Installation and priming

Installation begins with assembling the system: the chambers are assembled, the tap is installed on the lower chamber, then the filters are placed in the upper chamber and properly secured. This step ensures the system is mechanically ready.

Next comes the priming of the filters. This step is essential, as new filters contain air. Priming consists of passing water through each filter to prepare them for gravity operation. Without priming, the flow rate will be very slow during the first uses.

In practical terms, commissioning is done as follows:

→ Assemble the chambers and install the tap
→ Install and secure the filters in the upper chamber
→ Prime each filter before the first use
→ Fill the upper chamber and let the water flow naturally

On the very first use, it is recommended not to consume the first filtered water. Once these steps are completed, installation and priming are finished: the Berkey system is ready for normal daily use.

The video above shows you step by step how to install and prime your Berkey system. It allows you to concretely visualise each step before the first use.

What is priming?

New filter elements (Black Berkey, Phoenix or PF-2) contain air in their micropores. Priming means driving this air out by running water through each element until it is fully saturated. Without priming, water flows poorly and the flow rate remains very slow.

• For Black Berkey elements: the priming kit, which connects to your kitchen tap, or the Black Berkey Primer, a hand pump.
• For Phoenix elements: the PrimeEasy priming device, supplied with the elements.