What's the Difference Between Berkey and British Berkefeld?

As consumers become increasingly interested in water filtration solutions for their homes and offices, it is essential to understand the differences between popular brands on the market. This article explores the distinctions between Berkey and British Berkefeld, two leaders in water filtration, comparing their technology, performance, and value to help readers make an informed decision. Here is a little bit on each brand and then an overview of which is best to choose. 

Berkey Water Filters

Berkey, a brand synonymous with high-performance water filtration, has its roots in a commitment to quality and innovation. Berkey systems are designed to provide reliable and efficient water filtration, particularly in environments where access to clean water can be a challenge. Known for their gravity-fed filters, Berkey systems are popular among outdoor enthusiasts, emergency preparedness advocates, and households looking for a robust filtration solution. The brand prides itself on its unique carbon block technology, which is specifically engineered to address taste and odour & chemical contamination concerns while ensuring a high filtration capacity. 

Berkey filters use their own proprietary carbon block technology within their filtration units. The carbon block is primarily responsible for improving the taste and odour of the water, making it more palatable. Each filter has a lifespan of approximately 23,000 litres and a capacity to hold up to 8.5 litres of water at a time. Berkey systems are priced at a premium, costing around £365.00. However, it's important to note that their test results are based on extrapolated data, which might raise questions about long-term reliability and performance under varying conditions. 

British Berkefeld Water Filters

British Berkefeld, a name steeped in history, has been a pioneer in the field of water filtration since the early 19th century. With a strong heritage of British engineering and innovation, British Berkefeld filters are designed to offer superior filtration through the use of ceramic technology. The brand’s ceramic filters, combined with activated carbon, provide a thorough and certified approach to water filtration. British Berkefeld's commitment to quality is evident in its adherence to world-class testing protocols and NSF certification for many of its cartridges, ensuring that users receive water that meets stringent safety and health standards.

On the other hand, British Berkefeld employs a unique approach by incorporating ceramic combined with carbon within their filters. This combination not only tackles taste and odour but is also designed for superior filtration efficiency, trapping more contaminants. The ceramic filters are rigorously tested against international protocols, the 8.5L can is fully certified and the UltraSterayls is a certified replacement filter thus ensuring a high standard of quality and safety. These filters can handle up to 8.5 litres, effectively delivering 7.8 litres of filtered water. With afilter lifespan of 1,500 litres, British Berkefeld offers these at a significantly lower cost of£148.95, presenting a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Furthermore, the ceramic shell is cleanable, just a gentle scrub with an kitchen pad will  restore the flow, this is not easily done for a carbon block.

Comparative Analysis 

The core difference lies in the filtration technology and certification standards. While Berkey uses carbon blocks focusing on taste and longevity, British Berkefeld’s ceramic filters are designed for a more thorough filtration process, backed by NSF certification, which might appeal to those prioritising water safety over volume. The price difference is also significant, with British Berkefeld providing a more cost-effective solution. 

Both Berkey and British Berkefeld offer compelling features for different consumer needs. The choice between the two will largely depend on individual priorities such as budget, taste preference, volume needs, and desired level of filtration certification. We hope this has served as a guide to understanding these key factors, giving you a more informed purchase decision. 

For those interested in exploring more about British Berkefeld collection here.