Artificial Red Dye Test for Black Berkey Water Filters
How can I tell if my Black Berkey Elements are working correctly? (Red Dye Test)
- This article contains information about the red food dye test
- Video on how to do check Elements with Red food coloring
When doing a red dye test, make sure the Artificial red dye contains FD&C Reds 40 & 3. (read product label)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Performing the Red Food Dye test on Black Berkey Elements. (Test is especially recommended for untreated water)
- Protect surfaces and clothing, gloves are recommended.
- Make sure black washer orientation is correct, Washers must be installed inside the upper canister
- Start with an empty system (upper and lower chamber) and remove any Berkey PF-2™ Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Filters(if installed). The Berkey PF-2™ Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Filters must be removed prior to performing a red food coloring test in order to stay in compliance with the six month warranty on the Berkey PF-2™ Fluoride and Arsenic Reduction Filters .
- Place the upper chamber only (with the elements installed) on similar- sized cups directly underneath each Black Berkey™ This will help isolate which filter may be exhausted and which is still purifying effectively.
- Fill the upper chamber with water and add 1/8 teaspoon of ARTIFICIAL red food coloring for every gallon of water. Must contain FD&C Reds 40 & 3. (Read product label)
- Allow the water to run through to the bottom chamber. Place clear cups or mason jars below each filter.
- If the red food coloring is removed entirely, your purification system is working properly.
- If the water in any of the cups is red or has a pinkish tinge, then that particular black filter is defective or exhausted.
