Should You Buy the Berkey Filter Priming Kit for Reliable Water Filtration? Review Inside!

Description

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

Using the Berkey Filter Priming Kit (Item model number FPK-KIT) has been a game-changer in maintaining my Berkey water filtration system. One thing I’ve noticed while using this kit is how vital it is for extending the lifespan of the filters. Proper priming ensures that the filters work efficiently right from the start. I’ve primed both Black Berkey Elements and the PF-2 Fluoride Reduction Elements multiple times, and this kit makes the process much smoother compared to earlier methods. My cousin, who also uses Berkey systems, mentioned she could never get her filters primed perfectly without this kit, which led to uneven filtration and premature wear. This tool has saved us from the frustration of improper setups and keeps the filters ready to perform for their intended lifespan.

Features

This priming kit is packed with tools that make it a standout accessory for any Berkey filtration system. It includes the Prime Rite Universal Primer and the Prime Rite Fluoride Element Adaptor, which ensure a snug fit on various faucet types. The Anti-Airlock Clip is another clever addition; it prevents issues like vapor lock that can disrupt water flow. The red food dye vials allow you to test the system for leaks during assembly, which is a feature I didn’t realize I needed until I used it. These small but thoughtful inclusions make this kit invaluable, especially for someone like me who appreciates a foolproof setup process.

Ease of Installation & Use

Setting up the kit was straightforward, even for someone as DIY-challenged as me. The instructions were clear, and the components fit seamlessly with my Berkey system. My coworker tried borrowing the kit for her own setup, and even she, who claims to have “two left hands” when it comes to assembly, found it easy to use. I especially liked how the adapters ensured a tight seal with the faucet, reducing the chance of messy water sprays. The Anti-Airlock Clip was a lifesaver for avoiding those annoying airlocks that seemed to plague my system during seasonal changes.

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

While the Berkey Filter Priming Kit itself doesn’t directly filter water, its role in optimizing the filtration process cannot be overstated. The snug fit provided by the adapters ensures that the Black Berkey Elements and PF-2 Fluoride Filters are primed for peak performance. This means the water flowing through the system is filtered more effectively, delivering the high-quality results Berkey is known for. I conducted the red food dye test, and it confirmed that the system was assembled perfectly, with no leaks or inefficiencies.

Certifications

One thing I appreciated about this kit is its ANSI certification. It’s reassuring to know that the materials and design meet industry standards for safety and reliability. Certifications like this are important in maintaining trust in a product you rely on for something as essential as clean water.

Positives

Key Benefits:

• The kit includes adapters that provide a secure fit for a variety of faucet types.
• The Anti-Airlock Clip effectively prevents vapor lock, ensuring consistent water flow.
• Red food dye vials allow for easy system assembly verification.
• Durable and reusable components make it a long-term investment.
• Simplifies the priming process, reducing frustration and effort.

Flow Rate & Performance

Before using this kit, I struggled with inconsistent flow rates in my filtration system. The Anti-Airlock Clip has been a revelation, as it prevents vapor lock and ensures a steady flow of water. It’s especially helpful during the dry winters, where airlocks seemed to occur more frequently. My brother-in-law, who lives at a higher elevation, also noticed improved performance when he started using this kit with his system.

Warranty

The Berkey Filter Priming Kit comes with a warranty, which is always a plus. While I haven’t had to use it (the kit has been working flawlessly), it’s good to know that the manufacturer stands behind their product. A warranty provides peace of mind, especially for an accessory that plays such a crucial role in maintaining an expensive filtration system.

Negatives

Areas of Concern:

• The blue adapter piece doesn’t stretch well over larger or uniquely designed sink faucets.
• Some users, including myself, experienced minor water spills during priming.
• It would have been great if this kit was included with the original Berkey system purchase.

Capacity & Suitability

This kit is compatible with a range of Berkey systems, including models like the Travel Berkey, Big Berkey, and Crown Berkey. I’ve personally used it with my Big Berkey, and my neighbor tested it with her Travel Berkey. Both of us found it equally effective, making it a versatile tool for all Berkey users.

Competing Products

There are alternatives on the market, like the Berkey hand pump primer, but I found the manual effort required for those tools to be tedious. While the hand pump may be a better option for faucets with unique designs, the Berkey Filter Priming Kit stands out for its ease of use and added features like the Anti-Airlock Clip. Competing brands often lack these thoughtful inclusions, making this kit a more comprehensive solution.

Value for Money

For anyone who already owns a Berkey filtration system, this kit is worth every penny. The frustration saved during the priming process alone justifies the investment. Compared to other options, this kit offers better usability and durability, making it a smart choice for those who want to maintain their system efficiently without breaking the bank.

Additional information