berkey water tastes bad
Many people note that a Berkey water filter successfully purifies water, though it still sometimes causes an unsatisfactory taste. The surprising metal taste, unpleasant smell, or odd plastic-ish taste can detract from the reason you bought your water in the first place. People don’t want to feel unsure about their water after trusting a respected filtration device. It is very common for people to ask, “Why does my Berkey water taste bad?”
Why Your Berkey Water Might Taste Off
Understanding why unusual tastes happen can make it much easier to solve the issue. Below are the main reasons and actions to take for each one.
Improper Priming of the Black Berkey Filters
Regularly, a new Black Berkey filter should be primed to clear out the dust left on it during manufacturing. Failing to wait or taking too little time can cause the tea to taste chalky or very metallic. Taking only a few minutes, using the included priming button or a special priming tool can take care of this issue. Allow the tap to run for at least one minute while it changes from water to filtered water. Complete the installation, then leave the water in the unit for some time. Discard the first batch before tasting the second round. This one adjustment often resolves many complaints that Berkey water tastes bad right out of the box.
Rubber Washer Odors and Tastes
Sometimes, the rubber washers and plugs inside the upper chamber can make a small chemical scent when it is hot or sunny. Failure to clean them properly might give the water an unpleasant taste similar to plastic or rubber. Rinse the parts with soapy water before putting them in water mixed with vinegar for half an hour. Scrub gently and rinse completely before reinstalling. A quick cleaning of your kitchen could remove the source of the odd-tasting food.
Stale Water Sitting Too Long
If filtered water spends too much time in the lower tank without being used, it can begin to taste flat or a little musty. Even clean water benefits from regular circulation. You should empty the reservoir, wash it, and add fresh water every two days. If you will not use your Berkey for some time, clean it before you start using it again. Many users who experience that their Berkey water tastes bad after vacation find the issue resolves with a simple rinse and refill.
Unclean Stainless Steel Chambers
Even though the stainless steel exterior looks good, it can become covered with residue or mineral spots over time, which may contribute to strange aftertastes or odors. Rinse the chambers with warm water, use dish soap, and wipe them down with a soft material every two weeks. If you like, add one teaspoon of baking soda to your cleaner to eliminate the smell more effectively. Make sure everything is completely dry before reassembling.
Using Cold Water for Filtering
Tap water should not be so cold as to delay filtration, and some users mention a strange taste when filtering frigid water. The filters function best at room temperature. If the water is from a refrigerator line or hose outside, let it warm up for a little before using it. This minor change can reduce issues where Berkey water tastes bad and seems flat or overly mineralized.
High Mineral Content in Source Water
Even though Berkey filters get rid of many pollutants, they do not totally remove all the mineral traces in water. Tap water containing a lot of calcium or magnesium may taste slightly chalky or earthy after it is filtered. Examining the mineral concentration in your source water can help. Using post-filters or distilled water can coffee the final taste. If your region has hard water, brewing this way usually gives you much better-tasting coffee.
Residual Fluoride and Arsenic Filters
Filters used to reduce fluoride or arsenic are sometimes said to leave a sweet or chemical taste, primarily if they are not properly run during installation. Before you use them normally, go through the filter at least twice with water. In case the problem does not go away, you could try operating without filters for a couple of days to see if they’re the problem. Many who complain that their Berkey water tastes bad trace the issue back to these optional add-ons.
Improper Storage Conditions
Berkey systems perform better in some places than in others. If trash is near the sun, heat, or chemical cleaners, it can change the taste and smell of the trash. Keep your air purifier in a cool place shielded from household chemicals, cleaning sprays, and scented goods. People say they have noticed a change in their Berkey’s water when chemicals like air freshener or detergent are nearby.
Conclusion
Clean water should taste pure, not off-putting. Performing a few simple tasks and being cautious can make a significant difference. Tiny efforts like priming the filters and cleaning your system regularly play a big role in getting the expected results. If Berkey water tastes bad, you now have several tried-and-tested methods to improve its taste.
