When it comes to the “Stuff of Life” that makes up 60% of our bodies, purity absolutely matters. Many of the contaminants of emerging concern listed by the EPA are “forever chemicals” – or chemicals that bioaccumulate in our bodies.
Unfortunately, it’s been nearly 20 years since the EPA has added any contaminants to the list of chemicals covered under the Safe Water Drinking Act, so only a fraction of the estimated 1000 chemicals of concern identified by a network of labs and researchers are monitored and/or regulated in any way. (1)
The good news is that countertop water filters are an affordable option for providing safe, clean water. They require little-to-no installation and, unlike older technologies that primarily focused on removing chlorine, can filter a wide range of harmful contaminants including fluoride.
Of course, there are some downsides, too. We’ll dive into the details below, along with my top product recommendations.
- Is a countertop filter right for you?
- Advantages of Countertop Water Filters
- Disadvantages of Countertop Water Filters
- Best Countertop Pitcher: Clearly Filtered
- Best Reverse Osmosis System: AquaTru Classic
- Berkey Water Filter Review
- Best Gravity Filter: ProOne (Formerly ProPur)
- Best Kitchen Faucet Filter: ProMax by ProOne (Formerly ProPur)
- ProOne Pitcher Filter Review (Formerly ProPur)
- More About Water Filtration
Is a countertop filter right for you? ^
If you’re not sure what kind of filter you want yet – countertop, under sink, or whole house – here’s my in-depth guide to choosing the best water filter for your specific needs. The basic steps are:
- Find out what’s in your water
- Decide which type of filter you want. (Whole house, countertop, under sink, shower, etc.)
- Make sure the filter you’re considering removes the contaminants that are most concerning to you. (This will depend on which filtration materials are used. I’ve included this info below.)
- Check to see if the filter you’re considering has any independent certifications that verify the manufacturer’s claims. (I’ve included this info below.)
- Choose the best water filter for you based on your water quality, budget, and preferences.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of going with a countertop water filtration system.
Advantages of Countertop Water Filters ^
1. Ease of Installation: These filters require little-to-no assembly or installation. Some don’t even need to be connected to the kitchen faucet, and you won’t need to drill a hole in the kitchen counter to use them. This is a huge plus if you’re renting and/or just don’t want to make permanent changes to your countertop area.
2. Portability: Because they’re not permanently installed, you can easily take most countertop filters with you on trips and/or when you move to new home.
3. Cost: Countertop filters are usually more affordable than under sink and whole house filtration options, making them a good option for families who want clean water on a budget.
Disadvantages of Countertop Water Filters ^
1. Takes Up Counter Space: As the name implies, these filters sit on the kitchen counter and take up space. This can be a downside if you prefer a clutter-free countertop or have a small space to work with, but fortunately there are small models that can work well in compact spaces.
2. May Have To Be Manually Refilled: Some countertop filters hook directly into the faucet, while others are standalone reservoirs that have to be refilled by hand.
3. May Have A Small Reservoir: Some standalone reservoirs hold a relatively small amount of water. When you’ve used all the water, you’ll need to refill the reservoir and then wait until the water is filtered before you can use it again.
4. Filtered Water Is Only Available At Point-of-Use – Unlike whole house water filters which filter all the water that comes into the house, countertop filters only filter water for one area (usually the kitchen sink). They do tend to filter out more contaminants than whole house systems, though, so even people that have whole-house filters often invest in a point-of-use filter for their drinking water. (There is one whole-house system I know of that filters a wide range of contaminants including fluoride, but it is not currently available.)
Best Countertop Pitcher: Clearly Filtered ^
Price: $81 (Save 10% with WELCOME10)
This is one of my top recommendations in terms of performance and price. Unlike most pitcher filters which barely do more than improve water taste by removing chlorine, Clearly Filtered says it performs as well or better than reverse osmosis systems . . . all while keeping beneficial minerals intact.
Big claims should come with verifiable data, and Clearly Filtered delivers on that front. All of their products have been independently tested and verified by EPA-accredited laboratories at levels exceeding NSF standards, and they post the results in the top right section of each product listing.
Of all the filters mentioned on this page, Clearly Filtered is certified to remove the most contaminants: 365+ versus 203 claimed (not independently certified) for Berkey and 83 for AquaTru.
I personally bought one of their water pitchers to test (and take on road trips so that my family has access to clean water without buying single-use bottled water) and I can say from experience that it delivers fresh, clean tasting water. My kids will each be getting one of these when they leave my nest (or a larger version if it’s available by then).
Pros
- Independently tested and verified by EPA-accredited laboratories at levels exceeding NSF standards.
- Certified to remove/reduce 365+ contaminants including all types of fluoride additives (sodium fluoride, fluorosilicate and fluorosilicic acid) up to 99.5%, heavy metals, haloacetic acids, microplastics, thorium and cesium, PFAS, pesticides, herbicides, phthalates, VOCs and some pharmaceutical drugs. A link to the full list can be found in the top right corner of the product page.
- Built in the USA with medical-grade materials
- Lifetime guarantee on all filter systems
- Doesn’t remove beneficial minerals from water
- Gravity fed, so no electricity needed
- Doesn’t waste water like reverse osmosis systems
- Can be used in emergency situations.
- Offers subscription to have fresh filters delivered so you don’t have to remember to reorder
- No installation needed
- Filter lasts up to 100 gallons
Cons
- Has to be manually be refilled (But it’s easy since it’s a pitcher)
- Only holds 80 oz, which is 10 cups (They do have two other options that can hook right into your water line, though – a fridge filter that removes 232+ contaminants and an under-sink water filter that doesn’t require you to drill into the counter for installation.)
- No filter change indicator on pitcher (needs to be replaced every 100 gallons)
Filtration Technology Used
Clearly Filtered’s activated carbon filters have a unique structure which forces water to pass through the filtration media at different angles:
twisting and turning on its journey from top to bottom, instead of just passing straight down. This gives water a longer contact time with the media, which allows for a more thorough removal of impurities. Affinity Filtration is more advanced than a typical activated carbon filter as it removes the likes of fluoride and chromium-6, which are commonly found in water and difficult to filter out.”
At the same time, it keeps healthy minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium in.
Where To Buy
Clearly Filtered Website (Save 10% with WELCOME10)
Best Reverse Osmosis System: AquaTru Classic ^
Price: My recommended model, the Classic, is $449 (Save up to $150 herel)
AquaTru is a countertop reverse osmosis filter that is independent lab certified to remove 83 contaminants, including lead, chlorine, radium, nitrates, PFOA and PFOS (two types of PFAS), all types of fluoride additives (sodium fluoride, fluorosilicate and fluorosilicic acid) up to 90%, and more.
Pros
- No installation
- Long-lasting filters that can purify 600-1200 gallons
- Digital display tells you when it’s time to change filters
- Easy to add minerals directly into the clean water reservoir
- Certified by IAPMO Research & Testing to NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, 58, 401, and P473. Each number refers to testing for a different group of contaminants including heavy metals, Cryptosporidium, VOCs, fluoride and more. Total of 83 contaminants removed/reduced.
Cons
- Reservoir only holds about 3 quarts
- Wastes water (all reverse osmosis systems do)
- Has to be manually refilled
- Wastewater has to be discarded when the reservoir is refilled
- Designed for municipal water, not recommended for well water
- Removes beneficial minerals from water, so you’ll want to add them back in
- Takes up counter space
- Requires electricity
Filtration Technology Used
AquaTru’s 4-stage filtration process uses a pre-filter to remove large particles like sediment and rust, followed by an activated carbon filter to remove chlorine.
After that it runs through a reverse osmosis filter (or membrane) to remove contaminants like lead, arsenic, chromium-6 uranium, nitrates and more, followed by one last pass through an activated coconut carbon block filter to remove compounds like rocket fuel, prescription drug residue, and PFAS.
Where To Buy
Berkey Water Filter Review ^
Price Range: Varies based on size, but about $285 to $400+
The Berkey has been one of the most popular water filters among naturally-minded families for many years, and many of you have asked my opinion on recent controversies related to it.
It’s a gravity-fed filter, which means that you pour water into the top of a reservoir and the water is filtered as gravity pulls it down through the filters.
It runs without any electricity – which can be helpful during power outages or emergency situations – and it comes in several sizes that hold between 1.5 and 6 gallons of water.
However, as I mentioned earlier, it has recently become the subject of criticism. We’ll dive into that below, but first here’s are the basic pros and cons.
Pros:
- Can hold a lot of water depending on which size you choose
- Long filter life
- Relatively affordable
- Can be used in emergency situations.
- Claims to remove/reduce 203 water contaminants including organic compounds like chlorine, heavy metals, inorganic minerals, PFAS Bisphenol-A and pharmaceutical drugs
Cons:
- Although they make some pretty big claims about how their filters exceed NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) standards, there are criticisms of how they conducted their performance tests. For example, to meet NSF-53 standards they would have needed to run 6,000 gallons of water through the filter and then test the water, but one of the labs only used two liters of water before testing.
- Their fluoride filters don’t work as advertised for many people and may actually add aluminum into the water
- They take up counter space
- Have to be manually refilled
- Won’t produce immediate clean water (filtration takes awhile)
- Standing water is vulnerable to bacterial and fungal growth. Even though stainless steel tends to resist microbial growth, my experience is that the entire system needs to be taken apart and thoroughly cleaned regularly to prevent “scum” from forming inside the clean water reservoir.
Filtration Technology Used
Berkey uses two types of filtration media (aka materials) – activated carbon that contains proprietary material and aluminum oxide (also called activated alumina).
Berkey claims that their carbon filters remove chlorine, heavy metals (including lead and arsenic), inorganic minerals, Bisphenol-A and pharmaceutical drugs, but as mentioned above their performance test methods have received some criticism.
They also say their aluminum oxide filters remove up to 97% of fluoride and 99.9% of arsenic. At least some forms of aluminum oxide filtration use ion exchange, which basically means that you’re replacing whatever contaminant was in your water with aluminum oxide. (2) Some manufacturers say that the form of aluminum oxide is relatively safe, but others disagree. More on that below.
Fluoride Removal Problems
There are an increasing number of reports from people (like this one) who have compared their tap water with Berkey-filtered water and found that:
- The amount of fluoride removed is much lower than expected
- The fluoride filters may actually be adding aluminum into the water
Several years ago I personally mailed samples of my tap water and Berkey-filtered water to 3M for analysis. They don’t offer that particular test anymore (it was actually marketed as a way to know if your water had enough fluoride), but according to the results the Berkey reduced the fluoride in my water from .76 PPM to .58 PPM. That’s only about a 24% reduction.
Although I updated my review with that info, we moved soon after that test to a house that did not have fluoridated water so I didn’t look into it more. Unfortunately, it seems that the problem may not just be that the aluminum oxide filters don’t filter all forms of fluoride equally well.
Lab results posted on Facebook along with an explanation of samples taken claim that the activated alumina filters only removed 27% of fluoride while significantly increasing aluminum levels.
I don’t know the individual who ran these tests so I can’t verify the results, but they did I prompt me to do more research about using aluminum in water filtration. I learned that:
- Nano alumina (with particles that are between 50-100 nm) is used in water filtration to remove fluoride (which is what the activated alumina filters are supposed to do). (3)
- According to this study, concerns about “potential adverse health effects have been raised.” Their research suggests that at least some forms of nano aluminum are toxic and can bioaccumulate.
So, does Berkey use nano alumina, and if so which kind? I reached out to ask and was told that:
The PF-2™ Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Elements includes a high yield aluminum oxide within the media. All other media is proprietary, therefore we do not have information as to the size of the activated alumina within the elements.”
Most water filter companies do keep the exact mix they use as proprietary info to protect it from being used by a competitor, and I get that. For now, though, I have decided to only opt for filters that state they don’t use activated alumina, particularly since it doesn’t seem to filter all forms of fluoride very well.
Alternative To Berkey’s Filters
Recently, Berkey Filters have become unavailable due ongoing litigation and controversy, so customers are looking for alternatives.
Another brand of filters – ProOne – is compatible with the Berkey system. I’ll review them next in this article.
Best Gravity Filter: ProOne (Formerly ProPur) ^
Price Range: Varies based on size, but $199.95 – 364.95
For families that love the Berkey design but want components that have been tested by NSF International – the actual organization that sets the standards everyone is trying to meet – ProOne is the way to go.
They make gravity-fed filters with a variety of capacities, and their fluoride filter is built right into their main filter so you don’t need to buy two. Also, they don’t use aluminum oxide (activated alumina) to filter fluoride.
Pros:
- In addition to having NSF certified components, ProOne has been found by an independent lab to meet NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, P231, P401 and P473.
- Removes/reduces 200+ contaminants including 1,4 dioxane, microcystin, emerging contaminants, PFOAS (GenX), TTHM’s, bacteria, lead, parasites and more. They also remove two forms of fluoride – sodium fluoride and fluorosilicic acid – but not sodium fluorosilicate. Fortunately, according to the CDC sodium fluorosilicate is typically only used in small water systems, which is pretty much the opposite of large water purification facilities. (4)
- Can hold 2.25-3 gallons of water depending on which size you choose
- Long-lasting filters
- Relatively affordable
- Can be used in emergency situations.
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Has to be manually refilled
- Won’t produce immediate clean water (filtration takes awhile)
- Standing water is vulnerable to bacterial and fungal growth, so the unit needs to be cleaned regularly. With that in mind, I like that it comes with a “Gravity Gripper” design that makes it easy to lift the upper container and visually inspect/clean the lower container where the filtered water sits.
Filtration Technology Used
ProOne uses a silver-infused outer ceramic shell to help prevent the growth of bacteria and a proprietary carbon-based granular filtration media inside the core. Their fluoride removal material is included in the main filter, so you don’t have to buy extra filters.
Where To Buy
Best Kitchen Faucet Filter: ProMax by ProOne (Formerly ProPur) ^
Price: $189 – 218.95
Unlike the other filters on this page which have to be manually refilled, the ProMax Countertop Filter attaches to a standard faucet and can be installed in just minutes. It’s the only faucet filter I know of that removes fluoride and is independently tested.
It removes/reduces a broad range of over 200 contaminants including VOCs, lead, fluoride (sodium fluoride form only), heavy metals, pesticides, SVC’s, disinfectants, inorganic non-metallics, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, PFOA and PFOS (two types of PFAS), and microplastics. With that said, I only came across this option recently and am not familiar with the filtration technology used. I’ve reached to ProOne for more information and will let you know when I hear back.
Pros
- Tested to NSF/ANSI-42 & 53 standards
- Includes diverter valve allowing you to switch between filtered and direct faucet water
Cons
- Cannot be installed with pull-down faucet
- I’m not familiar with the filtration material used
Filtration Technology Used
Stage 1 includes a 5-Micron standard pre-sediment filter that removes dirt, sand, debris, and rust.
Stage 2 includes ProMaxTM “all-in-one” filter technology, which according to the company is “a highly absorbent filtration material based on infused micro porous foam™ technology. Using different types of water filtration media intended to target specific groups of contaminants staged in layers, ProMaxTM filters are able to absorb a wide range of undesirable contaminants. Contains no resins or beads.”
Where To Buy
You can find the ProMax on the ProOne website.
Another model, the ProOne Coldstream, is also worth considering if you’re not looking for a filter that removes fluoride. It uses different filtration materials – a 2-layer outer ceramic shell that is infused with silver to help prevent the growth of bacteria, and a carbon block core.
ProOne Pitcher Filter Review (Formerly ProPur) ^
Price: $69.95
The ProOne pitcher is very similar to the Clearly Filtered pitcher. Both seem to remove around the same number of contaminants – 257 if I’m counting correctly for ProOne, and 365+ for Clearly Filtered.
The ProOne® G2.0M filter used in the pitcher is NSF/ANSI-42 component certified, and it removes contaminants including fluoride, chlorine, chloramines, VOCs, bacteria, pharmaceuticals, lead & heavy metals, all while leaving in beneficial minerals.
Pros
- Independent lab tested to remove/reduce 200+ contaminants (257 if I counted correctly) including fluoride, chlorine, chloramines, VOCs, bacteria, pharmaceuticals, lead & heavy metals.
- Doesn’t remove beneficial minerals from water
- Gravity fed, so no electricity needed
- Doesn’t waste water like reverse osmosis systems
- Filter element is cleanable and lasts up to 6 months or 225 gallons
- No installation needed
- Filter cartridge lasts up to six months or 225 gallons
Cons
- Has to be manually be refilled (but it’s easy since it’s a pitcher)
- Only holds 54 oz, which is about 6.75 cups
- No filter change indicator on pitcher
Filtration Technology Used
ProOne uses a silver-infused outer ceramic shell to help prevent the growth of bacteria and a proprietary carbon-based granular filtration media inside the core.
Where To Buy
More About Water Filtration ^
Here’s how to find out what contaminants are in your water, and here’s my in-depth guide to choosing the best filter for your specific needs.
Do you have a question about countertop water filter systems?
Please let me know in the comments below!
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1. Network of reference laboratories, research centres and related organisations for monitoring of emerging environmental substances (NORMAN) Emerging substances
2. Duan, Ying (2014) Fluoride adsorption properties of three modified forms of activated alumina in drinking water
3. Shivaprasad, Parimala (2018) Synthesis of nano alumina for defluoridation of drinking water
4. CDC. Types of Fluoride Additives
HOLY WOW!!! But I don’t want to be the first to comment because those people never win!! Ask me how I know ;]
There’s a better filter on the market now, Water Pure Technologies offer these at prices that are affordable to everyone. Their systems use the same filter media that NASA uses on the International Space Station.
Using NANO- Electropositive-absorbtion, this filter out performs all others, at fast flow rates. It lasts up to 25 times longer than ceramic filters and it can remove viruses at 99.9999%
It exceeds EPA and WHO requirements for a true water filtration/ Purification system
Testing has been done by an EPA Certified Lab
Berkey used to be my choice until I was introduced to the MorCler…it does ALL that the Berkey does, plus reverse osmosis, plus it is much faster, PLUS it can even filter diet Coke (and beer, milk, and even bugspray!) into pure clean water! The wholesale price isn’t nearly as expensive as other RO filters, and it is not that much more than a Berkey. The only real benefit to the Berkey is that it doesn’t use electricity. The MorCler uses a 6 stage filteration system including a Moringa filter, and it is portable.
Not impressed with EPA as they still condone fluoride! This bought agency and other so called health agencies are stopping proven data sitting in courts as they wish to force this neurotoxin they causes health issues and learning difficulties in children…fluoride is a neurotoxin..has ZERO benefits to humans!!!! It’s proven!
Tweeted
Posted on facebook
Heather, thank you so much for posting this information! What a great giveaway too!
AAHHH A Berkey Giveaway!!!!!! Im so excited! I want one so bad!
Facebooked it!!
Thank you for all the wonderful information on water and the filter!!
Thanks for the information!!
facebooked! <3
We have been lugging our 5 gallon jugs to Whole Foods for years for RO water, but have really really wanted a Berkey. Scott’s sister has one and she loves it. Her kids have fun bringing in the grossest, leaf-and-dirt ridden water from the backyard to put in it! What a great giveaway!
facebooked it
tweeted
I’m going to space out my entries in hopes of winning that way ;]
This is hands down, the best giveaway I can imagine! Drinking a gallon+ of poison water everyday has been in the back of my mind this entire pregnancy, my family would be OVER THE MOON excited if we won!
Ok, this is just what we need! Living in an apartment we are short on space and have been buying distilled water for over a year once I stopped using our brita pitcher. I grew up with a RO system and I really miss good water. My friends call me a water snob. If I don’t win this I’m glad to know what the best portable option is for someone like us!
I put it on FB
I tweeted it.
Thanks so much for you very informative post! I had heard about Berkey a few months ago and had been considering one. I would LOVE to win one!
Posted on Facebook
this is great! glad we’re on solution day!
Facebooked it!
Please enter me!
I tweeted.
I facebooked.
Thanks for all your research for these posts – so helpful! I would love one of these!
Wow! That’s awesome!
Ok I will be honest that I didn’t know most of that stuff was in the water and I had never heard about the Berkley. I have been looking for something to filter our water since mine smells like a swimming pool. I called the water dept and they sent someone out. The wonderful water man tested the water and said it was within their legal limits. I asked him if he would drink it or give it to his children. He didn’t answer. I am not buying jug water and recycling my jugs. Since reading your blog I sooooo want a Berkely. If I don’t win I will definitely be saving money to get one. I am also going to share your posts and the Berkely on my facebook page. I think everyone should be aware what is in their water. Thank you Mommypotamus for sharing.
This would be so awesome to have while traveling. The Berkey is actually pretty popular among traveling families. What a great giveaway!
I FB’d it!
Facebooked it!
I am entering with this comment!! I TOTALLY need this! We have been buying, yes buying, 5 gallon jugs and refilling them at the stores. I NEED this!!
Tweeted it!
facebooked at http://www.facebook.com/holisticmama
My neighbor has one of these and could really use one myself! Thanks!
Heather, thanks so much for posting this! Our tap water is horrible so I’ve been buying bottled water in an attempt to cut down on toxins… but obviously that wasn’t working. I am definitely getting a Berkey! Would love to win this one!
posted on FB status too!
tweeted @HolisticFamily
posted on FB at http://www.facebook.com/holisticfamilyheritage
OMG – I love water so much I want one of these sooooo badly.
Enter me, please 🙂
posted on FB at http://www.facebook.com/northtexasnaturalfamily
Oohhhh, I want one! I was just convicted last night about taking clean water for granted. It is such a gift, every drop.
Wow..very interesting series. I really respect the fact that you used so much research to back up your statements. When I read articles like this (regarding safety& health) I am always looking for the facts and not opinions, and that’s just what you’ve done here. As an apartment dweller, I am digging the fact that Berkey’s are portable AND have been proven to work so well. I would LOVE to have one!
this filter sounds amazing! I totally want one.
tweeted @TXNaturalFamily
tweeted @WisdomofBeingMe
tweeted @NourishOrigins
posted on FB at http://www.facebook.com/nourishingorigins
Would love to Win!
Shared on FB
This is something I have been wanting to research for some time! Thanks for doing the work. 😉
I also facebooked the offer. Thanks!
Okay, just re-posted on Facebook.
another informative blog and amazing giveaway–thank you for being a continual blessing to all of us!
I asked Santa Hubby for a RO for Christmas! I want one of these instead! Commenting for my entry!
Posted on Facebook.
Just Facebooked
And Tweeted!!!
Posted on FB
Wow!!! Sign me up!
i want one. but it needs to come in pink. 🙂
thanks*m
I have been wanting a Berkey for a long time!
Awesome!!! I heard about these a couple years ago, so I was thrilled to hear about this! Thanks for doing this!
Posted on facebook
Very neat. I use a Brita and had never put to much thought into the water. Lots of things to think about. Would love this filter!
Pick me! 😀
Liked it on Facebook
Posted on facebook.
Tweeted as well 🙂
Wow…We really need this! Been shopping around, but I don’t know much about them.
I would love to win one!
I just realized I misspelled Berkey, I put Berkley.
OH good grief! Why do I even try ;]
Would love, cherish and take great care of this filter. 😀
This is such valuable info!! Thanks for sharing it and doing all the research for us!!
tweeted!
This sounds so wonderful! Fingers crossed!
Just facebooked!! NO twitter so this will have to do for now!!
Shared on Facebook
What a great series of posts! This filter sounds amazing!!!
Oh my gosh I need this system so I can fill my Starbucks cup with clean water!
Shared on FB!
I tweeted.
Oh my goodness, I can’t wait to see who wins!
Shared on Facebook
Tweeted it!
ooh,ooh I wanna Berkey!!!!
and all this time i thought i was doing good with my fridge filter!!
I’ve been reading up on water recently and even the Berkey system; NEVER thought I might have a chance at one, lol! So glad you covered all of this. It’s important we know what we’re putting into our’s and our loved one’s bodies.
Just FB your link!!! pick me pick me!!!! 😉
For sure shared it on facebook- Everyone should know about this!
oh, and yes I would love one (assumed I needed to leave another comment? lol)
Just Facebook it too 🙂
Ooh, that’s wonderful!!! I’m so excited about this!! If it does all of that with “American” water…do you think it works the same for other countries? We plan to be in Romania full time in the next couple of years and the water there is AWFUL. It would definitely be worth the investment to take one of these if it works on all the junk in their water too!
Absolutely, Brittany. I just gave a water bottle with a mini-version of this filter to a friend who is traveling to Africa. The Berkey would be worth it’s weigh in gold there.
I facebooked it!
Tweeted as well
And I tweeted! =)
Our community water has repeatedly failed the test for minimum levels of arsenic! So of course we don’t drink it. Winning one of these would be wonderful.
That’s awful! How do they justify not correcting the situation?
I also visited Facebook. thanks!
Would love to get rid of the ARSENIC in our water.
Exciting giveaway! We could use it for sure….heading over to FB and Twitter now to get my extra entries ;o)
I have been looking for something economical to get the fluoride out for so long!! Thanks for this blog!!
shared on facebook! on my fan page and personal page 🙂
Tweeted!
officially on the Facebook
I am very excited about this filter! Thank you for bringing it to our attention!
and on The Twitter – shout out Betty White!
I linked to this on Facebook!
Shared on Facebook!!!
Tweet!
Thank you for this information. My family is always looking for ways to live healthier, purer lives. This looks like something that could come in handy. Thanks for the opportunity to win a free one 🙂
My dad has one of these! He swears by it. I would excavate some counter space for this if I win!I hate, hate, hate how many plastic bottles we still generate. But hate the taste of our tap water more.
Posted your link on Facebook!
Tweeted!
Tweet Baby Tweet Baby…… Tweeted the link to this post. Check!
We NEED this! Great information this week! Loved reading about it!
I’d love this for my family!
what a great bunch of info, thanks heather!
we really need one of these and would LOVE to win it! we were thinking about buying an RO system for our new house but other things took priority since we had a prepaid card for the RO water store in bedford. well with that all used up we’ve been using “filtered” fridge water, and i really want to drink good water!
i’m glad we didn’t get the RO, because it would’ve been twice as much and not as good quality as the Berkey, which I’ve never even heard of! If we win we will call it Perky Berkey =)
Perky Berkey, LOL!
Posted on Facebook =)
Would love to win!
Thanks so much for the opportunity to win this! It looks fantastic!
Facebook’ed =) http://www.facebook.com/pages/At-Home-With-Haley/104693976266330
Tweeted too! http://twitter.com/#!/haleyleann
I’ve been eyeing these for quite a while…winning one would be awesome! Thank you for all your posts this week. They are very much appreciated.
The comment section is very popular! I, sadly, use the Brita just because of the affordability and the ever-changing market on filters. Thank you for this post – it is very informative, and you must’ve spent a lot of time researching! You may have this slated for another post, but do you also have recommendation for shower filters? We use aquasauna, but I’m sure there are better things…
I too would LOVE a recommendation for shower filters! We have such hard water where I live.
I’m looking into bath/shower options. We have stuff installed in our home, but I want to make sure I recommend the best so I need to do more research.
Hi, Heather,
I’ve been re-looking into the Berkey systems since I first heard of them, hoping to learn that they were a whole-household water system. But it looks like it’s just a sort of drinking water dispenser for the countertop (not that it doesn’t sound amazing)! Did you end up coming up with options for pure water more directly from showers/taps? If not, is stuff like dish washing, etc. not generally a concern for tap water? I guess I’m hoping to hear that I only need worry about water I’m drinking in directly… or learn of a system for sinks & showers too.
Thank you for your help & insight!
Oh, PS- Just so I’m not confused, that countertop filter you <i?were previously going to recommend…that was something else entirely, not a Berkey, right? Thanks!
And… facebooked. I cannot wait for a revolution in technology that might allow people to enter contests without feeling like desperate, greedy people… b/c that’s how I feel when I enter these contests. It KILLS me to type in “facebooked” as a comment, as that is not what the comment section is for, right? It’s for dialogue and exchange of information. It just doesn’t seem ethical… it reeks of desperation. But hey, even I have my price – and it’s around $320… 🙂
I totally felt exactly the same way when I entered a contest for an ebook recently. Apparently my price is around $15, but I almost never enter contests so what does that say about me? Am I cheap and elitist at the same time?
I thought I was on top of our water, but now I know I can do better.
What a great series! My mom and I were just discussing pharmaceutical waste in our water over thanksgiving. Thank you, thank you for your passionate research with an awesome solution. The people perish for lack of knowledge and you have helped educate me and so many others. Please enter me! I would love to stop buying distilled water in plastic (yuck) jugs!
I’d like one too!
Facebooked it!
Tweeted it!
Posted it on facebook! 🙂
I have wanted these since I attended a “Be Prepared” conference this past summer. Thanks for offering the contest. 🙂
I saw these a few months ago and wanted one so badly.
shared on facebook
tweeted
Posted it to Facebook!
funny…I’ve been looking at getting a Berkey filter. 🙂
shared on Facebook
Shared on Facebook. Thank so much for the info. My in-laws have a huge distiller and keep wishing they’d pass it on to us. My family mostly drinks water — no sodas, maybe a little juice for a treat, herbal teas, but that’s about it. Might have to consider ditching the microwave to make space for it, but I’m all for that (hubby, not so much!).
Oh, wait! Do we get three entries total for comments & sharing? Then count my prior entry as a comment & I’m sharing on facebook and my twitter tweet page. Thanks again!
This sounds quite nifty, would definitely like to win it!
I facebooked it!
The Berkey sounds better than what we’re using! Count me in as a contestant, please! 🙂
Oh, and I just posted it on FB, too 🙂
Wow, we need this badly!
Facebooked!
Tweeted!
My husband showed me these! Love them!
I read the KS post a few weeks ago and REALLY wanted to try one of these! Thanks for the opportunity to win one!!
wow, thank you so much for doing all this research. I have been meaning to “get around to this” same subject and know it’s a huge piece of the health puzzle that I needed to address. Again, my biggest thanks to you!! I would LOVE to win this! My family of 5 would be thrilled!!!
Did you come across any whole house systems that filtered out all the bad stuff? Or really , I guess would only need something for the bath and shower? I don’t want those chemicals entering through my skin. I would appreciate any insight you have. 🙂
I haven’t looked into whole house systems yet, but I will be discussing some bath/shower solutions soon!
facebooked it too 🙂
This filter sounds great! I’d love to enter the contest!
Just LIKED you on Facebook and posted about this!
Yahoo! I want one! I was looking at the Berkey Light ones and they look great too 🙂
I also FB’d it 🙂
FB for me too!
We have so much chlorination in our water. This filter would be great for my family, especially with another baby coming!
I would LOVE to win this Berkey water filter! It would be nice to know the water me and my family are drinking is pure & clean! Thanks for hosting this awesome giveaway (and hope that I win :))
Posted/Shared link on Facebook!
Heather,
What a great giveaway! My son was in the hospital for 10 days this summer with salmonella food poisoning. His immune system is shot and we have to be extra careful of his intake. This would be so great for our family!
Thanks,
Kandace
It never ceases to amaze me how many things we now accept as “normal” are really harmful. Thanks for the info.
I have heard wonderful things about the Berkey and would love to enter the contest!
We’ve been lugging our 5 gallons to whole foods for years too. i’m afraid to test that water (since the bottles probably leach). We would love this!
I also FB it! 🙂
Here’s my comment to enter 🙂 Hi Heather!
Facebook’d 🙂
I’d like to enter. 🙂
posted on FB
We got ours last year for Christmas (I asked for a Berkey and the Traditional Foods menu mailer, made this girl so happy!). It did take a little time getting used to it after having the on-tap filter but I love, love, love it! I feel like I’m no longer poisoning my family with our water. I usually bring our own water when we go places 🙂 If I had it to do over again and wasn’t going to get it as a Christmas gift I would definitely save up the money for it. I shared this contest on FB but I don’t think I want to enter because my siblings are all being given Berkeys for their families for Christmas this year (so no one to share my good fortune with if I won) and it needs to go to someone who doesn’t already have one sitting on their kitchen counter.
I am so impressed that someone would take the time to comment but pass on a chance to win so that someone else could. WOW.
Wow! I would love one of these – they sound wonderful! Thanks for the giveaway.
Also put it on FB!
This would be so amazing to win!
Heather,
I have been looking at a filtration system from The Sunflower Shoppe that I can’t remember the name of. I will keep this one on the list to consider.
Thanks!
Facebooked…
Facebooked!!
Commented on Facebook. This looks like a great system, you never know what is in our water out here in Springtown!
I’ve been checking these filters out for years. Just couldn’t swing the cost. We know 2 families that have them and love them! They purchased them before the flouride filters were on the market. My husband and I were thinking of buying one as a Christmas present for each other and our family. But it sure would be great to win one! Thanks for all of the information that you’ve researched and shared with us!! It’s been very helpful.
Posted on facebook, too.
Wow, I would love one of these! Sounds great!
posted on facebook, too!
Every time I turn on my faucet, I think “What am I really drinking?” This is a great give away. Thanks Heather!
on facebook
We have had a Big Berkey since 1999 (yep, we were prepping for Y2K 🙂 It has been a FANTASTIC investment!! We do not have the fluoride filters though because I didn’t realize until recently that the Berkey did not filter out fluoride!! We bought a silver planter pot the same circumference as the Berkey and about 7″ tall. We turned the pot upside down and use it as a base/stand for the Berkey. We are able to fit a glass comfortably underneath for filling. It sits right next to our kitchen sink and is easy to fill using our retractable spray nozzle. Thanks for all the great info here, Heather. and for offering this giveaway. I would love to be able to pass the winnings on to one of our married sons.
I have posted the GIVEAWAY on Facebook!!
We have well water and I would SO love to win a water filter.
Just liked you on FB.
Did not know if you meant for us to post it on my page or on your page so I did both just to be safe .LOL!!!
Jeff is a good guy, and Berkey is a fantastic system. I’d love to be the big winner!
Also just posted to Facebook.
This looks amazing and we are definitely not digging our Brita that doesn’t filter the important stuff!
Thanks SO much for this information! My husband has been talking to me about getting a water filter as a gift to ourselves this Christmas! I would love to win one!
Posted on Facebook
Thanks for the great information! I would love to win this! I have a good water filtering system, but my daughter is newly pregnant, money is tight because she is still getting her degree, but she is learning, and is very concerned about the water in their student housing. I would LOVE to give this to them for health of my unborn grandchild!!
I FB’d it!
I’ve been wanting one of these for a long time now. I have an affiliate link on my website also, but I’d love to have them to take to my ourdoor show table.
I want one!
I want one! A Berkey has been on our wishlist for awhile.
I tweeted!
I FB’d it.
Shared on FaceBook also!
A couple of my friends have berkey’s and I’ve had my eye on one for so long! Awesome opportunity, thanks!
I have shared on FB!
I’m completely diggin’ the Berkey filter and I want one for my kitchen sooooo bad!
thank you so much for this info and amazing giveaway!
Wow, scary stuff. Thank you for posting.
i posted a link on facebook! 🙂
http://www.facebook.com/iluvmyuterus
Great giveaway! I’ve always wanted a Berkey!
tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/naturalmommy/status/10718301910999041
My husband and I have been searching for a water filtration system… sounds like this is the perfect solution! Would love the opportunity to try it out!
I just wanted to thank Heather for this review, and am glad to be apart of this blog.
She has a beautiful blog, with great readers, and great content. It was great to see a lot of people had never heard of a Berkey.
If you would like to connect with facebook, please visit here:
http://www.facebook.com/theberkeyguy
Jeff
Just posted to facebook!
I so would love one of these! I was going to repost to Facebook even before I saw that would get me another entry. If I can can remember how to access my Twitter acct, I’ll do that, too.
Oh, I sooo need to win this! Thanks so much!!
Facebooked it too!!!
Just posted to my FaceBook profile.Thanks for thinking about and doing something for clean drinking water!
My wife REALLY wants to win this so . . . I am trying because, Happy Wife = Happy Life! 🙂
Posted on Facebook!
I’ve facebooked it and tweeted it. Can you count this comment as 2 entries?
Tweeted and facebooked.
A Berkey Giveaway! I want one!
Winning this would be awesome!
Tweeted about your giveaway!
Wonderful! I have always longed for a Berkey!
Posred on Facebook
Tweeted.
Wow! I didnt know this even existed! Would love to win this!
Please enter me!
Posted on facebook!
Hi, I just found your website today… I joined you on fb. I have done much
research on the Big Berkeley with high hopes of purchasing one for my family of five.
With some luck, maybe we will be the chosen ones! Thank you, and I look forward to
reading on your site.
MMC
221 entries. Looks like my chance of winning is slim. Here’s hopin!
facebooked it!
Twitter-ific!
giving away a Berkey?? wow! sign me up! I have the Berkey Traveler and it’s amazing.. provides the cleanest, best tasting water imaginable. And yes, I have filtered my creek water thru it 🙂
Deborah
in the UP of MI
Tweeted.
Posted on Facebook.
Great blog site! Hoping to win the Berkey as we could really use one 😉
I’d love to win their in home system because it’d be nice not to have to buy and constantly replace our RO bottles. Lifting them onto the tank is no fun : /. Also, Harper and I really like the Berkey travel bottle!
Tweeted it too!
I have never been fortunate enough to own one, but have heard some great things about them. Please enter me for a chance to win.
Nick
I have been looking for a water filter and now that I’ve just bought a piece of land with a creek on it the water filter is a must. I hope I win the give away but even if I don’t I’ll be buying a Berkey real soon.
Bill H.
hi heather, please enter me in the drawing. thanks interesting info
Woohoo!! What an awesome give away- my husband and I have a ‘buy a berkey’ on our list of goals for a while now.
My wife would love this for Christmas!
I want one! I want one! Please enter me!
Posted on FB too!
Heather, Thank you ever so much for the information on the Berkey water filter. I have heard of these before and have always thought they were the way to go. We ended up with an RO system which we had to discontinue from using due to my osteoporosis and the fact that RO water is hungry water and will pull minerals out of the body.
Thank You
Greg and Shannon
If I don’t win I’m going to buy one, cause they are awesome!!
Great info, and the side by side comparison is nice!
I need one of those!!!!!
I would love to win a Berkley. Thanks!
Tweeted the giveaway! twitter.com/aadunigan
Thanks for the great presentation on the water filter this sure is a great product
What a great idea! I have been wanting a Berkey but am still trying to work it into my budget. Thanks for a great contest!
This product would be ideal to have! When people see how much water I consume in one day, they think I am going to die of hypernatremia. What can I say? I am a thirsty girl who needs my water. Presently, I use a Brita pitcher and fill her up constantly. Would be amazing to have purier water not only for myself, but for my two babies & hard working husband!
My wife is making me enter. But I’d love to own one!
My facebook friends are rooting for me! …..Or stilling my idea in trying to capture this prize, which is exactly as I have done to another.
This is on my WANT/NEED list for sure-been looking at these for awhile and am thinking we need to just do it…hopefully, I’ll win one;-)
Facebooked it
Twittered it
I would love one of these!! Especially with a baby and making so many bottles each day, this would be great to have and to know he is getting the best water possible!
Please enter me in the Berkey give-away. I can’t afford one right now, especially with the floride/arsenic filters. I live near a de-commissioned Air Force base, and railroad tracks that discharge diesel exhaust in the neighborhood that settles on the ground and all surfaces.
Thank you!
One please
Read the blog and agree with Berkey as a great if not the greatest filter out there. Unfortunately, I am set up with a plastic Kataydin with lots of extra filters. If I ever get the money, but we all know that song.LOL Good luck on your blog. I will be reading it now.
Love to have a Berkey!!!
I Tweeted, too!
I putcha on my Facebook! I’d shout it from the rooftop if I thought it would help… and if I could get up there.
I have been preparing for whatever might happen for over two years now and the one thing I keep trying and trying to get is a Berkey. In fact, our water in our little farm house here is not potable, we have to use bottled water for all cooking and cleaning so a Berkey would be so ideal for us. But that’s a big chunk of change to put out at once, we just haven’t been able to afford it, especially now that I’ve been given custody of my little grandson. I’m so thrilled to hear you’re giving one away! Winning this would be a several year long dream come true. Thank you for the chance!
I’ve been stalking the Berkey for years! Looks like a wonderful addition to the home and our health!
Got it on the FB also!
Bill
sharing on facebook!
hello,
thanks for the chance to win
Heather…so excited you are doing this. I am doing Preparing for Perilous Times workshops at some homeschool conventions this coming year so I am glad to see someone promoting such a great way to purify water….this could be a lifesaver not just a means to drink cleaner safer water.
Facebooked this
I’ve been wondering how to deal with the flouride issue. I will be posting on Facebook and Twitter!
I would LOVE one!
Awesome!! What a great giveaway – my wife and I have had ‘buy a berkey’ on our list of to-dos for a while now.
Now I’ve mentioned on Facebook.
Tweeted.
You know you need a water filtration system when your city sends you a notice saying that there are things in the water at levels ‘they must report’ but they don’t want anyone to be concerned. WHAT?!?!? 🙂
Facebooked this too!
pick me! pick me!
It sounds like Berkey is the way to go…posted on Facebook as well…
posted on facebook!
Tweeted!
What a great giveaway! Your water posts were so informative, thanks so much for taking the time to post. We have a filter in our fridge, but I have no idea what exactly it filters out. I am a Weston A. Price mama, and have been meaning to look into filters for our home…thanks for doing the research for me! I would love this giveaway!
this sounds wonderful
I have friends who have a Berkey and would love to have one…..Our county is required by law to send out warnings about it’s failure to meet minimal standards…scary!
posted on FB, too!
pick me!
Ok, I just got caught up on water week. Interesting! and scary. I would love to win this! What do you guys do about ALL of the water in the home, like for showers and brushing your teeth? Do you have a house filter or just use the water that comes out?
Tweeted it!
Would love to win!
What a great giveaway!
Thanks for this very important info.
Thank you Berkey Guy!
Also facebooked it!
Awesome information about water and what it can do to and for us. Thanks for the giveaway!
Donna H.
Facebooked!
We just switched over to city water because our well went out and it tastes disgusting, not to mention it smells like I am in a pool when I take my shower because of all the chlorine in the water. I would so love to have one of these.
here i am, pick me.
Love it and put on facebook too
This is a wonderful filter! I hope to win the free one because we have a well that is high in nitrates. It would be a great blessings to our family.
I think it’s funny how people share why they need a Berkey. It’s a random drawing, FYI.
Well, I like to know why. So there, Daddypotamus!
Hope I get it, great article !
What a great giveaway! Thanks.
Shared on Facebook.
Tweeted!
Sounds like a great filter! If I don’t win I’ll have to start saving my pennies so I can buy one.
I posted on my facebook page also.
Ah the Berkley… the best a person can buy. Too many people leave water as a last thing to supply for when it should be the first. The best part … no batteries needed.
Ken
Terrific item to give away! Water is by far THE most important resource we have (other than air!), and most water isn’t fit to drink, but the Berkey will make sure it is! Thanks for the chance to win. I’ll be posting this on Facebook, too, but I don’t use Twitter.
I just posted this to Facebook!
Great idea. We are looking at getting one soon.
What an amazing water filter! Hope I win!! 🙂
facebooked!
I love the Berkey! I would love to win this one so I could share the smaller one I own with my married son and his family.
Shared on facebook!
Oh, this is something I’ve dreamed about for years. What a generous giveaway!!!!
What a great giveaway! i would love to win!
What an awesome giveaway! We ended up putting “filling the Berkey” on the chore chart to make sure it got done each night.
(Not entering the contest, but I’m glad you enjoyed my post!)
Thank YOU for inspiring this post!
We were just talking about this filter this week! It’s on our list of smart purchases. We’d love to stop lugging our glass jars to the store for water. 🙂
Second entry for mention on facebook.
I realized from re-reading this that I needed to put a separate comment in for my Tweet, instead of asking you to count the one twice where I told you I’d facebooked and tweeted this.
Thanks, Mr. Berkey-guy, for doing this.
Debby S
Sis owns one.. I’m too jealous, so I guess I should win one….
facebooked
tweeted
We drink so much water, and are currently using a ‘fridge filter and Brita filters. We’ve been looking into other options, but have no extra resources at this time, it’s so good to learn all this info! I found you because a friend of mine tweeted about it. What a blessing to have one to give away! Thank you for making it possible!
I tweeted!
And facebooked! Thanks again for the chance!
Cool! Thanks for the info.
Ditto what Whitt said about needing this for our house!
Would love a Berkly!!
This would be so wonderful!
I posted it on my facebook.
I have also tweeted about it!
What a great giveaway!
Facebooked it
Okay, I am totally entering this contest. Also, I tweeted AND FB’ed.
Wow! This is great!!! I came across the Berkey filters in my search for water filters a few months ago. I would love to have one but couldn’t afford it, so winning one would be wonderful! But even more than the chance to win one, I really appreciate all the research and work you did to provide the information on the current water problems and real solutions! I look forward to your future posts on how to have clean shower/bath water, water to wash our hands, etc. Your posts are great for us because you don’t just assume that everyone can afford a whole house water filter installed! Thank you!!!
I shared on Facebook.
I would tweet, but I don’t know how to. (Sadly I don’t know how to text either.)
I do have a question, though… you mention that it uses an alumina filter. Would that be a problem for someone with too much aluminum and needing to detox of aluminum?
Nara – One of the contaminants it removes is aluminum. I don’t know exactly how, but the alumina filter apparently does not leach aluminum into the water.
wow great info thank you!! this filter sounds great, my pur filter seems to have stopped working so perfect timing!
Sounds great considering so many people are trying to win this. i facebooked about this.
Winner or not, we’re thinking about getting one now. We were looking into reverse osmosis. Heard that babies should drink any water with fluoride in it. That goes for our baby too. Thanks a bunch!
What an awesome giveaway!
We have been slowly saving to purchase this, but winning one now would be wonderful.
Thank you,
Beverly in Texas
A wonderful, informative post! Could change someone’s life.
I’m tweeting this one – gotta get the word out.
@mother211
I would love to win this! Great post!
Great giveaway! Thanks for the opportunity to win!
I tweeted!
I Facebooked! 🙂
Wow! This is an impressive filtration system!
I posted this on Facebook!
I tweeted about your giveaway.
Being the Water Snob that I am, this would be perfect! Plus we have tons of guests ALL the time, I always run out of water. Thanks for the info! I’m def. putting this on a list of something to save space and money for!
Tweeted it!
Facebooked it too!
I would love to win a Berkley filter!
Wow; I’m sold! This looks fantastic!
Facebooked and Tweeted as well. 🙂
My wife would love this for our family.
I tweeted, too.
Sent a tweet.
I tweeted.
This would make a great Christmas present for my wife.
This would be wonderful to win.
When is the drawing? This is to let you know I tweeted.
Winner will be announced Friday Dec. 9th 🙂
Berkey sounds awesome!!!
Tweeted
I’d like clean water please…if family members are included.
posted on twitter
posted on facebook
What a great Christmas present! I’ve posted on facebook!
Thanks for posting this! We are looking for a new water filter. You’ve convinced me!!!
Thanks for sharing Berkley with us! Love to have one! Hope I win!
I posted it on Facebook!!!
I facebooked your blog and giveaway!
tweetin!
Posting here 🙂
Posted on facebook 🙂
Oh, this is so compelling!! I WANT ONE!! I have been looking forever for something that takes care of everything, but never ran across this one – yay!!!
Just posted on facebook, too!!
Incredible info, Heather! Thanks so much for the comparison, for the review, and of course, for the giveaway! 🙂 Happy Hydrating!
Facebooked.
I would love to win one!
Facebooked!
Tweeted!
Wow! I know so much more about Berkey now….Thank you so much!
Wow, what a fabulous giveaway! I’d love this!
Tweeted too! http://twitter.com/funwithmojo/status/12580156627484672
I want my Berkey!!!!!
What great information! We have used a Brita for years & will now be looking into switching.
Wow! I’ve been looking for a great water filter. So glad you posted this!!
We have wanted one of these filters too… have 8 in our family.. and filters or purchasing water is so expensive. This is on our wish list. Thanks for the contest.
Hannah told me to come enter this but we would love this filter system!
Posted it on my facebook.
I have family and friends that owns the Big Berkey, and I’ve wanted one for some time now. I just can’t afford it right now… I’m on the Dave Ramsey plan! 😀
i posted on facebook
i retweeted
Would love to win !!!! I’m looking foward to buy one like this in a near future, so it would be great to win !
facebooked it !
tweeted !
Ooh, ooh! Me, me, Please!! 🙂
Shared this on Facebook!
re-tweeted the giveaway – woohoo!
is this the most comments you have ever received from a post? Because WOAH there are a ton! It is an amazing give away!
I figure I’ll FIND space if I can win a Berkey. How fun to know you found the Berkey Guy through KS! Sorry you have to drown in comments to run a great giveaway like this – but congrats on landing it!
I tweeted!
I could do with one of those for our household – there are six of us so it would probably need constant refilling – scares me thinking about my kids drinking all that “bad” water though 🙁
Distilled is still the best, although it is more expensive. (I buy 2 gal a day at 0.89 per gal every day since 1992)…. Did have and use a ss distiller for one year – BEST OPTION YES, but lost it during a move and just got another one but it’s not set up yet.
See amazon’s comments about the berkey just in case it happens to you at
https://www.amazon.com/Berkey-Light-Water-Filter-Elements/dp/B002EGJ3L0
I just heard in the last week about the berk. that missionaries use it… it is A LOT BETTER than any other portable filter I’ve seen…. just remember it can fail also(mass marketing is a big problem and has ALWAYS led to dramatic loss of quality and truth)
I have similar concern, do we have GPD capacity for Berkey water filters?
pick me pick me! lol ….
posted on facebook too
So I just read all about this water filter and got really excited as I have been looking for something exactly like this. Only to go to the site and learn I cannot get it because it can’t be shipped to CA….. ARghhhh!
Hi Mommypotomus,
I am loving the easy read, from your lighthearted blog! I find your’s to be less overwhelming than others. As making a whole lifestyle change isn’t overwhelming enough. Right? On the Berkey Water Filtration, what size do you have or would you recommend? We are a water drinking family of four, with the children being 2 and under. Thanks for your help:)
Glad you are finding the info here helpful, Martina! We started with an Imperial. When my mom decided to buy one, though, she offered to let us upgrade to the Crown and switch. We did and we love it because we only have to fill it up every few days 🙂
Do you know of any home filtration systems that filter everything?
Sorry, Alison. I’m sure they’re out there, but I haven’t researched that yet.
What is a comparable whole house water filtration system?
I haven’t researched them yet, Kim, but it’s on my list!
Hi, I am wondering what you think about Custom Pure filters, which provide carbon filtration and de-ionization. The MB series from Custom pure are popular in Seattle and sold at the natural food co-ops. It is a local option. However, the Berkey looks potentially better?!
Have you located a whole house water filter you like? I’m hoping to find one that takes care of the showers/baths too. Thanks! Tiffany
Hi Tiffany! I haven’t found one yet, sorry!
I need a water filter!!
What about the Seychelles water filter? That seems to have very good ratings but I haven’t found anything comparing it to Berkeley.
I get shower filters from Lifekind. I think they just filter chlorine though.
Unfortunately, I am not familiar with Seychelles! Sorry I can’t be more helpful!
Wow! I didn’t realize their was something better than my brita, I would love this!!
What a great give away! Thank you!!!
Awesome giveaway. Thanks!
I would love to win a Berkey.!!
i posted on facebook! woot woot
I’d love to win one of these! Thanks for the info and giveaway!
Oh, I want one of these soooo bad!
Posted to facebook
posted to facebook
After your blog pot about making your own electrolyte drink, I started looking into the Berkley water filter systems. I would LOVE to get one of these for my home!! My husband recently lost his job so it’s not in our budget to get one right now. I am hoping to win one!
Hi! I wanted to buy one, since I didn’t win it ;), and was wondering which was the real berkey website. I’ve seen so many and wanted to have the real one. Thanks!
I’ve been using Kishu charcoal sticks. Do you know anything about how they compare?
Allie, Unfortunately I don’t. I know that the additional white filters also eliminate some fluoride, so that may be one thing to look into.
I’ve read that Brita doesn’t get out nearly as many pesticides and heavy metals as PUR water filters, which is what we use, also available at Wal Mart.
Heather
I am looking at purchasing a Berkey. What size do you own?
Hi Lisette, I don’t use mine anymore because my husband and I bought a farm with a pure water source. I can’t recall exactly what size I used, but it was the one that was second to the largest. One thing to keep in mind: there have been reports that the fluoride filters are not very effective at removing fluoride. I tested mine and was unimpressed with the results, but I was not able to duplicate the test because 3M removed their fluoride testing kits from the marketplace.
Do you have any recommendation on purchasing a water filtration system in light of the fluoride issue mentioned in the previous comments? I was almost completely convinced to purchase the berkey but have come across reports of the fluoride not being filtered out (which is concerning since this is at the top of my list of reasons to purchase a filter). Any advice/ update would be greatly appreciated as I respect you and also want to say thanks for your blog.
we have used bottled distilled water since 1992,
((avoiding fluoride, and all the other (over 100) toxins in the tap water))
AND
for six weeks or so even used the bottled distilled water for bathing – heat up on the stove – AND THAT MADE A DISTINCT OBSERVABLE IMPROVEMENT IN OUT HEALTH.
now we still drink bottled distilled water (try different brands as there is a difference) …. AND ALWAYS on the shower water supply put a filter too.
ALWAYS , ALWAYS, ALWAYS. many people that have got a shower filter, in 3 days use, get to stop going to the doctor for a previous every month visit for itchy skin (many different diagnosis) , and NONE(almost) of the doctors will tell their patients “it’s the tap water”; but it USUALLY IS, according to anecdotal (haha) reports. (and published water tests)
But distilled water is too acidic isn’t it? What system do you use?
I never once checked the acidity of any distilled or any other water. Only got sick drinking tap water within half hour – upset stomach right away, and diarrhea for about 24 hours on/off…. ((found out this is common ))…
Also had read/ continue to/ that all the natural cncr clinics and other health and wellness clinics always use(d) distilled water… ((kxxxxx water is a lot more expensive and highly profitable so it may be used more places now, especially in japan where it was greatly marketed ‘apparently’ (no first hand knowledge of this) ))….
So,
if there’s a concern with acidity, which I’ve never much hear of even until recent years anyway, find a way to test it or take a step at a time ((how we usually did)) and see what works for you….. It is truly amazing what the journey reveals when people start to seek the truth !
((we buy, gallon size plastic((i know, ugh! )) bottles as the most accessible, most convenient and readily available, and most consistent quality ( try various brands if needed and/or possible – ozarka and reasors have been perfect for us: some others not so good for whatever reason(s) ))
Tap water isn’t even good to bathe in , shower in, or cook with! The gubberrnment had the option to filter out all the bad stuff, but even with a lot of public pressure to do so , and expert testimony/witnesses against cholormeany (sic) , guess what !? Yep, even the FISH CANNOT DRINK IT, nor swim in it, without dying !! How’s that for gubberrnment protecting its citiznes (sic) ?? …. sorry , I’ll put my soapbox away for now… ENJOY distilled water WHILE you can…. under $2.00 per gallon…. is a bargain compared to the alternative of disease tap water causes… some filters MIGHT DO AS WELL — I don’t have time , energy, and money to test them… yet anyway…
Hi Heather and others,
Do you know how the SS Gravity Filter available via Radiant Life compares to the Berkey?
http://www.radiantlifecatalog.com/product/ss-drinking-water-gravity-filter/drinking-water-systems
Thanks!
Rose
Hi Heather! Reading your post really gave me a big smile. I have Berkey in my home and I couldn’t be more proud and boastful about using this amazing water filter. Cheers to a healthy drinking water. Great post!
Haha, the system DOES look like an ice tea container. Glad the Berkey worked for you. It looks like a great countertop filter option.
Hi,
I’ve seen comments about the Berkey not filtering fluoride well, the filter e rd leaking, leaving their water milky, and rust inside the Berkey. Do you still use yours or do you still feel it’s a good system? Is there another system you would recommend? I would like to purchase one, but I’m not so sure with all the reviews I’ve seen. Any feedback would be great!
Thanks!
Hi Heather! I never thought about how unhealthy tap water is. This is truly beneficial for my whole family. Very interesting!
Hi Heather,
Do you have an affiliate link that I can use to purchase the Berkey filter? Thanks 🙂
Have you tried the Zerowater?
Hi Heather.
Have you or could you write something about Kangen/Chanson/Tyent waterpurifying and alcalizing machines? Do they really work and which one is the best?
Thanks 🙂
Hi Heather, do you still like this filter? Reviews on Amazon are not great… wondering if you still use yours and have you been having good results?
Hey Julie, a few years ago I moved to a farm that had clean, spring fed water so I stopped using my Berkey for awhile. We recently relocated again and I’m researching the best options that are available now. Will post an update with what I learn!
Thank so much! I really appreciate all your research!
I just get my new water filter. Thank you for sharing this useful information with others!
I clicked on the “Mama Says” link and ended up with scantily clad porno ads that I couldn’t get out of. You may want to check your link.
Oh my goodness, thank you for letting me know. I just removed the link.
Hi Heather,
I’ve been a long time subscriber to your website (with a shortcut on my phone and laptop!).
I used to live in CA in the Central Valley where water quality is a major issue. I worked for a non-profit that assists low income communities with their water and wastewater challenges. One of the communities I had was a 15 connection community with high arsenic levels in their well (naturally occurring) and we had to find the best, most efficient, cost effective way to provide them with safe water. We tested 3 units; 2 reverse osmosis units and one from MultiPure. After 3 months of average use in volunteer homes, we found that the MultuPure unit was by far the most cost effective, most efficient device for their situation. Unlike an RO system, there was only one activated charcoal filter to change, there was continuous flow, and the overall cost of the unit and the filter was much less than RO systems. After a 3 month test (all the state would allow), the community, the state, and my company decided the MultuPure was the best option. Its small footprint under the sink also fit the communities’ needs. Through the regular testing, we found that breakthrough (of arsenic) did not occur until 1,200 gallons, and still did not exceed the MCL for arsenic.
This was 4 years ago and the community still has the units in place and operational. Paid for through a state grant, they were the first community in CA using POUs for safe water. I think the company has a countertop version; have you ever looked at them or done any research on them? If not, I’d appreciate it. At the time of installation, I was impressed by the contaminants it removed, per NSF certification, including many pharmaceuticals. As you know, RO systems strip water of everything, including the minerals we want from water. This system didn’t.
I now live in TX where the water is MUCH better, but you have me thinking again about all the contaminants that are in our drinking water that municipalities do not have to test for. I have a grandson now so I may be purchasing another system. If you could review the MultuPure system I’d greatly appreciate it.
Thank you for all you do to help us all lead cleaner, safer lives!
Thank you for what you do! Is there also information available about graphene levels in filtered drinking water, since graphene is used in water filtering solutions a couple of years.
Hi,
If a water pitcher is left on the counter, especially in warm temperatures, can bacteria such as H pylori grow? Does putting the pitcher in the frig decrease/ negate this potential problem?
Come on dude….randomly came here to read about one of the pitcher filters and I see the issues with the berkey for the first time….its not your fault you were duped by berkey too but after years and years of mentions of berkey on your website I REALLY REALLY would have appreciated an email blast last summer (or whenever you found that study or facebook post about the aluminum levels) with a subject line like “THERES ALUMINUM IN YOUR BERKEY WATER” to make it really obvious, not hidden in posts like this one for ppl to maybe stumble across (especially since now that I have a filter I’m way less likely to read posts about water filters that pop up in your regular weekly round up emails). My 18 month old and I have been drinking berkey water since she was born. You must have so many email subscribers like me who have purchased berkeys from your past recommendations and affiliate links on your site that just have no idea.
Hi Caitlin,
First, I hear your concerns, and I completely get where you are coming from. To clarify, I wasn’t trying to hide anything by publishing this new info within the context of a larger article.
When this post was published it had been eleven years since I wrote a series on water filtration, and due to the age of the posts they received almost no visits in the last several years. Because I lived on a farm with well water for many years, there was a large gap in time between my initial research and the research I published last year.
That said, when I became aware of fluoride removal concerns I did update those old articles, but it wasn’t until researching for the current series that I came across concerns regarding aluminum.
I think the concerns regarding aluminum are significant enough that readers should be made aware and decide for themselves what their comfort level is.
However, because I have not been able to verify claims either way – in favor of either the person who posted the labs or Berkey – I don’t feel comfortable making a definitive claim regarding what the filters do or don’t do.
What do u think of epic pure filtration system?
How do the Pur water filters that attatch to the faucet do for filtering out toxins? These do not take up any counter space.
Hi Heather! Just want to thank you for all of your wonderful most trusted research ! You are a treasure ! I look forward to your emails each week and so appreciate them ! 💕Linda
Thank you for the kind words, Linda! 💕
Do you have a recommendation for a filter to use when traveling? I like to travel with only a carryon and the pitchers take up too much space. I prefer something that uses gravity since I like to add electrolytes to the water afterwards. I am currently trying the GeoPress water bottle by Grayl, but am finding that pushing the filter down can be physically taxing…It meets the space saving requirement though and the ability to add electrolytes afterwards.
I travel with my Clearly Filtered pitcher and/or my Clearly Filtered water bottles.
How does Alexa-Pure counter top gravity filter stack up?
I appreciate that you included information about each filter’s filtration process and what contaminants they target. It really helped me understand the differences between the various models. It would be interesting to learn more about how these filters compare in terms of environmental impact and sustainability.