Berkey water filters have won a devoted following due to their compact design, portability, and high filtration rate. Many turn to Berkey systems for off-grid living, emergency preparedness, and daily clean drinking water. But before you buy one, it’s wise to look closely at the Berkey water purifier complaints and issues some customers have mentioned. Here’s what you need to know.
Breaking Down Berkey Water Filter Complaints
A closer look at user concerns reveals issues with filter lifespan, flow rate, and customer service. Understanding these complaints can help buyers make informed decisions.
Flow Rate Issues and Clogging
However, some users say the Berkey filters slow or clog over time, especially for hard or sediment-heavy water. Getting this frustrating is made even worse by the premium price. Some customers feel that regular cleaning and priming can help keep it flowing, but there is more of a commitment to maintenance than ever expected. The Black Berkey elements have been pointed out to sometimes slow to a trickle, for example, if not properly primed or air bubbles get trapped in the internals of the filter elements.
Customer Service Complaints
While many people have had great experiences, we have held back from mentioning that some have been very bad as well. Bad customer service, such as slow response to complaints, makes it impossible to get your money back, and there is just sheer confusion around the warranty. It’s especially frustrating to struggle with defective or underperforming units of this kind.
Cost and Replacement Filters
Berkey systems are not the cheapest filtration systems on the market. The long-term price per gallon is competitive; however, the front-end price and replacement filter cost can be a barrier for certain customers. Replacement filters have also not been readily available in major retailers, and users have also noted this.
Plastic Spigot Concerns
Many models feature a plastic spigot, which many consider a complaint source for its durability and leaking. Many users often upgrade to a stainless steel spigot, but that’s an additional price that not every user might have counted on.
Lead and Fluoride Removal Limitations
According to Berkey filters, when added with PF-2 fluoride filters, fluoride and heavy metals can be reduced, but they are also criticized. While these add-ons are effective for some users, others are unsure about the results, and they question the lack of proper third-party testing associated with them compared to other filtration systems.
Limited Availability in Some Regions
In some cases, the state of California mandated that we cannot sell the Berkey system directly, so a handful of states will have to buy online. The effect of this has been accomplished by confusing those googling for the system online and then realizing it cannot be delivered to their location. If you are in a state that has a restricted point-of-use at-home filtration system, you will need to shop around in the local area or consider another filtration system in the state that complies with the local standards.
No Built-In Water Quality Indicator
Unlike some of the modern water purifiers, Berkey systems do not have a built-in water quality indicator or a filter change indicator. Users will have to manually keep track of usage and be able to examine filters for wear. This will either result in putting an early change on the filter or running a filter beyond its useful service life. The lack of smart features may be a downside for those who like to keep it simple; as low-maintenance systems go, this is one of the ‘set it and forget it’ types.
Bulk and Weight Considerations
The huge models (and mini models, too) of a Berkey unit can be quite bulky and heavy if filled. Though the stainless steel is solid and attractive, it’s not portable or space-saving for tiny kitchens, RVs, or small living spaces. Therefore, they are well-suited for use in situations that call for a permanent or semi-permanent setup rather than movement or a frequent need for hauling.
Priming Can Be Tricky for First-Time Users
For first-time users, the process may be awkward or messy, as priming the Black Berkey elements is needed for optimal performance. Without proper priming, the filters can either work incorrectly or disappoint. Suffering through multiple videos or calling customer support seems to have been the experience of some users, although over time, Berkey has improved its instructions, but the learning curve for a new owner is still there.
Final Thoughts
Despite the Berkey water purifier complaints, many people still swear by their Berkey systems. They’re durable, effective at filtering many contaminants, and ideal for off-grid or emergency use. However, when making a purchase, you should have clear expectations. If NSF certification, low maintenance, or customer support are top priorities, you may compare them with other similar products on the market.
