum creates acute oxidative stress, but can also cause osteoporosis.

It's also worth noting that Florine in drinking water is associated with dementia.

At the levels we're talking about for treating municipal water, there's probably no risk difference; it's just a risk trade. That said, if I had to hazard a guess, I suspect Aluminum exposure looks to be less dangerous than Florine. But that's a guess; officially neither of these are health hazards and in the US, Florine is added to water to decrease the incidents of cavities.

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Girafferage@reddit

I imagine you could filter a lot of the aluminum out if you refiltered the water. I wonder why nobody bothers to try to remove the florine first.

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SuperAnimal5496@reddit

Berkey saying their in-house lab stuff is more comprehensive and that the tests are just too expensive outside of their own lab. OK. Maybe. But here’s the thing. How about they tell us how much this testing is. Then we go look up net profits of Berkey after salaries and sales, production, owner needs a new yacht, bonuses, etc. Then we find out how much this outside testing cost Then we let them know by doing math, whether they can afford official industry testing. Even if the industry testing doesn’t test for as many contaminants. Then your customers wouldn’t be all over the place doing research and being annoyed. It’s like they’re trying to make us think that that testing is on every single Berkey unit. No.

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boots4260@reddit

Follow

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EasyKaleidoscope326@reddit

Ok

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silasmoeckel@reddit

Their claims are provably false, they failed to live up to them in testing multiple times. Get a certified filter not the sales guy said so.

You can stack a sawyer style and a berkley style (activated carbon) but it's realy not sufficient filtration. You need to pretreat with a chemical/heat or use an RO as your final stage. The RO will get out more things than chemical/heat but is more maintenance.

So here is the thing berkley can get out a lot of what is says but not for anywhere near as many gallons. Certified filters have to get out those numbers at the end of filtering like 3x what they are rated for Berkley pretty much is giving you what it takes out at the start and rating it for insane amounts for the volume of material it's using. An activated carbon filter can only absorb so much before just letting those chemicals through.

So where does it leave you, you need to input some energy to property filter things, under sink systems exist that need pressurized water and often power to get the job done. They make hand powered ones as well.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

Good info, thanks. Have you checked out the H2Go purifier? If I understand correctly, it electrolyzes saltwater to create a chlorine solution. Might be a good solution for the pre-treat stage before a gravity filter.

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silasmoeckel@reddit

H2Go purifier

Your buying a device to extract chlorine out of table salt with electricity.

Why not just prep powdered chlorine it does not go bad same as salt, you need a lot less of it, and you dont need a machine to use it.

Why not get a RO filter that can filter out all that and more?

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mommasquawmp@reddit

Suggestion for an RO filter? All of the countertop ones I’m finding are assembled in china. What would be the most trustworthy one?

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silasmoeckel@reddit

https://uswatersystems.com/collections/under-sink-reverse-osmosis

Not hard to find US made.

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mommasquawmp@reddit

Thank you. I’ve been hoping to find a countertop one with all parts from US but I appreciate what you sent.

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silasmoeckel@reddit

RO needs pressure it's not available in a pour over like most countertops are. Under counter sure.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

For backcountry use, mostly. But all good points!

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silasmoeckel@reddit

Real backcountry a sawyer system is fine, it won't get the viral or the chemical but thats something you typically see there.

Prepping you need to expect there could be chemical contaminants, higher prevalence of viral etc so more complete and complete filtration may be needed.

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TheRealBunkerJohn@reddit

Short answer: their filters are dubious at best with various false and golden-goose claims.

Alternative: Doulton makes both gravity-fed and under the sink models.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

I'll check out the Doulton, thanks

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hi there. I’m the US master distributor for Doulton/British Berkefeld. The Ultra Sterasyl element for gravity systems (part number W9121226) is NSF/ANSI Standard 42, 53, and 372 tested and approved. https://info.nsf.org/Certified/Common/Company.asp?CompanyName=Doulton+Water+Filters&_gl=1nltj23_gaMjY2NTQ5NDUyLjE2NDk2Njk5OTk._ga_P2KS3C05YDMTY5MjE3NDAxOS41LjAuMTY5MjE3NDAxOS42MC4wLjA._ga_B3R74P2MZC*MTY5MjE3NDAxOS4zLjAuMTY5MjE3NDAxOS4wLjAuMA. It’s an incredible filter and tested to twice the recommended lifespan.. Berkey for example tests 2 gallons of water and tries to make the same claims. Discountfilters is our authorized Amazon reseller. Happy to answer any additional questions.

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Feeling-Act4340@reddit

Do they filter micro plastics?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Yes they do. The ultra sterasyl is actually nsf tested (nsf 401) for micro plastics and it will be on the nsf website very soon. The ultra fluoride uses the same ceramic mix as the ultra sterasyl and also removes micro plastics. It’s about 6 months from having nsf certification as well.

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Feeling-Act4340@reddit

Thanks a lot. Appreciate your help, will you come back to this comment in 6 months pal, and we can all finally rest in peace knowing we’ve found the best filter there is! BAcked by testing haha. I’ll be getting one none the less! So just aim to get the ultra flouride filters?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

You bet. I’ll definitely update this post once it’s complete. It all depends on how bad you need fluoride reduction. Most US municipal water sources aren’t awful and our fluoride filters are quite a bit more expensive. If fluoride is of concern though, then 100% the ultra fluoride as the ultra sterasyl doesn’t remove it.

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Feeling-Act4340@reddit

Would you opt for the steradyl to remove the plastics?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Yes, 100% save the money and grab the Ultra Sterasyl in that case.

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Melodic_Garden9938@reddit

Hey! Thanks for this. Looking for replacement filters to put in my Berkey. Looks like sales to the US available here, is this right? https://www.britishwaterfilter.com/product/british-berkefeld-7-ceramic-ultra-sterasyl-water-filter-nsf-certified/

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hey there! Britishwater is one of our largest authorized distributors. They will take good care of you. If you're an Amazon shopper, you can also find the filters on there (discountfilters is the only authorized reseller). Lehmans.com, americanreserves.com, greenfieldwater.com are some others as well just for reference. Feel free to shoot me a PM if you have any additional questions.

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Melodic_Garden9938@reddit

Thank you so much!!!! I’ll let you know how my experience with the filters go. I ordered a pair through them and hope to get it soon.

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lvxlisbon@reddit

How did these filters go for you?? u/Melodic_Garden9938

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

My pleasure! Just an FYI, the first couple of applications will be much slower than what you're used to with Berkey. It takes a few fills to get those pores of the ceramic to open up and start flowing. Let me know in a few weeks how things are going. Take care.

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Feeling-Act4340@reddit

How did we get on with the testing? 😉 I’m looking at getting one for Christmas!

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hi there! Spot on for your reminder ;) My timing was a bit off on NSF expectations, so I apologize. I was recently told by Doulton March of 2025 for that to complete. As of now, the W9121226 is NSF 42/53/372/401 certified and on the NSF website.

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Feeling-Act4340@reddit

Haha no worries pal. I’m in the Uk! So not sure if I’d recognise who’s testing anyway!

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

I just tested water filtered by Ultra Sterasyl and found they leach aluminum into the water at very high levels (0.2 PPM). I would not recommend these filters.

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Feeling-Act4340@reddit

Not too concerned about the fluoride bud. More the micro plastics.

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lifeishard2017@reddit

Hi! Can you clarify if the ultra fluoride is the same as the ultra sterasyl but with the added benefit of the fluoride removal? Or is it similar to but slightly less effective than the ultra sterasyl for certain things but has the added benefit of fluoride removal? The chart on this site seems to indicate the latter (I.e. no PFAS removal for UF). Is this accurate? https://british-berkefeld-eu.com/en/content/10-british-berkefeld-ultra-fluoride-and-ultra-sterasyl-filters

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hi there - The Ultra Fluoride successfully reduces PFAS but a full breakdown and % is still pending in testing. Doulton will not check that box until it is 100% completed, but the carbon within the filter is proven to reduce PFAS. The Ultra Fluoride is currently going through the same rigorous NSF testing as the Ultra Sterasyl but they will have the 3rd party testing for PFAS much sooner. NSF testing for the Ultra Fluoride is a drip test with one candle and it takes a very long time to do twice the lifespan (800 gallons). Doulton is continuously expanding on it's testing and NSF capabilities. If you'd feel more comfortable waiting until the 3rd party testing is complete I'd completely understand, but Doulton has always been an industry leader based on their previous filters and numerous NSF certifications and have given no reason not to believe they'll update that doc as soon as it's finalized.

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lifeishard2017@reddit

Ok that sounds great! And would you say the same about the other ones that aren’t checked (I.e. aside from PFAS)?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Correct - Those will also get checked off once the full testing is complete. They are very similar except the UF has activated alumina to remove fluoride where the US does not. The UF is quite a bit wider as well because of this.

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hamstermila@reddit

Following! Waiting for testing to be complete

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

It will be around March.

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Otis-8675309@reddit

Do the doulton water filters have to be primed like the berkey black filters

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hi Otis - No, they don't nee to be primed. I do recommend running a few cycles through them first, and discarding the water to allow all the ceramic dust to be flushed.

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Blushresp7@reddit

hi! would love your opinion on whether the doulton or british berkefeld is better? my priorities are reducing plastic (more stainless steel parts, the better), and filtering out as much of the bad stuff as possible (lead, PFAs, phthalates, BPA, etc etc)

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

The Doulton systems are overall better if you are able to put an inline system in, with a nice 3-way tap. They have several multi stage under-sink systems which allow you to get more specialized with what you're targeting. There's several that are PFAS specific and also fluoride/limescale/nitrates reduction specific. They are an easier process than a gravity system as well. You just flip on your faucet vs filling up a system each time that takes up space on your counter. However, the downfall is it's not mobile. I personally use both, but i have the Doulton QT system for my everyday use. If fluoride is not a concern, I'd look into that system. Doulton is the in-line part of the business where British Berkefeld is the gravity side. They both use a very similar technology and are both highly recommended/NSF certified.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

The Doulton Ultra Sterasyl contains "lead removal media" -- but there is virtually no documentation available on what that actually is. My best guess is it's probably "ATS or ATC media, ie zeolite", and is therefore made of aluminum oxide, and therefore, it probably leeches aluminum into the drinking water just like the Berkey filters do. I know Berkey is trying very hard to convince people that aluminum oxide "has different properties" than aluminum but the fact is that both are harmful to your health.

I can't find any before/after filtration lab tests that list aluminum... In fact the widely published metals report specifically says it does not reduce aluminum:

"CONCLUSION: The ATC Super Sterasyl Filter reduces the Metals concentration by at least 81% for up to 800 gallons except for Aluminum; tested following the NSF Standard 53."

Note the report does not actually show the before/after aluminum concentrations. My assumption is that it was not included because the aluminum concentration actually went up instead of down and they didn't want to publicize this.

Just for my own peace of mind I am sending before and after filtration water samples to a lab (tapscore) to test aluminum.

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h0m30stasis@reddit

Thank you for highlighting the aluminium issue. I'm pretty damn sure I got aluminium toxicity from the Berkey fluoride filters a few years back (left me with horrible neurological symptoms and family members also starting having complaints) and now with all the hoo-hah about the black filters, I was considering hopping over to the Ultra Sterasyls instead.

This is very concerning and the knee-jerk gaslighting from the sales rep in here calling you a smear campaign is concerning.

Until Doulton reveal what is in their filters and publish NSF testing for aluminium, then it's a hard no from me.

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hey There - Apologies if what I said resulted in a bad look. My reasoning was there were two reddit accounts that were created by a competitor on here simply to slander and try gas lighting. It happened around the same time Donnie reached out and I did have a knee jerk reaction on my reply. For that I apologize. I explained to Donnie several times that in home extraction tests can have an abundance of variables. We rely on NSF and 3rd party testing and the standards ANSI/NSF require. NSF would not pass us if we leached due to their extraction testing. The water filter industry is pretty cut throat, and I realized this by opening up via an AMA and trying to be as transparent as possible. Hope to see other brands follow suit and lay their cards on the table in a similar fashion.

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h0m30stasis@reddit

Saying the Doultons have NSF testing is well and good, however from where I'm standing, all we have to go on re: aluminum in the Sterasyl filters, is Donnie's at home test which showed Al leaching.

Unless I missed it (and please correct me if I did), there is no published ANSI/NSF data for Al other than the Envirotek report for the old ATC Sterasyls, and even that report stated the filter reduced all metals tested except Al.

Published data for Aluminum is of even greater concern when Al might actually be a part of the filtration medium itself ie. zeolite (yet us consumers may never know what the filtration medium is due to proprietary info, hence why transparent testing is a must).

I have decided against the Doulton/Sterasyl due to the information/lack of in this thread. Some constructive criticism here for you from a well-meaning consumer: take your own advice and commit to transparency. Especially after Berkey, many of us consumers are getting put off gravity filters, period. As a sales rep with any shred of integrity, if a customer finds aluminum, then the number uno thing to do is believe them. Aluminum is a horrific neurotoxin and our world is sick and polluted enough. C'mon, you have a chance here to shine. Do better than Berkey, and be a great example in a shady industry. We need the data!

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kkbb7890@reddit

What did you go with instead? I can’t seem to find good ones that don’t have some plastic

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hey Donnie,

The lead removal media is activated GAC. We have that documented everywhere, so I'm confused where "virtually no documentation" comes into play. Our filters 100% do not leach aluminum or activated alumina into clean drinking water. NSF certification and our heavy metals testing proves that. NSF would never certify a filter that failed in that regard FYI. All of our testing also shows the amount of water that has been tested which many competitors do not.

Our filters are vastly different than a Berkey fluoride filter that has a plastic casing and also sits down in the clean water chamber (has been proven to leach). Feel free to send our filters in for tapscore but we've gone through the most rigorous testing in the world to be able to make the claims that we do. Happy to answer any additional questions you might have as well.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

Thanks for the reply. I was unaware the impression the head removal media was different than the granular activated charcoal. The [now discontinued] super sterasyl had the GAC... but not the lead removal media suggesting that they are infact not the same thing.

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hey Donnie,

Your point is 100% valid. The image you attached is simply worded in a confusing fashion and I will reach out to the MFG to update it accordingly. The activated carbon is what absorbs the heavy metals and 230 other contaminants. There is no media laying around like other lesser elements. The "media" is locked in the carbons matrix and that is why nothing is able to leach. The super sterasyl and ultra sterasyl are indeed different as the super wasn't able to make the heavy metal claims.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

I sent 2 samples for testing, 1 from my tap, 1 from water filtered by Ultra Sterasyl. In my tap water, there was 0 aluminum detected. In the filtered water, aluminum was 0.201 PPM (which is above the World Health Organization's limit for aluminum). These filters leach aluminum into the water just like big berkey. Possibly even worse.

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hey Donnie,

You used the Ultra Sterasyl (W9121226) correct? What brand gravity system did you put the filters in? Does it have a stainless tap? Also how was the water collected for the sample you sent in?

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

I used 2x Ultra Sterasyl filters in a British Berkefeld / Doulton (W9361138) Stainless Steel Gravity Water Filter System, with the plastic tap it came with. For the 2 samples I sent to the lab, the tap water sample was collected directly from the tap after not using any water in the house at all for over 8 hours-- no aluminum was detected is this sample.

In the 2nd sample I poured filtered water from the gravity filter directly into the sample container.

Here are the 2 lab reports: https://i.imgur.com/O6vnNZ7.png

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Donnie,

There's unfortunately too many inconsistencies to your post. First and foremost, the Ultra Sterasyl does not have activated alumina as an active ingredient. How can it leach something that it doesn't even have? 2nd, Aluminum and activated alumina are not the same thing which you are trying to compare in your post and what was picked up in your test. What lab did you even use? What protocols were in place while taking your sample? Activated alumina has been used for the removal of fluoride from drinking water since the 1930s, and is still one of the most common, safe, efficient and cost-effective media used today in both municipal water treatment systems and smaller household-type systems. Ours DOES NOT leach activated alumina into the water, and again our heavy metals testing and NSF certification shows that.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

I used tapscore lab. The results don't lie. Ultra sterasyl filters leach aluminum into filtered water. Your attempts to explain it away are reminiscent of big berkey's.

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Donnie - There is not a single trace of activated alumina in the Ultra Sterasyl. It is not an active ingredient. You are not understanding the difference between activated ALUMINA and ALUMINUM. Did you use ANSI/NSF testing protocol or what standard did you use while collecting the water samples? How can you confirm you didn't send in a tainted source? How did the Ultra Sterasyl pass NSF 42/53/372/401? Sorry your in home lab shows otherwise. I'll trust NSF. We are not even remotely close to Berkey when it comes to testing data and NSF certifications. Berkey also never leached ALUMINUM into the water. They leached activated ALUMINA into the water. Not going to go back and forth on a smear campaign effort so PM me if you want to carry on.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

Lab results don't lie.

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mtothej_@reddit

I've read most of your thread. I'm considering replacing my Berkey filters/system as well... What do you think you'll use going forward?

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

If I use anything at all, it will probably be reverse osmosis plus remineralization.

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mtothej_@reddit

Gotcha. May I ask what you are currently using? I’m seriously considering filling up with water from Whole Foods for the time being.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

Tap water.

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mtothej_@reddit

Unfiltered?? Or running it through your filter?

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

Unfiltered

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mtothej_@reddit

Thank you.

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DonnieDonowitz1@reddit

Thank you sir. While you're reaching out, see if you can obtain any test reports that show any hard data for aluminum before/after filtration. I find it kind suspicious that the report says the following, but doesn't actually list any values for aluminum concentration.

"CONCLUSION: The ATC Super Sterasyl Filter reduces the Metals concentration by at least 81% for up to 800 gallons except for Aluminum; tested following the NSF Standard 53."

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beeinatinyhat@reddit

Thanks for all this info! Do your filters fit any of the Alexapur bodies?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

You bet! Yes, it should fit an Alexapure body. British Berkefeld has been around for 200+ years. Berkey originally started out as our customer, and branched off on their own back in the 90's. Being Alexapure came long after both Berkefeld and Berkey, they are likely have a very similar design. All of the stainless canisters are extremely similar in shape/function. The biggest difference between all the different brands is the quality of the stainless steel. There's one very well known company in India that arguably makes the best stainless steel for these systems. Quality stainless steel is of course more expensive and several competitors go the cheap route. Something to look for and just an FYI.

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Different-Owl-1984@reddit

Who has the good steel and who has the cheap steel? Thank you

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beeinatinyhat@reddit

Great info, thank you!

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Blueshound24@reddit

What size/model of Doulton/British Berkefeld filter would fit the Travel Berkey? What different models do they have? Sterasyl, Ultra Sterasyl, carbon, etc?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

You have two choices that will fit in the Travel Berkey - The W9121226 is the NSF certified Ultra Sterasyl filter. If you are concerned about fluoride however, you can also fit two W9120133 Ultra Fluoride filters in your Travel (it will be very snug however). The Ultra Fluoride are a much wider filter. The Super Sterasyl is a discontinued filter that cannot remove heavy metal or lead. Feel free to shoot me a PM if you have any additional questions.

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TheRealBunkerJohn@reddit

Most welcome. They are made in the U.K, but there are vendors in the U.S as well.

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stinkypete38@reddit

Yup, we have a berkey countertop, but switched to doulton filters inside the berkey shell. Works great for us.

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Overall-Tailor8949@reddit

You can also get the Doulton filters to put in a Berkey housing.

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CyclingDutchie@reddit

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jct_bVz5eZc

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/big-berkey-water-filter-system/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVZmZwTxnMc

https://nl.reddit.com/r/preppers/comments/y498ll/berkey_water_filter_system/

I switched to Doulton filters. They fit the Berkey system.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

Thanks for the links, I'll check these out.

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CyclingDutchie@reddit

Anytime, for a fellow prepper !

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AstrologyNovice1@reddit

Hi! I just came across this thread and was wondering how you still like your doulton filters?

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CyclingDutchie@reddit

Hi There ! Im glad you asked. Because Doulton only filters to 0.5 Micron. My new filter, filters to 0.03 Miicron;

https://www.aqualogicfilters.com/Gravity-CS-Ultra-Filter-Element-8-INCH

I gave that one, to my brother. I now have a Zerowater filter.

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AstrologyNovice1@reddit

I wish I commented this before ordering it 😭

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CyclingDutchie@reddit

The Aqualogic filters, fit a Berkey housing.

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AstrologyNovice1@reddit

I can’t find Aqualogic filters in the US so hopefully these British berkefeld/doulton filters are alright! Thank you (:

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Mirth2727@reddit

I hope your experience with the Berkefeld/Doulton filters goes better than mine. I ordered two filters from the only approved dealer in the US, British Water Filter, but when I tried them, the water tasted worse than it does straight from the tap. I was really concerned after making the purchase because the invoice showed "Greywolf and Co LLC" as the company receiving our payment, which seemed odd and a bit sketchy. So, I reached out directly to Berkefeld/Doulton and requested a list of authorized dealers in the US. They assured me that British Water Filters was the only approved distributor, so I went ahead with the purchase. Filter$ wound up in the garbage.

Now, I've just ordered a Boroux filter, and I noticed that the company receiving my payment is "James Enterprise, INC."—which is a name I recognize from its history as a large dealer for Berkey filters. However, I discovered that James Enterprise still has an active "Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Order" from the EPA. Why does this have to be so complicated? All I want is a filter that can clean up the junk left behind by the city's treatment process and improve the taste and smell of the water. It's honestly very frustrating and disheartening.

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Jen_Kat@reddit

Thank you for commenting - I’ve been searching for a Berkey filter replacement so I’ve given Berkefeld/Doulton a shot and ordered 4 :)

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Hi Mirth - I'm the North American Master Distributor for British Berkefeld/Doulton. Sorry to hear you had a less than ideal experience. If you purchased the Ultra Fluoride, it can take a few cycles to sometimes work through any taste/odor issues. Can you shoot me an IM? I'll see if there's anything I can do to help.

Also, for the record, BritishWater is not the only authorized distributor. They're one of our largest but there's dozens of authorized dealers out there. Discountfilters, Lehmans, DoultonUSA, Greenfield Water, American Reserves, Sertodo Copper, and FiltersFast to name a few in the US.

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W-Magnolia@reddit

Can I ask a question? I bought a Duke from britishwaterfilter.com, and UPS shows it's coming from Georgia called "SAM HARRY" - Is this legit?

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MNtroutslayer@reddit

Yes, Sam is the owner.

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Mirth2727@reddit

That comes as a surprise. Doulton UK only listed British Water Filter as an authorized US dealer. I never throw away emails, so I checked to ensure I wasn't in error. The email is dated late October. It seems odd that they claim only one authorized dealer in the US.

I was going to test the filter in another state because it was suggested to me that it could be our water and I am open to any reasonable suggestion, but my husband was so miffed that he trashed the filters. We will continue searching for a more straightforward solution.

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AstrologyNovice1@reddit

I used the filters in my berkey, wasn’t a fan especially after reading about how when tested there’s an increase in aluminum from the filters. I actually ended up purchasing an aquatru RO for my mom last week as an early Christmas gift and I loved it so much I ordered myself one. And the replacement filters aren’t pricy compared to berkey and other competitors. I’ll keep my berkey and the filters just in case I need water and there’s no power since the aquatru requires electricity but it’s nice for everyday use. I’d highly recommend it. And customer service was excellent.

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Mirth2727@reddit

Thank you! I am reading up on Aquatru RO now.

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CyclingDutchie@reddit

Aqualogic.com

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Lost-lord14@reddit

Get a lifestraw community and then you’re covered for viruses as well.

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MediaProfessional392@reddit

I’ve been bummed by my Lifestraw products. The base of my countertop version started leaking from the seam at the bottom and even the replacement product they sent did the same. The fridge version is awesome in terms of volume, but when I started using it regularly (when the counter on started leaking) it started leaking from the spout. If I don’t angle it just right I open the door to a flooded fridge. Super annoying. I’m actually on this thread to find an alternative!

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ranchpancakes@reddit

I went this route. Got a Lifestraw Mission just in case.

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SunLillyFairy@reddit

Berkeys are expensive and their filters are not NSF certified. That said, they were the “gold standard” for quite some time; they swear they do their own, accurate testing and many still love them and are loyal to the brand.

They are basically a nice stainless container and filters, many similar products are out there. I bought a generic one called “Purewell” on Amazon. It’s been great for tap water, (the water tastes good, much better than out of my tap), but it’s not like I have a lab testing the water to prove it’s doing everything it claims. But, their filters are NSF certified to .01 microns, and the system and filters are much less expensive.

Personally, if I had to filter pond water or such, I’d wouldn’t trust any of these 100%. Any of them could have a filter defect or some micro leakage failure around the filters. I’d rough filter the water with cloth, then put chlorine in it, then run it through my Purewell (or whatever system).

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Sleddoggamer@reddit

Making a filter yourself is always an option, too. Buckets aren't as pretty if you want to stick them on the counter and use them every day, but it's a lot easier to verify a few gallons of gravel/sand/charcoal are doing everything there supposed to do then some plastic disc's or a plastic cartridge and you can always put the money saved towards layering the system

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FlashyImprovement5@reddit

Zero had fantastic filters. Zero filters also remove microplastics and forever chemicals.

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Girafferage@reddit

The issue with Berkey is they test to standards, but dont test through the people who make the standards. So its a claim about what they filter based on the tests they paid for as opposed to tests by an independent entity.

Their filters still work fine for 99% of people I'm sure (since most people are just filtering tap and well water). People online have tested them and it mainly showed that they might not last the advertised \~5 years before letting in some extra amounts of things you dont want.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

Ah... so like "NIJ certified" vs "tested to NIJ standards"

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Girafferage@reddit

Yup. Their website claims the standards aren't strict enough (dumb reason) and would cost a lot of money for them to do, and that they exceed the standards because they also test for pharmaceuticals and pesticides, but that's all talk unless you actually have the certification.

Still probably not a big deal if you already have some Berkey filters and you are filtering your tap or well water, but another person recommended a brand that works with the Berkey filter shell anyway, is certified, and is also wayyyy cheaper which is a huge plus.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

The AR500 of water filters, if you will… 😆

I have experience with both Sawyer and Katadyn filters as a backpacker. I think both of those companies also make large scale versions as well. In fact I think Sawyer does a lot of aid work in third world countries to get good water in small villages.

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Girafferage@reddit

Man, I was literally just arguing with a bunch of people about AR500s lack of NIJ cert and Steel plates spalling.

Same with sawyer and katadyn for backpacking. I like the katadyn more just because I feel like I get a better flow with it, but I would take the sawyer squeeze if I wasn't coming home for a real long time.
It hurts me so much when people post their "go bag" and have a generic lifestraw.

You might already know, but CNOC makes insanely strong silicone bags that open up completely on the top to fill up with water, and then it has a threaded side in versions that fit the BeFree and the Squeeze so you can filter it. The bags are crazy strong. They have videos where they park a car on them filled with water. Plus you can get bags that are 2L, and 3L, which is a nice upgrade from the 1L if you happen to have to hike through a stretch without any good sources.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

Imma look into those CNOC bags for sure. Definitely the weak point of the squeeze systems.

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Canning1962@reddit

We're they testing on tap water run through the Berkey? I can't remember who that was.

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Girafferage@reddit

Oh, Im not sure. I just meant that tap water is already technically safe to drink in the US so the filter isnt going to be trying to pull out large amounts of things and it would probably be fine if you already owned one.

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Unicorn187@reddit

They, like Alexapure and afew others, haven't spent the money to get fully certified as NSF compliant. They have tests done for a few things, but not all, and IIRC they don't have the amount of water filtered before testing to be compliant with the standards. There's a bit of, "trust me bro," with a lot of these companies.

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SneekTip@reddit (OP)

Knowing what I know about Google algorithms, when I tried to do a search and Alexapure was the first thing that popped up, I was immediately skeptical lol

What is NSF? A government entity like NIJ or FDA?

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