Once you've used your elements:
The storage method depends on how long the Black Berkey filter elements will remain unused:
If the filters are not used for 4 to 15 days and you want to avoid having to prime them again, remove the filters from the water filter, place them in a sealable bag or container, and put them in the front of the refrigerator to prevent them from freezing. This keeps the filters mostly saturated (wet), so that re-priming is usually not necessary. If, for any reason, the filters are working more slowly than usual, prime them again until water droplets begin to form on the outer wall of the filter for 10 seconds.
For long-term storage, we recommend drying the filters and storing them in a sealed container. It’s important that they are completely dry before being stored long-term to prevent potential bacterial growth. One way to dry your filters is to leave them on a windowsill for one to three days and let them air dry. We also offer a tool to assist with both priming and purging: the Black Berkey Primer. The advantage of purging Black Berkey filter elements with the Black Berkey Primer is that they dry very quickly. Once the filters are completely dry, place them in a storage bag, such as a large, sealable bag. The elements are extremely powerful and can absorb odors and smoke from the air. By sealing them in a bag, they cannot absorb odors from the air. When you’re ready to use the filters again, clean them by scrubbing the outside with a scouring pad or a stiff brush. Then prime the filters again—either by hand or with the Black Berkey Primer—before reinserting them into the water filter.
In theory, the Black Berkey filter elements have an unlimited lifespan.
**Please note that the storage methods listed above apply only to Black Berkey filter cartridges.
If you've never used these elements before:
If the cartridges are unopened and still in their original packaging, make sure not to store them in a room with strong odors (such as a laundry room or garage). Since the elements contain carbon as one of their components, they may absorb odors from the room in which they are stored. For example, if they are stored in a laundry room, they may pick up the scent of strongly scented items such as laundry detergent.
** If you are also storing the top and bottom chambers of your Berkey system, it is best to empty both chambers before storing them. Water that sits for a long time promotes the growth and reproduction of bacteria. We recommend washing your Berkey system with soapy water before letting it dry.