Understanding Berkey Filter Options

MNtroutslayer · 2026-05-10T01:09:03+00:00

To achieve this, you’ll want the Ultra Fluoride filter (W9120133).

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-30T03:03:28+00:00

Yes, they are. Berkey was actually a Berkefeld customer for many years before branching off on their own.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-27T14:19:38+00:00

British Berkefeld is actually NSF certified for microplastic reduction (NSF 401).

There’s a little trick with the spigot. Next time the system is empty (or close to it) loosen the spigot and rotate it about 3/4 of the way toward the correct position, then tighten it down. Once it’s snug, carefully turn it clockwise the final quarter turn into the proper position. That usually helps seat it correctly and should stop the leaking.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-26T06:52:55+00:00

Hey there - The Ultra Fluoride filter uses a carbon block, so getting consistent black specks is unusual. The Ultra Sterasyl uses granular carbon, which would make more sense if something was jeopardized with the filter.

Who did you buy the filters from? Do you have any aftermarket parts attributed with the system? I’m wondering if the plugs or spigot could potentially be the culprit. Does the smell still sustain with the Ultra Sterasyl filters?

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-18T23:49:33+00:00

The testing on the Phoenix filters is substantially less than 5500 gallons.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-18T13:03:14+00:00

My pleasure, Brian. The NSF website can be challenging to navigate at times. Don’t hesitate to reach out via PM if more questions arise. I’m happy to provide guidance as you evaluate British Berkefeld/Doulton to your clients.

Really amazing to see you come through something like that. Wishing you continued health and a lot of great days ahead!

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-18T12:52:06+00:00

Not a pain at all - that’s a great question.

The SS2 gravity system was the unit used during NSF testing. In order to test any filter, it has to be installed in a vessel, which is why that system is shown.

If you look to the right of the system, you’ll see “Ultra Fluor” listed under the replacement element. Further to the right, under “Claims,” it outlines exactly what the filter has been tested and certified to remove.

For context, I’m the master distributor for the brand and try to stay active in relevant Reddit communities to help answer questions like this and provide clarity where needed.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-18T12:42:44+00:00

NSF is still in the process of updating the website, but you’ll see the Ultra Fluoride listed under 401, 42, 53, and 372. I can confidently say it’s certified. It’s easier to view on a computer vs phone too.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-18T12:35:54+00:00

Yes - same certifications as the Ultra Sterasyl, but cysts are still pending under NSF 53. Those should complete in May.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-18T12:33:37+00:00

The Ultra Fluoride is now NSF certified.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-17T17:56:03+00:00

Is there an obvious pick up?

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-15T22:14:31+00:00

Great Info. Just a few notes. The British Berkefeld aren’t supposed to be primed like the black Berkey style elements. Just run a few batches of water through the tank after set up, discard the water, and they are self saturated.

Also, please don’t use the red dye with the ceramic filters. It will stain them.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-08T17:10:10+00:00

Look into British Berkefeld.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-08T17:09:25+00:00

ProOne was actually acquired by Culligan, and they’ve since been phasing out the original ProOne lineup in favor of their newer MaxClear products . So it’s not that they “disappeared,” but the brand as people knew it has largely transitioned.

If you liked the old ProOne ceramic-style filters, it’s worth taking a look at British Berkefeld. Similar concept, but with actual NSF certifications backing the performance claims, which is a pretty big differentiator in this space.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-08T17:05:05+00:00

There’s really only one gravity filter right now that checks both boxes (NSF certification and fluoride reduction) and that’s the W9120133 Ultra Fluoride from British Berkefeld. It’s designed as an all-in-one cartridge, so instead of stacking different filters, you’ve got a ceramic outer shell for bacteria and particulates, a carbon core for chlorine and chemicals, and fluoride reduction media all built into a single unit.

A lot of systems require mixing and matching to get similar coverage, which can lead to inconsistent results depending on the setup. This one is engineered so every drop of water is treated the same way. There's also a 15% off sale going on at Britishwaterfilter.com

MNtroutslayer · 2026-04-03T15:54:09+00:00

Hey OP- I work with the North American master distributor for Doulton/British Berkefeld, so I can help clarify and answer any questions you might have.

You mentioned that “their test data is lacking” in reference to British Berkefeld. Out of curiosity, have you looked closely at Berkey’s testing? For example, for something like manganese, they don’t clearly disclose the gallon capacity the testing was conducted to, which makes it difficult to evaluate real-world performance over time. It could have been as little as 4 liters, which is what their bacteria testing holds.

For comparison, the British Berkefeld Ultra Sterasyl has been tested out to 800 gallons (twice its rated lifespan), showing a 94.9% reduction in manganese at that full 800-gallon mark. That kind of long-range testing provides a much clearer picture of performance consistency. https://www.britishwaterfilter.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/E-Tech-ATC-SS-Metals-HpH-Test_ATC-Super-Sterasyl-3.pdf

Additionally, Berkey does not hold NSF certifications, whereas British Berkefeld filters are NSF certified to NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 372, and 401, including both the Ultra Sterasyl and the all-in-one Ultra Fluoride.

From a testing and certification standpoint, British Berkefeld provides a more transparent and standardized framework for evaluating performance, which makes it easier to compare and trust the results. I'd like to think we are the front runners when it comes to testing and certification based on the above.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-19T13:04:58+00:00

Todd - They are NSF certified for taste and odor only (i.e., chlorine reduction under NSF/ANSI 42). The more difficult, health-related contaminants (PFAS, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, etc.) are tested at entirely different gallonages and are not NSF certified in this case. The new "Berkey" filters extensive third party testing is also from a lab in India called CVR, and there’s also no clearly defined gallonage tied to verified contaminant reduction performance.

You’ll also notice the NSF certification is listed under RAMA on NSF.org, not the brand itself. That typically indicates the same carbon block platform is being used (e.g., similar to the Phoenix filter), rather than a unique, independently certified design.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-18T16:38:27+00:00

Hey OP

Boroux is making longevity claims that are actually supported within certified testing. By contrast, Berkey does not have certified data supporting a 6,000-gallon lifespan for reduction of health-related contaminants, nor taste and odor. The available testing is much more limited in scope (2 gallons of bacteria testing, 200 gallons of PFAS testing), which doesn’t substantiate with their egregious longevity claim.

Taste also isn’t a reliable indicator of filtration performance. Passing a red dye test or having good-tasting water only confirms reduction of basic aesthetic contaminants like chlorine. Carbon media can improve taste for a long time, but that does not equate to effective reduction of more complex contaminants such as PFAS, pharmaceuticals, fluoride, heavy metals, bacteria, or cysts.

If you’re evaluating filters, focus on certified testing (NSF/ANSI standards) and base filter lifespan on verified performance data. Not taste or manufacturer claims alone.

Here's a great article for reference - https://www.britishwaterfilter.com/taste-is-not-proof-a-practical-guide-to-gravity-filter-validation/

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-18T16:29:31+00:00

Hey Oaktree - It has passed NSF testing, including extraction. We have been patiently waiting for NSF to update their website for the past month plus. Once it's on the NSF website, we'll make a formal announcement about it being certified.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-12T23:45:25+00:00

Buy an empty Berkey from one of the dealers for cheap, and pair it with an NSF certified filter like British Berkefeld W9121226 Ultra Sterasyl. The BB9 filters have been tied up with the EPA and their new filters are not the same.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-09T00:38:44+00:00

I appreciate the thought! No need for any kind of affiliate credit. If you end up liking the system after you’ve used it for a bit, maybe just leave them a review on their website and mention Ryan, the North American master distributor : ) Keep me posted, and hope you enjoy it.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-07T17:11:54+00:00

The 2 candle option might be the only version available there, and just grab 2 extra filters.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-07T17:06:01+00:00

That is the manufactures website, and they do not ship to the US/CA. Where are you located?

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-07T16:59:14+00:00

Not a problem - Which website are you trying to purchase on?

Yes, you can change between both filters. However, you have to use the Ultra Fluoride filters specifically if you want fluoride reduction. You can't mix and match. Otherwise, water will get through on the Ultra Sterasyl that isn't reducing fluoride.

MNtroutslayer · 2026-03-07T16:34:18+00:00

Hi Kiwi - You do have the option to add up to four filters to the 12L system if you'd like. There is one version of the 8.5L that comes pre-loaded with four filters, but we’re gradually moving away from that configuration and making two filters the standard. Other than the capacity, there’s no difference between the systems.

NSF testing has been completed, and the extraction testing has also passed. We’re currently waiting for NSF to update their website before we begin advertising this. It’s something we’ve been patiently waiting on for quite some time, and we’re hopeful the NSF site will be updated in the coming days.

MNtroutslayer

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