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Do Berkey systems remove heavy metals from drinking water?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

Berkey systems use a proprietary filter element that is capable of removing a wide range of contaminants including heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and other impurities. This makes Berkey systems an effective solution for removing heavy metals from drinking water. The filters can remove up to 99.9999999% of contaminants.

How Berkey Systems Work

Berkey systems employ a two-stage filtration process. The first stage uses a black filter element that contains a unique blend of activated carbon and ion exchange resins, which removes impurities and heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic. The second stage uses a white filter element that contains a proprietary blend of activated carbon and ceramic media, which removes any remaining impurities and extends the life of the filter.

Contaminant Removal Specifications

Berkey systems have been independently tested and certified to remove a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and other impurities. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the filters can remove up to 99.9999999% of contaminants, including lead, mercury, and arsenic. In fact, the filters have been shown to remove 99.9999999% of E. coli, Salmonella, and other bacteria, as well as 99.999999% of Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

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