Berkey, British Berkefeld or Pure Filters: whatever gravity system you have, looking after it follows the same logic. Clean chambers, filters cleaned when the flow rate slows, and elements replaced on time. What changes from one brand to another is mainly how the filters are cleaned and when they need replacing. Here is the common method, followed by the specific instructions for each filter.
Three rules that apply to every system
Before going into the brand-by-brand details, remember these three points. They cover the essentials of maintenance, whichever model sits on your worktop.
Step 1
The chambers and the tap
This part is the same for every gravity system sold by NiceWater. The stainless steel chambers are easy to clean and need no special product.
Empty and dismantle
Empty both chambers, lift off the upper chamber and unscrew the filters. Lay them flat on a clean cloth, somewhere they cannot roll or fall.
Wash in warm soapy water
Use a soft sponge or a microfibre cloth. Avoid metal scourers, which scratch stainless steel.
Rinse thoroughly
No trace of soap should remain in the chambers. Dry with a clean cloth before reassembling the system.
Don’t forget the tap
Take it apart and wash it the same way. If there are limescale deposits, soaking it in white vinegar and then rinsing it well is enough.
Step 2
The filters, by brand
A filter needs cleaning when the flow rate drops noticeably. Over time, particles build up on its surface and slow the water down. Gentle cleaning removes this build-up and restores the flow. Find the filter fitted in your system below.
Phoenix Gravity (New Millennium)
Big, Royal, Imperial, Crown, Travel, Go and Berkey Light
- Under cold running water, gently scrub each filter with a green Scotch-Brite®-type scouring pad, new and kept for this purpose only: the green pad sold on its own, or the green side of an ordinary kitchen sponge. A stiff-bristled brush, such as a new vegetable brush, also works.
- Never use soap, detergent or hot water.
- Re-prime the filters after each cleaning, using the PrimeEasy™ universal primer supplied, before refitting them.
- After a replacement, carry out the test with the red food colouring supplied to check that each filter is properly sealed.
Ultra Sterasyl and Ultra Fluoride
British Berkefeld 1, 6, 8.5 and 12 litre systems
- Hold the cartridge under running water or in a bowl of water, keeping the plastic part out of the water.
- Wrap a soft-bristled brush (such as a new toothbrush) or a slightly abrasive sponge (such as a non-scratch kitchen sponge) around the ceramic. Work slowly down the full length with light pressure, in a single pass.
- Never use soap or detergent on the ceramic.
- After cleaning, run about one litre of water through and discard it before drinking.
Coldstream FTO+
Pure Filters Voyager, Home and Family systems
- Remove the cartridge and gently scrub its outer surface under cold running water with a green Scotch-Brite®-type scouring pad, clean and kept for this purpose only.
- Do not use any cleaning product.
- Rinse, then refit the cartridge.
Have you fitted FTO+ filters in another gravity system? Follow the instructions on this card: they depend on the filter, not the chamber.
Step 3
The right schedule at a glance
A well-maintained filter delivers its full capacity.
Without maintenance, surface deposits slow filtration so much that you end up replacing the filters too early. Regular cleaning restores the flow rate and lets you use them for the full lifespan set by the manufacturer.
Cleaning does not extend that lifespan, however. Once the volume or time limit is reached, replace the filters even if the flow rate is still good. A filter can keep flowing normally even after its adsorption capacity is used up.
Going away for a few days?
Water left standing in a system for several days is never ideal. Before an absence of three days or more, empty both chambers and let all the parts air-dry. Let the filters dry too, then store them away from light and odours, somewhere they cannot fall.
When you return, prepare the filters again before reassembling the system: priming for Phoenix elements, a few discarded fills for ceramic cartridges.
Your maintenance routine
Keep this list handy: it covers all NiceWater gravity systems.
- I wash the chambers and the tap in warm soapy water about once a month.
- I clean the filters in cold water, without soap, when the flow rate slows.
- I use the right tool for my filter: a green scouring pad for Berkey and Coldstream, a soft brush or non-scratch sponge for British Berkefeld.
- I prepare my filters after cleaning, an absence or a replacement.
- I note the date my filters were fitted so I know when to replace them.
- I keep a single filter model per chamber.
Key takeaways
Maintaining a gravity system takes a quarter of an hour and requires no special products. The chambers are all washed the same way. The filters, however, each have their own method and lifespan. Follow the card for your filter, note the installation date, and your system will give you pleasant-tasting water for a long time.
Need replacement filters?
Find the purification elements for each brand, or contact us if you are unsure which model your system is.
Sources & references
- Doulton: instructions for use and care of British Berkefeld gravity systems. Instructions (PDF)
- Doulton: frequently asked questions on caring for ceramic filters. doulton.com
- Doulton: British Berkefeld guide, replacing Ultra cartridges. doulton.com
- Pure Filters: installation and maintenance manual for gravity systems. Manual (PDF)
- New Millennium Concepts: Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition™ elements. berkeywater.com