If you have been researching filters lately, you might have encountered the Big Berkey vs Reverse Osmosis Filtration System: Which is Better and Why?. The two purification systems are often compared to each other due to their similarity in their working and functionality.
People buying a purification system for the first time often confuse these two products. If you also wonder which of these systems is better, you need to check out the following Big Berkey vs Reverse Osmosis Filtration System comparison and review.
This article will guide you on the two filtration systems’ usage, benefits, and price range. By the end of the article, you will be able to determine which of the two purification systems suits your needs the best.
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Big Berkey vs Reverse Osmosis System: A Detailed Comparison
The Big Berkey is a filtration media from Berkey’s company. At the same time, the reverse osmosis system is a standard water purification system used by multiple brands in their products. Therefore, we shall compare the Big Berkey purification system with the WaterDrop 800 GDP Reverse Osmosis filter for an apt comparison.
People often confuse the functioning of the two products, but in reality, they are utterly different from each other. Before directly heading towards comparing the filtration systems, it is obligatory to have their separate review first.
Big Berkey Water Filteration System
If you have searched for the most popular filtration systems, you probably have seen the Big Berkey water filter. The system is suitable for those people who want to utilize purified mineral water at their place. The following specifications and descriptions can guide you aptly regarding the mechanism and operation of this Big Berkey filter.
Specifications of Big Berkey Water Filtration System
| Serving Size | 1 to 4 people |
| Flow Rate | 7 Gallons per hour |
| Capacity of Tank | 3000 Gallons |
| Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Capacity for Filtered Water | 2.25 Gallons or 8.5 liters |
| Dimensions | 8.50 x 8.50 x 21.00 inches |
| Weight | 7 lbs |
| Editor choice | Big Berkey Water Filtration System |
Mechanism and Filtration Quality
The Big Berkely filtration system purifies the water without removing essential minerals like potassium, manganese, iron, and calcium. Thus, it can be said that from the Big Berkey filter, one can obtain mineral water.
Contrary to some common misconceptions, this filtration system is not affected by its capability of not removing minerals. Instead, it can remove 99.99% of contaminants and viruses polluting the water.
Big Berkey does selective filtration in which it only targets pathogenic bacteria, parasites, viruses, and other contaminants. The filtration media of this purification system is permeable to minerals, while it ejects all the pollutants out of the system.
The filtration system depends on gravity to remove the contaminants from the filter. When pushed by gravity, the microscopic pores of the filtration media separate the harmful particles from the rest of the minerals and water.
Once separated, the filtered water is then passed onto the collection tank. While the debris is then systematically removed from the filter via the pipes. During this process, a small amount of water comprising contaminants is also released through the system and needs to be disposed of aptly.
Now talking about the contaminants that Big Berkey can remove, this filter can remove everything from aluminum, VOCs, chlorine, pathogens, and heavy metals like lead, zinc, etc. The company claims this filter to be certified with Standard NSF 42 and 53 requirements, implying that its filtration levels are utterly safe.
Capacity and Flow Rate of Big Berkey
While discussing a filtration system, it is also crucial to discuss its capacity, size, and flow rate. Big Berkey filter can be used in up to four rooms. When all four filtration slots of the tank medium are functional, the filter’s flow rate is about 7 Gallons per hour, which is optimal for the size of this purification system.
Since this water filtration system involves gravity in its working mechanism; therefore, the more water added to the medium, the better pressure will be created. Thus, the flow rate of the filtered water will ultimately be increased.
The overall capacity of the Big Berkey is around 2.25 gallons, which converts to about 8.5 liters of water. It takes about two hours and fifteen minutes (2h 15m) for the entire tank to fill up. This much water is sufficient enough to keep a dozen people hydrated throughout the day.
We recommend the Big Berkey to medium-sized families, as it is sufficient for six to seven people. If too much pressure is put on the filtration system, the filter’s promised lifetime will ultimately diminish.
Power Requirements
The best part about the Big Berkey filter is that it does not require electrical power. The system works on a self-generated mechanism and directly takes aid from the gravitational force.
Therefore, this filtration system is perfect for those seeking a sustainable and affordable product. Big Berkey saves you from paying huge electricity bills every month. Besides, the exclusion of power usage also makes this mechanism safer and suitable for families with kids.
Budget Margin
Budget is undoubtedly one of the most crucial aspects that one must not ignore while buying a water filtration system. The Big Berkey water filters are price-wise incredible. First, they don’t use electricity, implying that you won’t have to spend much on monthly electrical bills.
Compared to other filtration systems in the market, they are much more affordable. Within a minimal budget, you get to have the complete filtration package. With the Big Berkey filters, you won’t have to buy other installation equipment separately. These filters come with a kit that includes all the required induction tools.
Moreover, the Big Berkey filters are supported with a lifetime warranty, and their construction is pretty sturdy. Therefore, investing in a Berkey filter is an apt choice as you won’t have to spend again and again on making general repairs. The filter has quite a long warranty, making it a one-time investment.
Eco-Friendly Functioning
One of the biggest aspects of the Big Berkey filter, which the company immensely talks about, is its eco-friendly operation. The US water filtration industry utilizes non-renewable fuels and produces tons of un-recyclable waste yearly.
According to a survey from ‘Earth Policy Institute,’ bottled water production in the US requires up to 18 million barrels of oil. Furthermore, producing mineral water at an industrial scale churns out more than 70 million plastic bottles, directly adding to landfill waste.
However, the Big Berkey contributes zero percent to this waste, which makes the functioning of these filters eco-friendly. The filter produces no waste and requires no fuel for its operation. Still, the quality of its filtered water is the same as that of mineral water. Thus, those who seek an environment-friendly alternative to bottled mineral water should consider opting for the Big Berkey systems.
Cleaning Procedure of Big Berkey
Like any other appliance, the water filtration systems also require cleaning from time to time. If you don’t clean the filtration tank, the filter’s functioning and water quality can be affected. That is why it is essential to acknowledge the apt cleaning and maintenance procedure for the Big Berkey filters.
First, you need to clean the outside body of the Berkey filter. A slightly damp cloth is recommended to scratch off the filter’s dirt. Do not use a sharp metal object, as it can damage the filter. Now that you are cleaning the outer part, it is time to move on to cleaning the inside tank.
Contrary to common misconception, you don’t need to de-assemble the tank to clean it. The Berkey company suggests you buy a syringe for cleaning the inner filter. Fill a large syringe with clean water and inject it at one end of the filtration system for back flushing.
Repeat the process about five times; ensure that you do the process appropriately and don’t spray the water all over yourself. After you finish it, expose both ends of the filter and let it dry. The cleaning process is almost hassle-free and quick. Since the cleaning procedure is so easy, it is recommended to maintain the filter as frequently as possible.
On average, you should repeat this process at least once every month. You can also employ this cleaning procedure if you notice a drop in the functioning of the filtration system. But if you notice any faulty parts in the system, you need to contact the manufacturer’s company and ask them for repair.
Installation and Re-priming Process of Big Berkey
When discussing the maintenance process, it is also crucial to discuss the installation procedure for the Big Berkey filter. Instead of plumbing, these filters require priming both during installation and afterward.
You will receive all the tools required for installation and priming with the filtration system. Besides, you will also get a manual that will guide you thoroughly regarding how to get the process done. Still, if you find the process difficult, then you can call for a plumber who will help you in this process.
Drawbacks
Though the Big Berkey filtration system comes with loads of benefits, there are still a few drawbacks associated with it that must be addressed. The following are a few disadvantages that were pretty evident in the Big Berkey filters.
- There are two chambers in the Berkey filter. The upper chamber filters the water, while the lower chamber stores it for use. The problem is that the lower chamber is slightly smaller. The upper chamber filters the water till it is empty. Thus, if you fill up the upper chamber, the filtered water may overflow from the lower one.
- Though Big Berkey filters get hardly damaged or require repairing when it gets damaged, you may need to pay a hefty price. The counterparts of the Berkey filters are of superior quality, consequently making their replacement rather expensive.
- You cannot realize how much water has been left in the lower chamber. You may need to open the tank repeatedly to analyze the quantity of water left in the tank.
- The plastic spigot of the Big Berkey filtration system is not of premium quality. Some customers have reported that their spigot got damaged too soon. Therefore, you may need to replace it after some time of purchase.
- The re-priming process can be pretty tiresome, as you must do it repeatedly.
WaterDrop Reverse Osmosis Filtration System
The WaterDrop Reverse Osmosis system is suitable for those who desire utterly clean without minerals and any other impurity. This filtration system is suitable for those places where water quality is poor and the water requires thorough filtration. Below is a detailed guide to the WaterDrop filters, which can guide you properly regarding the operation and usage of this product
Specification of WaterDrop Reverse Osmosis Filtration System
| Model | WD-G3P800-W |
| Flow Rate | 800 GPD |
| Feed Water Temperature | 5 to 38 degrees Celsius |
| Filtration Method | Reverse Osmosis Purification System |
| Filtration Rate | 99.9% |
| Dimensions | 18.06 x 5.65 x 17.75 inches |
| Weight | 32.6 lbs |
Mechanism and Filtration Quality
Its mechanism is the foremost aspect that needs to be analyzed in this purification system. The WaterDrop P3800 utilizes the reverse osmosis filtration system, completely removing all impurities. This purification system works upon a 9-stepped process, which involves sterilization of harmful particles and their removal from filtered water.
During these nine stages filtration process, the system reduces the percentage of PFAS and TDS. Besides, it removes toxicities like chromium, zinc, calcium salts, iron, and manganese salts from the water. However, the best part about the WaterDrop purification system is that it can separate lead deposits from water.
No matter how minimal the quantity of lead in the water is, it can cause potential health risks when consumed regularly. Therefore, if your water is tested positive for lead inclusion, you must use a purification system that removes lead from your water. Not that it is harmful to the inner body, but lead also deteriorates skin and hair quality.
Since it is an RO filter, thus, the contaminants and minerals are not removed through a physical process. Instead, the system utilizes the conventional biochemical procedure and has a partially permeable membrane. This membrane separates ions, minerals, molecules, and other large-sized particles from the water.
As a result, the water you get at the end of the filtration system is not only free from harmful impurities but also does not have any kind of minerals (healthy or unhealthy). It can be said that it WaterDrop RO filter produces pure water, which has no evident taste and is safest to consume.
Design
The aspect that makes this water filter different from other systems is that it is tankless. Usually, a water filter comes with a stainless steel tank, but this one requires no tank. Instead, it has a filtration unit that delivers water right after filtering it from the source.
The unit comprises eight extensive layers comprising a 3-stage filtration process and ensures that the water is cleaned properly. Beneath these stages, a scale layer is also present, which does the crucial task of diminishing the scale ratio in water.
Within the unit, a small LED chip has been installed. Not only does it emit light from the tank, but it is also responsible for finalizing the filtration procedure. The chip ensures the 99.99% removal of microscopic viruses and bacteria.
Most filtration systems utilize UV sterilizers for removing microscopic contaminants. But its use can be relatively harmful to consumers. Therefore, an LED chip has been used in this filter to make it more consumer-friendly, which is much more beneficial to health than typical sterilizers.
A TDS (Total Dissolved Salts) indicator is also present on the unit, which informs the reader about the filtration quality of the water. The unit is not so large and thus, can easily be installed under your kitchen sink. Unlike others, it does not store water but constantly filters it through the RO system.
The outer side of this purification system has an LCD panel, which displays the filter life. Moreover, it also indicates the TDS level and other essentials that needs acknowledgment in any filtration system.
For having such an unconventional yet functional design, the WaterDrop RO system has been awarded 2019’s German Red Dot Design award. The filter also meets the required NSI/NSF standards, as it can remove TDS particles by a remarkable 90%.
Water Conserving System
Probably the best part about this RO filter is that it does not waste water. Usually, a massive amount of water is lost during the purification process in a filtration system. But an RO (Reverse Osmosis) system is utterly opposite to such typical filtration systems.
According to the official study by the WaterDrop company, this RO filter can conserve water 12 times more than any other purifier. The filter is also certified by Federal Communications Commission and fulfills the European standards, ultimately making it one of the best RO filters in the market.
Capacity
Compared to the previous filter, this one can be attached only to a faucet and not the waterline. This means that you cannot connect it with multiple faucets all around the home. The WaterDrop G3P800 is strictly intended for drinking purposes; therefore, you can attach it only to one water supply.
Budget Margin
RO (Reverse Osmosis) filers can be incredibly expensive, as they utilize an advanced purification system. But this one is different as it does not only causes effective filtration but is also more affordable than most filtration systems.
Besides, this RO filter comes with an installation kit that ensures you won’t need to invest sideways for installing and maintaining the WaterDrop RO filter. If you analyze the quality of this filter, then you will find its price to be incredibly cheap compared to its functionality.
All its parts are made of premium quality materials that can be used for a long time. The construction is also pretty sturdy, implying that this product is suitable for long-term usage and won’t require frequent repair.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning this RO filter won’t be a problem for you, as this purification system self-cleans, without causing any water loss. One of the eight layers of this system is responsible for cleaning the insides of the RO filter. Thus, you won’t need to worry about cleaning, as the filter will self-cleanse itself from time to time.
However, it is the maintenance part where you will need to focus more. One of the layers in this system is the CF filter, which will need to be replaced after a certain period. The suggested period for its replacement is about six months, but the system can work aptly for up to 8 months without change.
But after that, the filter will start to malfunction, and consequently, water quality will degrade. Therefore, if you want the WaterDrop system to work aptly, without any drop in its functionality, replace the CF filter after the advised period.
But its UV lamp is probably the best part of this filter. Not only does it offer extreme functionality, but its maintenance is also pretty minimal. This UV lamp can function aptly for up to 50 years without any maintenance.
Installation Procedure
If you seek a filtration system that can be easily installed, then G3P800 is one of the best RO filters to seek. Usually, an RO purification system is very complex and difficult to install. But this purification system has broken all such norms by bringing ease to its installation process.
The WaterDrop filtration unit comes with a tube that can be directly connected to the sink. Since its design is pretty compact, you can easily place it beneath or at the side of the sink or whatever place you desire. Moreover, you are not required to plumb it into the waterline. Instead, its connection with the faucet is sufficient.
Though it might seem to be a difficult task, the process is not that difficult in actuality. The purification system comes with all the required tools that you will need for installing the filter. Therefore, you won’t need to buy installation tools separately.
Besides, you will also not need to buy the maintenance kit separately for this purification system. The reason is that the installation kit includes all the essential tools required for maintaining and cleaning the filter from time to time. Thus, it can be said that this tool is also cost-effective as it does not require you to invest in buying extra tools and kits.
Drawbacks
WaterDrop G3P800 is undoubtedly one of the best RO filters in the market, but there are still some major drawbacks. The following are the most significant drawbacks associated with this filter.
- The WaterDrop G3P800 is not a whole-house filtration system. It can only be attached to a few faucets.
- The filter cannot treat well-water aptly. Though this system has eight intensive filtration layers, its mechanism is unsuitable for treating well water.
- The maintenance cost for this filter can be pretty high, as you have to change the CF filter every six months.
- The pressure quality of a tankless filter is not as good as the ones with a tank.
- The alkaline remineralization feature is absent from this filter. Instead, it removes every kind of impurity (Good or Bad) from the water.
- Unlike the previous filter, this one requires electricity for its function.
Conclusion:
Big Berkey vs Reverse Osmosis Filtration System: Which is Better?
Berkey vs Reverse Osmosis is one of the most searched comparisons regarding filters. If you are seeking a spacious filter, then in this Berkey vs Reverse Osmosis comparison, Berkey wins.
But if you seek a water purification system that can completely filter water, nothing can be better than the WaterDrop RO system. Therefore, it depends upon your needs and requirements, which filtration system is suitable for you.